5-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels traveling west to Antwerp and Ghent
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Belgium as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Brussels, Laeken, Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, and Cambron-Casteau.
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 Antwerp, and 1 night in Ghent. 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through Brussels, Laeken, Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, and Cambron-Casteau, 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!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Brussels - arrival day
- Brussels - Arrival day
- More
- Mont des Arts - Kunstberg
- More
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 1 night 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 Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg or 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 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, BrewDog Brussels offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, À La Mort Subite is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Churchill's, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Station Bxl, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Delirium Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Belgium!
Day 2 – Brussels, Laeken, and Antwerp
- Brussels
- Laeken - Laken
- Antwerp
- More
Drive 56 km, 1 hour 30 min
- Grand-Place
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Atomium
- More
On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Brussels and Laeken. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Antwerp, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Brussels allows for both. Start by heading to Grand-place. This wondrous public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a history-steeped shopping mall, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, an interesting church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Cinquantenaire.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Laeken, 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 Brussels to Laeken may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Laeken, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Atomium, an extraordinary monument in Laeken. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Antwerp. Antwerp offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
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.
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 Nebo, a local gem known for its delightful contemporary 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.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Belgium.
Day 3 – Antwerp and Ghent
- Antwerp
- Ghent
- More
Drive 69 km, 1 hour 40 min
- Museum aan de Stroom
- Antwerp Zoo
- Gravensteen
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Belgium. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Antwerp and Ghent. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ghent, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of a gorgeous, a visually striking, and a respected await you in Antwerp on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable museum, Museum Aan De Stroom. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Antwerp Zoo. A visit to this zoo is an enriching experience for all.
When you’ve had your share of Antwerp, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ghent. Your travel time is around 58 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Gravensteen, a well-known castle that everyone visiting Ghent should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This historic church is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Ghent. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Publiek, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vrijmoed is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Ghent. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at OAK. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for world and creative french cuisine in the city.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting De Geus Van Gent, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Alchemist is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Hot Club Gent also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Belgium!
Day 4 – Ghent, Bruges, Cambron-Casteau, and Brussels
- Ghent
- Bruges
- Cambron-Casteau
- Brussels
- More
Drive 236 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Minnewater Park
- Church of Our Lady
- Belfry of Bruges
- Pairi Daiza
- More
On day 4 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 Bruges and Cambron-Casteau. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bruges, 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 Ghent to Bruges may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bruges, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Minnewaterpark, a curiosity-inducing park that everyone visiting Bruges should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Church Of Our Lady. This enchanting church is one of the most beloved attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Belfry Of Bruges, a history-steeped monument, popular among locals as well as travelers.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bruges, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cambron-Casteau. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Pairi Daiza and explore the majestic features.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Brussels's best restaurants.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Brussels by securing a table at Barge. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional organic menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, famous for its scrumptious modern and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Bozar Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french and creative cuisine in Brussels. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french and creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Des Amis after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Du Canal for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Delirium is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Belgium!
Day 5 – Brussels - departure day
- Brussels - Departure day
- More
- Brussels Park
- Grand-Place
- More
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.
As your final day in Belgium unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Brussels's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Belgium.
Brussels is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, and a historic! Start at Brussels Park, a well-known park that is worthwhile a visit in the city.
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 for something new, try Le Marmiton, another premier location with a delectable 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Belgium
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.