12-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, and Leuven

On day 2 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 will return to Brussels for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brussels and Laeken to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Brussels, including a park, a museum, a church, an amusement park, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Cinquantenaire. This popular park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Musée Magritte Museum, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Brussels on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a captivating church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Mini-europe and Atomium.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Lobster House, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Roumaine. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Des Amis, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Du Canal offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Little Delirium. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Belgium!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Belgium. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Ghent. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ghent, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Brussels’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Stam Ghent City Museum. This historic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the majestic features of Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a must-visit church 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 Ghent City Hall, a locally appreciated city hall. For a change of scene, check out Belfry Of Ghent, known for its culturally significant features.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Ghent. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Maste Bvba, a top-rated dining spot in Ghent. If you're in the mood for something new, try Godot, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Patrick Foley's. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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 another day of unforgettable experiences in Belgium!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bruges. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bruges, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Ghent today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Historium Bruges. This historic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Belfry Of Bruges and learn what makes this romantic monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Basilica Of The Holy Blood. After exploring the church, head to Bruges City Hall. This curiosity-inducing city hall is a highlight in Ghent. As your day continues, stop by Burg, known for its majestic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bruges. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bruges. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Vlaminck '14, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Het Visioen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, t'Lammetje is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bruges.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Groot Vlaenderen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bauhaus Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 't Brugs Beertje. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Belgium!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bruges. You’ll stay in Bruges for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bruges, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Sint-salvatorskathedraal, an intriguing church in the city.

There are many interesting places to see in Bruges, and when you are ready for more, go to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). This is one of the city’s most often recommended visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the historical landmark, visit the up-and-coming Church Of Our Lady. Not far away, you'll also find De Halve Maan Brewery. This brewery is a heritage-rich highlight in Bruges. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Minnewaterpark, an intriguing park in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Belgium is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bistro Den Amand, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try That's Toast? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Petite Aneth as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bruges.

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Belgium, 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 in Antwerp. In the evening, you’ll end up in Antwerp, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bruges. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Rubenshuis is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Bruges. Next, head to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, a well-known church, known for its romantic 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 Museum Plantin-moretus. This eye-catching museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Brabo's Monument. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Antwerp. Antwerp offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Aspen, a highly-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're eager to try something different, consider De Zeven Schaken, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Antwerp this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Hopper after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dogma for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Basil is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Say good night to Antwerp and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Belgium!

Day 8 of your road trip across Belgium promises a magnificent time exploring Antwerp. You have 1 night left in Antwerp. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Antwerp. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum and a zoo. Begin your adventure at Red Star Line Museum. This is an underrated museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Museum Aan De Stroom, an interesting museum in Antwerp.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Antwerp Zoo.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Belgium is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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 lovely dining experience at Ciro's, a popular restaurant in Antwerp. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Antwerp at Het Pomphuis, 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 Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Antwerp tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Café Delux, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. 't Waagstuk is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Den Hopsack ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Belgium!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Belgium. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Leuven. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Leuven. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Antwerp is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Saint Peter's Church, an often recommended church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Grote Markt, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Historic Leuven Town Hall. This city hall is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Leuven, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Leuven's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Plaza, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Farao is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, De Metafoor is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Belgium and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Leuven, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Leuven. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Grand Béguinage Of Leuven is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most beloved places to visit in Leuven. Next, head to Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis, an often recommended botanical garden, known for its mesmerizing 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 Arenberg Castle. This romantic castle is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Leuven. 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 delicious dinner at Hop - gastrobar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Barba offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss bar Stan. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Leuven.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting De Giraf after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to De Blauwe Kater, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Rustic also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Belgium!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Belgium. Today you will explore Muizen and Arrondissement of Mechelen, 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 Brussels. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Leuven, featuring family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at Planckendael Zoo, a notable zoo in the village. Then, head to Kazerne Dossin – Memorial and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Leuven, and when you are ready for more, go to St. Rumbold's Cathedral. This is one of the village’s most frequently visited picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the frequently visited Grote Markt.

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

As you explore more of Brussels, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La Reserve, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Manneken Pis Cafe. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Addict Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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