Eva has been talking about traveling to the Benelux countries for a long time with her travel love companions. Even before the trip to Spain in September 2013, there were doubts about where to go and which country to choose. Still Spain? Maybe Benelux? But for some reason, Eva's imagination drew these gingerbread towns and narrow canals exactly in spring... It seemed to her that in the spring these cities looked the most successful. So in September the choice was predetermined - Spain.
And now, as soon as nature outside the window shone with a bright April sun and gave the first spring warmth, the very thoughts about Amsterdam, Brussels, Ghent and Bruges began to appear in Eve's head again. Again, pictures of colorful houses, cozy streets, clean canals and bridges appeared in my head.
Eva decided to find out in more detail how much such a trip might cost, what kind of transport to choose for movement and how to dock travel and accommodation in general as conveniently as possible.
The review naturally began with monitoring the ready-made offers of travel agencies. The proposal had to capture the cities of Ghent and Bruges (), because being in Flemish and not seeing them is simply a sin. There were few offers. These are mainly bus tours that run through Poland and Germany. This assumes one day in Amsterdam and one day - an optional excursion to Bruges and Ghent from Amsterdam for an additional fee (55 euros). There is no more time for anything, because you need to keep within 6-7 days. Such a tour will cost at least 250 Euros + optional excursions + visa.
Eva, on the other hand, decided to create her own route in order to use the time as efficiently as possible and manage to see the most interesting things in 9 days.
So it is supposed to see , Ghent, Bruges and in 9 days.
Travel period 12.05.2014 - 20.05.2014
The travel plan is developed based on the priorities of the cheapness of tickets, the attractiveness of cities, geographical location etc. Sights of cities in this post will not be described. If necessary, you can additionally draw up a cultural program. So go ahead
Day 1. 12.05.2014 - Flight Kiev Budapest
The flights on this trip will be operated by Wizz Air ().
The cost of the flight will be UAH 299.
Departure at 15.20, arrival at 16.00
The cost of living in Budapest is not high. For example, 2 nights in such a hotel with a good location in the city center and with breakfast costs 45 Euro for two. Of course, you can choose any other hotel according to your requests and pocket width.
Day 2. 13.05.2014 Walking tour of Budapest.
If desired, a visit to the Szechenyi thermal baths.
Day 3. 14.05.2014 Flight Budapest-Brussels
The cost of the flight is approx. 6000 forints (approx. 20 Euro)
Departure at 16.75, arrival at 18.45.
Moving to the city center. The airport is located 45 km from Brussels, you can get there using a shuttle bus, a ticket for which can be purchased at the airport building. The fare will be 22 euros for a round trip, the cost of one way is 13 euros.
Check in at the hotel, evening walk. The Benelux countries turned out to be quite expensive to live in. here you will have to, as they say, "shake your wallet", but where to go if you want?
For a settlement, Eva would choose a hotel like this. Here, the priority is to be close to the city center and the South Station, because tomorrow's trip to Ghent starts from there. And it is also important relatively not expensive price for accommodation. 1 night in this hotel will cost 60 euros for two.
Day 4. 05/15/2014 Morning transfer to Ghent.
Trains to Ghent from Brussels South Station leave every half hour. Travel time is about 1 hour.
More in a convenient way According to Eve, the bus will be a bus to get from Bruges to Amsterdam. It's also cheaper.
Ticket prices vary, but at the time of writing the review, the ticket cost € 14. A promo ticket differs from a standard ticket in that it is permanent and cannot be returned or changed.
Arrival in Amsterdam at 19.00, checking into a hotel. For staying from budget hotels, this one is convenient. It is located near the desired bus station, and not far from the center (there is a tram stop nearby). The cost of living here for 3 days will be 280 euros for two. Yes, it's not cheap to live in these countries.
Day 6. 05/17/2014 Walking in Amsterdam
Day 7. 05/18/2014 Walks in Amsterdam, if desired, visit the Keukenhof park.
Day 8. 19.05.2014 Transfer from Amsterdam to Brussels.
