One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and France With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, Lille, and Reims

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Belgium and France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Laeken in Belgium. With 1 night left in Brussels, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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

Experience St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a well-known church in the village. Then, head to Brussels Park and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable park.

There are many interesting places to see in Brussels, and when you are ready for more, go to Musée Magritte Museum. This is one of the village’s most up-and-coming photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the interesting Royal Palace Of Brussels. Not far away, you'll also find Cinquantenaire. This park is a breathtaking highlight in Brussels.

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 26 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Laeken is Atomium, a famous monument that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Lobster House, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Roumaine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Belgium and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Bruges in Belgium. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bruges where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Bruges. 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 23 min. Upon reaching Bruges, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Minnewaterpark, an increasingly popular park in Bruges. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Church Of Our Lady. This increasingly popular church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug) is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most symbolic historical landmark in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the curiosity-inducing Groeninge and discover what makes this neighborhood unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Belfry Of Bruges, a grand monument many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bruges. 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.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Bruges. 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 Vlaminck '14, a popular restaurant in Bruges. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bruges at Het Visioen, 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 t'Lammetje. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bruges tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Groot Vlaenderen, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bauhaus Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Bruges, 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.

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence Ghent in Belgium. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ghent, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bruges, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ghent. Your travel time is around 50 min.

Gravensteen is a captivating castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour to Sint-michielsbrug, a history-steeped historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Saint Nicholas' Church, a historic church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a monumental and truly unique church. End your sightseeing at Belfry Of Ghent, an up-and-coming monument that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Ghent’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Belgium and France.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at De Geus Van Gent, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Alchemist offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ghent. Hot Club Gent is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Take in the ambiance of Ghent as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

On day 5 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 Lille in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lille, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lille, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ghent to Lille may take around 59 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lille, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Citadel Of Lille, a curiosity-inducing castle that draws visitors from near and far.

Next, explore Column Of The Goddess, yet another worthwhile place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to Old Stock Exchange. This romantic historical landmark is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Notre-dame-de-la-treille Cathedral At Lille, an up-and-coming church you won’t want to miss.

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.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Lille's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Couvent des Minimes de Lille, an iconic dining spot in Lille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Best Western Urban Hôtel - Rococo Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Lille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Auberge Du Forgeron - Restaurant gastronomique, a hidden gem nestled in Lille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Colbert Café, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Level Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Fridge Bar Lille provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Dinant in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Brussels, your home for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dinant.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Belgium! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dinant may take around 1 hour 58 min. Upon your arrival in Dinant, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Grotte De Dinant La Merveilleuse, a curiosity-inducing cave that everyone visiting Dinant should see. Next, head to Citadelle De Dinant. This culturally significant castle is one of the most notable attractions in the region.

When you’ve had your share of Dinant, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bouvignes-sur-Meuse. Your travel time is around 2 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bouvignes-sur-Meuse is Abbaye Notre-dame De Leffe, an underrated monastery that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

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

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Brussels's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Dine in style at Villa Lorraine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Marmiton boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Brussels.

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.

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