trip from brussels

The 10 best day trips from Brussels: castles, cool cities, and culture

Dec 20, 2021 • 7 min read

From mesmerizing medieval cities to Waterloo Battlefield, here are the best day trips within easy reach of Brussels © Dhwee / Getty Images

Brussels is Europe’s beating bureaucratic heart, but beyond the stiff shirts and secondary legislation, the Belgian capital is a heady mix of strong beer, artistic expression, and medieval architecture.

It’s a geographical boon too, with storybook castles, cool cities, and cross-border curios all within easy reach. Here are the best day trips from Brussels.

Try out Antwerp's cafe culture

It may be Belgium’s second city, but Antwerp certainly steals the crown as the country’s coolest. This beguiling medieval behemoth, one of Europe’s most important cities in the mid-16th century, still drips with diamond dealers and fashion houses. 

There’s plenty to keep you occupied during a day trip from Brussels too. Home of the baroque superstar painter Peter Paul Rubens — as museums like the eponymous Rubenshuis will regularly remind you — the city boasts cafe-filled cobbled lanes, a riverside castle , and Belgium’s finest place of worship, the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady . 

How to get to Antwerp: Trains from Bruxelles-Midi to Antwerpen-Centraal take 46–60 minutes. The journey is around 50 minutes by car, but Antwerp is a Low Emission Zone, so check whether your vehicle is allowed into the city via the Low Emission Zone website .

Explore the architecture of Ghent

As one of Belgium's oldest cities, there's a wealth of medieval and classical architecture in Ghent . A tour of its best-known sights –  The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece, the 14th-century Belfort belfry and Gravensteen , a 12th-century stone castle – are easily covered in a day, but there’s a vibrancy away from the big-hitters too. 

Korenmarkt , the popular waterfront square, has some dazzling centuries-old buildings, whilst the Graslei area on the River Leie where the locals wine, dine, and soak in the surroundings. A wander along the beautiful canals could keep you engrossed for a morning, but leave time to see the works of Belgian artists like Magritte, Emile Claus and Pieter Brueghel the Younger in the MSK art gallery .

How to get to Ghent: Twice-hourly trains take 36 minutes from Brussels to Ghent. The same journey takes 75 minutes by car.

Take a canal boat tour of Bruges

This fairy-tale medieval city is one of Europe's best-preserved: picturesque cobbled lanes and dreamy canals lead to grand market squares lined with soaring towers, historical churches and whitewashed almshouses . An easy trip from Brussels, Bruges is dominated by day-trippers in the warmer months.

Overlooked by the 13th-century Belfort belfry, the Markt is the city’s vocal point: a medieval square where horse-drawn carts still circle past classical and neo-Gothic facades. Venture south to see the fantastic Groeningemuseum with masterworks by Flemish painter Hans Memling, but don’t miss viewing Bruges from the water. Canal boat tours can be booked from the Rozenhoedkaai and Dijver jetties.

How to get to Bruges: Twice-hourly trains go from Brussels to Bruges. The trip takes around 90 minutes by car.

Learn about Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo Battlefield

Tourists have been swarming to Waterloo in Wallonia ever since Napoleon's 1815 defeat. Sightseers were seen poking around as early as the morning after the seminal battle – and it still attracts thousands of visitors today. 

Best visited as a day trip from Brussels, a new high-tech underground museum peps up the site of the Waterloo Battlefield and helps you make sense of the vast, attractive patchwork of gently undulating cropland dotted with memorials and historically meaningful buildings. The main battlefield is Hameau du Lion (Lion Hamlet), some 3 miles (5km) south of central Waterloo town.

How to get to Waterloo: TEC bus W runs every 30 minutes from Ave Fonsny at Brussels-Midi to Braine-l’Alleud train station. By train, get off at Braine-l’Alleud (45 minutes) rather than Waterloo station, and switch to bus W to reach the battlefield. The journey from Brussels to Waterloo takes around 45 minutes by car.

Visit the mighty citadel in Namur  

Strategically located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre Rivers, Namur is crowned by a vast citadel that was once one of Europe’s mightiest fortresses. As well as terrific views, compelling Citadelle de Namur has ramparts, tunnels and grey walls that run all across the hilltop.

Down below, Namur's gently picturesque old town has lots to discover, including Église St-Loup , the baroque church Baudelaire reputedly described as a “sinister and gallant marvel”, as well as some charming museums. Even the cafes, bookstores and vintage shops of its cobblestone lanes are relaxed enough for many visitors to lose a morning. 

How to get to Namur: Trains from Brussels to Namur take around 65 minutes. It takes a similar length of time by car.

Lille is a cultural and commercial hub

France's most underrated metropolis is under two hours from Brussels. Recent decades have seen Lille transform from an industrial center into a glittering cultural and commercial hub. The enchanting old town is awash with magnificent French and Flemish architecture, but the renowned art museums like Palais des Beaux Arts and legions of fantastic restaurants make it well worth the trip.

Don’t miss La Piscine Musée d'Art et d'Industrie , 7 miles (12km) northeast of Gare Lille-Europe in Roubaix. This former art deco municipal swimming pool has been converted into an innovative museum of fine art. The pool is still filled and the sculptures are reflected in the water.

How to get to Lille: It takes around 50 minutes to get from Brussels to Lille via train. By car, it takes 1 hour 45 minutes.

See Tournai's remarkable five-spired cathedral

Tournai’s gorgeous triangular main square is ringed with cafes in fine gable-fronted guild houses merrily flying guild banners. But many will make the journey from Brussels just to see the five spires of Cathédrale Notre Dame which dominate the skyline.

The city’s remarkable cathedral, one of Belgium’s finest, survived WWII bombs only for a freak tornado to compromise its stability in 1999. Despite the scaffolding, the interior remains a fascinating example of evolving architectural styles, from the magnificent Romanesque nave through a curious bridging transept into an early-Gothic choir.

How to get to Tournai: Trains from Brussels to Tournai take around 70 minutes. The same journey by car takes around 90 minutes.

Leuven is a must-visit for beer lovers

Lively Leuven is an ancient capital, Flanders’ oldest university town, and a prominent brewing center – you will have heard of Stella Artois, but brewers have been making beer since the 13th century. It’s only 25 minutes back to Brussels, so if you’re visiting for the day, stay until early evening to see Oude Markt come to life. The 30 bars that cram together here are collectively known as "Europe's longest bar". 

