Belgium, a small country in the heart of Europe, is a destination rich in history, culture and culinary delights. From vibrant Brussels to medieval Bruges, the battlefields of Flanders to the hills of the Ardennes, Belgium offers a diverse and enriching travel experience. If you're planning a trip to this fascinating nation, here's a comprehensive 5-day guide to discover the best of Belgium - get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Day 1: Brussels, the Capital of Europe
Tomorrow in Brussels
Start your trip in Brussels, the capital of Belgium and home to many European institutions.
What to See and Do
- Grand PlaceThe main square of Brussels, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, surrounded by historic buildings such as the Town Hall and the King's House.
- Manneken PisThe famous statue of the urinating boy, a peculiar and beloved symbol of the city.
- Saint-Hubert GalleriesAn elegant 19th century shopping centre with shops, cafés and chocolatiers.
Lunch in Brussels
Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants near the Grand Place. Try the mussels with fries (moules-frites) and accompany it with a Belgian beer.
Afternoon in Brussels
Continue exploring the most emblematic sights of Brussels during the afternoon.
What to See and Do
- AtomiumAn iconic atom-shaped building offering panoramic views of the city from its upper sphere.
- Cinquantenaire ParkA historical park with impressive arches and museums.
- European QuarterVisit the European Parliament and discover the importance of Brussels in European politics.
Night in Brussels
End the day with dinner in the Saint-Géry district, known for its lively nightlife and variety of restaurants and bars.
Day 2: Bruges, the Venice of the North
Tomorrow in Bruges
Travel to Bruges, a medieval city that looks like something out of a fairy tale, known for its canals and gothic architecture.
What to See and Do
- Main Square (Markt)The heart of Bruges, surrounded by historic buildings and the famous bell tower (Belfort).
- Basilica of the Holy Blood: A Gothic church that houses a relic said to contain the blood of Christ.
- Bruges canalsTake a boat trip along the canals to enjoy the picturesque views of the city.
Lunch in Bruges
Enjoy lunch at one of the canalside restaurants. Try the beer stew (carbonnade flamande) and accompany it with a local beer.
Evening in Bruges
Continue exploring the charms of Bruges during the afternoon.
What to See and Do
- GroeningemuseumA museum housing an impressive collection of Flemish art, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.
- MinnewaterAlso known as the Lake of Love, a romantic spot perfect for a quiet stroll.
- BegijnhofA former convent with beautiful gardens and white houses.
Night in Bruges
Spend the night in Bruges and enjoy dinner in one of the cosy restaurants in the old town.
Day 3: Ghent and Leuven
Tomorrow in Ghent
Head to Ghent, a university city with a vibrant cultural atmosphere and a rich history.
What to See and Do
- Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen)An impressive medieval castle with panoramic views from its tower.
- St. Bavo's CathedralA Gothic cathedral which houses the famous altarpiece of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers.
- Graslei and Korenlei DocksStroll along these picturesque quays on the banks of the river Lys.
Lunch in Ghent
Enjoy lunch at one of the riverside restaurants. Try the famous shrimp croquettes and a Belgian beer.
Afternoon in Leuven
After lunch, travel to Leuven, a city known for its university and lively student life.
What to See and Do
- Leuven City CouncilAn impressive gothic building with a richly decorated façade.
- Library of the University of Leuven: A beautiful building with a rich history.
- Oude MarktThe longest bar in the world, this square is full of bars and cafés.
Night in Leuven
Spend the night in Leuven and enjoy a dinner in one of the many restaurants in the city. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and nightlife.
Day 4: Antwerp, the City of Diamonds
Tomorrow in Antwerp
Travel to Antwerp, a city known for its port, diamond industry and rich cultural heritage.
What to See and Do
- Cathedral of Our LadyA Gothic cathedral which houses several masterpieces by Rubens.
- Main Square (Grote Markt)A historic square with beautiful guild houses and the Antwerp Town Hall.
- Plantin-Moretus MuseumA museum dedicated to the history of printing, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lunch in Antwerp
Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants near the Grote Markt. Try local dishes such as filet américain (raw meat in a sauce) and vol-au-vent.
Afternoon in Antwerp
Continue exploring the charms of Antwerp during the afternoon.
What to See and Do
- Rubens House MuseumThe former residence and studio of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens.
- Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)A museum exploring the history and culture of Antwerp, with a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city.
- Diamond QuarterStroll through this famous neighbourhood and learn about the diamond industry in Antwerp.
Night in Antwerp
Spend the night in Antwerp and enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in the harbour. Enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.
Day 5: Mechelen and Waterloo
Tomorrow in Mechelen
Head to Mechelen, a charming city with a rich history and beautiful historic buildings.
What to See and Do
- St. Rudolph's CathedralAn impressive gothic cathedral with a tower offering panoramic views of the city.
- Margaret of Austria's PalaceA beautiful Renaissance palace which now houses a museum.
- Main Square (Grote Markt)A historic square surrounded by beautiful buildings and cafés.
Lunch in Mechelen
Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants on the Grote Markt. Try local dishes such as roast pork with beer sauce and an abbey beer.
Afternoon in Waterloo
After lunch, travel to Waterloo, the site of the famous battle that changed the course of European history.
What to See and Do
- Butte du LionA memorial offering panoramic views of the battlefield.
- Wellington MuseumExplore this museum dedicated to the Duke of Wellington and the Battle of Waterloo.
- HougoumontVisit this historic farm which was a key point during the battle.
Night in Brussels
Return to Brussels for the last night of your trip. Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in the city centre and celebrate your adventure in Belgium.
Conclusion
Belgium is a country full of history, culture and culinary delights. With this 5-day guide, you can explore the best that Belgium has to offer, from vibrant Brussels and medieval Bruges to the historic cities of Ghent and Antwerp, and the battlefields of Waterloo. Each day will take you to a new corner of this fascinating nation, guaranteeing an unforgettable travel experience. Bon voyage and enjoy Belgium!
