12-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, and Leuven
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 12-day road trip through Belgium. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Belgium takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Brussels, 2 nights in Ghent, 2 nights in Bruges, 2 nights in Antwerp, and 2 nights in Leuven. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Belgium. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Brussels, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Belgium on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Belgium. Grand-place and Atomium are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Cinquantenaire, learn more about the unique Gravensteen, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Antwerp Zoo.
As you hit the open road and drive through Brussels, Laeken, Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Leuven, Heverlee, Muizen, and Arrondissement of Mechelen, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Belgium. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Belgium.
Throughout your road trip in Belgium, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Belgium.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Belgium fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Belgium today!
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Day 1
- Brussels - Arrival day
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- Grand-Place
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Welcome to Brussels, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Belgium! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Brussels's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Brussels is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Grand-place, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Brussels. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Brussels, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, BrewDog Brussels boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out À La Mort Subite. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Brussels.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Churchill's, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Station Bxl provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Delirium Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Belgium!
Day 2
- Brussels
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Drive 27 km, 1 hour 32 min
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Musée Magritte Museum
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Mini-Europe
- Atomium
- More
Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Belgium. With 1 night left in Brussels, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Brussels, including a park, a museum, a church, an amusement park, a monument and much more! Start your day at Cinquantenaire. This picture-perfect park is a popular place to see in Brussels. Then, wander over to Musée Magritte Museum. If respected sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This stunning church is a favorite among visitors.
Brussels offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Mini-europe is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the amusement park, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Atomium. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this widely recognized monument.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Lobster House, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Roumaine. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Des Amis, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Du Canal is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Little Delirium is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Brussels and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Belgium!
Day 3
- Brussels
- Ghent
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Drive 58 km, 1 hour 22 min
- STAM - Ghent City Museum
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Ghent City Hall
- Het Belfort van Gent
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Belgium. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Ghent. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ghent. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Brussels promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Stam Ghent City Museum. This visually striking museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Saint Bavo's Cathedral, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ghent City Hall, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its instagrammable features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Belfry Of Ghent. This picture-perfect monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Ghent, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Ghent's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Maste Bvba, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Godot beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Patrick Foley's. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ghent tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at De Geus Van Gent, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Alchemist offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ghent. Hot Club Gent is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Belgium.
Day 4
- Ghent
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Drive 2 km, 30 min
- Museum of Industry
- Patershol
- Gravensteen
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Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Ghent has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Ghent by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Ghent. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Museum Of Industry is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Ghent. Next, head to Patershol, an intriguing street, known for its visually striking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Gravensteen. This historic castle is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
As you explore more of Ghent, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Trappistenhuis, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 't Dreupelkot offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Otomat Gent is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Ghent.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Oswald, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Popular, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Trollekelder provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Belgium and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Ghent
- Bruges
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Drive 52 km, 58 min
- Historium Bruges
- Belfry of Bruges
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
- Bruges City Hall
- Burg
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Belgium. Today you will explore Bruges, 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 Bruges. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Ghent, including a museum, a monument, a church, a city hall, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Historium Bruges. This locally appreciated museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Belfry Of Bruges located in Ghent for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Basilica Of The Holy Blood. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Bruges City Hall. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this city hall. Next up is Burg, a highly recommended public square.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bruges. Bruges offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bruges. 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 Vlaminck '14, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Het Visioen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out t'Lammetje. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bruges.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Groot Vlaenderen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bauhaus Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 't Brugs Beertje, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Belgium!
Day 6
- Bruges
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Drive 4 km, 33 min
- Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
- Groeningemuseum
- Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug)
- Church of Our Lady
- De Halve Maan brewery
- Minnewater Park
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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.
Bruges is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Sint-salvatorskathedraal, a locally appreciated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). This historical landmark is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bruges at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Church Of Our Lady. After exploring the church, head to the beloved De Halve Maan Brewery. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Minnewaterpark, a place of peaceful interest 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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bruges. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bistro Den Amand, a top-rated dining spot in Bruges. If you're in the mood for something new, try That's Toast, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Petite Aneth. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bruges.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like De Garre, known for its lively atmosphere. 't Poatersgat is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Vintage offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Belgium!
Day 7
- Bruges
- Antwerp
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Drive 111 km, 1 hour 50 min
- The Rubens House
- Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal
- Museum Plantin-Moretus
- Brabo's Monument
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On day 7 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 Antwerp. In the evening, you’ll end up in Antwerp, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Bruges is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Rubenshuis, a worthwhile museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, enchanting visitors with its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal. Continue your exploration at Museum Plantin-moretus. This museum is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bruges at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Brabo's Monument.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Antwerp's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Hopper, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dogma offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Basil provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Belgium!
Day 8
- Antwerp
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Drive 8 km, 57 min
- Red Star Line Museum
- Museum aan de Stroom
- Antwerp Zoo
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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.
Today's adventure in Antwerp promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Red Star Line Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Museum Aan De Stroom, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Antwerp Zoo, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining 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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Delux, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, 't Waagstuk provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Den Hopsack offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Say good night to Antwerp and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Belgium!
Day 9
- Antwerp
- Leuven
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Drive 64 km, 57 min
- Saint Peter's Church
- Grote Markt
- Historical Leuven Town hall
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Belgium. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Leuven. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leuven, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Antwerp on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Saint Peter's Church is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich church before continuing your journey. Grote Markt is your next stop. This up-and-coming public square is one of the best-rated sights in Antwerp.
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 Historic Leuven Town Hall. This picture-perfect city hall is a sight to behold.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Leuven, 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 Leuven. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Portogalo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Donki Leuven is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at dewerf. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Leuven tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Plaza, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Farao provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, De Metafoor offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Belgium!
Day 10
- Leuven
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Drive 11 km, 50 min
- Great Beguinage of Leuven
- Botanical Garden
- Arenberg Castle
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Leuven, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Grand Béguinage Of Leuven. This up-and-coming historical landmark is an UNESCO world heritage-designated place to see in Leuven. Continue your discovery at Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis, a mesmerizing botanical garden with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Leuven, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Arenberg Castle. This frequently visited castle offers an enchanting encounter with Leuven. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Leuven.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Leuven and your accommodation.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hop - gastrobar, an iconic dining spot in Leuven. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Barba, a popular restaurant in Leuven. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of bar Stan, a hidden gem nestled in Leuven. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Belgium and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 11
- Leuven
- Brussels
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Drive 57 km, 1 hour 31 min
- Planckendael Zoo
- Kazerne Dossin – Memorial
- St. Rumbold's Cathedral
- Grote Markt
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On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Muizen and Arrondissement of Mechelen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brussels, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views await you in Leuven on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known zoo, Planckendael Zoo. Afterward, continue to Kazerne Dossin – Memorial, a museum every traveler should visit.
As you explore Leuven’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to St. Rumbold's Cathedral. This underrated church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Grote Markt, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Brussels. Brussels offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Villa Lorraine, 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 Le Marmiton, 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 Le Bistro - Porte de Hal, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting La Reserve, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Manneken Pis Cafe is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Addict Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Belgium!
Day 12
- Brussels - Departure day
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- Royal Palace of Brussels
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Day 12 of your road trip in Belgium is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Brussels before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Royal Palace Of Brussels, a gorgeous palace before you head out.
On your last day in Belgium, take time to indulge in shopping at Brussels’s popular marketplace, Rue Neuve. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Belgium, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Brussels.
You’ll then say farewell to Brussels. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Belgium!
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