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Belgium Travel Blogs

These are all of my travel blogs about belgium. .

From exploring the amazing museums in Brussels, to Christmas trips to Bruges, find out the best places to travel to in my Belgium travel blogs and travel guides.

Happy exploring!

17 Best Museums in Brussels, Belgium

From art collections and relics in historic buildings, to musical instruments, comics and cars displayed in exciting, ultra-modern spaces, these are the best museums in Brussels. 

Belgium Itinerary: How to See the Best of Belgium in 3 or 4 Days

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 27, 2023

Visiting Belgium for the first time and are not sure where to start with planning your trip? Then this post is for you. In this article, we feature a suggested Belgium itinerary that brings you to the most beautiful places in Belgium in three or four days . Read on!

Our tiny country is squeezed in between the top-tourist destinations like London , Amsterdam , or Paris and is therefore often overlooked. But Belgium has a lot to offer to any type of traveler!

Since I know that many people don’t have a lot of time to explore Belgium deeper, here are my very best recommendations for a short first trip to Belgium .

Even if you are visiting Belgium for just one or two days, you will be able to plan your trip using our tips below. But if you have the time, I recommend spending at least 3 or 4 days in Belgium .

My recommended three day Belgium itinerary includes the capital city Brussels and the most beautiful towns of Flanders – Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges.

If you have four days in Belgium I also strongly recommend visiting one of the historic war sites in Belgium – either Ypres and WWI battlefields or Bastogne and its WWII museums and monuments.

TIP: The distances in Belgium are not big and there are good railway connections between all major towns. Therefore you can base yourself in any city and make day trips from there – that way you don’t have to pack/unpack all the time. But you can, of course, stay in a different town every day as well. Find out!

Good to know: Since most of the main highlights of Belgium are towns, you can visit Belgium in any season. 

Recommended Belgium itinerary:

Day 1: Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and a city every tourist has to see at least once. In my opinion, one day is plenty of time in order to see the main highlights of Brussels. If you want to visit museums (Musical Instruments Museum is my favorite and there are so many more) and less centrally located areas you will, of course, need more time.

Here is my suggested itinerary for Brussels in one day:

In the morning, take a walk in the town center and don’t miss the following places:

• Grand Place and the Town Hall. The central square of Brussels is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful town squares in the world. Surrounded by the decorative 17the century guild houses, the impressive City Hall and the Maison du Roi (now the Brussels City Museum) it’s a place not to be missed. My favorite time to go is in the evening when the crowds are smaller and the buildings are nicely lit.
• Manneken Pis.  According to one of the legends, the little peeing boy saved the city from the fire and is the ultimate symbol of Brussels. The iconic bronze statue will surprise you with its small size. Depending on the day you visit, you might see him naked or dressed. Manneken Pis has over 1000 costumes for all kinds of different occasions. Here you can read the real story of Manneken-Pis and how he became so popular.
• Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert . The 19th-century pedestrian gallery with numerous boutiques and restaurants is not to be missed.
• St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral . Finished at the beginning of the 16th century, the impressive Gothic cathedral took over 300 years to build. It is here that all significant Belgian monarchy’s celebrations take place: coronations, weddings, and state funerals.
• Royal Palace of Brussels.  The official palace of the Belgian King in the center of Brussels is used for all kinds of official events and can be visited from the end of July till the beginning of September. The Royal family itself lives in the Castle of Laeken, on the outskirts of Brussels.
• Mont des Arts. This ‘hill of the arts’ is a nice garden overlooking the Sablon area and the City Hall of Brussels.
• Brussels Stock Exchange . Impressive architecture.

In the afternoon take a metro to the Heysel area and visit   Atomium . If you have an hour to spare, you may want to visit Mini Europe  as well. It’s one of the nicest family-friendly attractions in Brussels. Combination tickets are available for both attractions.

In the evening head back to the city center of Brussels, see the nicely lit Grand Place, and check out the famous dining area –  Rue des Bouchers. I don’t advise dining here as the restaurants are real tourist traps, but this street has such a unique atmosphere that no visit to Brussels would be complete without passing by here.

A bit hidden out of sight, the ‘sister’ of the Manneken Pis – Jeanneke Pis can be found in a small alley next to the Rue des Bouchers.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Brussels

Some practical tips for visiting Brussels:

• Brussels is a good base for exploring Belgium. There are direct train connections to all the major towns.
• Where to eat. Like in many cities, there are many good restaurants in Brussels, but there are real tourist traps as well. One of our favorites for traditional Belgian food in the center of Brussels is ‘t Kelderke located right on Grand Place. Despite its central location, this restaurant managed to maintain high-quality standards for many years. Recently we discovered a really nice Italian restaurant – Spago that I would also recommend.
• Safety. Brussels is a rather safe city, but – as in any other big city – there are some areas to avoid and simple safety tips to follow. For more information, please check our guide – is Brussels safe?
• Where to stay. If you decide to use Brussels as your base for exploring Belgium, I would advise staying close to the Central Station (e.g. Hilton Grand Place ) – from there you can easily get to the airport and to the other towns. Here you can read our complete guide to the best places to stay in Brussels and here you can find the top 10 of the most popular hotels in Brussels center .

READ ALSO: Brussels Christmas Market & Brussels Flower Carpet

Day 2: Antwerp

Antwerp is my personal favorite Belgian town. It’s not as big as Brussels, not as touristic as Bruges or Ghent, and therefore has a more authentic feeling. I strongly suggest that you spend the whole day in Antwerp.

Since we live nearby, I have quite a few more detailed blog posts highlighting the  best things to do in Antwerp with kids ,  exploring Antwerp by bike , etc.

Below are my suggestions for the main places you have to see in Antwerp.  Below, you can find a link to our more detailed guide to the best things to do in Antwerp, including a suggested city walk with the map.

• Central Station
• Antwerp Zoo
• Rubens House
• Groenplaats
• Cathedral of Our Lady
• Grote Markt
• Steen Castle
• MAS rooftop terrace
• The New Port House
• Starline Museum

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Antwerp & Antwerp Hidden Gems

Some practical tips for visiting Antwerp:

• Antwerp is very well located and has excellent connections to Brussels Airport and Brussels city center (35-40 min), but also to Ghent (50 min) and Bruges (1h30).
• In my view, Antwerp is as good a place to base yourself for exploring Belgium as Brussels. Depending on when you visit, it’s likely that it will be somewhat cheaper to stay in Antwerp than in Brussels. Here you can find accommodation in Antwerp .

Day 3: Ghent and Bruges

While some people choose to spend the whole day in each Ghent and Bruges, you can see the very best these cities have to offer in just half a day as well. So if you are short on time, you can visit Ghent and Bruges on the same day. The train between the two towns only takes 35 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take an organized day trip from Brussels  – they will take you to the most beautiful spots of these two must-see Flemish towns.

I suggest that you go to Ghent first (you’ll see why later). The Dampoort Railway Station is the one closest to the old historic town center.

Here are the main places not to be missed in Ghent:

• Gravensteen. The 10th-century castle is worth a short visit.
• Leie river. Take a walk along Graslei and Korenlei and past  St Michael’s Bridge.  A great way to explore Ghent is by taking a short boat trip.
• Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral . Inside you can opt to visit the famous  Ghent Altarpiece , aka the Mystic Lamb painting.
• Belfry and Cloth Hall and St. Nicholas Church are also worth a short visit.

Have lunch in Ghent, then head back to the Dampoort Railway Station and take a train to Bruges.

I always advise visiting Bruges toward the evening because it’s crowded with tourists during the day. Bruges is a fairytale-like place, but it’s difficult to truly appreciate it if you have to squeeze your way through the crowds.

However, only a very small percentage of tourists actually stay in Bruges, so in the evening the city is completely deserted, and you can have the whole place to yourselves. 

If you come by train, plan to stay late in the evening and explore the beautiful canals after all the day tourists have left. It’s my very best tip for anyone visiting Bruges for the first time.

Here are the main things to do in Bruges for first-time visitors:

• Lake of Love – Minnewater .
• The old beguinage Ten Wijngaerde.
• Belfort of Bruges – you can climb this medieval tower for beautiful views.
• Market Place – the central town square of Bruges.
• Burg Square is really beautiful too. Take a narrow passageway left from the City Hall towards the Vismarkt (Fish Market), then go right (South) and follow the canals in the direction of the Church of Our Lady .
• A real must-do in Bruges is a boat ride on the canals .
• If you have some time left, you could visit one of the breweries – De Halve Maan Brewery or Bourgogne des Flanders Brewery .

Have dinner in one of the many restaurants in Bruges and head back to the canals. As I said, it’s a very different atmosphere in the evening.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Bruges

TIP: if you are planning to visit the WWI battlefields (see below), then it’s best to stay in Bruges to avoid driving up and down too much.

Day 4: World War I Battlefields near Ypres

To some people, WWI battlefields are the main reason to visit Belgium. But the majority of tourists never even consider it…

I have to admit that it took us many years to get there (and we live in Belgium), but it was so worth it! There is so much history in those war cemeteries, fields, and trenches! 

We now visited Ypres and the WWI battlefields several times, with our kids, and it’s an experience I would recommend to everyone. Below, you can find a link to a detailed guide for your visit.

Here are the main places not to miss when visiting the WWI battlefields:

• Ypres: In Flanders Fields Museum and the Menin Gate
• Tyne Cot Cemetery and Memorial
• Langemark German War Cemetery
• Yser Tower – IJzertoren Diksmuide
• Trench of Death, Diksmuide
• Essex Farm Cemetery
• Vladslo German War Cemetery

LEARN MORE: Ypres and the WWI Battlefields

Some practical tips for visiting the WWI battlefields:

• You will need a car to get there, or you can join an organized day tour from Bruges .

TIP: If you are interested in the history of the Second World War, you may want to visit Bastogne town in the French-speaking part of Belgium.

LEARN MORE: Bastogne War Museum & Mardasson Memorial

If you only have three or four days in Belgium, then this itinerary is all you need. If you have more time and are looking for ideas on what else to see, check our other blog posts about Belgium for more inspiration.

You could also consider visiting the French-speaking part of Belgium with beautiful places like Namur, Dinant , Durbuy, etc. Luxembourg is also just a 2,5 hours drive from Brussels and there are lots of beautiful places to visit near Luxembourg .

Winter TIP: If you are visiting Belgium in winter , don’t miss our Christmas markets. Here you can find our selection of the best Christmas markets in Belgium .

Summer TIP for families: If you are visiting Belgium with kids, take them to a theme park. Here you can read about our recommended Belgian theme parks .

Belgium FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions that our readers ask about visiting Belgium:

As a minimum, we recommend 3-4 days in Belgium. With 3 days, you can briefly visit the most beautiful cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. If you have 4 days, you can also visit some of the famous Belgian war sites.

Belgium is a year round destination and because most landmarks are located in the cities, you can visit at any time of the year. For the best weather, come between April and September. In summer, Belgium hosts lots of festivals and events. From mid-November until January, you can visit Belgian Christmas markets.

Belgium is a small country and it’s possible to stay in one place and see everything. For that, Brussels is probably the best place to stay. Alternatively, Antwerp or Ghent are also well located for exploring the main cities in Belgium. If you decide to stay in Brussels, we recommend staying close to the Central Station. That way, you can easily make day trips to other destinations in Belgium.

Yes, Belgium is absolutely worth visiting! There is so much history, stunning architecture, and arts. Also Belgian food is worth a trip in itself.

The main highlights of Belgium are its cities. Don’t miss Brussels, the canals of Bruges, Antwerp city center, and charming Ghent. If you are interested in war history, Belgium has some interesting war sites, especially around Ypres and Bastogne.

Belgium has a reputation for being a rainy country. However, in recent years, we often have very long periods with no rain at all. While there is always a chance that it will rain in Belgium, you can also have the most beautiful sunny weather during the entire trip. In principle, the driest months in Belgium are between April and September.

READ ALSO: Fun & Interesting Facts About Belgium

More tips for visiting Benelux:

• Brussels in summer: Brussels Flower Carpet
• Belgium in winter: What It’s Like to Travel in Belgium in Winter & Brussels Christmas Market & Antwerp Christmas Market & Bruges Christmas Market
• Antwerp: Best Things to Do in Antwerp & Hidden Gems of Antwerp
• Amsterdam: Best Things to Do in Amsterdam & 1 Day in Amsterdam & 2 Days in Amsterdam
• Netherlands: Best Day Trips in the Netherlands & Best Tulip Fields in the Netherlands
• Luxembourg: Best Day Trips from Luxembourg

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Priyank Malhotra

Friday 25th of August 2023

Hi, we are planning to come in end of February next year to Belgium for 3 days, can you advise if it rains a lot in February so that we can pack our clothes accordingly, we will be traveling with our 2 years old kid. And is it advisable to travel in February. Loved your blog but didn't see lot of festival and activities in February. Also in the cities, from one place to another do you advise to walk or use public transport. Planning to stay in Brussels and doing day trips to Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, hoping that won't be too tiring with the kid. Thank you!

Hi Priyank, if there is one thing you can't predict is the weather in Belgium (in any season). February is usually quite cold and rainy (can snow too), but we have had some amazing warm weather in February too. You really never know, but you can check the weather forecast a few days before you travel and you'll get a better idea of what to expect. As for whether it's advisable to travel to Belgium in February, it all depends on your expectations and what you want to see and do. February is the Carnival season, so there will be a lot going on. Google "Aalst Carnival" for example, and there are many other places where you can see carnival celebrations. Do some research and see if anything interests you. Most city centers are walkable, but there are lots of cobblestones. We also have good public transport if you need to cover bigger distances (trams, metros, buses, etc.). For intercity travel, take a train. With a child that age, be sure to pack a stroller (ideally with big wheels and a rain cover)! Also, you may want to plan some time visiting museums. Keep in mind that the days are rather short at that time of the year, so it gets dark early (around 6pm depending on when exactly you travel). You may also want to read this article to get a better idea of what it's like to visit Belgium in winter.

Diane Falconer

Friday 10th of March 2023

Can you suggest how we can create an itinerary that takes us from the Dinant/Durbuy area to Bruges/Ghent and on to the Netherlands (Delft, Hoorn, Giethoorn, Amsterdam)? How long should we plan on for Belgian portion? And the Dutch? We are driving. No children.

Hi Diane, unfortunately, I really have no time to help our readers with individual itinerary suggestions. There are just too many options and everything depends on your interests and the time that you have. You can spend just a few hours in most of these places, or a few days in each. You can find quite a few detailed guides for Belgian and Dutch destinations on our blog. So try to figure out what you really want to see, how much time you want to spend, and how you will travel/where you'll stay and park your car in the cities (or just outside), and then it will be easier to make an itinerary. Good luck!

Tess Lawler

Thursday 8th of December 2022

We've scheduled an upcoming Viking cruise which will end in Antwerp on 04/04/23 and I was considering your comments & like the itinerary on the 4-day Belgium tour. Maybe stay in Antwerp 2 nights; Bruges 1 night & 1 night Brussels and travel by train to see Ghent & battlefields?? Need to get to Brussels airport for exit. Any thoughts/suggestions for hotels, etc??

Monday 12th of December 2022

Hi Tess, sure, all this is doable if you want to change hotels and move around. You could also easily stay at any of these towns and visit others by train without having to take all your luggage with you. Trains go from early morning until late at night. If you want to visit the WWI battlefields, it's a bit difficult without a car, so it's best to take a tour. The best ones run from Bruges and start in the morning at the station, so it could indeed be somewhat easier if you are in Bruges already that day. Also, on your last day, depending on the flight time, you may want to stay closer to the airport or closer to the train station with a direct train to the airport. It's no big deal if your flight is later in the day, but if it's in the morning, be sure to check the train schedules so that you can easily get there on time. As for hotels, we have some suggestions under each city guide (Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges). For Brussels, we also have this guide to the best areas to stay. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Lori Maccarone

Monday 5th of December 2022

Hello! We are flying into AMS (Netherlands). Can we easily book and catch a train ticket to Brussels from the airport? If so, where? I plan to get a hotel in central station as you recommend. Should we buy a train pass so we can travel throughout Belgium over the three days on your suggested itinerary or should we just buy single ticket train rides as needed?

