Relaxed 10-Day Belgium Road Trip from Brussels to Antwerp, and Ghent

Your relaxed road trip through Belgium starts when you reach the incredible city of Brussels, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Brussels and begin your adventure in Belgium.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mont des Arts - Kunstberg. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,784 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Brussels. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Belgium. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Brussels.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Barge, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional organic menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, known for its delicious modern, and classic cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Brussels is Bozar Restaurant, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern french, and creative menu.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Brussels and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Churchill's, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Station BXL. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Delirium Café, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Belgium. Enjoy your first taste of Brussels as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Brussels, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Belgium are extraordinary.

Make Bois de la Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this urban park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,963 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Museum for Natural Sciences of Belgium. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,372 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this natural history museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 26,239 annual visitors.

Leopold Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,696 visitors.

When you’re finished at Leopold Park, the perfect next stop is Cinquantenaire. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,771 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Autoworld Brussels. This automobile museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,983 reviews.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Belgium. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Brussels itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Belgium, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Brussels.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Lobster House, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Roumaine. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the evening going at Bar Des Amis, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar du Canal, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Little Delirium, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Brussels as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Belgium with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Belgium!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium, you’ll explore the area around Brussels, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Brussels will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Belgium.

Make St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels one of your first sightseeing stops in Brussels. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,282 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Brussels Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This urban park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,495 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. This federal scientific institute has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,611 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Royal Palace of Brussels. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 12,807 previous visitors.

Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 14 min. Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Josaphat Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,819 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Brussels and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Belgium. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Brussels, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Villa Lorraine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Marmiton offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Brussels’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Belgium.

Cap off your dinner by heading to La Reserve, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Manneken Pis Cafe is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Au Soleil. Is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Belgium!

Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Belgium is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the city of Brussels and end it in the city of Antwerp. You’ll stay in Antwerp for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Belgium.

When you're ready to see some sights, Choco-Story Brussels is a great place to start. This chocolate museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 7,312 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Grand-Place. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,717 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. The shopping mall has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,953 visitors.

Upon reaching Mutsaard, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Parc de Laeken - Royal Parc, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,497 reviews.

Upon your arrival in Laeken, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Atomium one of your first sightseeing stops in Laeken. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 91,642 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

In the city of Antwerp, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Belgium.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Antwerp, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Antwerp by reserving a table at Zilte. Known for its 3-star Michelin reputation, Zilte captivates its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Hertog Jan at Botanic, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Nebo, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary, and modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Antwerp.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Antwerp.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Hopper, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dogma offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Antwerp. BAR BASIL is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Belgium. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Belgium tomorrow with new energy.

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Antwerp and visit amazing attractions in Muizen, and Arrondissement of Mechelen destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Antwerp. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Antwerp and set your GPS to Muizen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 39 min. Upon reaching Muizen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Planckendael Zoo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,009 visitors and gets around 965,000 visits every year.

Set your GPS to Arrondissement of Mechelen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arrondissement of Mechelen beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Vrijbroekpark. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,641 visitors.

Next, make your way to Grote Markt. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 7,078 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to St. Rumbold's Cathedral. This cathedral is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,509 travelers.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Antwerp.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Antwerp has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei, a top-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Satay, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Molly's Irish Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Antwerp this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Antwerp and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café DeLux, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, 't Waagstuk offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Antwerp. Den Hopsack is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Muizen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Belgium!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Belgium continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Belgium and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Antwerp and beyond. With 2 nights left in Antwerp, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Museum aan de Stroom. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 17,562 reviews.

Next up is Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,339 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Borgerhout.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Antwerp Zoo, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 23,131 reviews.

Boom’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Antwerp behind. This drive usually takes around 25 min. Boom welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Provinciaal Recreatiedomein De Schorre. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,780 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Antwerp and your accommodation.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Belgium, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Antwerp.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Bourla, an iconic dining spot in Antwerp. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Elfde Gebod, a popular restaurant in Antwerp. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zilte, a hidden gem nestled in Antwerp. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Antwerp. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Beerlovers Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Paters Vaetje offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook De Muze, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Antwerp!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium, you’ll explore the area around Ghent, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Ghent will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Belgium.

Ghent’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Antwerp behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. Ghent welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Gravensteen one of your first sightseeing stops in Ghent. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,205 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Belfry of Ghent is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,470 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,470 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bruges. This car ride takes around 41 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Minnewaterpark. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,916 reviews.

Continue your journey at Belfry of Bruges. This belfry is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,990 travelers from near and far.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Antwerp.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at OKOZ Antwerp, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, De Peerdestal | Restaurant Antwerpen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pazzo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Antwerp tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Antwerp and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Cabron, known for its lively atmosphere.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Belgium!

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Belgium is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Gullegem and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Ypres and the town of Ypres. You’ll stay in Ghent for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Antwerp, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gullegem. Your travel time is around 1 hour 21 min.

Make Provincial Domain Bergelen your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this nature park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,338 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ghent, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ypres to Ghent may take around 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ghent, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Bellewaerde, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 800,000 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This animal theme park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 19,922 reviews.

After soaking in Ypres’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ghent. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 55 min. When you arrive in Ghent, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Menin Gate. This war memorial is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,369 visitors.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Belgium at Ghent. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Belgium, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Ghent.

Start your culinary exploration in Ghent by securing a reservation at Publiek. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Vrijmoed, celebrated for its delectable creative, and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover OAK, a top local spot known for its tantalizing world, and creative french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Ghent’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Belgium.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Alchemist offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Hot Club Gent is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Oswald is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Belgium!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Enghien and drive in the direction of the village of Cambron-Casteau for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the town of Villers-la-Ville, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Enghien’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ghent behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour. Enghien welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Château Empain. This château is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,964 reviews.

Set your GPS to Cambron-Casteau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cambron-Casteau beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pairi Daiza. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 70,507 visitors. Each year, around 2,000,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Villers-la-Ville’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cambron-Casteau behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. Villers-la-Ville welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Villers Abbey is a great place to start. This abbey is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,280 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Brussels. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pasta Divina, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try Novotel Brussels off Grand Place, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Le Plaza Brussels. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Brussels and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Au Brasseur, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Belgium.

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Belgium is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Brussels.

Make the most of your final day in Belgium by visiting Brussels’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Belgium.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Brussels is the remarkable Zinneke Pis. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,314 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Brussels or just grab something light to keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE), an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café Walvis offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Brussels and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Belgium is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.