The quintessential Benelux experience is a city one. Not many foreign visitors come for the Belgian beaches, even fewer for the Dutch mountains, and none at all for Luxembourg's vast empty spaces. On the other hand, Benelux cities -- big and small -- are among Europe's cultural and historical glories. This doesn't mean there are no places of scenic beauty; there are actually more than you might think.

Most important, bring as much time with you as you can afford. You might want to indulge yourself by stepping onboard an occasional slow train rather than always rushing to catch the high-speed Thalys or an InterCity Express; and you can drive on at least some country roads instead of zipping along on expressways. Even going by bike isn't out of the question.

Getting around Benelux is a snap, but deciding what to take in and what to leave out is difficult. Hopefully, these suggested itineraries will help you organize your time as you plan your own trip to Benelux.