Hi Lori, if you don't mind taking the regular (=slower) train, then yes, you can just get the tickets on the spot and take the next train. If you prefer the faster one, book your tickets on the Thalys website in advance. I find that it's often not worth the price difference to go for the faster one (and you keep flexibility because the regular trains don't have assigned seating so it doesn't matter which one you take). But if you are in a hurry, Thalys can be worth it. In Belgium, you can just get your train tickets on the day itself or buy them on the website or via the app of Belgian Railways. Normally yes, we just get single or return tickets, but they also have all kinds of passes, seasonal tickets, passes for young people, etc. See the 'Tickets & Railcards' section on their website for more info (for some reason, I can't link directly to it). Here is a link to the ticket options for young people under 26. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Wednesday 31st of August 2022

Hello- Your blog is very helpful. One last question please. Im flying in and out of Paris from USA and I have 14 days total and I was thinking of doing Paris to Belgium to Switzerland in October. Do you know what is the best way to do this meaning should I first do Paris to Switzerland and come back to Paris and go to Belgium? Thanks so much.

Friday 2nd of September 2022

Hi Radha, there are countless of ways to do that. You could fly to/from Switzerland from either Paris or Brussels depending on what works best for you. A train might also be an option depending on where you are traveling. I wouldn't do any backtracking though. There's really no reason to return to Paris when you can go straight to Switzerland. Good luck with the planning.

Complete Belgium Travel Guide, What You Need to Know

Belgium is a small country in Western Europe with a population of 11 million. It is best known for its beer, chocolate, fries, and varieties of waffles. You will find medieval architecture, gorgeous canals, castles, quirky comics and sculptures, forests of bluebells, ghost towns full of graffiti, and tons of history, including Waterloo. The country receives over 4 million tourists each year. Planning international travel can be overwhelming and time-consuming while working full-time. Use this Belgium travel guide and the following Belgium travel blog posts to plan your perfect vacation. The top destinations in Belgium are Brussels , Bruges , Antwerp , and Ghent .

Why Visit Brussels Belgium

Brussels Belgium is unofficially the capital of the EU.  It is the home of the European Union Commission and the headquarters of NATO. The city is full of art nouveau, cobblestone pathways, sidewalk cafes, comic book murals, a little boy famous for peeing, frites, waffles, beer, and melt-in-your-mouth chocolates.

Read 100 to Do in Brussels Belgium, a Bucket List City

Read One Day in Brussels, a Detailed Itinerary

Why Visit Bruges

Bruges Belgium has been called an open-air museum and is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in Europe. The historic pedestrian-only city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bruges is also nicknamed Venice of the North due to its canals lined by weeping willow trees and white swans. You will find lots of folklore, chocolate shops, and lace boutiques.

Read: Top Things to Do in Bruges Belgium During a Day Trip

Why Visit Antwerp

Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city. It is also the world’s diamond capital. Antwerp is gritty and a favorite of the hipster crowd. You will find coffee cafes, second-hand stores, art galleries, and vinyl record shops.  In 2019, Lonely Planet awarded Antwerp as a Top 10 City in its Best in Travel awards.

Read: A Perfect Day in Antwerp Belgium: Exploring the Highlights in 24 Hours

Why Visit Ghent

Ghent Belgium is a fairytale city full of medieval architecture, cathedrals, belfry, guildhalls, the Graslei, St. Michael’s Bridge, and cobbled streets. Ghent is a college town with a thriving nightlife and has been named one of the UNESCO Cities of Music.

Read: One Day in Ghent Belgium: Must-See Sights and Experiences

What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to  Belgium

Where is  belgium .

Belgium is in Western Europe. The country is bordered by the North Sea, France, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Germany.  Brussels is the capital and largest city of Belgium. Brussels is also the unofficial capital of the European Union due to the number of EU institutions in the city.

What is the language in Belgium?

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Dutch (60%) is the most spoken language followed by French (40%) and German (1%). Interestingly, language is a political issue in Belgium. It is important to not speak the wrong language in the wrong area. Brussels is considered a bilingual city, French is the most commonly spoken. Speak Dutch in the northern region of Flanders and German in the province of Liege. English is taught in the school system and spoken by 55% of the population. Similar to France, it is important to at least try to speak the common language before resorting to English.  FluentU offers a helpful list of common words and phrases to learn before you travel.

Do I need a visa to visit Belgium?

According to Project Visa , US citizens do not need a visa for a visit up to 90 days in a 6 month period.

What is the currency in Belgium?

The currency in Belgium is the euro. US dollars are not accepted at restaurants, attractions, or stores. Be sure to download a free currency calculator before you arrive.

Can I use credit cards and ATMs in Belgium?

ATMs are available throughout Belgium. Avoid large fees by using your bank’s international partner in Belgium and google its location before you travel. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Belgium, you will need a 4 digit PIN from the bank. American Express and Discover may be accepted. Save money on fees with a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees and make purchases in euro. It is always a good idea to carry some cash.

How much should I budget per day in Belgium?

According to Budget Your Trip , the average daily cost of traveling in Belgium is $130. Expect to pay $1,815 + airfare for a one-week trip for 2.

When is the best time to visit Belgium?

The high season in Belgium is June to August, expect high prices and crowds. The shoulder season is April-May and September to October. The low season is November through March, crowds are low and temperatures are moderately chilly. Snow is rare in Belgium but rain is common. Christmas Markets are held from November to December and Carnival is held from February to March.

What transportation does Belgium use?

Tram, bus, and taxi are available in Belgium cities. Unlimited transportation cards are available for 24, 48, or 72 hours. Brussels also has Uber and a metro system. MoBIB cards are transportation cards for all public transportation systems and domestic train travel within Belgium. They can be loaded for various amounts depending on your needs. Download the  SNCB/NMBS app to plan routes and purchase tickets in the country. Belgium is well connected domestically and internationally by rail. Always prepurchase tickets to avoid a surcharge. Eurostar connects Brussels South Station and London in under two hours. Thalys connects Paris and Brussels in under 90 minutes. I do not suggest car rental in Brussels, the traffic jams are incredible. Arrive an hour early when traveling Eurostar or Thalys for passport control.

What kind of adaptor do I need in Belgium?

The plugs in Belgium are type C and E. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter with surge protection . You will need a converter if you plan to use an electric razor or blow dryer from the US.

What should I pack for Belgium?

The overall clothing style is a casual look in dark colors, jeans are popular. The weather fluctuates in the Spring and Fall, plan to dress in layers. Rain is common, pack an umbrella. Wear shoes with cushioned soles for walking on cobbled streets.

Is Belgium a safe country for solo travelers?

According to Travel Safe Abroad , the overall risk of travel in Belgium is medium. The risk of mugging is medium and the risk of pickpocketing is high. The terrorist threat in Belgium is high, avoid crowded places, areas, events, or demonstrations. That being said, Belgium is considered safe for women travelers. Dial 112 in an emergency. Contact the US Embassy for non-urgent emergencies, such as a lost passport.

What Belgian food do I need to try?

Chocolate, beer, waffles, and fries! Also, steak tartare, boulets liégeoise (meatballs in sauce), mitraillette (fried meat and fries sandwich), anguilles au vert (eels in green sauce), waterzooi (seafood stew),carbonnade (beef stew), moules-frites (mussels and fries), shrimp croquettes, tomaat met grijze garnalen (tomatoes stuffed with shrimp), vol-au-vent (pastry stuffed with chicken and mushrooms), stoemp (mashed potatoes and vegetables), l ard balls (Dutch doughnuts or dutchies), rijsttaart (rice tart), and drink jenever (juniper flavored alcohol).

Tips for Traveling in Belgium

• Tipping is not mandatory, yet it might be already added to the bill.
• You need 1 euro to use public restrooms.
• Belgium beer is 7.5 to 10.5% alcohol.
• Bars are open all night, there is no last call.
• Do not steal bar glasses.
• Stay out of the bike lane, it looks like a sidewalk.
• Do not cross streets against the light.
• Signal lights change from green to red, there is no in-between (yellow).
• Many shops are closed on Sunday.
• Many attractions and museums are closed Monday and Wednesday.
• Belgians have their own sense of humor (think Manneken Pis).
• Belgians do not talk about money.

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Belgium

• Take a boat trip through the canals of Bruges.
• Visit the Grand Place in Brussels.
• Tour the chocolate shops in Brussels.
• Visit the Grand Place (Grote Markt) in Antwerp.
• See the graffiti in Doel, now a ghost town.
• Explore Gravensteen Castle and Old Town Ghent.
• Check out the Grote Markt in Mechelen’s Old Town.
• Explore the stone houses and cobbled streets of Durbuy.
• Visit the Hallerbos (Blue Forest) in April or May for the bluebell bloom.
• Enjoy a beer in the longest bar in the world, Leuven’s Old Square.

Be sure to check the Belgium Office of Tourism website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

Interesting Facts About  Belgium

• Belgium has 3 languages and none of them are Belgium.
• Mannequin Pis is Belgium’s national symbol and he has hundreds of outfits.
• Belgium holds the world record for the longest period without a government, 589 days.
• Belgians are fined if they do not vote.
• Europe’s first skyscraper was built in Antwerp Belgium in 1928.
• The longest tram line in the world is the Belgian Coast Tram.
• Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world.
• Belgians invented “French” fries.
• Belgium produces over 220,000 tons of chocolate each year.
• You could drink a different Belgian beer for more than 3 years and each beer has its own specific glass.
• Belgium’s beer culture has made the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.
• In the 1970s, light beer was served at school lunch.
• The Smurfs are Belgian.
• The world’s smallest city, Durbuy, is in Belgium.
• The oldest shopping arcade in the world is in Brussels, the Galeries St Hubert.
• Belgians created the Big Bang Theory, Body Mass Index (BMI), Imodium, the saxophone, asphalt, and plastic.
• Karl Marx wrote The Communist Manifesto while exiled in Brussels in 1848.
• Belgium’s highway system has so many lights it can be seen from the moon.
• Brussels South Charleroi Airport is the most punctual airport in Europe.
• Belgium was the world’s second country to legalize same-sex marriage .
• The divorce rate in Belgium is the highest in Western Europe .

Bookmark and Pin Complete Belgium Travel Guide

Best Booking Resources for Belgium Travel

Belgium travel guide books.

Download an ebook, phrasebook, map, or bundle directly from Lonely Planet , or pick up an Austria Travel Guide from Amazon.com to browse on the plane.

Book Your Accommodation in Belgium Now

Spending the night? Search Booking.com and VRBO in one place to find to perfect property!

Belgium Attractions and Day Trips

The best attractions sell out! Don’t chance it, get your tickets now and relax when you arrive.

Travel Essentials

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Have a great vacation!

Travel Blogs for Belgium

One Day in Brussels Belgium: Must-See Sights and Experiences

Top Things to Do in Antwerp Belgium During a Day Trip

Top Things to Do in Bruges Belgium During a Day Trip

Top Things to Do in Ghent Belgium During a Day Trip

100 Things to Do in Brussels, a Bucket List City

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Belgium Travel Guide – everything you need to know to plan your trip

Planning a trip to Belgium? Wonderful! Belgium, the land of chocolate, fries, and beer. Of Art Nouveau and the Flemish Primitives. That tiny country where the administrative center of the EU is located. My home country.

When people tell me they've been to Belgium, they've usually just been to Brussels and/or Bruges. Those are great places for sure but limiting yourself to these two cities would do the country injustice. There are castles in Belgium to be explored, trails to be walked, memorials to go silent for.

Let me show you some of the best places to visit in Belgium, some insider tips and give you all the information you need to plan your own Belgium vacation in this Belgium Travel Guide.

Belgium travel guide: quick facts

1. brussels capital-region, 3. east flanders, 6. flemish brabant, 7. brabant wallon, 10. liège province, 11.belgian luxembourg, entry requirements, fly to belgium, independent travel around belgium, what to pack for belgium in summer, what to pack for belgium in winter, what to pack for belgium in fall, what to pack for belgium in spring, the best time to visit belgium, what to eat in belgium, belgium holidays, cultural things to be aware of in belgium, where to stay in belgium, don't forget travel insurance, safety in belgium, the use of cash and cards in belgium, staying connected while you travel belgium, tipping in belgium, a brief history of belgium.

Size: it's a small country at 30.528 km² or 11,787 sq mi

People living there: more than 11 million

Capital: Brussels

Governmental structure: federal constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system

National day: July 21

Time zone: Central European Time / UTC+1 / GMT+1

Currency: euro (EUR)

Power voltage and socket type(s): 230V, plug types E and C. If these plug types don't match your devices, make sure to bring a universal adapter to be able to charge them

Official religion(s)/Freedom of religion: Freedom of religion. 60% of the population is Roman Catholic, followed by atheist and agnostic citizens, other Christians, and Muslims.

Official language(s) and general knowledge of English: Dutch, French and German are the three official languages. English is widely spoken.

Drives on this side: right

International driver's licence accepted? yes

Phone code: +32

Vaccinations needed? none mandatory.

Can you drink the tap water? yes, so make sure to bring your refillable water bottle

Want to know more interesting facts about Belgium? I have a whole post full of them .

Belgian provinces and the capital of Brussels

Belgium consists of 10 provinces and the district capital of Brussels. Before I tell you a bit more about each of them, watch the video below to try and understand the country's complicated political and language structure.

It's a bit crazy, I know. Luckily, if you're just visiting Belgium, you don't need to worry about any of this too much. What is good to know, is what you can find in each of the provinces and Brussels.

Brussels is its high art, medieval architecture, chocolate, and history, but it's just as much its many local markets, bars with live music and people meeting up in parks for a picnic when the sun comes out. Of course, at the end of the year there are the Christmas markets.

Discover more of Brussels:

• Why you should visit the Brussels Christmas market
• 15 typical Belgian dishes to try in Brussels
• Visiting the European Parliament and House of European History
• Where to stay in Brussels
• Interesting facts about Brussels that will make you want to go

If you prefer a smaller city for a day trip, Mechelen is a good option and if you want to get moving, all you need to do is follow one of the province's many walking or cycling routes.

Discover more of Antwerp:

• Visiting former concentration camp Breendonk Fort
• Where to have coffee, breakfast, and brunch in Mechelen
• Things to do in Antwerp
• Marvelous museums in Antwerp
• Where to have coffee in Antwerp
• Visiting the Antwerp Christmas market

Outside of Ghent, East Flanders is great for those who like to walk and bike. There are plenty of well-signed routes of varying lengths, oftentimes put together according to a theme. If you're feeling a bit lazy, going on a riverboat tour is another option.

Discover more of East Flanders:

• Visiting the Light Festival in Ghent
• Capturing Ghent's graffiti scene
• Inside the belfry of Ghent
• Visiting the Gravensteen Castle in Ghent
• An afternoon boat trip on the river Scheldt

4. West Flanders

The coast isn't just popular for its beaches. There are quite a few war memorial sites, from both World Wars, and the city of Ostend is home to several art galleries and museums. Whether you want to walk, bike, eat, shop, or brush up on your history, West Flanders has something for you.

Discover more of West Flanders:

• 7 hip hotspots in historical Bruges
• “In Bruges” movie locations you can visit
• Bruge Travel Guide
• Best things to do in Ostend

Limburg is home to the only national park of Belgium, the Hoge Kempen National Park, and counts several other natural areas that are great for hiking and walking.