By bus from the same carrier, you can get to Brussels for 9 euros (Promo fare). Please be reminded that the cost varies.
Arrival in Brussels, checking into a hotel. ... The cost of 1 day's stay will be 66 euros for two.
Walks in Brussels.
Day 9. 05/20/2014 Flight Brussels-Budapest, Budapest-Kiev.
On this date, you can conveniently dock the two flights. Thus
Flight Brussels-Budapest.
The cost of the flight is about 20 euros.
Departure at 8.45, arrival at 10.40
Flight Budapest-Kiev.
The cost of the flight is 359 UAH.
Departure at 12.10, arrival at 14.50.
This is how it looks ready plan May trip to the Benelux countries. This overview is just a cursory and, of course, it is subject to correction. If you wish, you can always to draw up a more detailed travel plan.
IT IS MANDATORY TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:
1. Since you will have to use the services of the Hungarian WizzAir, in order not to pay extra for luggage, you will have to fly light, only with hand luggage, otherwise the cost of tickets will increase significantly. This is not really a problem! Eva has already proved to herself that it is quite possible to travel with only one hand luggage. and the season is planned to be warm, things will not take up much space.
2. The cost of plane tickets varies and increases every day, so you need to buy tickets in advance.
3. For accommodation, of course, other hotels can be selected. Eva indicated these in the post, not at all for advertising purposes, but based on personal experience and requirements.
4. Do not forget about the need for a Schengen visa, because these countries are EU members.
5. It would be more convenient to move around in a rented car. Distances between cities are not great. But here you need to calculate the amount of benefit. If there are two of you, then it would hardly be cheaper, although much more convenient. If the company employs 4-5 people, it might be cheaper to rent a car.
Benelux is a region of Europe created in 1944, which includes the European countries of the customs and economic union: Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. The Benelux organization began operations on November 1, 1960, as such that followed Customs Union, founded on January 1, 1948 The Union sets tariff standards for goods from non-Benelux countries and assigns obligations for intra-union trade. The fourth largest grouping in the West, Benelux serves over 25 million people. The Union of Benelux Countries is headquartered in Brussels.
The Benelux Economic Union has become an important model for the idea of a European Union. You might even say it is a prerequisite.
Belgium- one of those small states that are known as "workshops of Europe". The Belgians consider their country to be the “heart of Europe”. Belgium's location allows it to accommodate the best of Europe, despite its relatively small area. Since ancient times, this territory has been a trade crossroads, which many neighboring rulers dreamed of seizing.
There is definitely something special about Belgium. Perhaps this is the friendly and welcoming population of the country, which, for the most part, is fluent in English, in addition to three official languages... Perhaps it is the stunning architecture that adorns the quaint old cobblestone quarters. Or maybe the secret lies in the local cuisine, which can be tasted in a huge number of restaurants, where each new dish tastes better than the last. The energetic and carefree spirit of Belgium is infectious, inviting us to follow the example of the Belgians and enjoy life to the fullest.
Netherlands became famous all over the world for tulips, mills and cheese, as well as for their unusual location. In addition, there is a large number of museums. And almost all of them can be walked around. All this is of particular interest to Russian tourists.
The first mentions of Luxembourg date back to 963, at that time it was known as "Luklinburhuk", which in the local dialect means "small castle". A person who first came to this tiny country is struck by the variety of landscapes that fit in such a small area. Luxembourg today is an independent and open country, tested by coexistence with other nations, a full member of the European Community, while preserving, nevertheless, its uniqueness and its identity.
A country with similar natural beauties seems to be specially made for vacation and free time. Single and family, young and not so, Luxembourg offers practically unlimited possibilities leisure. Hiking or cycling, climbing, water skiing, canoeing, sailing yachts or windsurfing, hiking, golf, tennis, horse riding, swimming, fishing, water resorts and casinos, theaters, concerts and museums - the palette is rich in a wide variety of possibilities.
The three neighboring countries have formed a political and economic union. They are all completely different, with their own distinctive culture. Even nature is different. Check out these ten great attractions located in the Benelux countries (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg) and plan your trip!
