Brussels Belgium Day Trips

Best Day Trips from Brussels

Brussels is a fantastic base for exploring the diverse and charming landscapes of Belgium. Its central location in Europe allows for easy access to many historical sites, natural wonders, and vibrant cities. Here are some of the best day trip options from Brussels:

Charming Towns & Cities:

  • Ghent (Gent): (1h by train) A medieval city with a rich history, Ghent offers stunning architecture, canals, charming cobblestone streets, and a lively atmosphere. Explore the Gravensteen Castle, wander through the historic Graslei and Korenmarkt squares, and visit the vibrant St. Bavo Cathedral.

  • Bruges: (1h by train) Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges charms with its canals, cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and delicious chocolate. Visit Markt Square, take a canal boat tour, or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the canals while indulging in some Belgian waffles.

  • Leuven: (30 minutes by train) Famous for its university and vibrant student life, Leuven is also home to historical buildings and charming cafes. Explore the historic Grote Markt, visit the impressive St. Peter’s Church, or enjoy a stroll through the beautiful University Library.

  • Antwerp: (1 hour by train) A bustling port city and diamond capital of the world, Antwerp boasts a variety of attractions, from its medieval architecture to its modern art museums and vibrant nightlife.

  • Bruges: (30 minutes by train) This iconic medieval city is a popular destination for a reason. Enjoy its picturesque canals, charming architecture, and indulge in chocolate tasting experiences while exploring the cobbled streets and historic buildings like the Markt Square and the Grote Markt.

Historical Sites:

  • Waterloo Battlefield & Memorial: (30 minutes by car/train) Explore the site of Napoleon’s final defeat and witness the iconic Lion’s Mound.
  • Ghent Belfry: (1 hour by train) Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
  • Antwerp Cathedral: (30 minutes by train) Visit this magnificent Gothic cathedral and admire its ornate architecture and religious artifacts.

Beyond Cities:

  • Antwerp Zoo: (15 minutes by foot from the center) Explore the diverse animal kingdom with a variety of animals from around the world, including pandas, elephants, and giraffes.
  • The Belgian Ardennes: (2-3 hours by car/train) Enjoy the natural beauty of this region known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque villages.

Practical Tips:

  • Transportation: Public transportation is excellent in Belgium. Consider taking a train to Ghent or Antwerp, which are easily accessible from Brussels.
  • Day Trips: Many tour companies offer day trips from Brussels to these destinations. These can be a convenient way to explore without worrying about transport or logistics.
  • Language: In Bruges and Antwerp, you’ll need to brush up on your Flemish (Dutch) skills.

Beyond the City Walls:

These are just a few ideas for day trips from Brussels:

  • Bruges: This charming medieval city offers a romantic getaway with its canals, cobbled streets, and market squares.
  • Ghent: Explore the medieval charm of Ghent with its stunning architecture, historical museums, and vibrant cultural scene.

Remember:

  • Book train tickets in advance: Especially for popular destinations and weekend travel.

  • Check opening hours: Many attractions in Brussels have specific opening hours, so it’s best to plan ahead and confirm they are open during your visit.

  • Explore local transportation options: Brussels has a comprehensive public transport system with buses, trams, and metro lines connecting the city’s landmarks.

Enjoy your time exploring!

Beyond Cities:

  • Day Trips:

Historical Towns & Sites:

  • Bruges (train/car): Explore the canals, medieval architecture, and charming atmosphere of this picturesque Belgian city.
  • Antwerp (2-3 hours by train): Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, the masterpiece of Pieter Bruegel the Elder, “The Peasant Wedding,” and enjoy a delicious waffle from one of the many street vendors.

Day Trips:

  • Ghent & Bruges: These cities are easily accessible by train from Brussels, and you can find plenty of day trip options online or through local tour companies.
  • Consider a bike tour: Many tours in Brussels and beyond offer a unique way to experience the city and surrounding areas.