Relaxed 12-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Antwerp and Mons

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Brussels allows for both. Start by heading to Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This notable shopping mall provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Grand-place, an enchanting public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a notable church.

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

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Brussels by securing a reservation at La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and classic cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Bozar Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative 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 La Villa in the Sky, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and organic 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 Brussels’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Belgium.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Des Amis is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Du Canal, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Little Delirium. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Belgium is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Antwerp for 7 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.

Start by visiting Musée Magritte Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Royal Museums Of Fine Arts Of Belgium, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing museum renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Brussels by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Royal Palace Of Brussels. This historic palace is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Brussels Park also adds charm to your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Laeken. This drive usually takes around 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De Laeken - Royal Parc, an increasingly popular park known for its eye-catching features.

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

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Antwerp by booking a table at Zilte, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Hertog Jan at Botanic, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Misera, a local gem known for its delightful creative french and modern french cuisine in Antwerp. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Hopper, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dogma, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Basil likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Antwerp and visit amazing attractions in Brussels destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 6 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.

After soaking in Antwerp’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brussels. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 52 min. When you arrive in Brussels, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Museum For Natural Sciences Of Belgium, a locally renowned museum that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Leopold Park, a stunning park that stands out in the city. Next, visit Cinquantenaire, a notable park that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Autoworld Brussels, a nearby museum, which is highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos, a romantic park and the perfect final attraction in Brussels.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ciro's, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Het Pomphuis offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Antwerp.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Belgium continues on day 5, 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 5 nights left in Antwerp, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

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.

Head to Planckendael Zoo, a notable zoo in Muizen. Explore its gorgeous features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arrondissement of Mechelen. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at St. Rumbold's Cathedral, a beloved church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Grote Markt and admire its instagrammable features. When you’re ready, continue to Vrijbroekpark, an increasingly popular park beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

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

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.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Beerlovers Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Bakeliet, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Paters Vaetje likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium, you’ll explore the area around Antwerp, where you’ll be staying for another 4 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.

Immerse yourself in Antwerp’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Museum Aan De Stroom. This instagrammable museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Antwerp Zoo, a notable zoo.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Antwerp, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Boom. This drive usually takes around 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Provinciaal Recreatiedomein De Schorre, a frequently visited park known for its enchanting features.

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

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.

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

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Antwerp and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to De Muze, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cabron is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Antwerp 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 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Antwerp and visit amazing attractions in Ghent and Bruges 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Antwerp, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ghent may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Ghent, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Belfry Of Ghent. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Gravensteen. This locally renowned castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Set your GPS to Bruges and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bruges beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Minnewaterpark, a locally appreciated park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Church Of Our Lady, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings. Next, explore Belfry Of Bruges, yet another notable place to see in the area.

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

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.

Dine in style at De Peerdestal | Restaurant Antwerpen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pazzo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sir Anthony Van Dijck. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Antwerp.

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

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Belgium continues on day 8, 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.

Today's adventure in Ypres promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ypres, 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 Antwerp to Ypres may take around 1 hour 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ypres, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to In Flanders Fields Museum, an underrated museum that everyone visiting Ypres should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Menin Gate. This awe-inspiring war memorial is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

When you’ve had your share of Ypres, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Langemark - Poelkapelle. Your travel time is around 9 min.

Head to St. Julien Canadian 2ⁿᵈ Battle Of Ypres Memorial (the Brooding Soldier), a beloved war memorial in Langemark - Poelkapelle. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Zonnebeke. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917, a frequently visited museum that everyone visiting Zonnebeke should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at 't Hofke, a top-rated dining spot in Antwerp. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vrij België, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Fish A'Gogo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Antwerp.

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.

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

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll end your day in the city of Mons, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Mons. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church, an underrated church in Mons. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Beaux-arts Mons. This underrated art gallery is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Belfry Of Mons is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most UNESCO world heritage-listed monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the up-and-coming Jardin Du Mayeur and discover what makes this park unique.

In the city of Mons, 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.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Mons by reserving a table at La Table du Boucher. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional meats and grills and classic french menu. For a different taste experience, head to Le Comptoir de Marie, recognized for its delicious italian dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Masu, a local favorite known for its delightful seasonal and world cuisine in Mons. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning seasonal and world foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

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

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

Day 11 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Belgium gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Braine-l'Alleud. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Brussels, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Mons, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Braine-l'Alleud may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Braine-l'Alleud, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Lion's Mound, a curiosity-inducing monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Waterloo Battlefield and admire its culturally significant features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Wavre, 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 Braine-l'Alleud to Wavre may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Wavre, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Walibi Belgium and explore the picture-perfect features.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Brussels in this laid-back road trip in Belgium. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Savor the flavors at Villa Lorraine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Marmiton beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Belgium!