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10-Day Itinerary for Belgium: A Complete Guide

Day 1: Arriving in Brussels

Once you land in Brussels, take some time to check into your hotel and relax after your flight. You’ll probably want to start by wandering around the city center. Head to the Grand Place, Brussels’ famous square. It’s lined with beautiful architecture and is a great place to grab your first bite to eat in Belgium.

In the afternoon, visit the Atomium, a unique landmark that provides great views of the city. If you have time, consider visiting the nearby mini-Europe park, where you can see miniature versions of famous European landmarks.

In the evening, head to a local beer café, such as Delirium Café, to try one of Belgium’s famous craft beers.

Day 2: More Brussels

Start the day by visiting some of the city’s historical sites. The Royal Palace and Brussels Park are right next to each other and make for a nice morning stroll. You can visit both on foot and enjoy the surrounding greenery.

For lunch, consider grabbing fries from a friterie (fries shop). Don’t forget to try them with mayonnaise, a Belgian specialty!

In the afternoon, head to the Magritte Museum to learn about the life and work of the surrealist painter René Magritte. This museum is relatively small, so it won’t take too long to explore.

Later, visit the iconic Manneken Pis statue—a quirky must-see—and if you’re there during a special event, you might see him dressed in one of his many costumes. Spend your evening at another local food spot, like a mussels and fries restaurant (a classic Belgian dish).

Day 3: Day Trip to Ghent

Take an easy 40-minute train trip to Ghent. It’s a lively student town with a mix of medieval architecture and a modern vibe.

Start with a visit to Gravensteen Castle, where you can dive into the history of medieval Belgium. Nearby, you’ll find the striking Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, known for housing the Ghent Altarpiece, one of the most significant works of art in Europe.

After lunch along the Leie river, take a walking tour to explore the narrow streets of the Patershol district or hop on a boat tour to see the city from a different angle.

Return to Brussels in the evening for some downtime.

Day 4: Day Trip to Antwerp

Today, catch another short train ride to the port city of Antwerp, just 50 minutes away from Brussels.

Start your day at the Cathedral of Our Lady, home to several of Rubens’ famous paintings. Then, visit Antwerpen-Centraal, one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.

Wander through the city’s Diamond Quarter (Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world), and if you’re into fashion, the nearby ModeMuseum (Fashion Museum) can offer you some interesting insights into Antwerp’s history as a style capital.

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Before heading back to Brussels, grab a waffle from a local stand for a sweet treat on the go.

Day 5: Leuven and Relaxation

After a few packed days, let’s slow down a bit. Take a short morning train to Leuven (only 20-25 minutes away). Leuven is famous for its university and its lively but laid-back feel.

Spend your morning wandering around the Oude Markt, a large square packed with cafés. It’s nicknamed “the longest bar in the world” because of the line of adjacent beer spots.

Later, walk to the impressive Gothic-style Leuven town hall. For relaxation, head to the Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis, Leuven’s botanical garden.

Take the train back to Brussels, and in the evening, relax or explore the city at your own pace—maybe revisit a spot you loved or discover a new restaurant.

Day 6: Day Trip to Bruges

Bruges is an absolute must-see in Belgium. It’s just an hour by train from Brussels. The charming small town is famous for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval buildings.

Start with a boat tour along the canals, which is the perfect way to get acquainted with Bruges. Make sure to visit the Belfry of Bruges for some incredible views of the city from above (though it’s a bit of a climb).

Have lunch at Markt Square, then visit the Basiliek van het Heilig Bloed, which claims to house a relic of Christ’s blood.

Before heading back to Brussels, visit the Groeningemuseum to see Belgian art spanning six centuries. Grab some Belgian chocolates at one of the local shops as you wander back to the train station.

Day 7: Relax in Brussels or Day Trip to Mechelen

After several day trips, you might want to take things slow today. You can stay in Brussels and enjoy a leisurely morning visiting smaller museums like the Comic Strip Museum or exploring the Marolles Flea Market for quirky finds.

If you feel like squeezing in another day trip, Mechelen is only 30 minutes away by train. This town is less touristy but full of history. Visit the Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral and consider climbing the tower for panoramic views.

In the afternoon, relax in Brussels by enjoying a slow-paced dinner at a traditional Belgian brasserie.

Day 8: Exploring Namur

Hop on a direct train to Namur (just over an hour away). It’s a small town that’s not as tourist-heavy, giving you a more local and authentic feel. You’ll arrive in time to explore the impressive Citadel of Namur, which offers stunning views of the city and river.

Spend the rest of the day wandering around the town. Have lunch at a riverside café, then explore the Musée Félicien Rops, focusing on works by Namur-born artist Félicien Rops.

Return to Brussels in the evening to relax before your final full day in Belgium.

Day 9: Day Trip to Dinant

For your last day trip, head to Dinant, a little more than 90 minutes from Brussels by train. This beautiful riverside town is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s an absolute gem.

Take the cable car or climb up to Dinant Citadel for another breathtaking view. Afterward, visit the Church of Our Lady with its unique onion-shaped dome.

Enjoy a peaceful afternoon walking along the Meuse River, and don’t forget to try some local Dinant specialties, like couque de Dinant, a sweet hard cookie.

Return to Brussels for your final evening, where you can have a celebratory dinner at one of the fantastic restaurants in the Sablon area.

Day 10: Departure

On your last day, depending on the time of your departure, you may have an opportunity to squeeze in one more activity. If you have time, visit the European Parliament area to see some modern side of Brussels and grab a final coffee before heading to the airport.

Bid farewell to Belgium with memories of beautiful cities, great chocolate, and some delicious craft beers. Safe travels!

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