One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and France With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, Lille, and Reims
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Description
Explore Belgium and France on an epic 8-day European road trip. Brussels, Laeken, Bruges, Lille, and Reims await!
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 5 nights in Belgium and 2 nights in France.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Belgium, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Brussels and begin your adventure from there. Explore Brussels, Laeken, Bruges, Ghent, Arrondissement of Dinant, and Bouvignes-sur-Meuse, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of France. Immerse yourself in the allure of Lille and Reims, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Lille’s Old Stock Exchange. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Belgium and France will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Belgium and France. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Belgium and France.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Brussels - Arrival day
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- Grand-Place
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Belgium and France begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Brussels in Belgium. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Brussels for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Belgium to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Brussels before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Brussels. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Belgium. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try BrewDog Brussels? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at À La Mort Subite as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Brussels.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Churchill's. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Station Bxl offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Delirium Café, another top-rated bar in the area.
Your multi-country road trip in Belgium and France has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Brussels
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour 26 min
- Atomium
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Brussels Park
- Musée Magritte Museum
- Royal Palace of Brussels
- Cinquantenaire Park
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On day 2 of your European tour in Belgium and France, you’ll start and end your day in Laeken, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Brussels for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Laeken in Belgium to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Brussels today. One of the most impressive attractions included on the itinerary is Atomium. This awe-inspiring monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels and learn what makes this breathtaking church unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Brussels Park. After exploring the park, head to Musée Magritte Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a highlight in Brussels. As your day continues, stop by Royal Palace Of Brussels, known for its picture-perfect features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the well-known Cinquantenaire. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
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.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 3
- Brussels
- Bruges
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Drive 96 km, 1 hour 47 min
- Minnewater Park
- Church of Our Lady
- Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug)
- Groeningemuseum
- Belfry of Bruges
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
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On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and France, 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 to see in Bruges in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bruges, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Minnewaterpark. This worthwhile park is a stunning place to see in Brussels. Continue your discovery at Church Of Our Lady, a history-steeped church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Brussels, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). This underrated historical landmark offers a romantic encounter with Brussels. Next, make your way to Groeninge to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Belfry Of Bruges, a popular monument that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a beloved church in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Brussels.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Bruges.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Bruges. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Het Visioen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at t'Lammetje. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Groot Vlaenderen stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bauhaus Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. 't Brugs Beertje is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium and France! Enjoy your evening in Bruges to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 4
- Bruges
- Ghent
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Drive 53 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Gravensteen
- Saint Michael's Bridge
- Saint Nicholas' Church
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Het Belfort van Gent
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Ghent in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ghent, your home for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Bruges’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Gravensteen. This culturally significant castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Sint-michielsbrug, a must-visit historical landmark 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 Saint Nicholas' Church, an up-and-coming church. For a change of scene, check out Saint Bavo's Cathedral, known for its historic features. We also recommend visiting Belfry Of Ghent. This monument is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Ghent. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Ghent’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Belgium and France.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Maste Bvba, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Godot offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Patrick Foley's. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Ghent.
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.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 5
- Ghent
- Lille
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Drive 78 km, 1 hour 34 min
- Citadel of Lille
- Palais des Beaux Arts
- Column of the Goddess
- La Vieille Bourse
- Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral at Lille
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On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lille in France. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Ghent, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Citadel Of Lille, a curiosity-inducing castle in the city.
There are many interesting places to see in Ghent, and when you are ready for more, go to Column Of The Goddess. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the often recommended Old Stock Exchange. Not far away, you'll also find Notre-dame-de-la-treille Cathedral At Lille. This church is a stunning highlight in Ghent.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Lille. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Lille. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium and France.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Couvent des Minimes de Lille, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Best Western Urban Hôtel - Rococo Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Auberge Du Forgeron - Restaurant gastronomique as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lille.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Colbert Café after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Level Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Fridge Bar Lille is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 6
- Lille
- Reims
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Drive 211 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Taittinger
- Palace of Tau
- Reims Cathedral
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and France. Today's main destinations are Reims in France, 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 Reims. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Taittinger. This up-and-coming business is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Palace Of Tau, a must-see palace in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Reims Cathedral. This interesting church offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Reims’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Reims. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.
Make sure to reserve a table at Chèvre et Menthe, an iconic dining spot in Reims. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La médina, a popular restaurant in Reims. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Apostrophe, a hidden gem nestled in Reims. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The Glue Pot, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. L'antirouille is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bibovino is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Take in the ambiance of Reims as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 7
- Reims
- Brussels
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Grotte de Dinant La Merveilleuse
- Dinant Citadel
- Abbaye Notre-Dame de Leffe
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Belgium and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Arrondissement of Dinant in Belgium. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Brussels where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views in Reims. Begin your sightseeing with Grotte De Dinant La Merveilleuse. This frequently visited cave is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Citadelle De Dinant, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Reims, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Abbaye Notre-dame De Leffe. This worthwhile monastery is a traveler-favorite.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Brussels of your choice.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Belgium's delectable cuisine at one of Brussels's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Don’t miss out on dining 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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Reserve, known for its inviting atmosphere. Manneken Pis Cafe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Addict Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the night falls in Brussels, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 8
- Brussels - Departure day
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- Saint-Géry/Sint-Goriks
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Brussels before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Belgium and France. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Make the most of your final day in Belgium by visiting Brussels’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Avenue Louise. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Belgium. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Saint-Géry/Sint-Goriks, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Brussels. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Get a last taste of Belgium’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Brussels and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Belgium and France.
The time has come to say farewell to Brussels for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Belgium and France with fond memories. Safe travels!
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