It's also a great place for those interested in industrial heritage. They can visit C-mine , a former mining complex turned into a cultural, entertainment, and small business center.

Discover more of Limburg:

• A weekend in Limburg
• Outlet shopping at Maasmechelen Village
• A weekend in Beringen

Museums for every possible interest keep you busy on a rainy day in between stops at local breweries, vineyards, and other producers.

Discover more of Flemish Brabant:

• A walk in Tervuren park
• The breathtaking bluebells of the Hallerbos

Aside from that, Brabant Wallon is also home to many parks and other outdoor recreational areas, the Hergé Museum – dedicated to the inventor of the comic character Tintin – and a collection of small museums mostly focusing on local life and history.

Discover more of Brabant Wallon:

• Visiting the Abbey of Villers-la-Ville

While the province is named after its capital city, Dinant is much better known. Small in size, its dominated by its citadel perched high upon a cliff overlooking the river Meuse.  

The provincial capital of Mons was European Capital of Culture in 2015 and perfect for a day trip or a weekend away while Pairi Daiza is one of the most popular animal parks in Belgium.  

The capital city of Liège puts up the biggest Christmas market of the country and will easily keep you busy for a weekend while the town of Spa gave its name to spa centers around the world and is the perfect place to unwind.

Discover more of Liège province:

• How to spend 3 unique days in Liège province

Make sure to check out the abbey of Orval, the castle of Bouillon, the smallest city in the world Durbuy, and the historically important Bastogne.  

Want even more inspiration? Check out these fun things to do in Belgium .  

How to travel to Belgium

Travelers from the United States and the rest of the world can generally visit Belgium for three months without a visa on the condition that their passports are valid up until six months after their stay.  

How to get to Belgium

The most budget-friendly way to travel to Belgium is by bus from one of the other European countries. Flixbus is known for its great long-distance bus service and equally pleasant prices.

For more options, have a look at Omio . This platform automatically gives you the best route between two places and allows you to immediately book a ticket as well.  

If you're coming from the UK, you can also travel on the Eurostar from London to Brussels. It's usually a bit faster than flying as you don't need to be at the train station as early as you need to be at the airport and the Eurostar drops you off right in the center of Brussels. Check Omio for timetables and prices

If you're coming from France, Germany, or the Netherlands, the highspeed train Thalys is another fast way of getting to Belgium. It's a bit pricier than a regular train but does offer more comfort and is faster too. Look here for Thalys tickets  

Brussels Charleroi is the airport they optimistically call Brussels South but it's at least an hour's drive from the capital. This is where mostly cheaper airlines arrive.

Antwerp and Ostend airport are two smaller airports which also welcome international flights but you'll be most likely to fly to one of the other two.

For flights to Belgium, check Skyscanner . It gives a good overview of your options and their prices and also allows you to set flight alerts so you can track when those prices go up or down.  

How to travel around Belgium

The NMBS/SNCB trains provide the best option to move between cities and buses from De Lijn (in Flanders), the MIVB (in Brussels) and TEC (in Wallonia) will easily take you to smaller destinations.

Belgium is a small country and the highways are often congested. Renting a car isn’t recommended unless you plan on staying in a small village with hard access to public transport or unless you're planning to road trip and then especially in the south of the country where there's still more nature. If you're interested in getting a rental car for your trip to Belgium, check out AutoEurope .

Taxis are an option, but not really if you don’t want to spend a lot of money. A 15-minute drive can easily cost you €30.  

What to pack for Belgium

Winters can get a bit chilly, but it doesn’t often freeze during the day and it usually doesn’t snow for more than a week or two a year in total.

Just make sure to always pack an umbrella, whatever time of the year you decide to come.  

• a reusable water bottle
• good walking sandals
• light clothing
• a rain jacket
• a warm wind and waterproof coat
• comfortable and warm shoes
• a merino woolen baselayer
• merino woolen socks
• a warm scarf

I created an extensive packing list for Belgium in fall which you can find here .  

Both for fall and spring in Belgium, it's important to pack layers. Some days can still/already be sunny and warm while others will be grey, wet, and cold. You probably won't need a super warm winter coat but it is best to bring something warm and waterproof that you can easily stow away, like this jacket .  

Summer is also festival time in Belgium with multiple festivals big and small taking place just about every weekend. Read more about summer trips to Belgium and some of the best Belgian music festivals .

Winter is the time of the Christmas markets and while not as known for them as Germany, for example, Belgium does have quite a few good ones. I've written more about Christmas markets in Belgium here.

Autumn is a bit of a more quiet time around the country but in spring, everyone is getting excited about the upcoming summer and there are several spring-related things to do, like visiting the purple flower forest , the flower show Floralia , or the rose garden Coloma.  

If you'd like to learn how to make some of these dishes yourself, check out this post with Belgian recipes .  

When traveling somewhere, it's always good to know whether there will be a special holiday during your stay. That's why I've compiled a detailed list of holidays in Belgium which I update annually. It includes not only public holidays but also school holidays and other dates to take into account when planning your trip.  

If you speak French but not English and you're visiting the Flemish side of Belgium, you can always ask whomever you're talking to if it's okay to speak French because you're visiting and don't speak Dutch or English, if you want to be absolutely sure not to offend anyone.

When it comes to socializing, there’s quite the difference between the northern and the southern part of the country. When I worked at the Belga Press Agency, my French speaking colleagues would give each other a kiss when arriving at the office, while my Flemish colleagues would shake hands. That about says it all.

Of course, this is a generalization, but I think you could say that the people from the south are a bit warmer and more open than the people from the northern part of Belgium. We all have cliques and groups we belong to and for an outsider, it’s not always easy to become part of such a group.

If you want to meet Belgians, I’d say the best approach is to just walk up to them because the chances of us walking up to a stranger are rather slim (again, generalizing here).  

Whenever I need to book a hotel somewhere, I always check Booking. com. I love that the site has so many filters you can use to easily get a list of just the places that fit your criteria. So if you're looking for the best places to stay in Belgium, I highly recommend you do it there .  

No matter how well you plan your trip to Belgium, there's always something that can happen that's beyond your control. Your luggage can get lost, you can get sick or you can drop and break that new camera. In all of these cases, good travel insurance has you covered.

I've had ongoing travel insurance ever since I started traveling by myself to make sure I'm covered for every trip I go on but if you travel just a few times a year, you can get insurance for each trip separately.

Don't have travel insurance yet? Check out SafetyWing. They offer super flexible plans that you can even sign up for while you're already on your trip. On top of that, they were the first travel insurance to cover COVID, and when I got COVID, they reimbursed all of my expenses without making a fuss. Their customer support team is great and I can personally recommend them.  

As for the rest of Belgium, you just need to mind your belongings in busy areas but the risks of getting pickpocketed are rather low outside of the big cities. The only other thing that could be dangerous over here is getting into a car. We're not the calmest drivers in the world and traffic can get a bit tense.

There are ATMs, usually from multiple banks, in every town and city. Just make sure to check the fees your bank charges for withdrawing money abroad beforehand so you know whether it's better to take out a big amount at once or not.  

Traveling to Belgium from outside the EU and want to stay connected so you can share photos, call loved ones over WiFi and easily use apps like Google Maps? Then check out Solis Wifi mobile WiFi .

Skyroam offers both day passes and monthly subscriptions providing you with 4G throughout your trips. I've been using their daily passes not just when I travel outside the EU (no roaming charges for me in the EU) but also as a backup for when I think I'll go over my phone's data plan.

Tipping isn't mandatory in Belgium but as in many places, it is appreciated. All taxes and service are included in the bill and people working in the service industry make a living wage so it's common to just round up the bill at places like cafes or small eateries and to add whatever you think is suitable at restaurants.

For more specific guidelines, check out this section on tipping on your Belgium trip .  

In the Middle Ages, Belgium was divided into smaller semi-independent regions such as counties and principalities which were under foreign rule, first by the French, then the Austrians, and then the Spanish. It knew a very brief period of independence in the 14th century after it defeated the French army following a rebellion.

After big European turmoils in the 17th century, Belgium became Austrian again at the beginning of the 18th century until the French annexed the country in 1795. Belgium stayed French until Napoleon was defeated at Waterloo in 1815 and it was merged together with the Netherlands.

The differences between the two were too big, though, and in 1830 a Belgian rebellion broke out that would lead to the official independence of the country in January 1831.

During the reign of the first king, Leopold I, Belgium continued the industrialization process that had started in the 19th century. The country knew a dark period with the rule of Leopold II, who made part of Africa, later known as Belgian Congo, his personal property and committed atrocities against the natives who he exploited mostly for harvesting rubber.

The Belgian Congo became state property in 1908, a year before Leopold II died and would remain a colony until 1960.

Later in the 20th century, Belgium suffered a great deal both during World War I and World War II when it was occupied by the Germans twice. It managed to recover quite well and became one of the founding members of the European Union and of NATO.  

And that's it! I hope this guide to Belgium has given you an idea of what to do in Belgium and will help you plan your own trip here.  

Find below the important posts about Belgium.

Dates of Holidays in Belgium 2024 [Annually updated]

Namur Travel Guide: 15 Best Attractions to visit in Namur!

Mons Travel Guide: 15 Best things to do in Mons, History, Attractions

Dinant Travel Guide: 17 Attractions to visit in Dinant, History, Hotels & Restaurants

15 Fun things to do in Ypres: A Visitor's Travel Guide

16 Best things to do in Ninove: Travel Guide, History, Attractions, Transportation & Markets

15 Amazing Things to do in Kortrijk: Travel Guide: History, Attractions, Transportation & Markets

15 Top Things to do in Tournai: Travel Guide, History, Attractions, Facts and Transportation

Ghent Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

15 Best restaurants in Brussels: Where to eat in Brussels?

19 Best Hotels to stay in Brussels – Neighbourhoods, Luxury, Hostels, Family and Airport Hotels

20 Fun Christmas Markets in Belgium to visit in 2023 – 2024

Mechelen Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Charleroi Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Mons Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Namur Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Ostend Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

17 Best Bars in Brussels and their signature Drinks

Dinant Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Louvain-la-Neuve Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Liege Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

10 Best Brussels Museums, Art Galleries and Exhibitions

20 Best things to do in Ardennes: My 4 day itinerary

29 Interesting Facts about Brussels

Brussels Travel Guide: 18 Best Things to Do, History, Facts and Hotels

Brussels Christmas Markets 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Visiting Hallerbos: The Blue Forest of Belgium

Visiting the Villers Abbey: Location, History and Guide!

C-mine Genk: Mining site turned to Cultural center

Fort Breendonk: Concentration camp turned National Memorial

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Belgium in 4 days: Beer, Chocolate, & Castles

December 16, 2019 by Karen Turner 9 Comments

The beginner’s guide to Belgium’s best sights! Includes travel tips and top 5 sights for visiting Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. Includes chocolate, beer, and castles! Read more for the best tourist sites to visit in Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges as well as travel advice for visiting Belgium in a quick 4-day itinerary.

• 1.1 When is the best time of year to visit Belgium?
• 1.2 What language is spoken in Belgium?
• 1.3 Do they take credit cards in Belgium?
• 1.4 Supermarkets in Belgium
• 1.5 Public transit & Bikes in Belgium
• 1.6 How to Get to Belgium On a Budget
• 1.7 Belgian Beer
• 1.8 Famous Belgian Food
• 1.9.1 Where to stay in Bruges for one night
• 1.10 1 day + 1 night in Ghent/Gent
• 1.11 Where to stay in Ghent
• 1.12.1 Where to stay in Antwerp
• 1.13 Hallerbos
• 1.14 Have you been to Belgium?

Must-Knows for Travel in Belgium

When is the best time of year to visit belgium.

Avoid May-August if possible as this is peak season in Europe and you will pay more. It’s not to say that you shouldn’t visit, but it’s nice visiting in the low season if you don’t enjoy crowds. The Christmas markets can be busy during December in Brugge and many other cities.

What language is spoken in Belgium?

It’s mainly Flemish and French depending on what region that you’re in. One region uses German. Almost everyone spoke English, so you won’t have any problems, however, I felt like people weren’t as comfortable and preferred speaking in Flemish, so if you speak some Dutch/Flemish, it’s much appreciated.

Do they take credit cards in Belgium?

ATMs are common enough although you still need to look. Places in the historic centers close to tourist sites tend to take any credit card. I recommend avoiding any Euronet machines as they tend to have higher fees. BNP, ING, and Europa Banks are all popular Belgian banks.

When you’re a bit outside of the Centre, you may have issues using a non-Maestro card in Belgium. People refer to the local debit card as a Bancontact card, which works on a different system than Visa or Mastercard. It’s safest to have cash with you.

Supermarkets in Belgium

Larger supermarkets (such as Carrefour ) are on the outside of cities. Some smaller stores in the cities, but if this is an issue as you intend to cook, look up the supermarkets before booking accommodation. Hours tend to be more limited in Belgium with not as many supermarkets open late. Similarly, not all supermarkets may be open on Sundays. Some Carrefour Express markets are open in the evenings, but selection tends to be more limited for food…

Public transit & Bikes in Belgium

Antwerp has a public bike program although public transit is quite good as well. Bruges is quite small and there are a few bike programs. Similarly, you’ll find public transit throughout the city center if you prefer not to walk to your hotel. Ghent is quite lovely to walk around although I’d recommend taking a bus from the train station as it’s a bit far with luggage to some parts of the city center. All are very bike-friendly!

How to Get to Belgium On a Budget

The cheapest way to get to Belgium from neighboring countries is by bus (Flixbus/Ouibus). If you’re looking for a bit more comfort, you can also take an international train from Amsterdam to Brussels or Antwerp. From Brussels or Antwerp, it is easy to take a train to Ghent or many other Belgian cities.

Trains within Belgium tend to be pretty flexible and affordable, so you can always pick up a ticket that day. It’s pretty easy to navigate the Belgian trains once you arrive. Still, you might save on transport with a car if you’re a larger group.

Belgian Beer

Virtually everywhere.  Don’t get sucked into the tourist trap bars and try to take advantage of the fantastic beers that are harder to find elsewhere.

Although the Belgian Style is well-documented, a lot of breweries like to experiment and you can find beers with some interesting combinations. Here’s a list of the main beer in Belgium types that are more unique to Belgium that you should try!

• Lambics (Sour fruity beer unique to Belgium).
• Belgian Trappist ales (Only 6 of these monasteries exist in Belgium. You can visit some of the monasteries in the western and eastern parts of Belgium. Trappist ales come in single, double, triple, and quadruple varieties. The heavier Trappist ales can be quite heavy (especially as they go up in hop quantity) and remind me of bread.  The world’s most exclusive beer is made at a Trappist brewery and it’s called Westvleteren 12 .
• Saison (light, non-hoppy beers, seasonal (although you can find it in fall) so refreshing in summer).
• Witbier (White Beer). Typically light, not too hoppy, and good for non-beer drinkers hoping to learn more.

In all of my Belgian city guides, I write about my favorite local breweries and bars, so don’t worry!

Famous Belgian Food

Although the Belgian waffle is famous, you’ll need to look for a good place to get one as a lot of waffle places exist for the tourists, however not all make it fresh.  There is a difference between the Brussels and Liège style as the Brussels style is much thicker.  I prefer the Liège style myself as it tends to be sweeter. Many Belgians don’t add much to their waffles and enjoy them mostly plain although tourists love to pile toppings on.

Definitely have some frites (french fries) along with your beer.   Of course, we had to mention mussels and other seafood. Many mussels and oysters come from the Belgian coast region, so don’t hesitate to order them if you love seafood. You will also want to try stoofvlees if you eat beef. Every city has a namesake dish, for instance Antwerpen is famous for smoked eel.

