5-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Ghent and Bruges

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 Brussels, Belgium. Parc du Cinquantenaire with the Arch built for Beglian independence in Bruxelles. Brussels, Belgium. Parc du Cinquantenaire with the Arch built for Beglian independence in Bruxelles.
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Explore the best of Belgium on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Brussels, Laeken, Ghent, Bruges, Ostend, and Antwerp. This road trip itinerary in Belgium seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Belgium takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Brussels, 1 night in Ghent, and 1 night in Bruges. 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 Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, learn more about the unique Cinquantenaire, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Gravensteen.

As you hit the open road and drive through Brussels, Laeken, Ghent, Bruges, Ostend, and Antwerp, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Brussels Park
Grand-PlaceRoyal Gallery of Saint HubertRoyal Palace of BrusselsCinquantenaire ParkAtomiumSaint Michael's Bridge
Saint Bavo's CathedralGravensteenChurch of Our LadyBelfry of BrugesBruges City HallBurg
LeopoldparkOnze-Lieve-VrouwekathedraalAntwerp Zoo
St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Brussels - Arrival day
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  • Brussels Park
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Your road trip adventure in Belgium begins as soon as you reach Brussels and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Brussels for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Brussels Park, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BrewDog Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at À La Mort Subite. 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, Churchill's stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Station Bxl offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Delirium Café is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Belgium!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Brussels
  • Ghent
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Drive 72 km, 1 hour 45 min

  • Grand-Place
  • Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
  • Royal Palace of Brussels
  • Cinquantenaire Park
  • Atomium
  • Saint Michael's Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Belgium. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Brussels, Laeken, and Ghent. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ghent. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Brussels. Begin your sightseeing with Grand-place. This world-famous public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Brussels, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Royal Palace Of Brussels. This popular palace is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cinquantenaire, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Atomium is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Sint-michielsbrug and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most beloved attractions.

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 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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at De Geus Van Gent. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Alchemist, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Hot Club Gent provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Ghent
  • Bruges
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Drive 46 km, 1 hour 11 min

  • Saint Bavo's Cathedral
  • Gravensteen
  • Church of Our Lady
  • Belfry of Bruges
  • Bruges City Hall
  • Burg
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Belgium. Today you will explore Ghent and 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 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the interesting Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a monumental church in Ghent. Next, go to Gravensteen.

After visiting Saint Bavo's Cathedral and Gravensteen, have a stroll along Ghent's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Church Of Our Lady. This romantic church offers a unique experience. Belfry Of Bruges is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Bruges City Hall, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Ghent. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Burg.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Vlaminck '14, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Het Visioen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, t'Lammetje is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bruges.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Groot Vlaenderen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bauhaus Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 't Brugs Beertje also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bruges
  • Brussels
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Drive 206 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Leopoldpark
  • Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal
  • Antwerp Zoo
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Belgium. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ostend and Antwerp. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Brussels, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bruges today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Leopoldpark. This eye-catching park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal and learn what makes this enchanting church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Antwerp Zoo.

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

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.

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.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Brussels - Departure day
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  • St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
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Day 5 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, begin at St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This captivating church is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in Belgium and go on a shopping spree in Brussels’s shopping center, the lively Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Belgium. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.

Before you conclude your road trip in Belgium, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Brussels.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Marmiton, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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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