Much of Leuven’s historic townscape was obliterated in the World Wars, but a few eye-catching baroque churches still survive, including St-Michelskerk and OLV-Ter-Koorts . The city’s best site is the 15th-century Stadhuis , a late-Gothic architectural wedding cake flamboyantly overloaded with terraced turrets and fancy stonework.

How to get to Leuven: Direct trains from Brussels to Leuven take 22 minutes. The same journey by car takes around 50 minutes.

Hasselt is Belgium's unofficial gin capital 

Hasselt is famed as Belgium’s unofficial jenever (gin) capital. As such, it’s packed with cafes and good restaurants. To make the most of a day here, hire a bicycle from behind the attractive old town hall and ride out to Bokrijk's country parks, where the splendid open-air Bokrijk Openluchtmuseum offers a nostalgic look at Flanders’ past. 

Whilst here, get your camera ready as you cross the FDHW , a half-sunken concrete gully cycle path that gives the impression you’re parting the water in the lake.

How to get to Hasselt: Trains from Brussels to Hasselt take around one hour. The same journey by car takes around 80 minutes.

Dinant has a striking setting, strung along a riverbank under spectacular cliffs. The village makes a pleasant outing for a day trip from Brussels, highlighted by a visit to its clifftop citadel and a leisurely cruise along the Meuse. 

As the birthplace of the famed Leffe abbey ale, Dinant and a fair amount of great beer. The creator of the saxophone, Adolphe Sax, also grew up here, hence sculptures dotted around the city center paying homage to the instrument. 

How to get to Dinant: The drive from Brussels to Dinant takes around 90 minutes. The same journey by train and bus takes around 2 hours 15 minutes.

You may also like: Brussels’ best city parks with a Belgian twist    Brussels for art lovers: 10 incredible galleries    13 classic experiences to have in Brussels      

This article was first published February 2021 and updated December 2021

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Belgium , BLOG , Destinations , Europe · August 22, 2023

35 Very Best Day Trips From Brussels (Map Included!)

Are you struggling to find the best day trips from Brussels? Well don’t worry, I have lived in Belgium all my life and know exactly where you should go!

Wether you are living in Brussels or you’re on holiday in our beautiful capital these day trips offer something for everyone. Even if you’re not staying in Brussels this guide can come in really handy since Belgium is in fact a teeny tiny country!

To help you plan I have split up the several day trips based off their distance from Brussels , wether or not you can reach them by public transport, if there is a particular season that you should visit certain locations, which places you can combine in a single day and my personal insider tips!

This guide will not only include some of our most well known cities but also a bunch of beautiful castles in Belgium that you can visit in a day, hidden gems in Belgium that not even the locals know of and the most beautiful places to visit right across the border.

From its stunningly designed parks to the countless charming cafés scattered throughout the city, Brussels is a magical destination that begs to be explored.

But if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, a day trip from Brussels can be the perfect opportunity to explore the rolling hills and vibrant culture of Belgium.

With the help of a knowledgeable guide or an eager sense of adventure, it’s easy to find memorable experiences to fill your day trip.

From hidden gems like Lier to must-see locations like Bruges, this article will provide all the information you need to make the most of your time and money on a day trip from Brussels.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoors enthusiast, or a shopping enthusiast, I guarantee you’ll find the perfect day trip destination from Brussels. So join me as we discover the best day trips from Brussels – you won’t be disappointed!

Brussels Day Trips Within 1 Hour

Distance from Brussels to Ghent – 55km (34.3 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – There’s a direct train from all the major train stations in Brussels that will take you to Ghent in less than 40 minutes.

Combine with – Castle of Laarne

When it comes to Ghent I might be a little biased cause I used to live in this beautiful city for over 6 years . With its cobble stoned roads and impressive canals flowing through the medieval centre it is often compared to Bruges. And even that most tourists tend to flock to Bruges and skip Ghent I truly believe it’s one of the best and first day trips you should do from Brussels!

If you’re visiting Ghent by car I prefer to park underneath the Kouter . It’s one of the bigger underground parking lots and easy to reach when coming from the highway. Take note that parking spaces in Ghent are rather limited so if you’re visiting on the weekend make sure to arrive before 10am .

💡 TIP – Within the city centre the maximum driving speed allowed is 30km/hour.

Best things to do in Ghent on a day trip from Brussels :

• Gravensteen Castle
• St. Michaels bridge
• Graslei and Korenlei
• Vrijdagmarkt
• St. Bavo’s cathedral
• Museum of Fine Arts (MSK)
• Go on a canal cruise through the historic city centre

Highly recommended restaurants in Ghent:

🎒 TOP TOUR – Combine two of the most beautiful cities in Belgium with this incredible day tour from Brussels – From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour

Distance from Brussels to Antwerp – 46km (28.5 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – There’s a direct train from Brussels-Central that will take you to Antwerp in around 40 minutes.

Combine with – A search for the Hidden Trolls in De Schorre in Boom

A visit to Belgium is not complete without a day trip to Antwerp ! Often referred to as the Diamond City, Antwerp will leave you speechless as soon as you get off the train. The Central Station is considered to be one of the most beautiful ones in the entire world and I couldn’t agree more!

When it comes to architecture, Antwerp is an absolute paradise where both old and new styles are flawlessly combined. There is the central market which is lined with beautiful guild houses , the Antwerp City house and the majestic Cathedral of Our Lady . And on the other hand you have ‘ het Eilandje ‘, a neighbourhood that’s becoming more and more popular where you’ll find the MAS , a modern museum which offers an incredible view over Antwerp. From here you can also catch a glimpse of Zaha Hadid’s Port Authority: a historic building with a ship-like glass structure on top of it which also resembles a diamond.

If you’re traveling by car you’ll find several underground parking lots in the centre or leave your car in the South district.

Highly recommended restaurants in Antwerp:

🎒 TOP TOUR – Combine two of the most beautiful cities in Belgium with this incredible day tour from Brussels: Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour

Distance from Brussels to Antwerp – 30km (18.6 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – There’s a direct train from Brussels-Central that will take you to Leuven in less than 30 minutes.

Combine with – Horst Castle

Leuven is another city trip from Brussels that I might be a bit biased about since this is the city where I went to University. Obviously this means that I had some of the best and craziest times of my life right here. And while during the school year the city will be filled with students it tends to really quiet down on the weekend and during the holidays.

Leuven has one of the most beautiful city halls in entire Belgium and it’s a rather small city which is close to the beautiful castle of Horst. Especially if you’re visiting Leuven by car it’s worth it to also include this castle on your day trip.

