7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and France With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, and Lille

On day 2 of your European tour in Belgium and France, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Brussels in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 1 night more.

Whatever your travel style is, Cinquantenaire is an essential stop in Brussels. This locally renowned park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Musée Magritte Museum, a photogenic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Brussels Comics Figurines Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the iconic Grand-place. Round off your day at Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, another gem in Brussels with standout features to discover.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Laeken, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brussels to Laeken may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Laeken, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Atomium and explore the historic features.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brussels.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Lobster House, an iconic dining spot in Brussels. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, a popular restaurant in Brussels. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Roumaine, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Des Amis offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Du Canal is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Little Delirium is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium and France! Enjoy your evening in Brussels to the fullest!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence Bruges in Belgium. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bruges, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bruges may take around 1 hour 23 min. Upon your arrival in Bruges, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Minnewaterpark and explore the majestic features. Next, make your way to Church Of Our Lady, another highlight in Bruges. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), a symbolic historical landmark.

Nearby, you will also find Groeninge. This underrated neighborhood is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Belfry Of Bruges, a culturally significant monument that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Bruges’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Bruges.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Groot Vlaenderen, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bauhaus Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. 't Brugs Beertje likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium and France! Enjoy your evening in Bruges to the fullest!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and France. Today's main destinations are Ghent in Belgium, 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 Ghent. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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

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 54 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Museum Of Industry, a beloved museum that everyone visiting Ghent should see. Next, head to Gravensteen. This historic castle is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Sint-michielsbrug, a respected historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers. Saint Bavo's Cathedral is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this popular church before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Belfry Of Ghent, a picture-perfect monument and a top attraction in the city.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Ghent. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Ghent. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Belgium in a new light.

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.

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

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Belgium and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Lille in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Lille where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

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

Palais Des Beaux-arts De Lille is a worthwhile art museum we recommend visiting today.

Next, stop by Gare Saint Sauveur, an eye-catching cultural center. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Paris Gate, a stunning and truly unique monument. End your sightseeing at Old Stock Exchange, an increasingly popular historical landmark that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Lille. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Lille. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium and France.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Couvent des Minimes de Lille, a popular restaurant in Lille. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lille at Best Western Urban Hôtel - Rococo Restaurant, 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 Auberge Du Forgeron - Restaurant gastronomique. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lille tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Colbert Café, known for its lively atmosphere. The Level Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Fridge Bar Lille offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and France, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Antwerp in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Lille, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Antwerp, Belgium. Your travel time is around 1 hour 37 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, an interesting church 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 Museum Aan De Stroom and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready, continue to Antwerp Zoo, a well-known zoo beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Brussels. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to La Reserve, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Manneken Pis Cafe is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Addict Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Brussels, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.