- Mullerthal, Luxembourg
Also known as Little Switzerland, the region provides excellent leisure facilities and activities. Here is the most Old city- Echternach, various hiking trails allow you to explore valleys and rock formations. The Schissentumpel Bridge and Falls make it one of the most popular places for hiking.
- Broerenkerk, Zwolle, Netherlands
The Broerenkerk Church was founded in 1465 as part of a Dominican monastery. It was later closed and after its restoration in 1988 the church was no longer used for worship. It has become a cultural venue and bookstore that opened last year.
And what casinos in the Netherlands! A real paradise for those wishing to play gambling... And those who want to experience the thrill and also enjoy the game of gambling can try their luck on the site igrovyeavtomaty-vulkan.com/igrovye_sloty while playing online slot machines on their computer.
- Moses Bridge, Hallsteren, Netherlands
The imposing bridge looks like a sunken corridor. It was built in the 17th to connect with Fort De Roovere. The bridge is made of Akkoya wood, treated with an antifungal coating, which prevents the wood from collapsing.
- Hike in Luxembourg
One of the smallest countries in the world, the size of two New Yorkers, boasts beautiful lush forests and mountainous surroundings between Germany and France. The incredible landscape is punctuated by romantic mountain villages or ancient ruins.
- Liege-Guillemins Station, Liege, Belgium
One of the most important stations in the country is Liège-Guillemins, the transportation center in Belgium, one of the most populous countries in Europe. The new station was opened in 2009 and was built from glass, steel and white concrete.
- Tulip Festival, Netherlands
Country that produces the largest number tulips in the world, covered with colorful striped fields in spring blooming flowers... Visitors can admire them not only in parks, but also simply while traveling around the country. Stunning tulip fields can be seen at Nordostpolder, Keukenhof and many other places in the country.
- Bruges, Belgium
The medieval part of Bruges has many remarkable monuments: the Church of Our Lady, for example, is one of the highest brick buildings in the world. Tourists love to take a romantic boat trip through the canals in Bruges - probably The best way to see the city.
- Canals in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Zaanse Schans - Volendam - Amsterdam - Antwerp - Brussels - Ghent - Bruges - Waterloo - Luxembourg
7 days (3 nights in Amsterdam 3 *, 3 nights in Brussels 4 *)
Tour map:
Benelux = Belgium + Netherlands + Luxembourg
BENELUX COUNTRIES TOUR, TOUR PROGRAM
Departure from Moscow ( Sheremetyevo-2) by regular Aeroflot flight SU 229 at 10:45. Arrival at 12:10 at the airport Schiphol(Amsterdam, Netherlands). Meeting with your guide at the airport. Bus excursion v Zaanse Schans and Volendam with a visit to the museum windmills, cheese dairies and factories for the production of wooden shoes - klomp. An opportunity to taste the famous Volendam herring.
In the evening - at 20:00 an excursion in the evening Amsterdam - the city of sin with a visit to the red light district (additional charge, the cost of the excursion is 25 €), coffee shops and smart shops (optional) and a non-stop porn show by Casa Ross (independently - 30 €).
Opportunity to purchase finished goods at the manufacturer's price, tax-free applies. Unique branded diamond cut - 200 facets, great souvenir.
In Amsterdam, you can enjoy the seafood at the seafood restaurant at 247 Puistraat Street - always fresh oysters.
In Belgium, you can already taste French cuisine with onion soup and frog's paws. Be sure to try the cherry beer, or the waiter will bring standard set out of five different varieties beer, including cherry. Lenin and Trotsky drank beer "Kvak" here.
At 14:00 - for an additional fee - excursion to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (Bosch, Brueghel, Rubens, Dali, Magritte). The cost of the excursion, including the entrance ticket, is 20 €.
In Ghent there is a world masterpiece - the Ghent Altarpiece, painted by the brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck, and in the Ghent Cathedral - the Madonna and Child Michelangelo.
Sightseeing tour of Luxembourg. Free time in Luxembourg, fine white wine and foie gras, the humble charm of the bourgeoisie.