Best things to do in Leuven on a day trip from Brussels :

• University Library
• St Peter’s Church and the Church Treasury
• Drink at the longest bar in the world, also known as the Old Market
• Grand Beguinage

Highly recommended restaurants in Leuven:

• De Optimist
• Meating Room

🎒 TOP TOUR – From Brussels: Leuven Day Trip by Train

4. Solvay Castle – Château de la Hulpe

Distance from Brussels – 18.6km (11.6 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places around Brussels in a single day.

Combine with – Villers Abbey, Botanical Garden Meise

Did you know that Belgium holds the record for the highest amount of castles per square meter ? It’s crazy to think that a country this small holds over 2000 castles and more. It comes as no surprise that visiting one of these castles actually makes for the perfect day trip from Brussels.

The Solvay Castle is located in a beautiful park and is only 20 minutes driving from Brussels. It is surrounded by a beautiful park and offers the perfect contrast with the hustle and bustle of our capital.

Opening hours  – 8am to 9pm (6pm during the Winter)

Due to new police regulations the park remains open for visiting on the weekdays but is closed on the weekend. Access to the terraces of the Château, the houses/gardens and closed-off meadows is forbidden.

Entrance  – The park is free to enter

5. Mechelen – One of the quickest train trips from Brussels

Distance from Brussels to Mechelen – 33.4km (20.8 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – There’s a direct train from Brussels-Central that will take you to Mechelen in just 19 minutes.

Combine with – Zellaer Castle

The beautiful city of Mechelen is located right in the middle between Antwerp and Brussels. Over the past years Mechelen has become one of the most vibrant and fun cities to visit in Belgium. You’ll find a ton of cool wine bars and lunch places in the city centre.

From its historic buildings to its lively downtown, the city offers something for everyone. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the city from a different perspective, or partake in one of the many cultural festivals held throughout the year.

They can also enjoy traditional Belgian cuisine at one of the many eateries or explore the city’s shopping district to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs. No matter how guests choose to spend their day in Mechelen, they will never be short on things to do.

Best things to do in Mechelen on a day trip from Brussels :

• St. Rumbolds Cathedral
• Brewery Het Anker
• Palace of the Grand Council 
• Botanical Garden
• Walk along the Melaan and the Dyle Path
• The Small and the Big Beguinage

Highly recommended restaurants in Mechelen:

• Chili Beans
• De Fortuyne
• Restaurant Puro
• De Vleeshalle

6. Villers Abbey

Distance from Brussels – 38.4km (23.8 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places around Brussels in a single day.

Combine with – Chateau de la Hulpe, Botanical Garden of Meise

The Villers Abbey is located in the small town of Villers La Ville and one of the best places to visit near Brussels. This site is considered to be one of the most complete ones in entire Europe!

Villers Abbey in Belgium is a fascinating example of how time can shape and preserve history. This abbey in the Belgian countryside boasts ancient ruins and a rich history that stretches back centuries. It was once home to Cistercian monks, who lived and worked there according to the principles laid out by the order’s founder, St. Bernard of Clairvaux.

Since its founding in 1115, Villers Abbey has been an important cultural and spiritual center for the region. Today, its ruins are a testament to its long and eventful past, all preserved and waiting to be explored.

Opening hours – Every day from 10am until 6pm (8pm in July and August)

Entrance fee – €9

7. Hallerbos Forest

Distance from Brussels – 20km (12.4 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places around Brussels in a single day. 🌸 Best Season to visit – The exact timing of the bluebells being in full bloom is a little different every year but generally  the second half of April  is the best time to go.

Combine with – Castle of Groot Bijgaarden

The Hallerbos forest in Belgium is a must-visit destination for nature-lovers.

Located in the Flemish province of Halle, the Hallerbos is home to magnificent beech and oak trees, lush green ferns, and a stunning array of wildflowers in the spring.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Hallerbos also serves as a haven for wildlife, including birds, deer, and other animals that make the forest their home. As a result of its unique environment, the Hallerbos is the perfect spot for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

During the spring season, visitors can also experience the tranquil beauty of an ancient forest in full bloom and marvel at the many varieties of blooms that carpet the forest floor. For anyone looking for a serene escape to nature, the Hallerbos is the perfect destination.

8. Botanical Garden Meise

Distance from Brussels – 11km (6.8 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places around Brussels in a single day.

Combine with – Villers Abbey, Chateau de la Hulpe

The Meise Botanical Garden, located just outside Brussels, is a true gem of the European continent.

Spanning over 100 hectares, this garden is home to over 10,000 species of plants from all over the world.

Meise is known for its vast range of plant collections including the National Plant Collection of Belgium, an amazing botanical library, and the stunning landscape gardens. There is something for everyone at Meise, as visitors can explore the orchards, rock gardens, and woodlands.

With its many attractions and peaceful atmosphere, Meise Botanical Garden is the perfect place to go to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature. Whether you are a professional botanist looking to study rare plants or simply want to wander around the gardens and enjoy the stunning scenery, Meise Botanical Garden is the perfect place to do it.

Opening hours – From 10am to 6pm

Entrance fee – €11 – Book your ticket from before here

9. Castle of Groot-Bijgaarden

Distance from Brussels – 9.4km (5.8 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places around Brussels in a single day. 🌸 Best Season to visit – Floralia Brussels is from from 5 April till 2 May 2024

Combine with – Hallerbos Forest

The Castle of Groot-Bijgaarden is one of Belgium’s most iconic landmarks.

Once a military outpost for the Austrian emperor, it is now open to the public as a sprawling museum and park with plenty of fascinating history to explore. Visitors can tour the castle, marvel at the Art Nouveau sculptures, and take in the beautiful gardens and surrounding landscape.

The castle is also home to a large archive of historic documents, offering a wealth of knowledge to those interested in the past. From the awe-inspiring interiors to the carefully kept grounds, the Castle of Groot-Bijgaarden is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who visit.

Opening hours – From 5 April till 2 May 2024 and from 10 am to 06 pm. The ticket desk closes at 05:30 pm.

Entrance fee – €16

10. Search for the Hidden Trolls in De Schorre in Boom – a fun day trip from Brussels with kids

Distance from Brussels – 32.1km (19.9 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – A day trip to Antwerp or Mechelen

The Danish artist  Thomas Dambo  is responsible for creating these beautiful and unique wooden sculptures called  “The 7 Trolls and The Magical Tower” . Thomas Dambo specializes in creating imaginative art pieces, sculptures, furniture, and more from recycled materials. 

