One-Week Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Antwerp

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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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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 8-day road trip in Belgium! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Brussels, Laeken, Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Leuven, Mechelen, and Muizen.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Belgium. You will spend 5 nights in Brussels and 2 nights in Antwerp. 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 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, Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Leuven, Mechelen, and Muizen, 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, accommodations, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Brussels - Arrival day
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  • Royal Palace of Brussels
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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 4 nights discovering what to see in Brussels 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 Royal Palace Of Brussels. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Churchill's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Station Bxl, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Delirium Café also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Belgium!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Brussels
  • Laeken - Laken
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Drive 28 km, 1 hour 27 min

  • Cinquantenaire Park
  • Musée Magritte Museum
  • Brussels COMICS Figurines Museum
  • Grand-Place
  • Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
  • Atomium
  • More

Greet day 2 of your road trip in Belgium with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 3 nights to stay in Brussels, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Brussels and Laeken.

Brussels is brimming with adventures.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the notable Cinquantenaire and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Musée Magritte Museum, a historic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Brussels Comics Figurines Museum, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the globally renowned Grand-place. When you're finished at the public square, Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert awaits your visit. This shopping mall is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laeken. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Laeken, it's time to take a break from the road.

Atomium is a famous monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Brussels's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Brussels and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Belgium.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Brussels
  • Ghent
  • More

Drive 117 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Gravensteen
  • Het Belfort van Gent
  • Saint Bavo's Cathedral
  • Sint-Baafsplein
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Belgium, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 2 nights to spend in Brussels, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ghent to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

A top thing to do today is to explore Sint-Baafsplein, a must-see street in Ghent. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Brussels, 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 1 hour 3 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Gravensteen, a locally renowned castle known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Belfry Of Ghent, an underrated monument.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Saint Bavo's Cathedral and uncover the details of this awe-inspiring church.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Brussels's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Villa Lorraine, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at Le Marmiton, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La Reserve stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Manneken Pis Cafe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Addict Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Belgium.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Brussels
  • Bruges
  • More

Drive 195 km, 2 hours 57 min

  • Burg
  • Bruges City Hall
  • Basilica of the Holy Blood
  • Belfry of Bruges
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Bruges. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Brussels, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bruges. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Burg, a curiosity-inducing public square in Bruges. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Bruges City Hall. This intriguing city hall is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Basilica Of The Holy Blood is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most monumental church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the popular Belfry Of Bruges and discover what makes this monument unique.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Pasta Divina, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Novotel Brussels off Grand Place is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Penta Hotel Brussels City Centre. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brussels tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Au Soleil. , a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Au Brasseur, a bar that offers unique local touches.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Belgium.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Brussels
  • Antwerp
  • More

Drive 57 km, 1 hour 33 min

  • Antwerp Zoo
  • The Rubens House
  • Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal
  • Brabo's Monument
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Belgium. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Antwerp. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Antwerp, where will spend 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Antwerp, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brussels to Antwerp may take around 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Antwerp, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Antwerp Zoo, a notable zoo that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Rubenshuis, where you can soak in the historic surroundings.

Next, explore Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Brabo's Monument. This culturally significant monument is well worth the visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Antwerp, 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 Antwerp. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Aspen, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, De Zeven Schaken is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Antwerp tonight.

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

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Antwerp
  • Leuven
  • More

Drive 129 km, 2 hours 4 min

  • Botanical Garden
  • Leuven Oude Markt
  • Saint Peter's Church
  • Historical Leuven Town hall
  • Grote Markt
  • Muntstraat
  • More

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Belgium. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Leuven. With 1 night to stay in Antwerp, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

A visit to Muntstraat is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Set your GPS to Leuven and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Leuven beckons with new experiences!

Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis is a frequently visited botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour to Leuven Oude Markt, a picture-perfect public square that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Saint Peter's Church, a heritage-rich church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Historic Leuven Town Hall, a historic and truly unique city hall. End your sightseeing at Grote Markt, an intriguing public square that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Antwerp. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ciro's, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Het Pomphuis? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Antwerp.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Delux. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, 't Waagstuk offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Den Hopsack, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Belgium!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Antwerp
  • Mechelen
  • Muizen
  • Brussels
  • More

Drive 62 km, 1 hour 33 min

  • Grote Markt
  • St. Rumbold's Cathedral
  • Planckendael Zoo
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in Belgium, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Mechelen and Muizen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you explore Mechelen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Mechelen may take around 36 min. Upon your arrival in Mechelen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Grote Markt, an up-and-coming public square that everyone visiting Mechelen should see. Next, head to St. Rumbold's Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Mechelen 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 19 min. Upon reaching Muizen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Planckendael Zoo, a notable zoo that everyone visiting Muizen should see.

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

Brussels is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Brussels.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at Hotel Le Plaza Brussels, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE). It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Belgium!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Brussels - Departure day
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  • Saint-Géry/Sint-Goriks
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Day 8 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.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Saint-Géry/Sint-Goriks, a neighborhood that you shouldn't miss while in Brussels. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Brussels, Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of 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.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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