Day 1: Arrival in Brussels
Start your journey in Belgium’s capital, Brussels. Arrive, check in to your accommodation, and take it easy after your travels. Stretch your legs with a short walk around the Grand Place, the city’s iconic central square. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see.
Grab some Belgian fries from a local Fritkot (fry stand), and don’t forget to check out Manneken Pis nearby. It’s quirky and surprisingly small!
For dinner, consider indulging in some moules-frites (mussels and fries) paired with a Belgian beer. There are dozens of beer varieties, so ask locals for tips on where to go.
Day 2: Explore Brussels
Today will be a full day exploring Brussels. Start at the Atomium, a futuristic building designed for the 1958 World’s Fair. You can go inside for panoramic views.
Afterward, visit the Royal Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. It’s open to the public in summer, but even if it’s closed, the exterior is worth seeing.
In the afternoon, visit the Magritte Museum to dive into Belgium’s surrealist art. Then, take a break by heading to Parc du Cinquantenaire to relax and people-watch. End the day at one of the local breweries like Cantillon Brewery for a taste of traditional Lambic beer.
Day 3: Day Trip to Ghent
Catch an early train to Ghent, about 30 minutes away. Ghent is a mix of medieval architecture and modern culture. Start at Gravensteen Castle, an imposing fortress overlooking the city.
Next, explore the stunning Gothic Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, which houses the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece of early Northern Renaissance art.
Stroll around the Graslei and Korenlei streets by the river and have lunch by the canals. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and explore some of the quieter streets. Spend the late afternoon at STAM, Ghent’s city museum. Return to Brussels in the evening.
Day 4: Day Trip to Antwerp
Get an early start and catch a train to Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, known for art, architecture, and diamonds. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, home to several Rubens paintings.
Then head over to the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) for exhibitions that cover everything from Antwerp’s history to global trade. The rooftop offers one of the best views of the city.
Take your time wandering around the Grote Markt (Main Square) and enjoy a coffee at a cozy cafe. Antwerp is also famous for its fashion scene, so if interested, visit the ModeMuseum to learn more about Belgian designers. Head back to Brussels in the evening.
Day 5: Leuven Day Trip
Leuven is a small, university town just 20 minutes by train from Brussels. It has beautiful historic buildings and a lively student atmosphere. Begin by visiting the University Library and its tower, offering impressive city views.
Don’t miss the Old Market Square, which is home to many bars and cafes. Leuven is considered one of Belgium’s beer capitals, so try the local brews. The town is small and can be explored leisurely. Spend the night again in Brussels.
Day 6: Brussels Markets & Chocolate Tour
Today, slow down a bit and enjoy some of Brussels’ markets. Visit the Place du Jeu de Balle for the city’s famous flea market. You can find everything from vintage clothes to antique books.
In the afternoon, join a guided chocolate tour to learn about – and taste – the world-class Belgian chocolate. Afterward, head to the Sablon neighborhood to visit high-end chocolate shops and discover the chic side of Brussels.
Day 7: Travel to Bruges
Check out of your Brussels accommodation and take the train to Bruges, about an hour away. Bruges is a beautifully preserved medieval city, often called the Venice of the North.
Upon arriving, wander around the Markt (the main square) and climb the Belfry for unrivaled views. Spend the rest of the day strolling along the canals and photographing the picturesque cobblestone streets.
For dinner, try some local specialties, especially beef stew or waterzooi, a creamy chicken or fish stew. Finish off the night with a Belgian beer at a local tavern.
Day 8: Explore Bruges
Start the day at the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a 12th-century chapel housing a revered relic. Then visit the Groeningemuseum, which features a great collection of Flemish art.
Take a boat tour along the canals to see the city from the water. In the afternoon, visit the Beguinage, a peaceful whitewashed former convent. Enjoy a relaxing evening in a nearby cafe or taking a quiet evening walk.
Day 9: Day Trip to Damme from Bruges
Damme is a small fairy-tale town just 30 minutes by bike from Bruges, or you can catch a boat to get there. It’s a peaceful escape from the city with lovely landscapes and small streets to explore.
Visit the St. John’s Hospital Damme and climb the tower for amazing countryside views. Afterward, sit down at a quaint cafe for some local cheese and fresh bread. Head back to Bruges in the late afternoon and have a relaxed evening wandering around the quiet canals.
Day 10: Day Trip to Ypres and Flanders Fields
If you’re interested in World War I history, Ypres is a must-visit. Take a train from Bruges to Ypres (around 1 hour). The city was significant during the war, and there are many historic sites here.
Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum to learn about the war and its impact on Belgium. Then, explore the Menin Gate Memorial and nearby war cemeteries. Take a quiet moment to reflect on the history. Return to Bruges in the evening, or visit the Last Post ceremony at Menin Gate, held every evening at 8 PM.
Day 11: Travel to Dinant
Today, leave Bruges and travel to Dinant, one of Belgium’s most picturesque riverside towns. It takes around three hours by train, so leave early.
Once you arrive, visit the Dinant Citadel for panoramic views of the river and town. Afterward, explore the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, a beautiful Gothic building. Take a stroll along the Meuse River and relax in one of the small cafes. Spend the night in this scenic town.
Day 12: Explore Dinant & Enjoy Nature
Spend today enjoying the natural beauty around Dinant. If you’re adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle on the Meuse River, or take a relaxing cruise. You can also hike or bike along the riverside paths.
Visit the nearby Grotto of Dinant if you’re interested in caves, or explore Castle Freÿr, just outside the town. It has beautiful gardens and a serene atmosphere.
Day 13: Travel to Liège
Take a quick ride to Liège (about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Dinant). It’s an industrial city with an interesting mix of old and new architecture.
Explore the Montagne de Bueren, a steep stairway with over 350 steps leading to fantastic views of the city. Then wander around La Batte Market to experience some authentic local life. Take your time exploring the Musée de la Vie Wallonne, which showcases Walloon culture. End the day with a night out in Carré, Liège’s bustling nightlife district.
Day 14: Final Day in Liège and Departure
On your final day, take it easy. Wander around Parc de la Boverie or visit La Boverie museum for modern and contemporary art. Have a slow lunch at one of the many riverside restaurants.
Depending on your departure time, you can take a quick stroll through the Old Town of Liège to soak in the last few moments of Belgian culture. Catch your train or flight home feeling like you’ve truly gotten a taste of everything Belgium has to offer!
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