The giant trolls are a gift from the organisers of Tomorrowland and will forever remain on the holy grounds!

You can go looking for the giant trolls in de Schorre all year round and so far I went looking for them 2 times! I had a lot of fun during Summer but since these trolls are hidden in the forest  it’s even more fun and beautiful to do during Fall .

11. Zellaer Castle

Distance from Brussels – 34.4km ( 21.3miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – A day trip to Mechelen

The Castle of Zellaer can be found in  Bonheiden , a small town close to Mechelen. Its history goes back to the 13th century and over the years a lot of different families lived here.

The Castle of Zellaer didn’t always look like this. In the very beginning it used to be a water castle and due to the succession of different residents a lot of renovation and reconstruction took place.  The current castle was built in 1885 in the neo Gothic style and is open to visitors.

Every first Sunday of the month at 2pm you can join a tour of the castle grounds and step into the footsteps of it’s former residents. If you want to take part you have to send an email to [email protected]. Participation for this event is €4.

Opening hours  – 10am to 5pm (closed on Monday)

Entrance  – You don’t have to pay to enter the park and while you’re at it go for a little stroll. It’s absolutely beautiful here and during Spring and Summer it is lined with beautiful flowers.

12. Castle of Horst

Distance from Brussels – 46.8km ( 29miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – A day trip to Leuven

Horst Castle is located in  Holsbeek  and wonderfully unique in Belgium, it’s authentic and hasn’t been renovated or rebuilt. It’s like time stood still here since 1658. Here you won’t find great works of art hanging from the overly decorated walls.

Horst Castle has actually been empty and unlived in ever since 1658!

The moated castle is nestled in the green Wingebeek valley, between the Hageland hills.

And did you know that Horst Castle is actually the home base of the Red Knight ( De Rode Ridder ), a fictive comic book character created by Willy Vandersteen.

The castle is currently undergoing renovation and for now the inside can’t be visited. It is however possible to go for a walk in the park surrounding the castle and have a beautiful view over the castle.

There’s a big parking lot right in front of the castle but do make sure to wear proper shoes, especially during Fall and Winter the grounds surrounding the castle can become really muddy!

Opening hours – The park is open 24/7 but the castle can only be visited on Sunday during one of the guided tours. Reservations are required.

Distance from Brussels to Lier – 48.2km (30 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – There’s no direct train from Brussels-Central that will take you to Lier. You’ll first have to take the train to Antwerp and then transfer on the train to Lier.

Lier is the perfect day trip destination for those who like the combination of historical buildings, green ramparts walks and medieval cobblestone streets. And if you are searching for an alternative city trip destination in Belgium then a day tour from Brussels to Lier is the ideal thing to do.

With its lovely canals Lier easily resembles other medieval Flemish cities such as Ghent and Bruges. Except here you won’t encounter the big tourist crowds.

Best things to do in Lier on a day trip from Brussels :

• Saint Gummarus Church
• Lier Market Square
• Lier City Park
• Zimmer Tower

Highly recommended restaurants in Lier:

14. Laarne Castle – Another fun day trip from Brussels with kids!

Distance from Brussels to Laarne Castle – 55km (34 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – A day trip to Ghent

Laarne Castle is only a short drive away from the city of Ghent and it was built over 700 years ago. Over the centuries the castle transformed and was often used as a Summer getaway for the noblemen of the area.

After visiting and seeing so many castles in Belgium I have to say that this is one of my favorites! I can only imagine what it must look like inside, even today, I think, you’ll find yourself immersed in no less than 700 years of history!

They also organize fun search hunts for kids! They are active courses for the different age categories.

• Gnome quest  for children aged 3 to 5 (€ 2.00 for the quest, entrance to the castle is free for children under 6).
• Photo searches  for children from 6 to 7 years old and from 8 to 9 years old (included in the entrance fee).
• Heintje Heks is looking for the key to the treasure room  : an exciting journey of discovery for children aged 9 to 12 (included in the admission price).

Opening hours – From 7 May 2023 until 8 October 2023: every Sunday, from 1pm until 5pm

Entrance fee – €8

Brussels Day Trips Within 2 Hours

15. bruges – one of the most popular places to visit from brussels.

Distance from Brussels to Bruges – 97km (60 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – Every hour there’s a direct train leaving from Brussels Central to Bruges. The train ride to Bruges takes around 1 hour.

Combine with – A day trip to Knokke

Bruges is a historic city in Belgium often referred to as the “Venice of the North” because of its many canals, cobbled streets, bridges, and buildings.

Visitors to the city will see a vast array of cultural and architectural attractions, including world-famous cathedrals, canals, and museums.

The city is also known for its celebrated culinary scene, with some of the most delicious chocolate, waffles, and beer in the world.

With its picturesque cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant culture, Bruges is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience a unique and unforgettable atmosphere.

Best things to do in Bruges on a day trip from Brussels :

• Basilica of the Holy Blood
• The Belfry Tower
• 2be Beer Wall
• Torture Museum
• Minnewater Park
• Chocolatier Dumon

Highly recommended restaurants in Bruges:

• Bistro de Karmeliet
• Poules Moules
• Brasserie Cambrinus

Distance from Brussels to Bruges – 103km (64 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – Every hour there’s a train leaving from Brussels Central to Namur. Here you’ll have to change tracks and jump on the train to Dinant. The total ride takes nearly 2 hours

Combine with – Furfooz, Walzin Castle, Castle of Vêves

No matter where you are in the world, you should be sure to make a stop in Dinant, Belgium.

This charming town is nestled on the banks of the Meuse River and is the perfect destination for a peaceful, yet memorable getaway. A visit to Dinant includes discovering the ancient architecture, tasting mouth-watering treats at the local bakeries, and indulging in all of the excellent outdoor activities the area has to offer.

Best things to do in Dinant on a day trip from Brussels :

• The Citadel of Dinant
• Dinant Cable Car
• Notre Dame de Dinant
• Rent a boat (closed during winter season)
• Leffe Abbey

Highly recommended restaurants in Dinant:

🎒 TOP TOUR – From Brussels: Luxembourg Tour with Dinant Visit

Distance from Brussels to Bruges – 118km (73 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Durbuy is located in the province of Luxembourg and is supposed to be  the smallest town in the world . With its cobbled streets and timbered houses it’s also one of the cutest towns in the world and you’ll also find a beautiful castle and garden here.

If you plan on visiting Durbuy stay clear of Sunday afternoons, they tend to get very busy. You’ll much more enjoy your visit during a week day.

