Hello- we area family of 6 (children range 21-12) who enjoy bicycling and being active while we travel. Due to hotel points we will either have 5 nights in Amsterdam and 3 nights in Ghent or 5 in Ghent and 3 in Amsterdam. We enjoy history and cities but can get tired of shopping and crowds. Any help would be appreciated. We also hope to visit the coast and also Haarlem for the Corrie Ten Boom house.
Thank you-
Posted by
St Petersburg Florida
951 posts
As small as Amsterdam is, it is packed with things to do. I would love 5 nights in Amsterdam (I did it in three but missed some things). I found 3 nights perfect for Ghent. Hopefully you can day trip to Bruges as it is so lovely.
Posted by
Philadelphia
655 posts
I agree completely with the poster above - go for the five nights in Amsterdam. Depending upon the date of your trip you might be able to include a side trip to Keukenhof. We've been to Amsterdam (for three days) and we are returning soon.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
Amsterdam is MUCH larger than Ghent; of course, that cuts both ways. Amsterdam also has many more designated "attractions." With a large family, I'd definitely spend more time in Amsterdam. There will be something for every interest, and you can split up if needed. If you're "finished" seeing Ghent, however, you can take easy day trips to Brussels, Bruges, or Antwerp.
Posted by
OP
Bainbridge Island, Washington, United States
2 posts
Thank you for the thoughtful replies. One other thought about Belgium- would it possibly bicycle between towns or at least bicycle one way and take the train back to Ghent? Question regarding location of hotels in Amsterdam- would it be better to either stay close to the Centraal station or closer to the museums and parks- any thoughts? Thanks again-