12-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, and Leuven

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Brussels, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Brussels allows for both. Start by heading to Cinquantenaire. This notable park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Musée Magritte Museum, a heritage-rich museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a locally renowned church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Mini-europe. Round off your day at Atomium, another gem in Brussels with picture-perfect features to discover.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Brussels. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at The Lobster House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Roumaine. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Brussels.

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.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Belgium.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Ghent. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ghent, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Stam Ghent City Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Saint Bavo's Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and notable church renowned for its stunning features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Brussels by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Ghent City Hall. This heritage-rich city hall is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Brussels experience. We also recommend visiting Belfry Of Ghent, a locally appreciated monument.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ghent. Ghent offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Ghent's best restaurants.

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.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Belgium.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Belgium. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bruges. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bruges, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Ghent today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Historium Bruges. This history-steeped museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Belfry Of Bruges and learn what makes this enchanting monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Basilica Of The Holy Blood. After exploring the church, head to Bruges City Hall. This worthwhile city hall is a highlight in Ghent. As your day continues, stop by Burg, known for its visually striking features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bruges, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bruges. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Vlaminck '14, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Het Visioen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider t'Lammetje. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bruges tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Groot Vlaenderen, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bauhaus Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 't Brugs Beertje provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bruges and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Belgium!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bruges. You’ll stay in Bruges for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your adventure at Sint-salvatorskathedraal. This is a frequently visited church you should not miss. Another must-see is Groeninge, a curiosity-inducing neighborhood in Bruges.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). From there, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of Our Lady, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at De Halve Maan Brewery, a heritage-rich place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Minnewaterpark to your itinerary. This frequently visited park offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Bruges.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Belgium is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bruges. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at De Garre, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, 't Poatersgat offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Vintage provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Belgium!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Belgium. Today you will explore Antwerp, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Antwerp. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bruges, including a museum, a church, and a monument. Start your day at Rubenshuis. This instagrammable museum is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Bruges. Then, wander over to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal. If culturally significant sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Museum Plantin-moretus. This standout museum is a favorite among visitors.

Bruges offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Brabo's Monument is an increasingly popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Antwerp. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Antwerp. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Aspen, a top-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider De Zeven Schaken, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Antwerp this evening.

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

Say good night to Antwerp and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Belgium!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Antwerp for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Antwerp. Begin your sightseeing with Red Star Line Museum. This beloved museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Museum Aan De Stroom, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Antwerp, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Antwerp Zoo. This notable zoo is a traveler-favorite.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Belgium is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Antwerp's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ciro's, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Het Pomphuis offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Antwerp.

Continue your lively evening at Café Delux, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. 't Waagstuk is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Den Hopsack ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Antwerp and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Belgium!

On day 9 of your road trip in Belgium, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Leuven. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leuven, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Antwerp is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a public square, and a city hall. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Saint Peter's Church and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Grote Markt, a romantic public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Historic Leuven Town Hall, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Leuven. Leuven offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Leuven's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Portogalo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Donki Leuven offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss dewerf. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Leuven.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Belgium!

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip in Belgium. With 1 night left in Leuven, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Leuven, including a historical landmark, a botanical garden, and a castle. Start your adventure at Grand Béguinage Of Leuven. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis located in Leuven for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Arenberg Castle. Its visually striking features will captivate you.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Leuven. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hop - gastrobar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Barba offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, bar Stan is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Leuven.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Belgium!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Belgium. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Muizen and Arrondissement of Mechelen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Brussels. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Leuven, including a zoo, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Planckendael Zoo. This captivating zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Kazerne Dossin – Memorial located in Leuven for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of St. Rumbold's Cathedral. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Grote Markt. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this public square.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Brussels, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Brussels. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Villa Lorraine, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Marmiton, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

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, Addict Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Belgium!