Things To Do in Bruges (1 day / 1 night)

Bruges is a beautiful city.  The outskirts of Bruges aren’t particularly beautiful (although functional!), however, the historic center is beautiful with charming little streets and fantastic architecture.

City Gates. I’d recommend entering through the Ezelpoort if possible.  They’re beautiful and worth seeing!

Beer.  We had to visit the Brouwerij De Halve Maan , which is a popular Belgian brewery.  The Bruge Zot Blonde is cheap, tasty, and easy to drink although they have some rarer beers on tap if you ask at the bar.  I was a fan of the Bottle Shop ( Wollestraat 13)  where I spent a long time browsing the massive bottle collection with some beers I’ve never seen. 

If you’re a beer lover, there are lots more fantastic beer bars to visit, so try to avoid the tourist traps and do your research. So far, my favorites include La Trappiste, Bar-low, and ‘t Brugs Beertje. ‘t Brugs Beertje is an old school brown bar with a great selection from the region’s beers.

​ Chocolate : It’s an important reason to visit The most famous chocolatier in Brugge has to be The Chocolate Line . Other favorites include Pralinque and Chocolaterie Spegelaere.

Best street for wandering :  Ezelpoort .  Lots of cute little stores to stop into slightly removed from the tourist center. Katelijnestraat is also lovely and I recommend looking for the Handmade in Brugge sticker on the window if you are looking for unique souvenirs created by independent creators.

Must-see site : the Belfry.  This is a stunning medieval tower that is free to visitors (unless you want to climb).  You can enjoy listening to the bells, which is worth looking up ahead of time and visit art exhibits at the bottom.

Where to stay in Bruges for one night

We ended up staying on the city outskirts, which is cheaper, however you’ll find a lot of great options on where to stay in Bruges for every budget. Hostel Lybeer Bruges is a hostel right in the heart of Bruges. I stayed here and it is a no-frills accommodation. Still, the bed was comfy, the staff was friendly, and it was clean enough for me. For an affordable private room at a cozy family-run B&B, look to  Hotel Groeninghe .  For the ultimate luxury experience, look up  Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce, a luxury hotel along the waterfront that is straight out of your dreams that was featured within In Bruges as the gangster’s hideout.

Check prices for accommodations in Bruges now!

1 day + 1 night in Ghent/Gent

We primarily came for touring the Gravensteen castle and getting a nice meal.  I really regret not giving Ghent more of a chance on that first trip as it’s a sorely underrated city that I’ve been back a few times. I didn’t write much in this guide as I didn’t know that Ghent had so much to offer, so please keep reading about the charming Paterhol neighborhood, Ghent’s cool art scene, and other aspects of the trip that I really neglected within my other post.

Ghent tends to be a bit more affordable than other cities in the region, mostly as it’s less famous. It’s a shame as the waterfront walk is definitely one of my favorites in Belgium (I write this after seeing a LOT of beautiful waterfront walks). Be sure to stay until after sunset to enjoy this view.

You can click to read my favorite spots, restaurants, and things to do in Ghent in detail within this weekend guide!

If you don’t know about Gravensteen castle (Ghent’s castle!), you need to look it up.  The castle is MASSIVE, in the middle of the city, full of exhibits/art, and as Jacob says, “the castley-est castle I’ve ever been in.”

It dates back to 1180 although it was renovated in the late 1800s. It has a proper prison hole, dungeons, a throne room, a fantastic view of the city, a moat, turrets, a small exhibit on torture, and art exhibits. It’s also only 10 euros, which is very reasonable considering how many you will spend walking around.

Where to stay in Ghent

If you’re interested in staying in Ghent, you’ll find a lot of affordable options in this student majority city.  It’s also very doable to do a day trip from Antwerp if you prefer to stay in Antwerp.  I recently stayed at Anna’s Apartments in the trendy Paterhol neighborhood. It was a really nice cozy apartment with all that we needed for a nice weekend enjoying the Christmas market.

You’ll find affordable hostels, including  Hostel Uppelink,  as well as affordable private rooms at Bed and Breakfasts . Of course, you’ll find boutique luxury hotels, such as 1898 The Post , if you dream of waking up with views of Gent’s most iconic buildings.

Check prices for accommodations in Ghent now!

Antwerp / Antwerpen (2 days / 2 nights)

Antwerp is full of interesting sights to visit, no matter how strange your tastes are.   Click for my complete guide of what to do in Antwerp with a free self-guided walking tour of Antwerp!

Be warned that the city is fairly large, so walking somewhere takes time. There are bikes all over the city that you can rent with a credit card as well as easy to use bike lanes! I’d recommend trying to do a history or food tour while in Antwerp!

My favorite places in Antwerp:

• Enjoying a beer at a specialty beer cafe
• Vlaeykensgang
• Platin-Moretus museum

Our first night, we visited one of the best beer bars in the world where they have hundreds  of rare beers, called  Cafe Kulminator. I’m so sad to write this, but they will be limiting their hours as of 2020 due to the owners’ health. It’s a beer lover’s paradise although you need to get there early (they close 12ish) and the cellar closes earlier. There’s a cute bar cat and it’s surprisingly mostly locals. I’d also recommend Billie’s Bier Kafétaria as well as Elfde Gebod .

Antwerp is a very charming city with traditional architecture although you must find the  hidden street Vlaeykensgang . You take a secret entrance and suddenly, you’re transported back in time.  Definitely worth wandering around although finding the door can be tricky!

Between me eating lots of Belgian waffles, we visited the Platin-Moretus museum.   I am a literature lover, so I try to find beautiful libraries whenever possible. This museum is a UNESCO World Heritage site and it’s easy to see why.

Although Gutenberg invented the first book press, Platin redefined commercial printing and the museum explores the history of early literature.   It also was his private residence, so you can view his personal library as well as many priceless books. The coolest part is seeing the printing presses, try outlining up letters on a block made for the printing press (really difficult), and understanding the history.

Where to stay in Antwerp

On my last visit to Antwerp, we stayed at a beautiful apartment in the historic city center,  Catherina at Friday ,  for 100 euros per night with stunning views of the city.  If you’re on a budget, you’ll find lots of hostels in Antwerp although book ahead as prices rise in summer.  For luxury, you’ll find some beautiful boutique hotels within historic buildings, including De Witte Lelie .

Check prices for accommodations in Antwerp now!

One additional thing we did that I would not recommend to everyone: walking around the sewers of Antwerp. In theory, it’s really cool to walk around them, but four hours is a bit much for me. Our experience was not great and I had to translate for non-Flemish members of our group.

 If you’re lucky enough to visit Belgium in spring, check to see the bluebells in the incredible and magical Hallerbos are in bloom.  You can take a tour   Read more on Lilli’s blog about this incredibly beautiful place .

Have you been to Belgium?

• A self-guided chocolate tour in Brussels ,
• What to do in Ghent
• What to do in Antwerp
• A week-long Belgian itinerary
• A weekend in Brussels
• Durbuy: Belgium’s best-kept secret!

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

January 20, 2016 at 11:06 am

I’m happy to see you liked my home country. I know that there are friendly people, but not all of them 😉 I guess you have that anywhere. It’s true that not all places sell fresh waffles. You have to find the good ones!

January 20, 2016 at 11:13 am

Nice! I am Dutch and discovered that I absolutely fell in love with Belgium and Belgium people and would like to live there one day. People often tell me that they find Brussels the ‘most ugly city’ , whereas I really like it. It shows in your picture as well, it’s beautiful! I haven’t visited Bruges and Gent yet but I’d love to. Looks very picturesque.

January 20, 2016 at 10:08 pm

Hi Anna, I was surprised how much loved Belgian culture. I also really enjoy the fact that things stay open a bit later than I’m used in the Netherlands. I haven’t been to Brussels yet, however I’m hoping to visit my boyfriend’s friend who lives nearby. Definitely visit. Everyone I work with raved to me specially about Ghent, so definitely visit in off-peak season!

January 20, 2016 at 11:40 am

I love visiting Belgium, and I have to say beer and chocolate are pretty high on the reasons why (and waffles, and chips and mayo) and that’s why I can’t go too often!!

January 20, 2016 at 10:11 pm

Amanda, I understand 100%. I ate so much chocolate, waffles, fries, and delicious terrible food while I was in Belgium. I really don’t enjoy mayo on my frites, but everything else was incredible.

February 24, 2016 at 10:04 pm

I loved Ghent! I really need to explore more of Belgium. I literally couldn’t believe how amazing the chocolates were – and all the great fillings they have. I would consider going back just for chocolate purposes alone haha.

September 11, 2016 at 1:08 am

This is a lovely post about Belgium. I love visiting Belgium just because of the beer and chocolates and now that I have read your whole post, I have some more ideas as well. I also like the people there and find it so hard to believe that with such less distance, Belgians are indeed different from the Dutch. I am looking forward to my next visit and I will keep your post in mind. Thanks for sharing

January 26, 2018 at 3:59 pm

I went to Brussels for a short weekend trip and I would love to go back to Belgium and see more of the country! I’ve had Bruges on the bucket list, but after reading your blog post, your insight on Antwerp makes me want to visit soon 🙂

January 26, 2018 at 4:25 pm

I’m so glad to hear that. I need to write more about Antwerp soon as it’s one of my favorite belgian cities and it’s often overlooked in favor of Brussels or Bruges. I hope you have a blast when you visit. 🙂

Best, Karen

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Brussels Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

Brussels is a bit of an underdog city in Europe . Most travelers speed through on their way to Paris or Amsterdam. Or they skip the city altogether.

I think that’s a mistake.

As the administrative center of the European Union, Brussels can feel a bit “stuffy” — but don’t let that fool you. The city is hip, filled with history, (many museums have free entry on the first Sunday of the month), and boasts tons of cutting-edge restaurants. With its countless restaurants and bars devoted to beer, Brussels is a foodie’s dream.

Spend at least a couple of nights here. Enjoy the beer, devour some Belgian fries, and experience this often-overlooked European capital. It might just surprise you (it did me).

This travel guide to Brussels can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this underrated city!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Brussels

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Brussels

1. Visit the European Parliament

Founded in 1952, the EU parliament is where all 705 members (from 27 countries) meet to debate the future of the EU. You can watch a parliamentary session in the debating chamber (known as the Hemicycle) or tour the building (with an audio guide) when parliament isn’t in session. Space is limited so book in advance (it’s free). On Mondays at 11am and 3pm, there are in-depth guided tours offered in both English and French.

2. Hang out at Grand Place

Brussels’ most popular tourist attraction is its Grand Place. This is the heart of the city and includes the Town Hall, the famous Breadhouse, and, every two years in August, displays a huge floral arrangement. The Grand Place is a bustling part of Brussels and a popular meeting spot for locals.

3. Visit St. Michael and Gudula Cathedral

Built in 1047, this cathedral is the official site of all royal Belgian weddings, funerals, and coronations. It houses a lot of medieval artifacts, including stained-glass windows donated by Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. Entrance is free but it’s 3 EUR to see the Romanesque crypt, 1 EUR for the church’s archaeological site, and 2 EUR for the Treasury.

4. See Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis is a bronze sculpture fountain of a young boy urinating. It was put in place to distribute drinking water in the 15th century and now it’s a local icon. Each day he wears a new costume (and all the old costumes are kept in a museum). Nearby you can also find Jeanneke Pis, which is of a little girl urinating (it’s as weird as it sounds), and Het Zinneke, a statue of a urinating dog.

5. Drink beer at Delirium Café

This is easily the most famous bar in Brussels, thanks to its selection of some 2,000 beers from around the world (it made the Guinness Book of World Records). They brew their own beer as well, and the enormity of the menu draws a fun-loving, talkative crowd.

Other Things to See and Do in Brussels

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the first things I do in a new city is to take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and connect with a local guide who can answer all my questions. New Europe runs regular free tours that cover all the highlights. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

2. Explore The Horta Museum

The Horta Museum was once the house of famous art nouveau architect, Victor Horta, who built the property in the late 1890s. It is an excellent example of the art nouveau style that made Horta one of the most acclaimed architects in Belgium. The unique orange-and-yellow glass ceiling and the detailed curlicues of the wrought iron railings are beautiful. Admission is 12 EUR.

3. See the Chinese Pavilion and Japanese Tower

Located at the end of the Royal Estate at Laeken, the Chinese Pavilion and Japanese Tower were constructed between 1901-1910 on the orders of King Leopold. The pavilion has a museum dedicated to Chinese porcelain and furniture from the 17th and 18th centuries. NOTE: The Chinese Pavilion and Japanese Tower are currently closed due to safety reasons until further notice.

4. Learn about beer at the Cantillon Brewery

Cantillon Brewery was founded in 1900 and is the last surviving lambic brewery (a Belgian beer brewed with raw wheat and wild yeast and fermented for at least a year) in Brussels. The brewery still makes use of its original 19th-century equipment, including its wooden barrels, where the beer matures for up to three years. Guided tours are offered on Saturdays only for 10 EUR, or you can take a self-guided tour throughout the week for 7 EUR. You’ll learn a lot about the production process and you’ll get a free beer at the end. If visiting one brewery isn’t enough for you, you can also take this beer tasting tour where you’ll visit a number of different breweries and enjoy some traditional Belgian snacks with your beers.

5. Gorge at the Gare du Midi market

If you are in Brussels on a Sunday morning, there is no better place to be than the Gare du Midi Market. This is the biggest market in the city and the third-largest food market in Europe, so you can expect to find tasty food like crepes from North Africa, Mediterranean spices, meats, cheese, and pretty much any type of food you desire. Bring an appetite!

6. Eat chocolate

Aside from beer, one of Belgium’s most famous exports is chocolate. Chocolatiers’ shops dot the city, each with its unique recipes (and price tags). My favorite chocolate shop is Maison Pierre Marcolini, as Pierre Marcolini is one of the only chocolatiers in the city to personally select the cocoa beans to roast himself. A close runner-up is Galler Chocolatier, where Jean Galler has perfected some interesting flavor combinations (including an apricot praline). If you want to dive even deeper into Belgian chocolate, visit Choco-Story, the chocolate museum where you can also take a chocolate-making workshop to design your very own chocolate.

7. Learn some history at Waterloo

Just south of the city is Waterloo, the site of Napoleon’s final battle against Europe in 1815. The battle pitted Napoleon against Wellington and the Prussians, marking the end of the Napoleonic Wars. Some 200,000 soldiers were involved and tens of thousands were killed over the course of the day. Although the fields are empty now, at the center of it all is a 40-meter-tall (131 feet) Lion’s Mound, which you can climb to look out across the whole battlefield. There’s also a visitor center where you can watch films that explain the battle and what it meant for world history. Admission to the museum is 17-19 EUR.

8. Admire the view from the Basilique de Koekelberg

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is the 5th largest church in the world, standing 89 meters tall (291 feet) and measuring 167 meters long (548 feet). It was built to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Belgium’s independence, and King Leopold II laid the first stone in 1905. The art deco style contrast of its green dome against red terracotta stones is a striking sight, but the best part is the view over the city from the church’s terrace. It costs 8 EUR to reach it.

9. Hang out at the Grand Salon

The Grand Salon is a square ringed by old mansion houses. The Gothic-style Church of Notre Dame du Sablon can also be found here, but one of the best things to do is sit at a sidewalk cafe, people-watch, and take in the local pace of life. There’s also a fun book and antique market during the weekend if you want to browse.

10. Visit AutoWorld

AutoWorld is a car museum that has over 250 vintage European and American automobiles from the late 19th century up to the 1970s. It has limousines used by the royal family, Belgian-produced Minervas (a defunct car manufacturer that went out of business in the 1950s), and all kinds of prototype vehicles. Admission is 13 EUR. You can buy tickets online in advance here .