Brussels Airport Transfer - Zaventem... At 23:55, Aeroflot scheduled flight SU 232 to Moscow. Arrival at 05:30 in the morning Sheremetyevo-2.
Benelux is a kind of association of countries located in Western Europe, which signed an economic union agreement back in 1958. This union includes such popular tourist countries as the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. They are not the most visited tourists, but completely undeserved, because a trip to Benelux is comfort, tranquility and an unforgettable experience! Find out all about holidays in these countries, their attractions and prices, and plan your trip in 2019.
Brief description of the Benelux
Benelux includes three small countries of Europe, which at one time united for the purpose of mutual integration. Mainly French and Dutch are spoken here. All three countries are monarchies.
The climatic conditions of the three countries are similar: it is a temperate maritime climate. The average temperature in winter is approximately 1 ° C, winters are mild. Summer is not hot, but the weather spoils on average 17 degrees of heat. It's rainy enough in these countries, so take your umbrella with you!
Holidays in the Benelux countries are considered quite safe. Even in the liberal Netherlands, which is paradoxical, the crime rate does not exceed the European average, we can say that a certain permissiveness even somewhat reduces the desire to break the law. You can move around in public transport and visit various establishments quite freely. The only thing is that when you are in large cities, do not walk in remote areas, because there is a certain percentage of marginalized people in every state. Just follow reasonable safety precautions and your trip will go smoothly.
How to get there and how to get around?
The most convenient way to get to the major cities of the Benelux countries is by plane. A flight to Brussels, Belgium will cost about 6 thousand rubles and will take about 5 hours; the trip to will take about the same time and will cost about 7 thousand rubles; you can fly to Luxembourg for 11 thousand rubles and 6 hours.
Public transport is well developed in each country. The bus network allows you to travel between cities inexpensively and comfortably. But in the Benelux countries, the most convenient way to get around is by train. Europe is generally very well connected by rail, and Benelux in this regard is "united" into one zone. Experienced travelers are advised to purchase a single InterRail OneCountry Pass, with which you can travel between all three countries at a favorable rate. Such a pass for three days will cost from 90 euros, for 8 days - from 170 euros. For those who are going to visit several cities, it is much more profitable than buying separate tickets each time.
Prices for Benelux tours
A trip to the Benelux countries, as a rule, is included in the rather popular bus tours in Europe. So, in 2019, you can purchase a similar tour, which will include all three countries, as well as some other European countries, for about 600 euros - but only accommodation, transport, and support will be included in the price.
Traveling directly to Benelux will be cheaper than traveling to each country individually or bus tour... The tour for 4 days will cost about 350 euros per person. But there are not so many such proposals, while, again, they are suitable only for those who agree to the proposed hotels and program.
If you want to visit Benelux and on your own terms, you can plan your trip yourself. And what will please you each of the countries of unification - read on.
Traveling to Benelux: everything you need to know
After reading the numerous reviews of tourists, one can understand that even the most inexpensive hotels in all Benelux countries show a high European level. As for the sights, each of the countries is rich in natural beauty and old towns. In addition, in the Benelux countries there is no such fuss as in the more "promoted" or. Of course, large cities and villages will offer you completely different rest, but all the same, mainly the trip to the Benelux will be remembered by you with a certain enchanting slowness and dignity.
Netherlands - the land of mills and tulips
The name accurately indicates the location of the country. The word "neder" is translated as - lower, and "landen" - as land. This is so, since the main part of the territory of this amazing state lies below sea level. The kingdom is located along the shores of the North Sea and has common boundaries with Germany in the east and with Belgium in the south. The country is known to everyone mainly for the mills, tulips, and cheeses, the production of which lasts all year round.
In the Netherlands, tourists can visit one of the many places rich in nature, such as endless tulip fields. The country's famous flower beauties are mainly located around the Keukenhof Park, which is 30 kilometers from Amsterdam. This park will delight you with its riches from about mid-March to the end of May. More than 700 types of tulips, as well as other flowers, await everyone as a delight to the eyes. If you want to look specifically at the fields, and not at the orderly plantings, go, for example, to the city of Lisse, which can be reached from Leiden.