Other fun and beautiful places to visit near Durbuy are the Topiary Park and the Labyrinth of Barvaux-sur-Ourthe .

Highly recommended restaurants in Durbuy:

• Limoni e Tartufi

18. The Castle of Vêves – An ideal day trip from Brussels for families and children

Distance from Brussels – 100km (62 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – Dinant, Furfooz, Walzin Castle

This beautiful castle in Belgium looks like it came straight out of a Harry Potter movie and can be found in the village of Celles .

Ever since the 7th century this site has been occupied by many castles and the current one dates from 1410. Over the past centuries it has always been inhabited by the same family.

During your visit you can either opt for a simple guided tour, an outdoor escape game or a visit combined with a treasure hunt.

Opening hours –

During the carnival vacations The castle is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm*.

From April 2th to November 6th The castle is open on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm*.

During the Easter and All Saints’ vacations

The Château is open every day (Monday to Sunday) from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm*.

From July 1th to August 31st The castle is open every day (Monday to Sunday) from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm*.

*You can arrive whenever you want. There is no set time slot. The castle closes at 5:00 pm.

Entrance fee – €6

19. Walzin Castle

Distance from Brussels – 104km (64.6 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – Dinant, Furfooz, Castle of Vêves

The  Walzin Castle  has to be my favourite Belgian castle! It is located near  Dinant  and overlooks the Lesse. Construction of the castle began in the 13th Century and it was completely rebuilt after the French army burned it down in 1554.

The castle itself is  private domain  and it’s not possible to visit it. However, this should not hold you back from taking a day trip to this area! Cause did you know that the  Castle of Vêves is only 15 minutes driving away ?

One of the most popular Summer activities in the area is to go down the Lesse with a  kayak . This way you will float past the Walzin castle and you can make a quick stop here!

Another option is to go hiking from the Castle of Vêves to the Walzin Castle and while you’re at it visit the nature park of Furfooz on the way!

20. Furfooz

Distance from Brussels – 102km (63.3 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – A day trip to Dinant, Walzin Castle and Castle of Vêves

The nature reserve Furfooz is located in the Lesse valley and only 15 minutes driving from the beautiful city Dinant.

Go on a beautiful 4km hike through the forest, along the limestone cliffs and explore the many caves that you can find in this nature reserve. It’s a family friendly stroll and your kids will be amazed by all of the amazing rock formations!

Dogs and drones are forbidden within Furfooz.

Opening hours – Summer schedule (28th March to 24th October): 10 AM – 5 PM, Winter schedule (25th October to 27th March): 9 AM – 4 PM

Entrance fee – €5. Booking is mandatory

21. Japanese Garden in Hasselt

Distance from Brussels – 84km (52 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – A day trip to Alden Biesen, Haspengouw, Reading between the Lines

The Japanese garden in Hasselt is the largest of its kind in Europe. It’s the perfect setting to fully experience the Japanese culture. Originally, a Japanese garden encouraged meditation and reflection; this is no different in Hasselt.

There are benches to sit on so you can enjoy the sound of the waterfalls, there are koi fish you can spot and feed in the water, there are many picnic places and there are many paths to walk around peacefully. 

The history of the garden dates back to 1985, when the city of Hasselt and the Japanese city of Itami signed a friendship charter, allowing them to become sister cities.

Opening hours – The Japanese Garden will be open from Tuesday 21 March 2023 until Tuesday 31 October 2023. Tuesday – Sunday from 10am to 5pm (with last entry at 4:30pm)

22. Fondry des Chiens

Distance from Brussels – 108km (67 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Nismes is a quaint little town in the South of Belgium in the province of Namur and the start of several beautiful hikes! The most famous attraction here is the  Fondry des Chiens , a ravine of 100 meters long and 20 meters deep and unique in its kind in Belgium.

If you don’t have a lot of time you can simply drive up to this small canyon but otherwise I highly recommend you to do one of the many hikes which include a visit to the Fondry des Chiens.

There are several hiking trails that you can follow but my favourite was the one with the yellow rectangle . The hiking trails start at the church of Nismes and is 7,5km. It will lead you through a beautiful forest, alongside a train track and up to the beautiful viewpoint of La Roche aux Faucons.

And after all that hiking it is time to reward yourself! And why not do it with a beer tasting at Chimay?  L’Espace Chimay  is only 20 minutes driving away and the perfect way to end a beautiful day in Wallonia.

23. Le Tombeau du Géant

Distance from Brussels – 153km (95 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Le Tombeau du Géant, also known as the Giant’s grave, is one of the most important and impressive places in Belgium. It is hidden deep in  Wallonia  and the only way to get here is by car. It got its name because one of the bends in the Semois at this point seems to enclose a coffin of gigantic proportions.

This viewpoint near Botassart is super easy to reach by car. There is a big and free parking space available, which is only 2 minutes walking from the viewpoint!

I consider this place  one of the most beautiful places for Autumn foliage in Europe !

💡  TIP  – If you’re hiking the Tour de Bouillon (hiking trail number 7) you’ll have the option to also include a short hike to the main viewpoint as part of a small detour. You’ll see an arrow towards Botassart right after you’ve passed le Moulin de l’Épine.

24. Reading Between the Lines

Distance from Brussels – 89km (95 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – A day trip to Alden Biesen and Haspengouw

This see through church is a stunning piece of architecture and is actually really close to the peony farm mentioned above! The  art installation  was created by Belgian architects Pieterjan Gijs and Arnout Van Vaerenbergh and consists of 100 steel sheets stacked on top of each other in the shape of a church. Due to it’s construction the landscape behind the church is always visible and according to the British newspaper The Guardian this is the most beautiful place in Belgium.

I don’t know about that but I do know that it’s the perfect place to watch the  sunset  on a clear day. The art installation is  free to visit  and a popular place for families and couples to enjoy the end of a sunny day.

25. Haspengouw

Distance from Brussels – 89km (95 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day 🌸 Best Season to visit – Mid April until the end of April

Combine with – A day trip to Alden Biesen and Reading between the Lines

The region of Haspengouw is known for its beautiful variety in blossoms. Here you’ll find apple blossoms, cherry blossoms and pear blossoms!

April is traditionally the blossom month but of course the weather is different every single year and not every fruit blossoms at the exact same time! What you can do is follow this  blossom meter  to see the best time to visit this beautiful region.

The blossoms can be found from Alden Biesen until Sint Truiden and also the area of Borgloon turns into a magical blossom land this time of year.

