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

Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in Belgium. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Brussels and Laeken. With 1 night to stay in Brussels, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Cinquantenaire is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Musée Magritte Museum, an intriguing museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a breathtaking church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Brussels. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the well-known Mini-europe. If you’re looking for more, Atomium is also a top-rated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Des Amis offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Du Canal is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Little Delirium is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Belgium, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Ghent are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ghent, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Make time for Stam Ghent City Museum, an intriguing museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Saint Bavo's Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Ghent City Hall. This city hall is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Brussels at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Belfry Of Ghent.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ghent. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Maste Bvba, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Godot? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Patrick Foley's as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ghent.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at De Geus Van Gent, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Alchemist offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Hot Club Gent provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Belgium includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Bruges. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bruges, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Historium Bruges is an essential stop in Ghent. This often recommended museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Belfry Of Bruges, a visually striking monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Of The Holy Blood, an underrated church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Bruges City Hall. Round off your day at Burg, another gem in Ghent with visually striking features to discover.

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.

Bruges is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bruges.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Het Visioen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at t'Lammetje. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bruges tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Groot Vlaenderen offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bauhaus Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. 't Brugs Beertje is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Bruges. You’ll stay in Bruges for 1 night.

Let Sint-salvatorskathedraal set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant church before continuing your journey. Groeninge is your next stop. This frequently visited neighborhood is one of the best-rated sights in Bruges.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). This grand historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Church Of Our Lady and De Halve Maan Brewery. If time allows, end your day with Minnewaterpark, a mesmerizing park that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Belgium. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting De Garre after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to 't Poatersgat, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Vintage also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Belgium. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Antwerp. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Antwerp, where will spend 2 nights.

Experience Rubenshuis, a frequently visited museum in the city. Then, head to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting church.

There are many interesting places to see in Bruges, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Plantin-moretus. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the increasingly popular Brabo's Monument.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Antwerp. Antwerp 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 Antwerp's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Aspen, a top-rated dining spot in Antwerp. If you're in the mood for something new, try De Zeven Schaken, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Antwerp.

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

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Antwerp has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Antwerp.

Start your day at Red Star Line Museum. This photogenic museum is a locally appreciated place to see in Antwerp. Then, wander over to Museum Aan De Stroom. If gorgeous sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Antwerp Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is a favorite among visitors.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Belgium. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Ciro's, 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 Het Pomphuis, 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 Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei, a hidden gem nestled in Antwerp. 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, Café Delux offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, 't Waagstuk is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Den Hopsack is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Belgium!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Leuven. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Leuven, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Saint Peter's Church is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Grote Markt, a frequently visited public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Historic Leuven Town Hall, a culturally significant city hall, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leuven. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

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. Known for great service, 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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Belgium.

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Leuven, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Heverlee and Leuven.

Your adventure in Leuven is only getting started when you visit Grand Béguinage Of Leuven, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis. This up-and-coming botanical garden is known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Leuven's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Arenberg Castle. This romantic castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hop - gastrobar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Barba offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss bar Stan. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Leuven.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting De Giraf after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to De Blauwe Kater, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Rustic also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Belgium!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Belgium. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Muizen and Mechelen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Brussels, where you'll spend 1 night.

To truly experience Leuven, make sure to drop by Planckendael Zoo. This locally renowned zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Kazerne Dossin – Memorial, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out St. Rumbold's Cathedral, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Leuven. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Grote Markt. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this public square offers.

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.

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 culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La Reserve stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Manneken Pis Cafe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Addict Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Brussels and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Belgium.