One-Week Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Antwerp
Description
Included
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, Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Leuven, Arrondissement of Mechelen, and Muizen. 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 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 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 Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, learn more about the unique Cinquantenaire, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Gravensteen.
As you hit the open road and drive through Brussels, Laeken, Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Leuven, Arrondissement of 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, 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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- Royal Palace of Brussels
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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 4 nights 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 Royal Palace Of Brussels, 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.
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 Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, BrewDog Brussels is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at À La Mort Subite. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brussels tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Churchill's, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Station Bxl offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Delirium Café provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Belgium!
Day 2
- Brussels
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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
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Greet day 2 of your road trip in Belgium with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 3 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 Brussels and Laeken.
Immerse yourself in Brussels’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cinquantenaire. This instagrammable park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Musée Magritte Museum, a must-visit museum 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 Brussels Comics Figurines Museum, a locally appreciated museum. For a change of scene, check out Grand-place, known for its grand features. We also recommend visiting Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This shopping mall is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Atomium, yet another famous attraction in Brussels.
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 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Lobster House, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Roumaine. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brussels tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Des Amis. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Du Canal, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Little Delirium provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Brussels and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Belgium!
Day 3
- Brussels
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Drive 117 km, 2 hours 13 min
- Gravensteen
- Het Belfort van Gent
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Sint-Baafsplein
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Belgium. With 2 nights left in Brussels, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Sint-Baafsplein is a fantastic place you can explore today in Ghent. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Ghent-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the locally renowned Gravensteen, a historic castle in Brussels. Next, go to Belfry Of Ghent.
After visiting Gravensteen and Belfry Of Ghent, have a stroll along Brussels's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This picture-perfect church offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Brussels and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Brussels. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Villa Lorraine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Marmiton beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Belgium and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Brussels
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Drive 195 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Burg
- Bruges City Hall
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
- Belfry of Bruges
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bruges. You still have 1 night left in Brussels.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Burg. This worthwhile public square is a symbolic place to see in Brussels. Continue your discovery at Bruges City Hall, a heritage-rich city hall 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 Basilica Of The Holy Blood. This locally appreciated church offers a photogenic encounter with Brussels. Next, make your way to Belfry Of Bruges to add another highlight to your day. 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.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Brussels.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Brussels's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Pasta Divina, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Novotel Brussels off Grand Place, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Penta Hotel Brussels City Centre. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Au Soleil. , ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Au Brasseur is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Belgium!
Day 5
- Brussels
- Antwerp
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Drive 57 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Antwerp Zoo
- The Rubens House
- Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal
- Brabo's Monument
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Belgium. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Antwerp. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Antwerp, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Start by visiting Antwerp Zoo, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rubenshuis, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited museum renowned for its heritage-rich features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Brussels by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Brussels experience. We also recommend visiting Brabo's Monument, an underrated monument.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Antwerp's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Aspen, a top-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider De Zeven Schaken, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Antwerp this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Hopper offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dogma is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Basil is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
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 6
- Antwerp
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours 4 min
- Botanical Garden
- Leuven Oude Markt
- Saint Peter's Church
- Historical Leuven Town hall
- Grote Markt
- Muntstraat
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On day 6 of your road trip in Belgium, you’ll start and end your day in Antwerp, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Antwerp for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Leuven to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Muntstraat is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Leuven. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.
Start by visiting Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis, a prime spot to begin your journey. This majestic botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Leuven Oude Markt, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated public square renowned for its romantic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Antwerp by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Saint Peter's Church. This standout church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Antwerp experience. We also recommend visiting Historic Leuven Town Hall, an intriguing city hall. Nearby, you'll also find Grote Markt, ready to add charm to your journey.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ciro's, an iconic dining spot in Antwerp. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Het Pomphuis, a popular restaurant in Antwerp. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei, a hidden gem nestled in Antwerp. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Delux is an excellent place to start. You could also check out 't Waagstuk, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Den Hopsack. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Belgium!
Day 7
- Antwerp
- Brussels
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Drive 62 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Grote Markt
- St. Rumbold's Cathedral
- Planckendael Zoo
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Arrondissement of Mechelen and Muizen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brussels, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Grote Markt. This locally appreciated public square is a romantic place to see in Antwerp. Continue your discovery at St. Rumbold's Cathedral, a monumental church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Antwerp, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Planckendael Zoo. This popular zoo offers an enchanting encounter with Antwerp. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Antwerp.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Brussels. Brussels offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Le Plaza Brussels offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE) is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Belgium.
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.
At the top of the list of things to do today 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.
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.
Before you conclude your road trip in Belgium, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Brussels.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Walvis, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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!
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