26. Alden Biesen

Distance from Brussels – 101km (62.7 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day 🌸 Best Season to visit – April

Combine with – A day trip to Reading between the Lines and Haspengouw

In the heart of Limburg lies a beautiful 16th century moated castle, called Alden Biesen and in my opinion it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium during spring . Inside of the castle walls you’ll find the inner courtyard which is a meticulously kept garden filled with spring flowers.

And if that isn’t enough already there’s another hidden gem located in the park right behind the castle. A wooden boardwalk curls through the white cherry blossom trees and forms the perfect place for an afternoon pic nic.

Good to know is that these days this place is incredibly busy during the weekend! Especially if you visit during the afternoon! The castle grounds already open early in the morning and during the week it’s really quiet in the evening.

Opening hours  – From 7.30am until 8pm on weekdays during the summer (from April until the end of September) and from 9am until 8pm on the weekend!

There’s a big parking lot right in front of the castle and entrance to the different courtyards is free.

Distance from Brussels – 107km (66.4 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – There’s no direct train from Brussels Central to Knokke. You’l first have to take the train to Bruges and from there the one that’ll bring you to Knokke

Combine with – A day trip to Bruges

No trip to Belgium is complete without a visit to the chic seaside resort of Knokke . Located in the province of West Flanders, Knokke offers something for everyone – from stunning coastal views and sandy beaches to extensive shopping, picturesque villas and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday or a vibrant weekend getaway, Knokke has something to offer. With its wealth of activities and experiences, it is no wonder that Knokke has become a much-loved destination that draws travelers from all over the world.

28. The Hanging Gardens of Thuin

Distance from Brussels – 107km (66.4 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

The Hanging Gardens of Thuin are such a hidden gem in Belgium that even most Belgians have never heard of it! But Thuin is actual a cute sweet with a very rich medieval past. It’s an enchanting place and definitely one of the most original day trips from Brussels. One where you can brag about when you return home or even show off to fellow Belgians!

Besides the Hanging Gardens, which are now turned into vineyards you should also visit the belfry, and the boat makers district.

Brussels Day Trips Within 3 Hours

29. rocher du hat.

Distance from Brussels – 172km (106.8 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

The Rocher du Hat is one of the most impressive viewpoints over the Semois ! The look out point is not secured so please, be very careful when visiting. Last time I was there it was super windy and also a little slippery because of the rain.

If you know where to park your car then the hike to this viewpoint is suuuuper easy! If not you might end up in front of the Semois halfway through your hike with no way to go over. And I do not recommend swimming :p. Park your car close to  Kayak-Chiny  and from there it’s only 15 minutes walking!

30. Monschau

Distance from Brussels to Monschau – 172km (106.8 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Visiting Monschau is a more unique day trip from Brussels and one that will require you to go just across the border of Belgium with Germany. But believe me, it’s worth it. The small village of Monschau is so so beautiful and is nestled in a valley. Almost every house looks like one of the gingerbread houses from Hansel and Grettle and the Rur river.

A day trip to Monschau is not complete without also going for a walk in the nature park High Fenns – Eifel . A part of which is located in Germany and another part of it is in Belgium. It’s a an amazing place where you can honestly spend an entire day!

🎒 TOP TOUR – From Brussels: Tour of Cologne and Postcard Town of Monschau

31. Kinderdijk

Distance from Brussels – 142km (88.2 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – Volendam

Kinderdijk is another original day trip from Brussels and located in the Netherlands. Here you will find 19 windmills that were originally built in 1740 are a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It’s a beautiful place to visit and unique in it’s kind. A fun fact is that most of Kinderdijk’s 19 windmills are inhabited. In fact, having actual occupants is an important factor in the area’s authenticity!

Opening hours – March – October : 9 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. November – December : 10.30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Entrance fee – €19. You can buy your ticket online here .

32. Müllerthal Trail

Distance from Brussels – 256km (159 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

The Müllerthal trail is a unique experience, offering a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning 170 kilometres, the trail takes hikers and nature lovers on a journey through one of the most beautiful and wild landscapes of Luxembourg.

Along the way, one can explore the spectacular gorges, red sandstone rocks, and lush forests of the region. This picturesque route is perfect for cycling, running, or simply taking in the stunning vistas.

The trail is also perfect for a leisurely stroll, replete with flora and fauna that will delight visitors of all ages and abilities. With so much to discover, the Müllerthal trail is the perfect outdoor destination for anyone looking to explore nature and enjoy the fresh air.

33. Volendam

Distance from Brussels – 231km (143 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

Combine with – Kinderdijk

In the small Dutch fishing village of Volendam, the locals are known for their colorful traditional clothing, a sign of their unique heritage.

Tourists flock to Volendam to take photos of the ancient windmills, small wooden fishing boats, and colorful cottages along the canals.

Behind the scenes of the tourist traps, however, are small businesses and artisans, keeping alive the traditions that have been passed down through the generations. Local craftspeople create intricate lace, hand-painted wooden clogs, and unique jewelry that visitors can bring back as a memento of their visit.

Whether shopping or strolling the canals, Volendam is a hidden gem of history and authentic culture, just waiting to be discovered.

34. Maastricht

Distance from Brussels to Maastricht – 117km (72.7 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – There’s no direct train from Brussels to Maastricht. At Brussels Central you have to take the train to Bilzen and there you’ll transfer onto the train to Maastricht.

Maastricht is a beautiful city in the south of the Netherlands known for its unique blend of historic buildings and modern amenities.

It is home to the University of Maastricht, one of the Netherlands’ top universities, as well as several noteworthy cultural institutions such as the Bonnefanten Museum and the MAAS Theater.

Beyond its remarkable cultural heritage, Maastricht is also known for its stunning natural attractions. From the riverside walkways winding along the Meuse River, to the lush forests and ancient windmills of the central region, the city has something for everyone.

Whether you’re seeking a cultural experience or a chance to reconnect with nature, Maastricht has all the charm and beauty to make your visit one to remember.

35. Hoge Veluwe National Park

Distance from Brussels – 224km (139 miles) 🚂 Public Transport – I don’t recommend it, instead opt for a rental car and that way you can combine several other beautiful places in the area in a single day

The Hoge Veluwe is the oldest National park in the Netherlands and the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful day in nature! It’s a diverse landscape of hills, forests, heathlands and sand drifts where you can easily spend an entire day. A must do is climbing the Posbank cause once you reach the top you will be greeted by a view that can reach up to 20km.

The best time to visit the Hoge Veluwe National Park is when the heather is in bloom. This happens from mid August to mid September and turns the meadows into a purple haze of flowers.

