9-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, and Dinant and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Brussels and Laeken.

No visit to Brussels is complete without Cinquantenaire. This popular park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Brussels, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Brussels Comics Figurines Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Grand-place, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 20 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Atomium. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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

Brussels is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Brussels.

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.

Keep the evening going at Bar Des Amis, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Du Canal, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Little Delirium, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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.

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 26 min. Upon your arrival in Bruges, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bruges is Historium Bruges, a worthwhile museum that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Belfry Of Bruges, a visually striking monument that stands out in the city.

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 Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a locally appreciated church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Bruges City Hall, a nearby city hall, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Burg, an UNESCO world heritage-designated public square and the perfect final attraction in Bruges.

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.

Savor the flavors at Vlaminck '14, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Het Visioen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider t'Lammetje. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bruges tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Groot Vlaenderen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bauhaus Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 't Brugs Beertje also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Belgium, you’ll start and end your day in Bruges, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Bruges, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bruges and Knokke-Heist to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Groeninge and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), a romantic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Church Of Our Lady, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming De Halve Maan Brewery. When you're finished at the brewery, Minnewaterpark awaits your visit. This park is an awe-inspiring highlight on today's itinerary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Knokke-Heist. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Indi Knokke Beach Club, an up-and-coming beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bruges. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bistro Den Amand, a highly-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're eager to try something different, consider That's Toast, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Petite Aneth. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Belgium.

Dive into day 5 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.

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.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Gravensteen, a well-known castle 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 Nicholas' Church and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a notable church 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.

Ghent is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Ghent.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. De Geus Van Gent is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Alchemist, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Hot Club Gent. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Belgium.

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Belgium. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Antwerp. With 1 night to stay in Ghent, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Meir is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Antwerp, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

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 Ghent to Antwerp may take around 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Antwerp, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Museum Aan De Stroom, a popular museum known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Het Steen, an often recommended castle.

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 Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal and uncover the details of this UNESCO world heritage-listed church. Make sure to also explore Groenplaats, an up-and-coming public square. For your last stop, consider Rubenshuis, a heritage-rich museum that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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 Ghent, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Trappistenhuis, a popular restaurant in Ghent. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Ghent at 't Dreupelkot, 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 Otomat Gent. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Ghent tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Oswald, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Popular, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Trollekelder likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Belgium!

On day 8 of your road trip in Belgium, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Braine-l'Alleud are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Braine-l'Alleud. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Waterloo Battlefield, an underrated battlefield known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Lion's Mound, a curiosity-inducing monument.

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 Hougoumont Farm and uncover the details of this historic battlefield.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Villa Lorraine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Marmiton offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!