Belgium 5 Day Itinerary

Belgium 5-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Brussels

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Admire the ornate guildhalls and the Town Hall, a masterpiece of Flemish Baroque architecture.
  • Afternoon: Head to Atomium and explore this unique structure built for the 1958 World Expo. Enjoy a panoramic view of Brussels from the top spheres. Don’t forget to visit Mini-Europe, a miniature park of all European capitals within the Atomium grounds.
  • Evening: Explore the trendy district of Saint-Gilles with its vibrant street art, bohemian vibe, and diverse culinary scene. Try some Belgian waffles or moules-frites for dinner.
  • Things to Know: Brussels is a bilingual city (French & Dutch), but English is widely spoken. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Visa Requirements: Schengen visa is required for non-EU citizens. Check your eligibility and apply well in advance if necessary.
  • Transportation: Brussels has an extensive public transportation network, including trams, buses, and metros. The city also offers bike rentals.

Day 2: Bruges (By Train)

  • Morning: Arrive in Bruges and take a stroll through the medieval center. Visit the Market Square and the Belfry of Bruges, a 13th-century bell tower offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour along the picturesque canals to see the historic buildings from a different perspective. Explore the Hans Memling Museum housing some of his most famous works.
  • Evening: Relax in one of Bruges’ many cozy bars or restaurants, perhaps sampling some local Trappist beer.

Day 3: Ghent (By Train)

  • Morning: Visit the imposing Gravensteen, a medieval castle at the heart of Ghent. Explore the city center with its beautiful Flemish architecture and charming canals.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Saint Bavo’s Cathedral to see the enigmatic “Ghent Altarpiece” (or Adoration of the Mystic Lamb) by Jan van Eyck. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts for more Flemish masterpieces.
  • Evening: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei quays, lined with historic buildings and lively cafes.

Day 4: Antwerp (By Train)

  • Morning: Start your day in Antwerp with a visit to Rubens House, the former residence of the famous Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. Explore the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world, home to over 800 species.
  • Afternoon: Wander around the fashion district around Meir Street and visit Diamond District, where you can learn about the diamond cutting process at the Diamond Museum.
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Scheldt river, have dinner in one of the many excellent restaurants, or enjoy a night out in the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 5: Brussels (Return by Train)

  • Morning: Visit European Parliament, if you can arrange a visit in advance. Alternatively, explore the Comic Strip Art Museum to learn about Belgium’s rich comics culture.
  • Afternoon: Take a trip to Astrid Park and the nearby Royal Greenhouses of Laeken. If time allows, visit Museum of Musical Instruments or the BOZAR - Centre for Fine Arts.
  • Evening: End your trip with a farewell dinner in Brussels, perhaps trying some local specialties like Belgian beer, chocolates, or waterzooi (a creamy fish stew).