Map of the best day trips from Brussels

Charlotte Lint is the founder of Charlies Wanderings. Charlotte has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing efficient travel guides and finding unique places to stay. Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

You’ll Also Love

Kelly Dienaar says

June 7, 2020 at 5:16 pm

Super tips! Wij zaten een beetje met de handen in haar, omtrent onze vakantieplannen nu met covid-19. Maar jouw tips hebben ons echt uit de nood geholpen! Bedankt!

Je hebt me met een heel andere blik naar ons eigen landje doen kijken. Ik wist niet dat België zoveel te bieden had.

Charlotte says

June 7, 2020 at 6:56 pm

Oh merci Kelly! Echt super blij om dat te horen! 🙂

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20 Best Day Trips from Brussels by tours & train

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Brussels is the beautiful capital city of Belgium , located in western Europe . In our recent trip to Belgium, we stayed in Brussels and made it our base city to explore the rest of the country and beyond. Our central location and budget-friendly accommodation in Belgium, allowed us to take many day trips from Brussels to a variety of places via tours and trains (we are city people and love trains in Europe).

In some cities, we took both (train one day and tour on another). As always if you like to drive, that is an option as well. Each destination or each day trip from Brussels is highlighted with one way travel time information. We have compiled all the train and tour options available, with recommendations on the best things to do in each city.

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20 Best Day trips from Brussels for your Belgium Itinerary: Brussels Day Trips

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Quick Tip for Day Trip from Brussels

The countries that you can visit on a day trip from Brussels are Netherlands , Luxembourg , Germany , and France . If you are using a Schengen Visa to explore Belgium, you can easily explore the other cities/countries highlighted in this post on the same visa. More on Schengen Visa here .

READ :  Get our Brussels Trip Itinerary

Day trip to Bruges from Brussels (1.25 hr)

Bruges is a stunning medieval town located in Belgium. Located only an hour away from the capital city of Brussels, Bruges makes for a perfect day trip destination. It is also one of my favorite places in Belgium. We explored Bruges in a day trip from Brussels and completely fell in love with the stunning Flemish architecture and romantic vibes; and the FOOD at the marketplace is to die for.

Top Things to see in Bruges

• Explore the Market Square – Eat some local food, try unique waffles, admire the Flemish architecture
• Belfry Tower – Located in Market Square, the Belfry Tower stands tall and inviting. You can add a guided tour to explore the interiors of the Belfry Tower.
• Head to the Burg Fort – You can opt for a visit to the Burg Fort grounds for free, but to access the tower there is an entry fee of 10 Euros. It is worth it if you like city-scapes like us.
• Take a canal tour – Opt for a romantic canal ride (for two) or a one hour canal ride (for 14.50 euros for two). You can see quite a few things on this ride, so definitely add that to your 1-day itinerary.
• Brewery Tour – There are only a few operating breweries in Bruges. Taking a brewery tour in the afternoon is a brilliant way to relax and learn. Bonus if the brewery is located by the canal – then you can chill and drink by the canal. Book your brewery tour here

How to visit Bruges from Brussels?

Train (Fastest):   SNCB trains are local trains in Belgium and you can buy an open ticket for the day of travel. Train fare is around 20 euros return trip. The fastest train will get you to Bruges in 55 minutes. 

Drive: If you are driving to Bruges, it will take you around 1.50 hours

Tours: There are tons of tour options for Bruges. If you decide to take a guided tour, you will be able to cover the majority of the town. Most tourist spots are located very close to each other. So you can explore those in your free time on a guided tour. Cheapest day tours start at $35 + USD

Ghent day trip from Brussels (40 mins)

Ghent is another city in Belgium, which is perfect for a day trip from Brussels. Famous for its medieval history and cultural vibe, Ghent is popular with tourists and students (it is also called the university town). Just like Bruges, Ghent is located at the confluence of 2 rivers – Leie and Scheldt, so definitely a canal ride can be taken in this city as well.

Best Things to do in Ghent

• Gravesteen – Visit the 12th-century medieval castle, which was also the residence of the Count of Flanders.
• Saint Bravo’s Cathedral – The Saint Bravo Cathedral is a tall Gothic cathedral in Ghent. It is also home to the Ghent Altarpiece.
• Citadel park –  As the name suggests, it is a citadel park. It is a beautiful natural oasis in the middle of the city, flanked by monuments and museums.
• Sint-Michielsbrug & Canal Tours – Sint-Michielsbrug is a bridge in Ghent – a perfect place to explore in a boat tour or stroll. Book your canal tour in Ghent here (less than $10 USD)
• Graslei  – Graslei is a quay located in the heart of the historic city of Ghent. It is a part of the medieval port terminal and a great place to experience the culture of Ghent. Recommended place for dining too.
• Other things to do – Korenmarkt (market square), Werregarenstraat (street art), Ghent City Hall

How to visit Ghent from Brussels?

Trains (Fastest): The fastest way to reach Ghent from Brussels is to take the SNCB train from city center. You will arrive in Ghent in 40 minutes or less. The train fare is 10 euros, one way.

Drive: 50-minute drive to Ghent.

Tours: With tons of tour options in Ghent, including a combined Ghent and Bruges trip (for those on a time crunch), tours are definitely a way to go. Tours are great value if you compare that to a train ride or gas/renting and a sightseeing guide. Some options for small group and private tour are highlighted below

Antwerp Day trip from Brussels (45 mins)

Antwerp or Antwerpen is the second-largest city in Belgium. A stunning port city, with its history tracing back to the Middle Ages.

The city is located on the river Scheldt, and its port has been of commercial importance since time immemorial. It had been flourishing due to the diamond merchants, commerce, and trade guilds in the past, and today, it is a popular tourist spot.

Top Things to do in Antwerp

• Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp – Cathedral of Our Lady is a 16th century Roman Catholic church, built in Gothic style.
• Grand Market – Grote Markt of Antwerp is a town square situated in the heart of the old town. The square is lined with ornamented buildings all around it.
• Antwerp City Hall – The Stadhuis of Antwerp is a beautiful Renaissance building, town hall, located in the Grokt Markt.
• Plantin-Moretus Museum – This is a museum housed in a 16th-century mansion – stunningly beautiful.
• Other noteworthy museums – MoMu (Mode Museum – a fashion museum), Museum of Contemporary Art, Middelheim Open Air Sculpture Museum (open-air, sculpture park/garden)

How to visit Antwerp from Brussels?

