One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and France With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, Lille, and Reims

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!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Atomium. This extraordinary monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Brussels Park, one of the most well-known places to see in Brussels. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Musée Magritte Museum. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Royal Palace Of Brussels, a top-rated palace that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the locally renowned Cinquantenaire, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Brussels. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Belgium 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.

Savor the flavors at The Lobster House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Roumaine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Des Amis, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Du Canal is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Delirium offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels 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!

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 family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Minnewaterpark. This intriguing park is a stunning place to see in Brussels. Continue your discovery at Church Of Our Lady, a remarkable 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 beloved historical landmark offers an enchanting encounter with Brussels. Next, make your way to Groeninge to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Belfry Of Bruges, a locally renowned monument that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Basilica Of The Holy Blood, an increasingly popular 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.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Bruges’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Bruges. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vlaminck '14, a highly-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're eager to try something different, consider Het Visioen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at t'Lammetje. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.

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.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and France. Today's main destinations are Ghent in Belgium, 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 Ghent. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bruges. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Gravensteen is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Bruges. Next, head to Sint-michielsbrug, an often recommended historical landmark, 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 Saint Nicholas' Church. This picture-perfect church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Saint Bavo's Cathedral adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Belfry Of Ghent, a culturally significant monument in Bruges.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Ghent. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Ghent. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Maste Bvba, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Godot? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Patrick Foley's as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ghent.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at De Geus Van Gent, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Alchemist offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Hot Club Gent. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium and France! Enjoy your evening in Ghent to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Lille in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lille, your home for 1 night.

Ghent is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Citadel Of Lille, an up-and-coming castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Column Of The Goddess. This monument is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Ghent at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Old Stock Exchange. After exploring the historical landmark, head to the intriguing Notre-dame-de-la-treille Cathedral At Lille. This church will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Lille. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Lille's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Lille has them.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Couvent des Minimes de Lille, a top-rated dining spot in Lille. If you're in the mood for something new, try Best Western Urban Hôtel - Rococo Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Auberge Du Forgeron - Restaurant gastronomique. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lille.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Colbert Café, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Level Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Fridge Bar Lille, another top-rated place in the area.

As the night falls in Lille, 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.

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.

Today’s itinerary in Reims covers several incredible sights, including a cave, a castle, and a monastery. Start your adventure at Grotte De Dinant La Merveilleuse. This often recommended cave is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Citadelle De Dinant, a must-see castle in the town.

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 Abbaye Notre-dame De Leffe. This locally appreciated monastery offers an enriching experience.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Brussels of your choice.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Brussels’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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Villa Lorraine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Marmiton offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Bistro - Porte de Hal is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.

Continue your lively evening at La Reserve, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Manneken Pis Cafe is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Addict Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels 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!