One-Week Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Antwerp and Ghent
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Description
Explore the best of Belgium on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Brussels, Laeken, Antwerp, Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek, Arrondissement of Mechelen, Muizen, Liege, Boom, Bruges, Ghent, and Cambron-Casteau. 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, 4 nights 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. Marvel at the remarkable Pairi Daiza, learn more about the unique Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cinquantenaire.
As you hit the open road and drive through Brussels, Laeken, Antwerp, Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek, Arrondissement of Mechelen, Muizen, Liege, Boom, Bruges, Ghent, 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
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Day 1
- Brussels - Arrival day
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- Mont des Arts - Kunstberg
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Say hello to Brussels! Your exciting road trip through Belgium is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Brussels for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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. 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!
Day 2
- Brussels
- Laeken - Laken
- Antwerp
- More
Drive 49 km, 1 hour 20 min
- Grand-Place
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Brussels 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 4 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Brussels. Your adventure starts at Grand-place, a wondrous local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This captivating shopping mall is known for its history-steeped appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Brussels's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This breathtaking church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Brussels Park is also worth visiting.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brussels, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Laeken may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in Laeken, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to Atomium, a famous monument in Laeken. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Antwerp. 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 Antwerp. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Antwerp by reserving a table at Zilte. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Hertog Jan at Botanic, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Nebo, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary and modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Antwerp.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Hopper, known for its lively atmosphere. Dogma is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Basil offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Belgium.
Day 3
- Antwerp
- Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek
- Brussels
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Drive 116 km, 2 hours 59 min
- Josaphat Park
- Autoworld
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Royal Belgian institute of Natural Sciences
- Bois de la Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Antwerp, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek and Brussels. You still have 3 nights left in Antwerp.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek. This drive usually takes around 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Josaphat Park is an often recommended park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brussels. This car ride takes around 11 min.
Begin your journey at Autoworld Brussels and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to Cinquantenaire, another highlight in the town. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Museum For Natural Sciences Of Belgium, a photogenic museum. Nearby, you will also find Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos. This notable park is a top place to see in the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Antwerp and your accommodation.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Ciro's, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Het Pomphuis offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Antwerp.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Delux, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, 't Waagstuk is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Den Hopsack also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Head back to your accommodation in Antwerp and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Belgium!
Day 4
- Antwerp
- Mechelen
- Muizen
- Liège
- More
Drive 270 km, 3 hours 49 min
- Grote Markt
- Planckendael Zoo
- Parc Boverie
- Montagne de Bueren
- More
Greet day 4 of your road trip in Belgium with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Antwerp for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Arrondissement of Mechelen, Muizen, and Liege.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Arrondissement of Mechelen. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arrondissement of Mechelen, 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 Antwerp to Arrondissement of Mechelen may take around 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arrondissement of Mechelen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Begin your journey at Grote Markt and explore the awe-inspiring features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Muizen, 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 Arrondissement of Mechelen to Muizen may take around 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Muizen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Planckendael Zoo, a locally renowned zoo known for its visually striking features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Liege, 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 Muizen to Liege may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Liege, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De La Boverie, a beloved park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Montagne De Bueren and admire its culturally significant features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Antwerp.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Antwerp. 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Satay, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Molly's Irish Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bourla as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Antwerp.
Continue your lively evening at Beerlovers Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Bakeliet is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Paters Vaetje ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Belgium!
Day 5
- Antwerp
- Boom
- More
Drive 42 km, 1 hour 41 min
- Museum aan de Stroom
- Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal
- Antwerp Zoo
- Provinciaal Recreatiedomein De Schorre
- More
On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Antwerp, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today's adventure in Antwerp promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Museum Aan De Stroom. This historic museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, another UNESCO world heritage-designated attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Antwerp Zoo, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Boom. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Provinciaal Recreatiedomein De Schorre, an up-and-coming park that draws attention for its enchanting features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Antwerp and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Antwerp's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Elfde Gebod, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zilte boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out OKOZ Antwerp. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Antwerp.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at De Muze, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cabron offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Antwerp.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Belgium!
Day 6
- Antwerp
- Bruges
- Ghent
- More
Drive 159 km, 2 hours 30 min
- Belfry of Bruges
- Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
- Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug)
- Church of Our Lady
- Minnewater Park
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Belgium. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bruges. 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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bruges. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Antwerp and set your GPS to Bruges. 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 1 hour 22 min. Upon reaching Bruges, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Belfry Of Bruges is a captivating monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its grand features before continuing your self-guided tour to Sint-salvatorskathedraal, a stunning church that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), a romantic historical landmark. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Church Of Our Lady, a visually striking and truly unique church. End your sightseeing at Minnewaterpark, a worthwhile park that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Ghent. 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.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Ghent by reserving a table at Publiek. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Vrijmoed, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit OAK, a local favorite known for its delightful world and creative french cuisine in Ghent. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning world and creative french foodies seeking culinary excellence.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to De Geus Van Gent, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Alchemist is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Hot Club Gent provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Belgium and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Ghent
- Cambron-Casteau
- Brussels
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Drive 128 km, 2 hours 39 min
- Het Belfort van Gent
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Gravensteen
- Pairi Daiza
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Belgium. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ghent and Cambron-Casteau. 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.
Ghent is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Belfry Of Ghent, an intriguing monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Saint Bavo's Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Gravensteen. This castle is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.
After soaking in Ghent’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cambron-Casteau. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 20 min. When you arrive in Cambron-Casteau, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Pairi Daiza and explore the picturesque features.
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 Brussels. Brussels 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 Brussels. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Discover the culinary delights of Brussels by securing a reservation at Barge. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of organic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, renowned for its delicious modern and classic dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Bozar Restaurant, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french and creative menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Des Amis is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Du Canal, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Little Delirium. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Belgium!
Day 8
- Brussels - Departure day
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- Royal Palace of Brussels
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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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Royal Palace Of Brussels. This notable palace is a history-steeped place to see in Brussels.
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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