Relaxed 11-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Ghent and Antwerp

On day 2 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.

Visiting St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels is always a good idea. This well-known church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Musée Magritte Museum, a must-see museum in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Brussels Park. This locally renowned park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Cinquantenaire, where you can take in breathtaking features.

After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laeken. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 26 min. When you arrive in Laeken, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Atomium, an astonishing monument in Laeken. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Mini-europe. This well-known amusement park is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Lobster House, an iconic dining spot in Brussels. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, a popular restaurant in Brussels. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Roumaine, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. 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 Brussels. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Des Amis after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Du Canal for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Delirium is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 3 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Belgium lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Ghent. By evening, drive toward the Ghent, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

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

Design Museum Gent is a worthwhile museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Gravensteen, a picture-perfect castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Ghent City Hall, a symbolic city hall. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a culturally significant and truly unique church. End your sightseeing at Belfry Of Ghent, a locally appreciated monument that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Ghent. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the 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 Ghent.

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

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Ghent.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting De Geus Van Gent after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Alchemist, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Hot Club Gent also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Belgium!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip in Belgium, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Ghent and visit amazing attractions in Bruges, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Ghent, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Ghent, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bruges. Your travel time is around 50 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Choco-story, Chocolate Museum and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Historium Bruges, another highlight in Bruges. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Belfry Of Bruges, an enchanting monument.

Nearby, you will also find Basilica Of The Holy Blood. This intriguing church is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Bruges City Hall, an instagrammable city hall that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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

Exploring the food culture in Ghent offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Trappistenhuis, a popular restaurant in Ghent. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ghent at 't Dreupelkot, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Otomat Gent. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ghent tonight.

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

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Belgium.

Your relaxed road trip in Belgium continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Belgium better by exploring the top attractions of Ghent and beyond. With 1 night left in Ghent, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bruges. This drive usually takes around 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Sint-salvatorskathedraal, an often recommended church known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Groeninge, an intriguing neighborhood.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug) and uncover the details of this romantic historical landmark. Make sure to also explore Church Of Our Lady, an often recommended church. For your last stop, consider De Halve Maan Brewery, a photogenic brewery that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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 Ghent, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nonam, a highly-rated dining destination in Ghent. If you're eager to try something different, consider BOON, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ellis Gent. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Ghent this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Ghent. The bars in Ghent make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Den Turk, known for its inviting atmosphere. Belleman Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Comic Sans provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Belgium!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Belgium will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Belgium, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Antwerp, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ghent to Antwerp may take around 51 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Antwerp, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rubenshuis, a curiosity-inducing museum that everyone visiting Antwerp should see. Next, head to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal. This culturally significant church is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Museum Plantin-moretus, a photogenic museum popular among locals as well as travelers. Brabo's Monument is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this often recommended monument before you continue your journey.

In Antwerp, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Belgium.

Exploring the food culture in Antwerp offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Aspen, a popular restaurant in Antwerp. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Antwerp at De Zeven Schaken, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Antwerp tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Belgium.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Hopper, known for its lively atmosphere. Dogma is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Basil offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Belgium means 24 hours of making the best memories in Antwerp. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Antwerp. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Antwerp!

Red Star Line Museum is must-visit museum and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Museum Aan De Stroom, an interesting museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Antwerp Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo, also available for your discovery today.

Belgium makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Belgium also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ciro's, a top-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Het Pomphuis, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei. With a reputation for consistently satisfying 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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Delux, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, 't Waagstuk offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Den Hopsack provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Belgium.

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium, you’ll explore the area around Antwerp, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Antwerp will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Belgium.

Leuven is brimming with adventures. Bondgenotenlaan is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Leuven. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Muntstraat, a street offering its own unique experiences.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Leuven and set your GPS to Antwerp. 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 52 min. Upon reaching Antwerp, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to M Leuven, an often recommended museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Saint Peter's Church, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

Next, explore Leuven Oude Markt, yet another worthwhile place to see in the area. After the public square, make time to go to Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis. This romantic botanical garden is well worth the visit.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Satay, a top-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Molly's Irish Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bourla. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Antwerp 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Beerlovers Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Bakeliet, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Paters Vaetje provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Belgium!

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Belgium, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Antwerp and visit amazing attractions in Dinant, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Antwerp, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set your GPS to Dinant and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dinant beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Citadelle De Dinant, a well-known castle that everyone visiting Dinant should see. Next, head to Grotte De Dinant La Merveilleuse. This visually striking cave is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Maison Leffe, a standout brewery popular among locals as well as 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 Elfde Gebod, a top-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zilte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at OKOZ Antwerp. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Antwerp this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Antwerp.

Continue your lively evening at De Muze, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cabron is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in Belgium offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Namur and end it in Brussels. You’ll stay in Brussels for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Belgium.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Namur. This car ride takes around 1 hour 21 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Namur is Musée Provincial Félicien Rops, a locally appreciated museum that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Parc Attractif Reine Fabiola, a picture-perfect amusement park that stands out in the city.

When you arrive in Jambes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Citadel Of Namur is an interesting castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Belgium as you make your way to Brussels. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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.

Dine in style at Villa Lorraine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Marmiton boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Brussels.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at La Reserve after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Manneken Pis Cafe for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Addict Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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