11. Climb the Atomium

The Atomium is a giant iron crystal that stands 102 meters (335 feet) tall, magnified 165 billion times its normal size. The structure was originally built for the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958 and was never meant to be permanent. But it quickly became so beloved by Belgians that it was kept standing. Today, you can go inside the six spheres for panoramic views over the city. There’s even a restaurant in the top sphere. Admission is 16 EUR. It’s recommended to buy tickets online in advance .

12. Explore Mini-Europe

While you’re visiting the Atomium, you can also explore the nearby Mini-Europe, a theme park featuring incredibly detailed miniature replicas of famous European monuments, including Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, and the Berlin Wall. There are over 350 monuments in the park, including live-action ones, such as an erupting Mt Vesuvius. Admission to Mini-Europe is 17.30 EUR , while joint tickets that also include entry to the Atomium are 29.40 EUR.

13. See some comic strip art

Located in an Art Nouveau home designed by Victor Horta, The Belgian Center for Comic Strip Art is a must for comic lovers or anyone who’s interested in seeing a different kind of art museum. There are permanent as well as temporary exhibitions with prints, drawings, books, and an entire exhibit dedicated to telling the history of the comic. There’s also a massive comic book shop and library with the biggest collection of comic books globally. Admission to the museum is 12 EUR.

  For information on other cities in Belgium, check out these guides:

• Bruges Travel Guide

Brussels Travel Costs

Hostel prices – For a hostel dorm, prices range from 31-39 EUR per night for a dorm with 4-6 beds, while rooms with 8 beds or more cost 27-30 EUR. For a private room, expect to pay 95-155 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. Some also include free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city. A basic plot costs around 13 EUR per night.

Budget hotel prices – A room in a budget two-star hotel costs 100-130 EUR per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, coffee/tea makers, and TVs.

Airbnb is available in the city with private rooms starting at 50-75 EUR per night. Entire apartments start around 115 EUR per night. Prices double when not booked in advance so be sure to book early.

Food – Belgian cuisine has been strongly influenced by its European neighbors over the centuries, specifically France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The food here is hearty with chocolate, waffles, fries, and beer being the most famous cultural staples. Steak and fries, mussels (often with fries), smoked ham, stew, and sausages are just some of the common dishes you’ll find here. Portions are large and filling too (the saying goes that Belgian food takes the portions of German cuisine but adds the quality and delicacy of French cuisine).

Generally speaking, eating out in Brussels isn’t super affordable. Light meals at cafes (like a sandwich, soups, salads, or crepes) cost around 7-11 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 9 EUR for a combo meal. Takeaway snacks, like a cone of fries at one of the ubiquitous frite shops, cost 3-4 EUR.

At a casual restaurant serving traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 15-22 EUR for a main dish. If you want to splash out, a three-course meal with a drink costs at least 40-60 EUR. Chinese food costs around 9-14 EUR for a dish while a takeaway pizza is around 8-10 EUR.

Beer or a glass of wine are both around 4-5 EUR, a cocktail is 9-12 EUR, and a latte/cappuccino is 3-4 EUR. Bottled water is 2 EUR.

Some of my favorite places to eat are Delirium Cafe, Wolf (which is a food hall with tons of different stalls), and Maison Antoine (for frites).

If you want to cook your meals, there are some great markets throughout the city. Expect to pay around 60 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, bread, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Brussels Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Brussels, expect to spend around 65 EUR per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, taking public transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free activities like free walking tours, visiting the markets, and touring the EU parliament.

On a mid-range budget of 150 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel, enjoy a few drinks, eat out for some meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, rent a bike, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and going to AutoWorld.

On a “luxury” budget of 270 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, take more taxis, and do whatever activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Brussels Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Brussels is a city of diplomats and they have big expense accounts. That means the city is not a super budget-friendly place to visit. However, it’s not impossible to save money here. Here are some of my suggestions to help you keep costs down:

• Get the plat du jour – Many restaurants offer a dish of the day or a fixed menu at lower prices during lunch so this is the best time to eat out if you plan on doing so. That said, cooking your food is still the cheapest option here.
• Eat Belgian fries – For an inexpensive and quick snack, try Belgian fries, or frites (usually eaten with mayonnaise). A large cone of fries costs no more than 4-5 EUR and are available everywhere. It’s not healthy, but it’s filling and delicious!
• Rent a bicycle – As taxis are so expensive, consider renting a bike to get around. Companies like Villo! and Blue-bike have low rates starting from 3.50 EUR per 24 hours (with the first half-hour often being free).
• Use student discounts – Students can receive discounts into many attractions upon presentation of an ISIC card, including half-price entry to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay. Not only does it save you money but they can share their insider tips with you too. It’s the best way to connect with a local while saving money.
• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are the best way to see the city on a budget. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Brussels

There are a lot of hostels in Brussels to help keep your budget intact. My recommended places to stay are:

• Sleep Well Youth Hostel
• easyHotel Brussels
• Meininger Brussels City Center
• Brussels 2GO4 Quality Hostel City Centre

How to Get Around Brussels

Public transportation – Brussels’ extensive public transportation system includes trams, buses, and subway (metro) lines. The city is pretty spread out so you’ll find yourself on public transportation often. It’s the best way to get around.

A single metro ticket costs 2.40 EUR when purchased inside the vehicle, or 2.10 EUR when using contactless payment methods. You can get a ten-journey pass for 15.60 EUR. A one-day ticket is 7.80 EUR (7.50 EUR daily cap when using contactless payment) and gives you unlimited travel across all public transportation.

Remember to validate your ticket every time you take public transportation. Failing to do so can result in a significant fine!

The airport bus is 7 EUR each way.

Bicycle – There are a handful of bicycle rideshare companies in Brussels, including Villo! and Blue-bike, with incredibly low rates starting from 3.50 EUR per 24 hours. Villo! Rentals are free for rides under 30 minutes.

Taxi – Taxis are very expensive. With the base rate starting at 4.98 EUR and then 1.94 EUR for each additional kilometer, they add up fast. With great public transportation, there’s few times you’ll need a taxi!

Ridesharing – After a brief ban, Uber is back in operation in Brussels. But, like taxis, it’s expensive, so skip the ridesharing if you’re on a budget.

Car rental – Car rentals are expensive here, costing at least 50 EUR per day. However, the city is easy to get around via public transportation so you definitely don’t need a car here unless you are leaving the city to explore the rest of the country/region. Divers need to be at least 21 years of age.

When to Go to Brussels

The best time to visit Brussels is during the shoulder seasons, between March-May and September-October. Room rates are much cheaper, and you won’t have to compete for space at all the city’s top attractions. The average daily high in March-May is about 16°C (62°F), while it’s around 18°C (66°F) from September-October.

The summer is the busiest and most popular time to visit. I would avoid visiting during this time, when average daily temperatures are about 23°C (73°F), as prices are inflated and the city’s attractions are very busy.

Winter can be frigid, averaging 6°C (43°F) during the day but often dropping lower. That said, Brussels is alive with Christmas markets and prices are much lower so it’s a fun time to visit if you’re going to be browsing markets and enjoying the museums.

If you come during February you can attend Brussels’ Carnival. It’s a bit of a booze fest and there are lots of costumes and parades, but if you’re in the mood to have fun, this is an ideal time to do it.

Brussels weather can also change on a dime all year round so make sure you pack a light sweater and rain jacket no matter what time of year you visit.

How to Stay Safe in Brussels

Brussels is very safe to visit. Violent crime is very rare here. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur so always keep your valuables secure and out of reach (especially in crowded areas and on public transportation).

In the evenings, avoid wandering through certain areas alone due to increased chances of crime, including Schaerbeek, Brussels North, Molenbeek, and Anderlecht.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here for all those reasons. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply here too (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There are numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

Scams in Brussels are rare, however, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Brussels Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Brussels Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Belgium and continue planning your trip:

The Best Things to Do and See in Brussels

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Home » Europe » Belgium » Brussels

Insider Brussels Itinerary (2024 • Glow Up)

Brussels . A city where the waffle scene is completely off the rails and bureaucracy is so efficient that nothing ever really gets done…

In short, the perfect EU headquarters! ( ED: Bit far?)

ANYWAY, Brussels is packed full of wonderful attractions, and you’re gonna be hard-pressed to catch ’em all. Hence, I have written this top class Brussels Itinerary , perfect for putting all your timing concerns at ease.

I’ll cover all the main visitor essentials, starting from ‘how to not sound French’ and ‘being exceptionally lost’ all the way to ‘getting Koreans to take your photos’. I might even repent my European Union joke too.

Let’s jump into Brussels!

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Brussels Itinerary

Where to stay in brussels, brussels itinerary day 1, brussels itinerary day 2, brussels itinerary day 3, what to do with more than 3 days in brussels, the best time to visit brussels, getting around in brussels, faq on brussels itinerary, final thoughts.

So you’re heading over for a quick visit to Belgium and telling your friends that Belgian delicacies are simply divine (whilst spending all of your money on local brew)?

Outstanding work. However, your time is precious! Exceptional things to do seem to spring out of every corner, and you are starting to see why the Belgian Capital was selected as the European Union’s headquarters…

This 3-days in Brussels Itinerary is going to sweep you with ease through the top attractions, places to visit , and general ambience of this city. I might even try and keep it entertaining for ya too…

There’s a lot to cover, so take this guide as a general base upon which you can structure your own personalised itinerary. I’ve slipped in some hidden gems (like chocolate shops, royal palaces and the Brussels Stock Exchange) so pay attention…

3-Day Brussels Itinerary Overview

• Day 1:  The Grand Place | Brussels City Museum | Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert | Mont Des Arts | Mannekin Pis | Choco Story | Brussels Beer Tour
• Day 2:  Atomium | Mini Europe | Musical Instruments Museum | Royal Palace of Brussels | Museum of Fine Arts | Notre Dame Du Sablon
• Day 3: Parc Du Cinquantenaire | Museum of Natural Science | Belgian Comic Strip Centre | Le Botanique

And so the first day passes. You’re going to need an EPIC place to stay ! Never fear, because I have curated an excellent selection of accommodation that even the choosiest shan’t fail to love…

City Centre

Brussels’ City Centre is a magnet for tourists, with dazzling architecture, interesting attractions, and a good choice of places to eat, drink, shop, and sleep.

The Marolles

The Marolles is one of the best neighbourhoods in Brussels for people looking for budget accommodation. Soak up the local vibe and discover the working class side of the Belgian capital.

Saint Gery was previously an island in the River Senne. There’s no water crossing needed today, though; the river was covered up and Saint Gery joined with the rest of the city.

Saint Gilles

Our choice for the coolest place to stay in Brussels, Saint Gilles is a youthful, bohemian, trendy, multicultural, and lively part of the city.

Ixelles is an arty and trendy neighbourhood with a good selection of shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions. Lakes, parks, and forests are within easy reach and the area is well connected by public transport.

The Grand Place | Brussels City Museum | Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert | Mont Des Arts | Mannekin Pis | Choco Story | Brussels Beer Tour

Today we’re literally just going to be covering in and around the Grand Place. There is so much to see! If you’re wondering what to see in Brussels in two days, here’s the start to any good 2-day Brussels Itinerary .

8:00 am – Visit the Grand Place

Visiting the Grand Place is one of the best ways to kick off your Brussels itinerary. This impressive square is considered the central point of the main area in Brussels, and walking around it will leave anyone completely inspired!

The square is lined with some magnificent buildings, offering possibly the best architectural display in the city! These buildings all have rich histories, and exploring them will give you a good idea of what life in Brussels would have looked like many years ago! The main focal point when visiting the Grand Place is the 15th-century city hall in the centre.

The Grand Place always has something fun going on. This square is full of cool cafes, bars, and shops. Sometimes there is a flower market in the centre of the square, and at night there is always a great vibe here!

Walking around the Grand Place is an essential first stop to help you get your bearings, and take in some of the best buildings in the city.

Take the time to grab a coffee and some breakfast while you’re here!

Insiders Tip: For a new and beautiful perspective of the Grand Place, visit at night when it is all lit up!

• Cost:  Free
• How long should I spend here?  Around an hour.
• Getting there: There are a literal bucket load of bus stops, the metro, and trams! Grand Place ought to do it.

9:00 am – Take a Visit to The Broodhuis

The Broodhuis, found on the Grand Place, is an old building with a long and interesting history as a bread market. Today, it is the site of the Brussels City Museum which has got to be the best place to learn all about this city’s amazing past.

The Brussels City Museum is dedicated entirely to the history of this city. The displays and exhibitions date back to the middle ages and take you through time right up until the present. If you want to learn more about Brussels and what’s going on around you, then a stop at this museum is a brilliant idea.

Insiders Tip: If you get a Brussels Card when arriving in the city, you will be able to access discounted rates on many museums and attractions- including this one!

• Cost:  $9
• How long should I spend here?  1 hour or less.
• Getting there: You should already be in the right place! Just stroll over to the right side!

10:00 am – Go Shopping at the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is an ensemble of brilliantly glazed shopping arcades in the heart of Brussels. If you want to experience some of the best shopping that this city has to offer, all in a fantastic setting, then this is the place!

One of the best things to do in Brussels is to simply walk around the streets, popping into the interesting shops and appreciating the amazing architecture around you. The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert has got to be one of the best places to experience this during your Brussels itinerary!

If you are staying in a top-tier Brussels hostel , I guess you can look or something. (haha)

• How long should I spend here?  Try 1.5 hours
• Getting there: It’s 1 minute’s walk. Literally just down the street!

12:00 pm – Explore the Mont Des Arts

If you want to explore more of the amazing museums and historical-cultural collections in Brussels, then consider visiting the Mont Des Arts.

Aside from being such a beautiful place in Belgium , this city is a cultural hub with prominent museums dedicated to art, history, and culture.

When exploring the Mont Des Arts, you could visit the Royal Library of Belgium, the National Archives of Belgium and the Brussels Meeting Center square, a beautiful public garden (more commonly known as the Mont Des Arts Gardens)!

Central Brussels is popping, so be sure to check out if something is happening when you travel to Brussels. However, you don’t need an event going on to attract you to this exciting part of the city!

Besides all of the art and culture available here, the Mont Des Arts boasts a fantastic public garden -the perfect place to catch some fresh air in the city. The buildings and architecture around here are also well worth admiring!

Take the time to stop for some lunch close by. Belgian food is fantastic!

• How long should I spend here?  Around 2 hours.
• Getting there: It’s a 6-minute walk South-East from the last stop.

2:30 pm – Experience Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is a funny little statue of a young boy urinating into a fountain. While the statue is small, it plays a massive role in Brussels. The Manneken Pis is an iconic landmark of the city, and when taking yourself on a Brussels walking tour, stopping here is a must!

The Mannekin Pis statue dates back to the 17th century where it was designed by James Duquesnoy. This statue may be fun to look at, but finding it is half the adventure. On your way to the Manneken Pis, you will wander through some stunning little streets and lanes around the old town. This is a must-see sight when in Brussels!

Insiders Tip: If you enjoyed the Manneken Pis, you can find the famous trio of urinating statues in Brussels, including the Jeanneke Pis and Het Zinneke.

• How long should I spend here?  Half an hour or less
• Getting there: Another 6-minute walk! Easy…

3:00 pm – Visit Choco-Story Brussels

When visiting Brussels, eating is definitely going to be one of the highlights! Your itinerary for Brussels will be full of amazing food, with lots of chocolate included.

If you want to learn all about the famous and delicious chocolate of Belgium, visit the awesome Choco-Story. This is a small museum in the city dedicated to all things chocolate! When visiting, you will get to learn all about the history and heritage behind Belgian chocolate, as well as some good insight into the production!

