Relaxed 11-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Ghent and Antwerp

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in Belgium, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Brussels and visit amazing attractions in Laeken and Brussels, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Brussels, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Make a stop at St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This popular church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Musée Magritte Museum located in Brussels for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Brussels Park. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Cinquantenaire. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this park.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Laeken. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Atomium, a widely recognized monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Mini-europe, where you can soak in the gorgeous surroundings.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Belgium, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Brussels.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Lobster House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Roumaine. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Belgium.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Belgium!

On day 3 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Belgium, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

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

When you're ready for some sights, head to Design Museum Gent, an underrated museum in Ghent. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Gravensteen. This locally renowned castle is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Ghent City Hall is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant city hall in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the interesting Saint Bavo's Cathedral and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Belfry Of Ghent, a historic monument many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

In Ghent, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Belgium.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Belgium, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Ghent.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Ghent.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at De Geus Van Gent, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Alchemist, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Hot Club Gent provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Belgium.

Your relaxed road trip in Belgium continues on day 4 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Belgium better by exploring the top attractions of Ghent and beyond. With 2 nights left in Ghent, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars 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 Bruges.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bruges. This car ride takes around 50 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Choco-story, Chocolate Museum and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Historium Bruges, another highlight in Bruges. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Belfry Of Bruges, a visually striking monument.

Nearby, you will also find Basilica Of The Holy Blood. This worthwhile church is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Bruges City Hall, a symbolic city hall that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Trappistenhuis, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, 't Dreupelkot beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Otomat Gent. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ghent tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Ghent’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Belgium.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Belgium. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Belgium tomorrow with new energy.

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium, you’ll explore the area around Ghent, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Ghent will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Belgium.

After soaking in Ghent’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bruges. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 45 min. When you arrive in Bruges, it's time to take a break from the road.

Sint-salvatorskathedraal is a frequently visited church we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Next, stop by Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), a history-steeped historical landmark. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Church Of Our Lady, an inviting and truly unique church. End your sightseeing at De Halve Maan Brewery, a locally appreciated brewery that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Ghent has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nonam, a top-rated dining destination in Ghent. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BOON, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ellis Gent. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ghent this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Ghent.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bruges can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Belgium!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll end your day in Antwerp, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Ghent, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Antwerp. Your travel time is around 51 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rubenshuis, a curiosity-inducing museum known for its heritage-rich features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, a captivating church.

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 Museum Plantin-moretus and uncover the details of this photogenic museum. Make sure to also explore Brabo's Monument, a curiosity-inducing monument.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Antwerp. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Antwerp, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Aspen, a top-rated dining spot in Antwerp. If you're in the mood for something new, try De Zeven Schaken, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Antwerp.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Antwerp. The bars in Antwerp make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Belgium!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Belgium, you’ll go deep into Antwerp, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Antwerp, and meet locals along the way!

Let Red Star Line Museum set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching museum before continuing your journey. Museum Aan De Stroom is your next stop. This interesting museum is one of the best-rated sights in Antwerp.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Antwerp Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is a sight to behold.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Belgium more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Antwerp offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Antwerp has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Antwerp and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Delux, known for its inviting atmosphere. 't Waagstuk is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Den Hopsack provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Belgium!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Belgium, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Antwerp and visit amazing attractions in Leuven, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Antwerp, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

A top thing to do today is to explore Bondgenotenlaan, a must-see street in Leuven. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Muntstraat, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

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 Leuven to Antwerp may take around 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Antwerp, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to M Leuven, a frequently visited museum that everyone visiting Leuven should see. Next, head to Saint Peter's Church. This standout church is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Leuven Oude Markt, a romantic public square popular among locals as well as travelers. Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally appreciated botanical garden before you continue your journey.

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

Exploring the food culture in Antwerp offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Beerlovers Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Bakeliet, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Paters Vaetje. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Belgium!

Your relaxed road trip in Belgium continues on day 9 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Belgium better by exploring the top attractions of Antwerp and beyond. With 1 night left in Antwerp, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

When you’ve had your share of Antwerp, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Dinant. Your travel time is around 1 hour 38 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dinant is Citadelle De Dinant, a locally renowned castle that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Grotte De Dinant La Merveilleuse, a scenic cave that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Maison Leffe, a frequently visited brewery that offers a unique experience.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Antwerp, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Antwerp. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Antwerp!

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in Belgium offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Namur and end it in Brussels. You’ll stay in Brussels for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Belgium.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Antwerp and set your GPS to Namur. 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 21 min. Upon reaching Namur, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Musée Provincial Félicien Rops, an underrated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Parc Attractif Reine Fabiola, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.

Upon reaching Jambes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Citadel Of Namur is a locally renowned castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Belgium as you make your way to Brussels. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Belgium. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Brussels, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Brussels and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Keep the evening going at La Reserve, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Manneken Pis Cafe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Addict Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Brussels as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Belgium!