The Netherlands is rich not only in nature, but also. Moreover, in settlements country you can get to know both the old days and modern life local population... All categories of tourists: intellectuals, party-goers, and family people will find something for themselves. Here are the cities popular with tourists in the Netherlands:
- Amsterdam. It is a city of creative and free young people. At the same time, it will appeal to both museum lovers and fans of European winter recreation.
- Delft. A small town with a rich history. Many churches old buildings and streets, as well as the world's best porcelain await all guests of the city.
- Leiden. A beautiful city with canals and stunning architecture, which also has a mill - the symbol of the country.
- Hague. A dignified and calm city, a business center, home to several monumental palaces and a large number of museums, including the world famous Mauritshuis Gallery.
- Rotterdam. A bustling city with plenty modern architecture and excellent opportunities for those who enjoy an active nightlife.
The Netherlands also attracts foreigners with its seaside, which provides a first-class holiday with every comfort. Environmentally friendly De-Koog, Scheveningen, Zandvoort are popular among tourists, despite the fact that people usually go to the country not for beach vacation, but who bothers to combine excursions and the sea in the summer, when it is quite possible to swim and sunbathe even here.
Kitchen and shopping
The Netherlands will not leave anyone hungry: meat and fish are equally popular, and locals prefer potatoes, dear to our hearts, as a side dish. Be sure to taste pea soup and all kinds of cheeses, cool off with local beer in summer and sip hot chocolate in winter.
The best souvenirs from the Netherlands are:
- tulip bulbs;
- wooden shoes;
- porcelain.
Approximate prices for vacations
In small towns like Lisse, you will not find a large number of hospitality establishments, so you have to choose from what is available. Average prices for holidays in the provinces are around 4.5 thousand rubles per day for two. Big cities especially Amsterdam will offer you much more: hostels, apartments, hotels of different categories - and nevertheless, prices will start from about 4 thousand rubles per day for double occupancy. Well and seaside resorts- this is, as a rule, excellent service and a rather big price: in the region of 6 thousand rubles per day for two.
Breakfast in the Netherlands will cost an average of 8 euros per person, lunch - 25 euros for one person, dinner with drinks - 80 euros for two.
Belgium - beer and chocolate
Among European countries the territory of Belgium is considered one of the smallest in size.
This small country has been famous for its chocolate for many centuries, the recipe for which was found by the founding fathers of Belgium. But Belgium is not only rich in cuisine. Among tourists, foreign officials from various European organizations and businessmen stand out. The capital, Brussels, is home to a large number of head offices of the EU, NATO and other international organizations and companies. In addition to office buildings that are not very interesting to the average person, Belgium has sights that will immerse tourists - travelers during the Middle Ages.
Where to go and what to see?
In the country, there are about ten perfectly preserved cities - quarters, with almost unchanged architecture of ancient times. Among these cities, tourists often choose:
- Brussels. Capital city with stunning old square Grand Place, an abundance of houses, each of which is skillfully decorated and unique. Town hall, shopping arcade and everything that befits a city with an ancient history. In addition, Brussels has great amount parks that will delight tourists in the warm season.
- Antwerp. Anyone who loves art has a direct road to this city. Many museums dedicated to a wide variety of art forms open their doors to tourists. There is even an open-air exposition for those who are tired of endless halls.
- Ghent. A town that simultaneously "breathes" the Middle Ages and attracts a large number of young people thanks to its active nightlife... More relaxed tourists can ride the canals and enjoy the architecture.
- Bruges. The historic city center is listed world heritage UNESCO, and therefore it will simply not be possible to single out individual buildings - go for a walk and look with all your eyes!
- Liege. An industrial city with good food and a couple of unique exhibitions.
Interestingly, in Belgium you can also relax by the sea. Popular are Ostend, De Panne, Knokke-Heist. Each of them will attract a certain category of tourists, however, it is worth noting that the level of service, infrastructure and the amount of entertainment are on top everywhere.