Fun live demonstrations take place here, guided by a master chocolatier. There are also plenty of interesting exhibits. Of course, your trip will also involve tasting some amazing sweets!

• Cost:  $15
• How long should I spend here?  Around 2 hours
• Getting there: Just next to the last stop!

8:00 pm – Tackle a Belgian Beer Tasting Tour

Visiting Belgium just wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the country’s amazing beers. Consider taking a Belgian beer tasting tour to explore the interesting brews that this country has to offer!

Guided by a knowledgeable local, a beer tour will take you to some of the best bars that the city has to offer. These are historical old places, and as you sample the pruduce, you will learn all about the rich history and heritage behind the beers.

Your tour will teach you all about what many consider to be the world’s greatest beer culture. You will learn about the different Trappist beers, their history , and what makes them so unique.

This is a great tour to learn about a new side of Brussels culture, taste amazing and unique beers, see some fun places in the city, and meet new people! If you are a beer fan then a tour like this is a must during your Brussels itinerary.

• Cost:  $$$
• How long should I spend here?  All day, All night?
• Getting there: Different tours will start in different places. Make sure to double check!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Atomium | Mini Europe | Musical Instruments Museum | Royal Palace of Brussels | Museum of Fine Arts | Notre Dame Du Sablon

Spending a couple of days in Brussels will have you enjoying some of the best landmarks, gardens, museums, food, and experiences in the city! Here is your day two itinerary:

8:30 am – Experience The Atomium

When looking at what to do in Brussels, a visit to the Atomium is a must! This massive atom shaped sculpture is found in the city’s Heysel Park. The sculpture stands at 100m tall, and it dates back to 1958.

You can get inside this huge structure and enjoy some amazing views from its glass roof lift. At the top, there is a brilliant spot to enjoy a drink or something to eat while inside the amazing Atomium!

When visiting this Brussels landmark, it is advised to take some time to explore the surrounding Heysel Park, as there is plenty to see here as well. Witnessing the enormous atom though will definitely be an unforgettable moment!

Insiders Tip: This Brussels attraction is very popular and it can get pretty busy, so try to arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds.

• Cost:  $16
• How long should I spend here?  Around an hour (unless you’re breakfasting at the top)
• Getting there: Take the tram! The number 3 will get you within reach from Grand Place.

10:00 pm – Take a Trip Through Mini Europe

If you don’t have the time to travel across Europe, then adding a stop at Mini Europe to your Brussels itinerary is a good option! This park is a really fun place to experience Europe’s best and most famous landmarks, all built to scale in a miniature form.

Walking through Mini Europe is a unique thing to do when touring Brussels. Seeing all of the little landmarks really is such fun, and it is also really informative too!

Insiders Tip: This attraction is very child-friendly, and can be fun for the whole family!

• How long should I spend here?  Around 1.5 hours
• Getting there: It’s just a short walk from the Atomium. They’re a real pair!

12:00 pm – Experience the Musical Instruments Museum

This art nouveau museum is housed in one of the most famous buildings in the city (the Old England Building). Many people are attracted to this museum for the fantastic building, but the museum itself has some interesting displays that are well worth the visit!

This museum is focused on musical instruments, and a stop here will show you so much on the subject! With over 8,000 instruments in the collection, you will get to see, hear, and witness all kinds of musical history. This is a unique and interesting stop to add to your Brussels itinerary!

• Getting there: Back to the centre! The number 6 metro will do it.

2:00 pm – Admire the Palais Royal (or Royal Palace)

The Palais Royal is the official residence of the Belgian royal family, and it is a beautiful building to walk around and admire. The palace is open for exploring with no entrance fee, and it is definitely worth the visit!

Walking around here is a great way to take in one of the older and most stunning buildings in the city. It is also a really interesting place to learn about the history of Belgian royals.

Besides the building, the palace has an impressive royal garden. Spend some time exploring this area, and enjoying the royal side of Brussels!

• Getting there:

3:30 pm – Pay a Visit to the Musee Royaux Des Beaux-Arts

The Musée Royaux Des Beaux-Arts, or the Royal Museum of Fine Arts is a paradise for lovers of art and culture. This impressive museum houses some world-class art, spanning various collections of modern and ancient art!

Some of the most famous artists on display in this museum include Peter Rubens, Anthony Van Dyke, and Hans Memling. However, there are countless works of incredible European art that will have you awestruck!

This museum is pretty big, and there really is so much on display. If you love art, then be sure to allocate a good amount of time to this museum.

• Getting there: It’s just a short walk from the Royal Palace.

5:00 pm – Witness the Notre Dame Du Sablon

The spectacular Notre Dame Du Sablon cathedral is an important historic and architectural site in the city. Dating back to the 14th century, this cathedral is a really well-preserved example of Gothic architecture!

There was once a famous Madonna statue inside the cathedral that was supposed to have had incredible healing properties. The original statue was stolen by a team of thieves, and its whereabouts are still unknown. There is however a replica statue up in place.

This cathedral is a beautiful building to walk around and appreciate. A great stop to add to your Brussels itinerary! We’re sure that this is a long day, so take the evening to relax and chill out, or head to an amazing restaurant!

• How long should I spend here?  Less than 1 hour
• Getting there: Walking!

Parc Du Cinquantenaire | Museum of Natural Science | Belgian Comic Strip Centre | Le Botanique

The final day. Here are some things that you will love doing on your last day in Brussels! There’s a big arch, some big dinosaurs, some big cartoons, and some big plants. A top day. Or you could sit in your sexy Brussels Airbnb .

9:00 am – Stroll Through the Parc Du Cinquantenaire

The Parc Du Cinquantenaire is a great addition to your Brussels itinerary for a number of reasons. You can visit this lovely green space to either take a break from the city, enjoy a picnic under a tree, marvel at the old architecture in the park, or visit some of the surrounding museums.

This park was built during the reign of King Leopold II, and it should be an essential stop on your trip to Brussels. Take some time to wander through the well-kept gardens, and enjoy the impressive arches and statues found in the park.

If you love history or art, then explore the surrounding museums. These are all world-class, and they cater to all kinds of interests. Collectively, these museums have a whopping 35,000 artefacts on display!

You can grab breakfast from a cafe or restaurant nearby (and coffee, although that kind of goes without saying). The Brussels Autoworld Museum is located inside too. Car fanatics, this means you!

Insiders Tip: Try to visit the Parc du Cinquantenaire on a sunny day, as relaxing under a tree on the grass here is a truly special experience.

• How long should I spend here?  You could easily spend all day (don’t though). Try 1.5 hours.
• Getting there: Bus, Metro or Tram! It’s pretty easy to find!

11:00 am – Museum des Sciences Naturelles

Are you interested in stepping into the largest dinosaur gallery in Europe? A mix of exciting temporary exhibits and carefully curated permanent ones? Then you’re going to want to head to the Brussels Museum of Natural Sciences!

This is a great thing to do with kids, who will love the history, reality, and interactive exhibits. In a city where many museums are rather static, this one is more hands-on and amusing. As a bonus, your children might even learn something, because it is all geared towards educating (yes, even you adults). It is a museum after all. The Museum of Natural Sciences is a great place to stop before lunch, which I’m sure you will be needing after the morning’s excitement!

• Cost:  $14 (13 euros)
• Getting there: You can stroll over from the Parc du Cinquantenaire . It’s around a 15-minute walk, but it is a very pretty one.

2:30 pm – Visit the Belgian Comic Arts Museum

Before embarking on the afternoon of Day 3, you might want to return to the Brussels Grand Place for a bit of lunch. You’ve seen it once, how about twice?

Brussels has a fascinating history and culture, but many don’t realize that comic books have played a big role in this! If you want to explore a new side of Belgian and learn all about the interesting role of comic books in this country, then head to the Belgian Comic Strip Center.

This museum has some brilliant displays, all dedicated to comic books. You will get to see some really fun objects, as well as valuable comic books and collectables!

If you want to discover more about the importance of comic books to Brussels, take a walk through the city spotting the huge comic murals found on many buildings.

• Cost:  $11
• Getting there: It’s half an hour’s walk from the Natural Science Museum. Definitely time for some lunch!

5:00 pm – Explore Le Botanique

Le Botanique is the old botanical gardens of Brussels, now a stunning urban park! If the city is getting a bit much, this is the perfect place to quickly escape to for some greenery, peace, and quiet.

Le Botanique is a terraced park with many impressive gardens around it. There are some peaceful benches and playgrounds for the kids!

The old Greenhouse in the garden has been converted into a kind of cultural center, offering some brilliant performances and concerts at night. This can be a really fun thing to do in the evening.

Whether you come for the stunning terraced gardens, the quiet, or the fun greenhouse performances, Le Botanique is a lovely escape from the city.

Insiders tip: The museum here is well worth a visit, and it has constantly changing exhibitions. Be sure to check out what’s on before you visit!

• Cost:  $6
• How long should I spend here?  Around 1.5 hours.
• Getting there: Le Botanique is just a short walk from the Comics Art Museum

So you’re stuck in Brussels for three months while your family moves into the new house? Here are some extra things you can fill your time with, including some top-class Brussels day trips!

Take a Brussels Walking Tour

If you are planning a trip to Brussels, definitely consider taking part in one of the amazing walking tours which operate around the city. It’s one thing following a map around and guiding yourself, but when you are part of an informative tour you will see, learn and experience so much more!

Free walking tours of Brussels will teach you the interesting stories behind some of the city’s most famous monuments! You will get to witness many major landmarks up close, and you will be guided through it all by passionate and well-informed locals.

Besides history and architecture, you will also get to learn all about the local food and beer. As you walk along with your tour, you will pass many different street food stands and local delicacies!

If you’re spending a weekend in Brussels, adding a walking tour to your Brussels itinerary is a great way to really see most of the city!

• Cost:  Around $20
• Getting there: Most Tours will leave from Grand Place

Enjoy the Brussels Nightlife

While Brussels is famous for its art, history, museums, and architecture, they still know how to party in this city! If you are looking for some exciting ways to fill out your Brussels itinerary, definitely consider diving into some of the vibrant nightlife in this city!

You could visit a central area such as the Grand Place to enjoy some popular bars, pubs, and fun local hangouts. This is a great place to meet loads of new people and see the city in a new light.

If you are looking for more of a dancing scene, then head out to Rue du Marche au Charbon. This area is famous for its exciting clubs and many super trendy bars!

Brussels is a city that has loads on offer- both during the day and by night. So, be sure to check out the nightlife here if you want to experience all that this city has to offer!

• Cost:  $$$+
• How long should I spend here?  Not a legitimate question here.
• Getting there: Rue du Marche au Charbon is where you want to be…!

Antwerp Day Trip From Brussels

Brussels is an amazing city, but if you have the time, why not explore more of Belgium? This day trip from Brussels takes you to Antwerp- one of the most loved cities in this country.

Antwerp is famous for being the fashion capital of Belgium, and is often referred to as “Belgium’s Diamond.” Your day trip will take you through the many important areas of Antwerp, including the diamond district where you will learn all about the diamond history and the cutting process.

You will get to see a palace, an amazing cathedral, famous houses, museums, the Scheldt River, and more! Of course, there will be time to explore the beautiful streets of Antwerp, do some shopping, and enjoy an unforgettable meal here.

• How long should I spend here?  A day?
• Getting there: Train! It is the best way.

Bruges Full-Day Guided Tour

Another spectacular destination in Belgium that is well worth a visit (if you have time), is Bruges. Often referred to as “Venice of the North”, Bruges is a medieval town that boasts incredible canals, old buildings, cobbled streets, and plenty of charm!

This full-day trip from Brussels includes a 4-hour walking tour through Bruges. Guided by a knowledgeable local. You will get to see some of the top attractions and points of interest in Bruges and will gain a better understanding of this town through your expert guide.

The tour includes return train tickets to Bruges from Brussels!

• Getting there: Train! It is the best way!

While your trip to Brussels can be enjoyed all year round, this city does have its more appealing times to visit. Belgium experiences all four seasons pretty distinctly, so choose your visiting time wisely as the weather may impact your trip. Bear in mind that Brussels does experience rain all year round, so be prepared for potential rain during your Brussels itinerary no matter what time you visit!

Wondering when to visit Brussels? The best time to visit this city would be between March to May and September to October. These times are considered the shoulder seasons when the crowds of tourists are fewer, the prices are lower, but the weather is still great!

Some may prefer to place their Brussels trip itinerary around December to experience the wintery charms of the city, while others would opt for visiting in April when there is the least rain. No matter what time you plan your vacation in Brussels, you will be able to enjoy this city in a beautiful and unique way!

Before you start planning exactly what you will be doing in Belgium’s capital city, it is important to know how you will be getting around. Luckily, Brussels is really easy to navigate. The excellent public transport here makes it exceedingly easy to get around!

If you are based around the central part of the city, the best way to get around is by walking! Simply wandering through the streets here is one of the best things to do during your Brussels itinerary as this city is so beautiful! Many of the best things to see here are best appreciated while walking, and many of the main attractions are within close proximity of each other.

If you plan on travelling further distances though, there is an excellent metro system in Brussels. This is an affordable way of getting around, and it is also highly efficient. This city also has a solid bus network that is even more affordable. Trains are also a good option for longer distances!

Taking a taxi is also easy to do in Brussels! You can either grab one of the many cabs that drive around the city or use Uber to easily find a ride. Brussels is a great safe city too!

Now that you know how to get around, it’s time to start planning the ultimate Brussels itinerary!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Brussels

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask us when they’re planning a trip to Brussels.

How many days in Brussels is enough?

Since I’ve written a top-tier 3-day Brussel Itinerary, I’d say you need at least 3 days to explore Brussels fully. You can cover most of the well-known activities in 2 days if you really push it, but to get a true sense of the city, that third day is extra important!

Is one day enough to see Brussels?

One day in Brussels only allows you to see a few attractions, but it’s definitely not enough to get a proper grasp of the city. If you only have one day, plan ahead so you don’t waste any time. You can definitely cover the Grand Place and the Atomium, but you won’t be able to slow down and actually enjoy the city so much.

What Should I Include in a 3-Day Brussels Itinerary?

A good 3-day Brussels Itinerary should include Grand Place, an investigation of both Belgian chocolate and Belgian beer, the Atomium, Mini Europe, the Museum of Natural Science, and the Brussels Royal Palace. If you have time, head to the Belgian Comic Strip Center, City Hall, and the Art and History Museum.

What Should I Include on a Day Trip to Brussels?

Don’t miss Grand Place (and all of its surroundings), the Mont Des Arts Gardens, the Royal Palace, the Atomium and Mini Europe. If you can do all these in a single day, I will be seriously impressed! Brussels is awesome, and you should really think about compiling that perfect 1-day Itinerary!

Brussels is a magical city with so many amazing activities to discover! Whether you come for the art and culture, the world-class museums, the incredible architecture, or the unbelievable food, this city will have you dreaming of your return!

Of all of the amazing things to do during your Brussels itinerary, one of the best things is to just walk around the city’s charming old streets and appreciate the stunning surroundings. There is such a unique charm that can be found in Brussels, and it is a place that you really can’t compare to anywhere else!

I hope that my ultimate Brussels itinerary helps you to make the most out of your trip to Belgium’s capital. I love visiting Brussels and am sure that you will too. Happy travelling!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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What to Eat in Brussels, Belgium

Are you looking at sampling the best food Brussels has to offer? From Belgian chocolates to Flemish stew, this is what to eat in Brussels!

One day in brussels: 12 best things to do in brussels in a day.

Do you only have one day in Brussels? From seeing the Manneken Pis to visiting the Grand Place, these are the best things to do in Brussels in a day!

