Belgium is a small country, but it packs a lot of things to do in a short period of time. Its cities are filled with history, culture, and great food. With this 5-day itinerary, you will get a mix of the best Belgium has to offer, from vibrant cities to charming medieval towns, and even some outdoor activities. It’s designed to give you flexibility, so you don’t have to rush through everything. Let’s dive right in.
Day 1: Brussels – History and Chocolate
Start your trip in Belgium’s capital: Brussels. If you’re flying into the country, this is probably where you will land. It’s a great city to begin your journey as it gives you a good introduction to Belgium.
Morning: The Grand Place and Manneken Pis
Head straight to the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. You’ll be impressed by its architecture, made up of ornate guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House. Spend some time here soaking in the atmosphere. This is also a great spot for coffee at one of the nearby cafés.
From the Grand Place, it’s a short walk to the Manneken Pis, a small statue of a boy that has become something of a quirky symbol of Brussels. The statue is often dressed in costumes, and while it’s not huge, it’s one of the must-visit spots when in town.
Afternoon: Royal Palace and Museums
Next, head towards the Royal Palace, where Belgium’s king holds official receptions. The palace itself is impressive from the outside, and during the summer, its interior is also open to visitors.
If you’re into museums, now would be a good time to visit either the Magritte Museum or the Musical Instruments Museum. The Magritte Museum is focused on the famous surrealist artist, and the the Musical Instruments Museum is perfect for those interested in history and culture. Both are within walking distance of the palace.
Evening: Belgian Chocolate and Waffles
Brussels is known for its chocolate, so take some time to visit one of the city’s many chocolate shops and sample some pralines. Pierre Marcolini and Neuhaus are two great options.
Finish off your day with a Belgian waffle. Whether you prefer them plain, with chocolate, or topped with whipped cream and strawberries, it’s the perfect treat to wrap up your first day.
Day 2: Ghent – Canals and Castles
On your second day, take a train to Ghent, just 40 minutes from Brussels. Ghent is a bustling university town with a rich history and picturesque canals.
Morning: Gravensteen Castle
Start at Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress right in the heart of the city. The castle has been remarkably well preserved, and touring it gives you a sense of what life was like in the Middle Ages. Take a walk along the battlements for great views of the city.
Afternoon: Ghent’s Canals and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
After touring the castle, wander around Ghent’s canals. The area around Graslei and Korenlei streets is especially scenic, with old guild houses lining the canals. This is a great place to grab some lunch or take a boat tour.
Don’t miss Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers. It’s an incredibly detailed and important piece of art, and the cathedral itself is beautiful.
Evening: Street Art Walk
Ghent is not only about its medieval past but also a hub for modern street art. The Werregarenstraat, also known as Graffiti Street, is an ever-changing alley full of street art. It’s fun to walk through and see what new pieces have popped up.
Day 3: Bruges – A Step Back in Time
Today, you’ll head to Bruges, another charming medieval city, often referred to as the “Venice of the North” due to its canals. Take a train from Ghent (around 30 minutes).
Morning: Market Square and Belfry Tower
Start your day at Market Square, the heart of Bruges. This is where you’ll find the famous Belfry Tower. If you’re up for some exercise, you can climb its 366 steps to the top for panoramic views of the city. It’s a bit of a workout, but the views are worth it!
Afternoon: Canal Tour and Chocolate Shops
After you’ve seen Bruges from above, a canal tour will let you experience the city from the water. It’s a relaxing way to learn more about Bruges’ history. Several operators run tours from various points around the city.
Bruges is also known for its chocolate shops, so make sure to stop at a couple to pick up some handcrafted chocolates. The Chocolate Line is one of the best, known for its wide array of unique chocolate flavors. It’s a great treat to take back home or simply enjoy during your trip.
Evening: Burg Square and Belgian Beer
The evening is a great time to visit Burg Square, which is home to the City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. This square is slightly quieter than Market Square, but it’s just as impressive architecturally.
Finish your day with a glass of Belgian beer. Bruges has plenty of places where you can try local brews, and you can even visit the Bruges Beer Museum to learn more about the long history of beer in Belgium. Try a Trappist beer if you can, which is made by monks.
Day 4: Antwerp – Art and Diamonds
Continue your journey to Antwerp, another major Belgian city that’s only 1-1.5 hours by train from Bruges. Antwerp is famous for its vibrant art scene, history, and diamond trade.
Morning: Cathedral of Our Lady and Rubens House
You’ll want to start at the Cathedral of Our Lady, which is home to some of Peter Paul Rubens’ most famous paintings. Inside, you can find “The Elevation of the Cross” and “The Descent from the Cross.” The cathedral itself is magnificent.
Next, visit the Rubens House. This museum is dedicated to the famous Baroque artist, and you get to visit the place where he lived and worked. It’s great for anyone who loves art or is curious to learn more about this important painter.
Afternoon: Antwerp Central Station and Diamond District
Antwerp’s Central Station isn’t just any train station—it’s a work of art, sometimes called the “Train Cathedral.” Take a few minutes to admire the architecture.
Near the station is the Diamond District, where most of the world’s diamonds are traded. You likely won’t go home with a diamond, but it’s interesting to see the area. If gemstones interest you, visit the DIVA Museum, which covers Antwerp’s diamond and jewelry history.
Evening: Meir Shopping Street and Sunset Walk
Meir Street is one of Antwerp’s major shopping streets. Whether you’re window shopping or looking to buy something, this is where you’ll find international and local brands alike. It’s also great if you just want to stroll down a lively street.
In the evening, head to the riverside and take a walk along the Scheldt River. This area is great for sunset views, and if you are hungry, there are plenty of restaurants nearby serving local Belgian cuisine.
Day 5: Day Trip to the Ardennes – Nature Break
After spending time in cities, it’s nice to take a break and enjoy some nature. The Ardennes, located in the southeast of Belgium, are great for hiking, cycling, or just taking in the scenic beauty of the countryside.
Morning: Hiking in the Ardennes
There are many hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. One popular trail is around La Roche-en-Ardenne, a picturesque town with a castle. The views of the surrounding area are stunning, especially if the weather is good.
If you’re interested in World War II history, this region is also home to the Battle of the Bulge memorials. Bastogne is one of the key sites where you can learn about this important battle. The War Museum there is informative and worth a visit if you have the time.
Afternoon: Kayaking or Cycling
If you’re feeling adventurous, the rivers in the Ardennes are great for kayaking or canoeing. The Ourthe River is a popular spot where you can rent equipment for a peaceful paddle through lush forests and small villages.
If water sports aren’t your thing, cycling is another great option. Many rental shops offer bikes, and there are plenty of scenic routes to explore. Even if you don’t cycle often, the relatively flat terrain makes it an enjoyable activity.
Evening: Relax in Spa Town
End your day of adventure in the town of Spa, famous for its thermal springs. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking or kayaking. You can visit one of the thermal baths for a soak, or just take a leisurely stroll through the town and enjoy a meal at a cozy restaurant.
Wrapping Up Your Belgian Trip
Belgium’s small size makes it easy to explore multiple destinations in a short period. With five days, you’ll get to experience the country’s history, art, and countryside. It’s not too rushed, so you can relax and enjoy each city without feeling like you’re constantly on the move.
This itinerary covers the highlights, but feel free to tweak it based on your interests. Belgium is full of surprises, and you’re sure to find something special no matter where you go.
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