After savoring all the things to do in Brussels, from marveling at the Grand Place to sampling the finest Belgian chocolates, consider day trips from Brussels to experience Belgium’s diverse offerings. These excursions open up a world of medieval towns, lush countryside, and hidden gems, providing a delightful contrast to the bustling city life.
Venturing beyond Brussels, you’ll discover the extensive list of things to do in Belgium, including exploring the historic battlefields of Waterloo, wandering through the fairytale streets of Bruges, and enjoying the artistic heritage of Antwerp. Each trip offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary excellence.
Choosing where to stay in Brussels becomes a strategic decision for those looking to blend urban exploration with the ease of countryside escapes. A well-situated accommodation offers the best of both worlds, placing you at the heart of Belgium’s capital while providing convenient access to your next adventure.
Discover Best Day Trips from Brussels, Belgium
1. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a picturesque medieval town, renowned for its romantic canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved architecture. Highlights include the Belfry of Bruges, Markt Square, and a boat tour on its charming canals.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Belfry of Bruges, Markt Square, romantic canals
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Belfry of Bruges: €12
- Canal Boat Tour: €10
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Markt Square, Canals of Bruges
Travel Tip: Try the famous Belgian chocolate and waffles, and consider a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the history of this UNESCO World Heritage city.
2. Ghent, Belgium
Ghent, less touristy than Bruges, boasts a rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning architecture like the Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and Gravensteen Castle. The city’s canals and local eateries offer a quintessentially Belgian experience.
Distance: Approximately 55 km
Travel Time: About 30-40 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Gravensteen Castle, canals
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Gravensteen Castle: €12
- Saint Bavo’s Cathedral (Ghent Altarpiece): €8
Budget: Approximately €25-€45 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Graslei, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
Travel Tip: Visit the Ghent Altarpiece, a notable work of the Northern Renaissance, housed in Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.
3. Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp is known for its diamond district, fashion, and impressive architecture, including the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Central Station. The city’s lively art scene and museums like the Rubenshuis make it a must-visit.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: About 40-50 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Cathedral of Our Lady, Central Station, diamond district
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cathedral of Our Lady: €8
- Rubenshuis: €10
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Meir Shopping Street, Antwerp Zoo
Travel Tip: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Zuid (South) for contemporary art galleries and chic cafés.
4. Leuven, Belgium
Leuven, a university town, is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and the Old Market Square, lined with bars and cafes. The University Library and the M-Museum are highlights.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 20-30 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Old Market Square, University Library, M-Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- University Library: €7
- M-Museum: €12
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Ladeuzeplein, Old Market Square
Travel Tip: Try the local beer, as Leuven is known for its breweries, including Stella Artois.
5. Mechelen, Belgium
Mechelen, a charming and often overlooked city, is filled with historical buildings like the Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral and remarkable museums. It’s particularly family-friendly with attractions like Technopolis, a hands-on science museum.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 20 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral, Technopolis, historic buildings
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral Tower: €8
- Technopolis: €15
Budget: Approximately €25-€45 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Grote Markt, Haverwerf
Travel Tip: Climb the tower of Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral for a panoramic view of the city.
6. Namur, Belgium
Namur, set at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, is known for its Citadel, a historic fortress offering stunning views. The city’s old center is a delightful area to explore on foot.
Distance: Approximately 65 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Citadel of Namur, Old Bridge, river cruises
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Citadel of Namur: €5
- River Cruise: €10
Budget: Approximately €25-€45 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Meuse Valley, Namur Old Town
Travel Tip: Take a leisurely river cruise to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Meuse valley.
7. Lille, France
Lille, just across the border in France, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural life, beautiful old town (Vieux Lille), and excellent museums like the Palais des Beaux-Arts. The blend of French and Flemish influences is evident in its architecture and cuisine.
Distance: Approximately 110 km
Travel Time: About 35 minutes by high-speed train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Vieux Lille (Old Town), Palais des Beaux-Arts, Grand Place
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Palais des Beaux-Arts: €7
- Hospice Comtesse Museum: €5
Budget: Approximately €40-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Grand Place, Parc de la Citadelle
Travel Tip: Enjoy the local cuisine, especially the “moules-frites” (mussels with fries), a regional specialty.
8. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Luxembourg City, the capital of Luxembourg, offers a unique mix of historical and modern architecture, green spaces, and the famous Casemates, a network of underground tunnels. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore.
Distance: Approximately 220 km
Travel Time: About 3 hours by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Casemates, Grand Ducal Palace, Luxembourg City History Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Casemates: €6
- Luxembourg City History Museum: €5
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Adolphe Bridge, Place d’Armes
Travel Tip: Visit the Grand Ducal Palace and the Luxembourg City History Museum to understand the rich history and culture of this small but fascinating country.
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Sources:
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