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bruges Itinerary

Last Updated on February 5, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Located in the Flanders region of Belgium , most people pay a visit to Bruges as a day trip from nearby Ghent or Brussels . While you can get a decent sense of the city in one day, planning a 2 to 3 days in Bruges itinerary is best to get the full experience.

With this amount of time, you’re going to find yourself immersed in so much local culture, cuisine, and history that it might be difficult to know exactly how to spend your days.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Bruges?

Most visitors consider 2 days in Bruges to be the sweet spot for getting to know the city without running out of things to do. Within two days, you can catch the central landmarks, wander the quaint cobblestone streets, and devour a stack of Belgian waffles. You’ll see a good amount of the city with a pretty packed itinerary. 

However, 3 days allows you to explore the city at your leisure, try the different local cuisines, or take a day trip. It’s worth it to take on Bruges (spelled as Brugge in Flemish) at your own pace.

Bear in mind that this beautiful little city is popular with tourists, so it does tend to get busy during Belgium’s peak travel months. The crowds are usually, however, only spending one day in Bruges and the city can clear out in the evenings as day trippers go home.

If you can navigate the crowds for a couple of days, you’ll be rewarded with darling architecture, delicious chocolate, and charming alleys.

Depending on how many days to spend in Bruges you have, you might prioritize visiting historic sites or cultural landmarks. A foodie traveler might consider exploring the many options for waffles and chocolate that Bruges has to offer. Nevertheless, a visit to Bruges is easy to navigate.

Getting To & Around Bruges

The simplest way to get around Bruges is by foot. This is especially true if you’re sticking to the historic city center whose charm makes Bruges famous. In fact, you can cross the entire city in about 30 minutes by foot.

There is a bus system, but it’s only useful for getting from the train station into the city. Even then, the walk from the train station is only about 20 minutes. There is no airport in Bruges–the closest airport is in Brussels.

If you’re arriving into Brussels and heading directly to Bruges, expect the train ride from the Brussels airport to take around 90 minutes. You can view train schedules here. The Bruges train station is located only about a 10-15 minute walk from the old town.

If you’re only coming to the city for one day, it is possible to go on an organised day trip such as this full-day tour from Brussels or this full-day tour from Amsterdam .

2 to 3-Day Bruges Itinerary

Everything during your trip to Bruges can be mixed and matched whether you’re seeing Bruges in 2 days or 3. There are lots of things to do in Bruges, here are our suggestions. 

Day 1 – City Center Highlights

Take a walking tour.

One of the best ways to experience Bruges is by foot. You can set out on your own to discover all the unique corners of the city, or if you’d like to learn a little bit more about Bruges, you can take a guided walking tour. You have no shortage of options here.

There are both free and paid guided tours throughout the city. Most tours begin in the city center. If you’re opting for a private and paid guided tour, make sure to book it in advance. Some options include this guided tour or this private tour.

There are three main types of walking tours in Bruges: historic center tours such as this walking tour and boat cruise , food & drink tours such as this beer tour or this food tour with a local , and night tours with an emphasis on local legends and ghost stories such as this dark side of Bruges tour.

Church of Jerusalem

The Church of Jerusalem, or Jerusalem Chapel, is a fascinating slice of history. From the outside, the church might not catch your eye, but that all changes once you step inside.

The chapel is the private one of the Adornes family and was built in 1429 inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. As you admire the interior, keep a close eye out for the tomb in the center of the church, the stained glass windows, and the Holy Cross relic.

Today, the chapel is still used by its original family for private events, classical concerts, and lectures. However, visitors can experience the site by paying a small fee and entering through the Adornes Estate. 

Market Square & Burg Square

Market Square and Burg Square are the two main squares of shops and restaurants in Bruges. You’ll likely want to stay in an accommodation somewhere around these areas during your weekend in Bruges. Market, or Markt, Square is the more central of the two.

The modest skyline here is dominated by the Belfry of Bruges, an 83-meter-tall tower. You can climb to the top of the tower for a great view out over Bruges. During the winter months, Market Square is adorned with holiday lights and an iconic Christmas market. You can sit on the outdoor patios of restaurants along the square to admire its charm and people-watch.

Burg Square is quieter than Market Square, but no less eye-catching. Look out for the horse-drawn carriages and small green spaces where you can relax on a sunny day.

The city’s administration still exists in the 14th-century Gothic Town Hall that you’ll notice immediately upon entering the square. The buildings here were built over a few centuries, and the diverse architectural styles reflect that. While here, pay a visit to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Liberty of Bruges, and the Deanery. 

Basilica of the Holy Blood

The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a strange little chapel, which is why it should absolutely be on your Bruges itinerary.

This 12th-century Romanesque chapel is home to a vial containing a cloth believed to be stained with the blood of Christ.

The chapel itself is a beautiful site to explore, but the lore of the stained cloth draws curious visitors from across the world. From the outside, the chapel is small, built snuggly between two neighboring buildings. If you’re walking too quickly, you might go right past it.

There are usually many visitors at this historic landmark, so try to visit early in the morning or late in the evening. 

Day 2 – Canal Tour, Museums & More

Take a canal boat tour.

If you’re trying to see as much of Bruges as possible, you should add a canal boat tour to your itinerary. When you first step foot in the city, you’ll quickly notice how canals and waterways weave their way through.

Wandering the city by foot is great, but seeing it from the water provides a new perspective. There are a handful of companies that offer boat rides such as this 2-hour tour to visitors throughout the day, rain or shine. The boat takes riders through the main sections of the canal, between Jan van Eyck Square and the Beguinage.

Tour guides provide unique context and history for the parts of Bruges the boats pass to make it an educational as well as exciting way to spend your time. 

Visit the Choco-Story Museum or the Frietmuseum

Chocolate lovers most likely already know Belgium is known for its chocolate. You can take that a step further by visiting the Choco-Story Museum.

Here, you’ll walk through the history of chocolate in Belgium through stories, photos, and taste tests. Walk through the museum to see artefacts from how chocolate has been made over the years and a demonstration of how this delicious chocolate is made. You can book a tour here.

Continue your food experience of Bruges with a visit to the Frietmuseum, or the only known museum dedicated to the history of potatoes.

Potato fries are popular and famous in Belgium. Did you know that fries originate in Belgium? Pay a visit to this museum to learn about the history of fries, how they have been used in other cultures, and how they’re made. You can buy tickets here.

Alternatively, beer lovers should consider heading to the Halve Maan brewery in order to learn more about the brewing process of Belgium’s famed beer and even sample a bit!

Finally, make sure to round out your visit by tasting some of the best fries in the world. 

Eat a Belgian waffle

Chances are you’ve eaten a Belgian waffle before. These thick, warm, and delicious waffles can be found in many places around the world.

As the name would suggest, they originate in Belgium, so naturally, you’ll find the best Belgian waffles here. There are many places throughout Bruges to get a tasty waffle. Some are very popular with tourists, so you can expect to wait in line.

Chez Albert is the most famous waffle shop in Bruges and you can get your waffles sweet or savory. Once you’ve secured your waffle, find somewhere comfortable to sit in Market or Burg Square to enjoy your delicious treat. 

If you want to learn more about how to make waffles, you can book a 1.5-hour workshop here.

Church of Our Lady & Michelangelo’s Madonna with Child

The Church of Our Lady is a Gothic church with a tower that rises high in the skyline. The tower itself is 115.5 meters tall and made of brick making it the second-tallest of its kind in the world.

Today, the church is known for the amount of priceless art pieces that live safely within its walls. Perhaps the most famous of these pieces is Michelangelo’s Madonna with Child. This marble statue is located front and center.

Make sure to budget some time to admire the many paintings and architecture at your leisure. There’s a lot to see inside the Church of Our Lady. 

Day 3 – Ghent, Ostend or Ypres

If you want to venture out of the city when seeing Bruges in 3 days, consider a day trip to somewhere nearby.

Both Bruges and Ghent are considered the fairytale cities of Belgium. Ghent is larger while Bruges has the intimate and charming feel of a small town.

The good news, if you’re staying in Bruges, is that Ghent is only a 30-minute train ride away. Like Bruges, it’s very easy to walk around Ghent but consider calling a taxi or rideshare from the train station.

While in Ghent, make sure to visit Gravensteen, a 10th-century castle with a moat, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and Saint Nicholas’ Church. The main square is full of Belgian shopping and restaurants to fill your day trip with delicious food and plenty to explore. 

Shake things up a bit by heading to the coast.

Ostend, coupled with the Ostend Harbor and beachfront, is a great day trip if you want to get away from the tourist crowds. In Ostend, you’ll find historic landmarks from the Second World War, the Saint Peter and Saint Paul Church, and a museum of fine arts.

Ostend Harbor is the main port for ferries heading to Britain, but it has also been a popular local seaside spa destination since the early 1900s. Walk along the beach or the boardwalk to enjoy the fresh ocean air before heading back to Bruges. 

History buffs will appreciate a day trip to Ypres. The city captures Belgium’s part throughout 20th century wars, especially a series of battles fought between 1914 and 1918 as part of the First World War.

The most famous landmark is the Menin Gate, which historically served as the starting point for soldiers readying themselves to march into war. For more context on the battles fought here, visit the Hooge Crater Museum.

It’s located inside an old church building that was constructed over a battlefield and showcases plenty of interactive exhibits to help explain the history. Take your time exploring the cathedrals and architecture.

This is another great option if you’re looking for a day trip from Bruges that will most likely get you away from the usual tourist crowds. You can book an organised tour here.

Where to Stay in Bruges

Hotel Fevery – Offering double rooms and rooms with balconies, this 3-star hotel in the centre of Bruges is a good option for mid-range visitors. They offer breakfast, private parking and an on-site bar.

Boutique Hotel Die Swaene – A plush and opulent hotel, this is an excellent choice for those visiting Bruges on a luxury budget. There are several ornate rooms and countless amenities to ensure an excellent stay.

Snuffel Hostel – Boasting a 120-bed capacity, this hostel has both dorms and private rooms, a bar for socialising and a perfect location for exploring all Bruges has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bruges hotels!

Whether you’re a traveler motivated by food, history, or culture, Bruges has something for you. It’s a charming little city full of impressive architecture, historical landmarks, and tasty local food. Use this sample itinerary for Bruges to help guide your trip and enjoy your time. 

Are you planning to visit Bruges? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Brussels or Bruges: Which Belgian City to Visit?

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Antwerp Itinerary

One Day in Ghent Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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Belgium Travel Blog

Flawlessly fusing the old and the new, Belgium stays in tune with the recent times while not letting go of its medieval poise.

It is a small little country wedged between Germany , France, and the Netherlands and is famous for waffles, chocolates, Smurfs, and whimsical Manneken-Pis statue as well as the Grand Place, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares.

The capital, Brussels , is home to the headquarters of the European Union and one of the gourmet capitals of Europe . You will encounter some of Europe’s finest cuisine, including the best beer, creamiest chocolates, and tastiest French fries.

The medieval cities Brussels, Bruges , Antwerp, and Ghent play home to some stunning architecture with a host of wonderful regional specialties with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Belgium also boasts some places of truly beautiful countryside in its hilly, wooded south and flatter north area.

Useful Travel Information About Belgium

⚘  Avoid tourist traps  and get the “ Belgium Like a Local ” itinerary. It’s 9,99 € only. Get it  here ✈ Book cheap  flights  to Belgium with  Skyscanner ✔ Book  tours  in Belgium with  GetYourGuide ➳ Find the best  hotel deals in Belgium with  Trivago ❖ Rent a  car  with the best discounts at  DiscoverCars ☘ Get the best discounted  outdoor clothes  (outlet) at  REI.com ✎ Never leave without  travel insurance . I got mine at  HeyMondo . It is cheap and easy to set up. $  Withdraw  money  without hidden fees and avoid exchange rates with  Wise  (you’ll get a free card on top!)

Avoid tourist traps with the “ Belgium Like a Local ” itinerary:

Important Facts when Traveling to Belgium

Capital:  Brussels

Official language(s) and general knowledge of English:  Dutch, French, and German. English is semi-widely spoken

Official religion: Christianity particularly Roman Catholicism

Currency:  Euro

Power voltage and socket type: 230V, plug types E and C

Safety rating: Belgium is a safe place to travel, but travelers need to take a few precautions

Female solo traveler: Ranking 10th on the International Women’s Travel Centre’s list, Belgium is a great destination for female solo travelers to meet other travelers their age.

Do I need a Visa to Travel to Belgium?

Fast-Track: Get your Belgium Visa in advance

Every traveler entering Belgium needs a visitor visa unless you are from the visa-exempt country which includes the UK, USA , Canada, Australia, and other EU nations.

However, a passport valid for three months beyond the length of stay is required by all citizens from the nations mentioned above except EU nationals holding a passport or national ID card that is valid for the duration of their stay.

Canadian, Australian, UK, and US nationals can stay without a visa in Belgium for up to 90 days. Visa is not required by nationals of EU/EEA countries, however, those who plan to live in Belgium for an unlimited period must register with the local authorities after three months.

Belgium is a part of the Schengen system, which allows visitors to travel to all participating countries without a visa.

Types and Cost – Schengen Visa cost about €80. Nationals of Kosovo, Russia, Georgia, and Ukraine pay €35.

Accommodation in Belgium

Belgium offers several accommodations for all travelers from budget to mid-range, and high-end.

Budget: If you are traveling on a tight budget, you can find cheaper options. Hostels are likely to be your accommodation of choice. At around €15-28 per night, you can enjoy dorm-styled or private rooms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast, storage lockers, laundry facilities, and great central locations. Many hostels also have a bar. – Check Hostels in Belgium

Mid-Range: There are various mid-range hotels in Belgium offering a comfortable stay. Expect to pay around €60-100 per night for private rooms with flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges, a sauna, a gym, and great city locations. – Find Hotel Deals in Belgium

High-End: Upscale hotels will cost around €100-220 per night. Enjoy refined rooms and suites with whirlpool tubs and sitting areas, a hotel restaurant serving fine dining, an indoor pool, sauna, babysitting services, and a hotel bar. – Check Hotel rates in Belgium

Best Time to Visit Belgium

The best time to visit Belgium is in between April and June or September and October.

The spring and fall weather is stunning and will leave you feeling refreshed. Belgium has high season in the summer months between July and August. The weather is quite warm, but the crowds will be higher, especially in coastal towns.

November to February is the low season, but, there will be some amazing carnivals, especially during Christmas and Lent seasons. Many travel to Belgium to visit the best Belgian Christmas Markets.

The temperature in Belgium is moderate round the year, allowing you to travel without any interruptions, no matter which season you visit.

Transportation in Belgium

Getting there.

Flight – The main international airport is Brussels Airport, located 7.5 miles from Brussels. Antwerp and Ostend also have international airports. Direct flights from the UK and the US come to Belgium. – Check flights to Belgium

Train – If you are traveling from the UK you can take a train as well to reach Belgium. The journey time is just two hours and fares are largely defined by ticket flexibility. – Check train tickets here

Ferry – There are car ferries from the UK direct to two ports in Belgium.

Getting Around

Traveling around Belgium is easy. It is a small country with an extremely organized and reasonably priced public transport system which includes an extensive train network as well as a plethora of local bus services.

Hitchhiking – This is another way to travel to Belgium and is very safe. If you are an adventurous one, you can travel through this mode.

Taxi – Taxis are available but quite expensive. Fares start at €3 but they can also start as high as €8 in some places. – Book taxis in advance

Food in Belgium

From chocolate to beer and waffles to fries, Belgian cuisine particularly that of Brussels and Wallonia is some of the most beloved in the world.

Moules-frites or mussels with fries is a classic Belgian dish you can find at just about any café or brasserie in Brussels. They are served steamed in white wine, in big black mussel pots.

Fries are the national dish of Belgium. You’ll never hear a Belgian call them “French fries”, not even when speaking in English.