Some tourists enjoy visiting the most different countries Europe to explore their beautiful castles. And Belgium is no exception, of course, there are not so many castles here as in some other countries, but they are.
- Belay Castle is located near the border with France, which influenced its architecture. It is surrounded by a stunning landscaped park with picturesque ponds.
- The castle of the Counts of Flanders was built in the 12th century and has been perfectly preserved to this day. The exposition includes an excellent collection of weapons.
- And the castle of Gerard the Devil, as the name suggests, is surrounded by a dark medieval legend.
And this is just a part of the citadels of Belgium, each of which will captivate with its special look and rich history.
Kitchen and shopping
Desserts and beer are the main dishes to try in Belgium. Praline is still considered a work of art and the best gourmet delicacy. Beer is revered here by both local connoisseurs of this drink and travelers from all over the world. However, the country is not only rich in this: exquisite Belgian seafood dishes will surprise even those who previously thought that they had already tried everything in their life.
In memory of a trip to Belgium, you should definitely buy:
- lace;
- tin and crystal products;
- and yet: chocolate and beer.
Approximate prices for vacations
In the capital or the main cities visited by tourists, you can find accommodation for every taste. So, in one of the remote districts of Brussels, you can stay together for about 3 thousand rubles a day. In less popular cities, such as Liege, you can find an option for 2.5 thousand rubles for two per day, even in the center. Well, the resort areas will offer accommodation from 4.5 thousand rubles per day for two.
Breakfast in Belgium will cost about 10 euros per person, lunch will cost about 17 euros per person, dinner for two with drinks will cost about 70 euros.
Luxembourg - fortresses and castles
The Duke is considered the head of Luxembourg, and the country itself is an independent state with its own sovereignty. Luxembourg, a miniature country with the capital of the same name, with a population of 100,000, contains more than a thousand different investment funds and banking institutions. The capital of the same name is located on the site of an ancient fort.
Where to go and what to see?
Almost all tourists visit mainly the capital of the country. Luxembourg differs from many European cities with its ancient architecture. The main value is the huge duke's palace, in the style of the Spanish Renaissance. There is also a delightful park in the center of the capital, surrounded by well-preserved fortress walls and turrets. This park is interesting not only for foreign visitors, but also for indigenous people who love to spend time there.
Foodies will love the tour of the Luxembourg Wine Trail. This vineyard valley is located along the Moselle River. For those who like such a pastoral holiday, this area will be an excellent choice: you can stay in small villages, enjoy wine, observe the colorful nature.
The country will also be liked by those who love the same castles. Despite its tiny size, Luxembourg is rich in them: the castle Esch-sur-Sur is a picturesque ruin (but not quite ruins), the Viandensky castle is perfectly restored and is located on a hill, thanks to which it is also an observation deck, the Bourscheid castle is a venue for many cultural events. And these are not all the castles of Luxembourg! 
Kitchen and shopping
The cuisine of a tiny country was influenced by France, Germany, Belgium. They prefer meat in the very in different ways, from hare to oxtail soup. For seafood, locals prefer crayfish. In addition, the cuisine is rich in desserts - mainly open pies... As for drinks, these are wines from the very same "Wine Valley".
The best souvenirs from Luxembourg will be:
- bird-shaped whistles;
- chocolate and wine;
- jars for spices.
Approximate prices for vacations
Little Luxembourg offers, however, a considerable number of accommodation options. A hostel in the capital will cost two tourists about 4 thousand rubles per day, a three-star hotel will cost around 6 thousand rubles per night for two people, there is also luxury options. average price for accommodation in other cities - about 6 thousand rubles a day for two people.
Breakfast for one person in Luxembourg will cost about 10 euros, lunch for one tourist will cost around 20 euros, dinner in a restaurant for two with drinks - about 80 euros.
Benelux is a great holiday destination. By planning your trip correctly, you will be able to visit the best cities three European states at once, which, albeit united in a union, are each unique in its own way. Delight for the stomach, mind and soul - this is what a trip to Benelux will give you!