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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Brussels on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Start your day at Cinquantenaire. This breathtaking park is a well-known place to see in Brussels. Then, wander over to Musée Magritte Museum. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This breathtaking church is a favorite among visitors.

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 Laeken. Your travel time is around 21 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Mini-europe, a popular amusement park that everyone visiting Laeken should see. Next, head to Atomium. This culturally significant monument is one of the most astonishing attractions in the region.

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

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 The Lobster House, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Roumaine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Des Amis, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Du Canal is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Delirium offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Belgium. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Ghent. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Ghent, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ghent. This drive usually takes around 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Stam Ghent City Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Saint Bavo's Cathedral and admire its culturally significant features.

When you’re ready, continue to Ghent City Hall, a locally appreciated city hall beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Belfry Of Ghent, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Ghent. Ghent 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 Ghent. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight'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.

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

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

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 Bruges. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bruges, where will spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bruges, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ghent to Bruges may take around 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bruges, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Historium Bruges, a frequently visited museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Belfry Of Bruges, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-listed surroundings.

Next, explore Basilica Of The Holy Blood, yet another intriguing place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Bruges City Hall. This heritage-rich city hall is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Burg, an increasingly popular public square you won’t want to miss.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bruges, 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 Bruges's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Vlaminck '14, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Het Visioen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out t'Lammetje. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bruges.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Groot Vlaenderen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bauhaus Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Belgium!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bruges has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bruges.

Bruges is brimming with adventures.

Sint-salvatorskathedraal makes a great addition to your morning plans. This intriguing church is a majestic place to see in Bruges.

As you stroll around Bruges, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). This frequently visited historical landmark offers an enchanting encounter with Bruges. Next, make your way to Church Of Our Lady to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit De Halve Maan Brewery, an underrated brewery that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Minnewaterpark, a beloved park 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.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Belgium. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Bistro Den Amand, an iconic dining spot in Bruges. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of That's Toast, a popular restaurant in Bruges. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Petite Aneth, a hidden gem nestled in Bruges. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Belgium!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Antwerp. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Antwerp, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

After soaking in Bruges’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Antwerp. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 27 min. When you arrive in Antwerp, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rubenshuis. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal. This locally renowned church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Museum Plantin-moretus. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to 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 relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Aspen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try De Zeven Schaken? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Antwerp.

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

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Antwerp. You’ll stay in Antwerp for 1 night.

Red Star Line Museum is an ideal stop early in the day. This locally appreciated museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Museum Aan De Stroom, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Antwerp 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 Antwerp Zoo, a well-known zoo in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Belgium. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

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.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Belgium includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Leuven. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leuven, where you'll spend 2 nights.

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 Leuven. Your travel time is around 53 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Saint Peter's Church, a frequently visited church in Leuven. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Grote Markt. This often recommended public square is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Historic Leuven Town Hall is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect city hall in the region.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Leuven. Leuven offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go 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 Leuven, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Portogalo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Donki Leuven offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss dewerf. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Leuven.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Plaza offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Farao is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. De Metafoor is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Heverlee and Leuven. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Leuven, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Enjoy all that Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis has to offer. This is an often recommended botanical garden you should not miss.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Heverlee may take around 6 min. Upon your arrival in Heverlee, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Grand Béguinage Of Leuven is an often recommended historical landmark we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Arenberg Castle, an enchanting castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Hop - gastrobar, an iconic dining spot in Leuven. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Barba, a popular restaurant in Leuven. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of bar Stan, a hidden gem nestled in Leuven. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at De Giraf, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out De Blauwe Kater, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Rustic provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Belgium!

On day 11 of your road trip in Belgium, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Muizen and Mechelen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Muizen. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Planckendael Zoo, a locally renowned zoo known for its visually striking features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Muizen and set your GPS to Mechelen. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Mechelen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Kazerne Dossin – Memorial, an underrated museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to St. Rumbold's Cathedral and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Grote Markt, an increasingly popular public square beloved by locals and tourists alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Brussels, 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 Brussels. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Villa Lorraine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Marmiton is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brussels tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at La Reserve, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Manneken Pis Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Addict Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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