Meatballs are a Belgian favorite and are usually a mixture of beef and pork. Often served smothered in tomato sauce, or, sometimes, Frikadellen-style; fried in butter with Belgian cherry sauce. It’s one of the best food to eat in Brussels.

A sweet and savory delight, Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream, chocolate, ice-cream or various fruit toppings is something not to miss when in Belgium.

Best Things to Do in Belgium

Taste Craft Beers – Belgium is the absolute number 1 when it comes to craft beers and every region you visit will have some great local beers you should try out. There are many beer bars with a huge selection of different beers. – Book a tour here

Canal Cruise in Bruges – Bruges is one of the most enjoyable cities of Belgium and cruising through it by boat on the canals is a great way to enjoy its beauty. –  Check Bruges cruises 

Visit Grand Palace, Brussels – Travel back in time and stroll through this large market square. Grand Place has beautiful buildings dating back to the 14th-century, as well as the Museum of the City of Brussels.

Treat on Belgian Chocolate – Belgian chocolate is known for being the best chocolate in the world. Almost every village in Belgium has its own chocolate shop where recipes have often been handed down for generations.

Explore Museum of Fine Arts – The Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts in Brussels is especially good for Flemish Primitives and Old Masters. It is made up of two art museums housed in the same building and connected also to the Magritte Museum.

Witness the Carnival, Binche – The Belgians are serious about Carnival, and not only is it an excuse for a week-long letting-off of steam, with elaborate outfits and centuries-old rituals, but it’s also an important part of local cultural identity as well.

Latest Blog Posts from Belgium:

12 Best Weekend Trips from Brussels

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12 Most Beautiful Places in Belgium

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10 Best Museums in Brussels [A Local’s Guide]

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Bruges travel blog — the fullest bruges travel guide for a perfect bruges on a budget trip for the first-timers.

Dubbed the “Venice of Nordic”, the city of Bruges (Brugge) tops the list of the most beautiful places in Belgium. Anyone who has ever been to Belgium must definitely visit this place that ‘In Brugge’ movie was filmed. Bruges has a romantic beauty with many mossy ancient bridges across on small canals and beautiful medieval European architecture. Bruges is a dream destination not only for couples but also for many solo travelers. Here you will see the signature beauty of Bruges in many beautiful and small ancient buildings, enjoy delicious food, walk or cycle through the alleys of the old town. So, is Bruges worth visiting and what to do in Bruges? Let’s check out our Bruges travel blog (Bruges blog, Brugge blog, Brugge travel blog) with the fullest Bruges travel guide (Bruges city guide, Bruges visitor guide, Brugge travel guide, Brugge city guide) for a perfect Bruges on a budget for the first time from best places to visit, top things to do, where to stay, what to eat… to find out the answer!

• Bruges 1 day itinerary — How to visit Bruges in a day & What to do in bruges in one day trip?
• What to eat in Belgium? — 23+ most popular, must try & best food in Belgium
• What to buy in Belgium? — 15+ best souvenirs from Belgium & best things to buy in Belgium
• Where to go in Brussels? — Top 12 must & best places to visit in Brussels
• Dancing House Hotel Prague review — Once experience the masterpiece of architecture of Prague

Bruges travel blog: Getting to and around Bruges

Means of transportation from major tourist cities in Belgium such as Brussels, Ghent to Bruges is extremely convenient. You can easily catch the train, bus or blablacar to getting here for just under EUR 10/way. Note that for young people under 26 years old when traveling by train will be discounted with GoPass only €6/way when traveling from anywhere in Belgium. If you go to Belgium from other cities, you can also take a plane, train or bus. I usually find deals on RyanAir and GoEuro, see more here .

• Ghent and Bruges Day Tour from Brussels

The best way to discover Bruges is to walking around the roads and alleys and visiting many chocolate shops everywhere. You can also rent a bicycle to cycle around, go to the nearby beach in the summer or further to the Northeast to explore the windmill fields. If you prefer to be more luxurious and romantic, you can take a boat along the canals of Bruges, passing the In Brugges filming spots located next to the beautiful, luxurious restaurants. Tourists in Bruges often go to these locations to take photos and check-in which are very crowded. Riding by horse-drawn carriage around the city is also an interesting experience.

• Bruges Day Tour from Brussels

Brugge travel blog: When is the best time to visit Bruges?

Bruges is always crowded with tourists, so you should avoid going to in June, July, August and Christmas (December) when traveling here. This is also true for other extremely hot tourist destinations in Europe such as Venice, Santorini, Pisa, … The good time to travel to Belgium is in the spring (March, April) when the climate has warmed, or in autumn (September, November) when the weather in Bruges is very beautiful. I came here at the end of November and throughout the city, especially in the evening, magically decorated for Christmas. At this time, tourists in Bruges are not too crowded, so you can enjoy all the magical atmosphere characteristic of Bruges, and also do not disturb the locals.

Bruges travel blog: Best places to visit, top things to do in Bruges

Bruges is a tiny city in the small Kingdom of Belgium, but there are countless things to do and experience here. The sights and attractions not to be missed are concentrated around Burg Square (City Hall, The Golden Palace of Justice, Brugse Vrije Museum, Basilica of the Holy Blood); and Grote Markt Central Square (Historium Bruges Museum, Belfry bell tower). Some of the other impressive attractions that only Bruges has are its beer museum and mossy old bridges.

Wandering in the old town

Or you don’t need to have a specific plan to go anywhere. You can wander here all day without getting bored, walking along the canal, watching the architectural works create a scene even more beautiful than a picture.

Burg Square

Burg Square is one of the most beautiful architectural places in Bruges, located right next to the central square. Visit the magnificent City Hall (free admission to the museum on the first floor), the Golden Palace of Justice next door (€ 4 for people under 26), Brugge Vrjie museum , Basilica of the Holy Blood (known as the place where Jesus’ blood is kept).

Grote Markt Central Square

Belfry bell tower is one of the tourist attractions in the square, because from here you can enjoy the panoramic view of the city of Bruges. However, the entry tickets are quite expensive and the view is not beautiful on bad weather. In front of the tower are two famous shops selling fries of the city, worth a try. Grote Markt is surrounded by many restaurants, and cafes with the price quite expensive, but in return, you can watch the flow of people crossing the square and the colorful old houses.

If you want to learn more about Belgian history, culture, art, you should visit the Historium Museum , the Groeninge Museum (art museum), Frietmuseum (potato fries museum), … If you like learning about the history of Bruges, you should go to Historium museum. There are three floors of interactive electronic exhibition showcasing the city from its inception, experiencing its golden age and long history to this day. Bruges was once one of the major ports – the largest trading center in Europe before. The city is also famous for its embroidery.

Joining free walking tour

Bruges is one of the most expensive cities in Belgium because it is the best tourist city in Belgium and locals mainly earn their income based on tourism services. In order to discover Belgium quickly and save the optimal cost, I joined in Can You Handle It walking tour. Tour itinerary: Old bridges – Queen Astrid Park – Old House – Fish Market – Burg Square – Chocolaterie de Burg – Grote Markt – food street of Sint Amandsstraat. When you join this tour, you immediately receive a 15-20% discount when you visit the Beer Museum and buy chocolates in Marleen shop (read more about Marleen below). This is one of the best of the dozens of free walking tours I’ve ever experienced. This tour also departs in other major tourist cities in Germany and Belgium (Ghent, Cologne, Stuttgart). In Cologne, I also took this tour and still stay in touch with my guide who is very cute. See details here: http://cyhitours.com

Brugge travel blog: Where to stay in Bruges?

Bruges is one of the cities attract the largest number of tourists of Belgium. Therefore, even the cost of a hostel or guesthouse in this city is extremely expensive compared to the average price of the region. Couch-surfing and AirBnB are also always full during the peak tourist season (June to August – a time when it is estimated that the number of tourists is greater than the locals here). Some of the hostels I’ve used to stay at an affordable price, nice bars and very good atmosphere are St Christopher’s Inn Hostel at The Bauhaus and Charlie Rockets . From Charlie Rockets, you can also take a free walking tour around the city that departs several times a week.

Charlie Rockets Youth Hostel : Formerly the largest cinema in Bruges, Charlie Rockets is now one of the best hostels in Bruges decorated in an impressive vintage style (wallpaper newspaper, European-style chandelier, live music stage, …). In the lobby, there is a magnificent bar, a billiard room with 5 large tables, inside of all 19 rooms equivalent to 76 beds. Dorm bed price starts from € 18/night. The double room price is € 55/night, including breakfast. Choose stay here, you will be given a Bruges card to get ticket discounts at many attractions and restaurants around Bruges. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

St Christopher’s Inn Hostel at The Bauhaus : If you are a true backpacker that love Belgian beer, you should experience 1 night at Bauhaus. The hostel bar has over 25 Belgian beers, including the region’s rarest specialties such as Trappist and Brugge Rot. The location of this hostel is convenient for traveling. Although the building and lobby are somewhat ancient, the interior room is designed in a modern style, ensuring comfort. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

Botaniek Hotel , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $114/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $174/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Jan Brito , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $139/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel De Medici , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $147/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $138/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Hotel Navarra Brugge , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $124/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Check out more top and best hotels in Bruges on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Bruges blog: What and where to eat in Bruges?

Although not as famous as France or Italy, but it would be a big mistake if you miss the opportunity to enjoy Belgian cuisine. In this small country, you will find a harmonious combination of French, German and Dutch cuisines.

Fastfood: The famous Belgian fast food is waffle (combined with a variety of creams and fruits, just looking will make you mouthwatering !) And chips (deep-fried in Belgian style, big and crunchy fries, served with ketchup or mayo).

Big meals: Definitely salty foods to try are moules, beer stew beef served with bread or chips and mustard (Carbonade Flamande) at ‘t Vagevuur restaurant (Address: Sint-Amandsstraat 23, 8000 Brugge, Belgium / Hours: 10:30AM–10PM) . I got a free glass of wine only with meal of EUR 15.

If you want to discover more about Belgian cuisine, you should avoid eating in the main square of Grote Markt because the restaurants here are extremely expensive. Another restaurant with cheap Western food is Pasta Presto (Address: Sint-Amandsstraat 17, 8000 Brugge, Belgium / Hours: 11:30AM–8:30PM; Monday, Sunday: Closed) that serving take-away fast food such as pizza, spaghetti, hamburger, …

Belgian chocolates: Belgian chocolates are plentiful, the best to buy is in chocolate shops but it is cheaper to buy in supermarkets, just buy the famous brands such as Côte d’or, Godiva or Neuhaus is OK.

In Bruges there is also a chocolate road (Chocolaterie de Burg). Here you can taste a dozens of different hand-made chocolates such as Choco Beer (chocolate filled with beer), Speculoos Cookies (chocolate biscuits), Florentine (dark chocolate or caramel-filled milk and almond specially made from Bruges), … I bought chocolate at the Marleen shop (Address: Burg 15, 8000 Brugge, Belgium) because of the affordable price, discount after take the walking tour and they even give me try it before I buy.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Bruges you can refer to

• Bruges Day Trip From Amsterdam
• Bruges Day Tour from Paris
• Highlights of Bruges 2-Hour Rickshaw Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Bruges: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Bruges 1 day itinerary — How to visit Bruges in a day & What to do in bruges in one day trip ? And Belgium guide here .

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MEET ZAC & INE

We are Zac and Ine, an international travel couple from the U.S. and Belgium. We met in 2018 while studying abroad in Canada, the Netherlands, and Peru. This year of studying and traveling changed our lives. That's why we created World Wild Hearts in 2019 with the mission to inspire life-changing travel experiences just like we had.

With our website, we provide a one-stop destination for travel inspiration. We share advice on destinations, video guides, travel tips, fellow travelers' stories, and travel quotes. We hope that our content will inspire your next adventure of a lifetime!

FIND TRAVEL INSPIRATION

VIDEO GUIDES

No matter where our adventures take us, we always have our camera gear by our side. Our goal remains the same for every video: To help you live your next adventure to the fullest. From the culture of a small Mexican beach town to an epic hike in the Canadian Rockies, you will be inspired to do it and informed enough to make it happen. Check out our latest videos .

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TRAVEL BLOGS

We do our best to capture the atmosphere and main highlights of destinations we visit in our videos. However, we realize that there are some things you just need a little more information on. That's why we create travel blogs  to supplement every video we make. Our blogs include more details such as interactive maps to navigate to key attractions as well as recommendations for places to stay at each place we visit.

OUR TRAVELS

Click a destination  below to watch our videos or read our blogs from that part of the world

Latest edition: Saturday, 16th of March 2024, Casino Kursaal Ostend

The biggest event for Belgian travel influencers

The Belgian Travel Blog Awards is an annual event since 2018. It is organised by Thx.agency, a marketing & sales agency specialised in travel PR and trade. Each year, the best Belgian travel bloggers and social influencers are being rewarded for the travel content they produced. Scroll down to discover more!

Belgian Travel Blog Awards 2024

And the winners are....

The winners of the seventh edition of the Belgian Travel Blog Awards have been announced. The desire for travel in 2023 has once again resulted in a record number of entries with no less than 350 blog stories, social posts, travel videos and photos submitted - a remarkable 17% increase over the 2023 edition, also a record year.

The expert jury, this year consisting of Lien Verwimp (Daymaker), Annemie Decommer (Atout France), Pieter Hens (Visit Oostende) and Paulien Putman (Caudalie), was tasked with assessing all the cases to determine the nominees and final winners.

In addition, the general public also got a chance to cast their vote for the Audience Choice Award . 

Click on the categories below to find out all of the winners! 

#BTBA at the Belgian coastside

We are happy to announce that the Belgian Travel Blog Awards 2024 took place in Ostend, the biggest and most popular coastal city of Belgium. Ostend is a a vibrant city with a rich cultural offer, known for its stunning architecture and impressive museums. In 2024, Ostend will also celebrate the life of renowned Ostend artist James Ensor with numerous fun activities and events, which creates all the more reason to pay the city a visit. The Queen of the Coast is home to many charming hotspots and is easily accessible both by public transport or car, making it the ideal backdrop for the #BTBA24. 

Partners 2024

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Global Applied Projects: An opportunity to grow personally and professionally

This semester, I enrolled in a class focused on developing consulting skills for global companies: Global Applied Projects. In this course, I am a part of a team that works hard to support a global company with a strategic project. And here's the exciting part: it wasn't just virtual meetings and late-night emails! During Spring Break, my entire team got the incredible opportunity to travel to Belgium and work with the company in person.

Let's talk about both the amazing project and the unforgettable Belgian experience!

Consulting with a Global Mindset

Working for a company with teams based overseas was an eye-opening experience. We got a firsthand look at their unique business challenges and cultural considerations. It was truly a collaborative effort, with open communication and a shared goal of achieving success. Being on-site allowed us to have deeper discussions, brainstorm more effectively, and truly understand their company culture.

Beyond the Boardroom: Exploring Belgium

Of course, Belgium offered so much more than just boardrooms! In our free time, we explored the charming city squares of Brussels, wandered the canals of Bruges, and even indulged in some delicious Belgian waffles (which I highly recommend!). Immersing ourselves in the culture definitely fostered a stronger team bond and allowed us to connect with our client on a more personal level.

Lessons Learned and Lasting Impact

This project was more than just a consulting gig – it was a chance to put theory into practice, develop our intercultural communication skills, and gain valuable real-world experience. We learned to adapt our approach, embrace new perspectives, and collaborate effectively in a global setting.

Global Applied Projects is just one of the many classes that make the MBA at Fisher a unique learning experience.

This experience will undoubtedly stay with us as we navigate our future careers.

Do you have any questions about consulting projects or traveling for work? Don’t hesitate to reach out!

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