My husband and I are thinking of flying into Paris for 3 days (we've been there but want to do art museums again) and from there head to Belgium, Brussels, Bruges, Haarlem and Amsterdam (we've been in Amsterdam before). Has anyone taken this route? If yes, do you recommend it? We like history and art. We would not rent a car in Paris but would wait until we got to Belgium. What do you think is the best way to get from Paris to Belgium to start our trek there? Thanks.
Posted by
in a train schedule...
267 posts
I would take Thalys. This high speed line extends from Paris through Belgium and the Netherlands. Paris-Brussels is 1h22, Paris-Bruges is 2h35, and Paris-Amsterdam is 4 hours.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
You can accomplish all of your proposed itinerary quite easily by rail connections. In my opinion, a car would be less practical. Easiest way would probably be to take Thalys from Paris to Brussels, then take a local train to and from Bruges, Thalys to Amsterdam and a local train to Haarlem. None of these cities are particularly car-friendly (is any city in Europe?), especially Brussels.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9110 posts
I agree this itinerary is better served by train. But from Bruges to Amsterdam/Haarlem you are better off taking the regular intercity trains instead of the Thalys. They run more frequently, are half the cost, and don't require any advance reservations.
Posted by
Atlanta
43 posts
We have used the Thalys service both Paris to Brussels and Paris to Amsterdam and were very happy. The service is quick and comfortable. I am a fan of flying but can only wish we had train service this comfortable and convenient in the US.