Train (Fastest) : The fastest way to reach Antwerp is by train. The train takes 45 minutes to reach Antwerp from Brussels. (Fare ranges from 4 – 11 euros, one way)

Drive: Driving to Antwerp takes 1.25 hours.

Tours (Recommend):  There are tons of day tour options from Brussels full day to Antwerp. It covers the major tourist sites with a local tour guide, provides you with free time to explore and relax, with a return trip.

Waterloo Brussels day trip (25 mins)

Remember the battle of Waterloo of 1815? It was fought here in Waterloo, located only about 25 minutes away from Brussels. Battle of Waterloo was the defeated battle of Napoleon Bonaparte against the combined British and Prussian armies. It is a treat for history buffs, you can explore the battlefield and the Napoleon museums.

Top Things to do in Waterloo

• Waterloo Battlefield  – Explore the battleground, where history was created.
• Lions (Mound) Hamlet –  This site also has a visitor center. From the Brocante du Lion – you can view the entire battlefront below.
• Musée (Museum) Wellington – Although a small museum, it has a wealth of information about the 1815 battle.
• Napoleon’s Last Headquarters  – Napoleon’s Last Headquarters is a 5 room museum, containing items of Napoleon. It is located around 4 km to the south of the Lion’s Mound.
• Pass 1815 – The  Pass 1815  is the best value for visitors planning on seeing all of the above sites.
• Hougoumont –  It is believed that this little shed played an important role in the battle of Waterloo – this is where the finale of the battle took place.

How to visit Waterloo from Brussels?

Train : The fastest train will take you to Waterloo in 25 minutes. (Fare ranges from 4 – 6 euros, one way)

Drive: Driving to Waterloo takes the same time – 25-30 minutes

Tours (Recommend): Tours are available from Brussels to Waterloo on a day trip itinerary. Highly recommend taking a guided tour if you like to learn and explore the historical site. Book your day tour from Brussels to Waterloo here 

Brussels to Ypres Day Trip (1.25 hr)

Ypres is another spot of historical importance. Ypres is known for the three Battles of Ypres that took place in the First World War from 1914-1919. In those years, the entire city was completely destroyed. Almost half a million people died. Restoration work began in 1921, once residents moved back to Ypres in 1919, right after the war ended. Many residents lived in thatched or wooden houses for a while.

It is definitely worth exploring this town in Belgium. A must-visit for all history enthusiasts  – a site that is an eye-opener: a site that speaks volumes why wars should be shunned.

Top Things to see in Ypres

• Menin Gate – War memorial with inscribed names of fallen heroes of the war.
• In Flanders Field Museum – A museum dedicated to the study of World War 1. Located in the city centre.
• Cloth Hall – Medieval commercial cloth market. Located in the same location as the In Flanders Field Museum.
• Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917 – Museum dedicated to the 100 days battle of Passchendaele in 1917, where over 500,000 soldiers lost their lives.

How to visit Ypres from Brussels?

Train : A train ride to Ypres from Brussels is 2 hours. (Fare ranges from 18 – 20 euros, one way)

Drive (Fastest): Driving to Ypres? It takes 1.25 hours to arrive, one way.

Tours (Recommend): Tours include a return trip to Brussels and a historical guided tour. Tours are highly recommended to Ypres for a great experience. Book your Ypres guided tour here 

Leuven – Brussels day trips (13 mins)

Leuven is only a 13-minute train ride away from Brussels. The town of Leuven was founded sometime in the 9th century. It is a true University town, with a bustling historical centre. Leuven is a small town, with only about 95,00 residents and can be easily explored on foot.

Top Things to see in Leuven

• Groot Begijnhof (Grand Beguinage) – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The belfry on St Peter’s Church – Also a UNESCO Heritage Site and part of the Belfries of Belgium and France.
• University Buildings – Leuven has the world’s oldest Catholic University, so definitely worth visiting their buildings especially the University Library (Universiteitsbibliotheek) on the Ladeuzeplein.
• Summer Events – As Leuven is a university town, the summers here are a real treat and the best time to visit. Beleuvenissen (musical and cultural festival), Hapje Tapje (food fest), Leuven Kermis ( Leuven Carnival – takes place in September).

How to visit Leuven from Brussels?

Train (Fastest) : The fastest way to reach Leuven from Brussels or Brussels Airport, by catching a train. The fastest train will take you there in 13 minutes. (Fare ranges from 3 – 8 euros, one way)

Drive: Driving to Leuven? It will take you 40 minutes, one way.

Tours: Tours include a return trip to Brussels and sightseeing in Leuven. Book your sightseeing tour to Leuven from Brussels here. 

Brussels to Tournai Day Trip (1.15 hr)

Tournai is an important city in Belgium. Its significance lies in the fact that it has witnessed many wars and was occupied by almost all the major allied powers of Europe. This city is culturally rich and has some of the stunning cathedrals in the whole of Belgium.

Best Things to see in Tournai

• Notre Dame Cathedral – One of the stunning landmarks of Tournai is the Notre Dame Cathedral. The cathedral has dominated the skyline of the city for centuries
• Grand Place – Market place square surrounded by beautiful restaurants
• Beffroi – Beffroi is Belgium’s oldest belfry tower at 72 metres high. It contains a narrow 257-step spiral staircase leading to amazing views.
• Eglise St-Quentin –  A stunning red-roofed Roman church built in Gothic style.

How to visit Tournai from Brussels?

Train : Train will take you to Tournai in 1.15 hours. (Fare ranges from 13 – 18 euros, one way)

Drive: Driving to Tournai? It takes the same time as the train – 1.15 hour

Tours: Local sightseeing tours are available on the Tournai tourism website

Maastricht to Brussels Day Trip (2 hr)

Maastricht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands . Maastricht is filled with medieval churches, historical walls, and lanes, stunning castles, and old town squares.

Best Things to see i n Maastricht

• Basilica of Our Lady –  This Roman Catholic church is located at the center of the old town square in Maastricht.
• Basilica of Saint Servatius – This is another beautiful Roman Catholic church, which is also located at the town’s main square.
• Maastricht National History Museum
• Sint Servaasbrug or the Saint Servatius Bridge is a footbridge. Great spot for photography.
• Wyck – Beautiful neighborhood in Maastricht, by the river, and close to the old historic center.

How to visit Maastricht from Brussels?

Train : The fastest train will take you to Maastricht in 1.75 – 2 hour (fare ranges from 13 – 18 euros, one way)

Drive: It is a 2-hour drive to reach Maastricht. 

Tours: No day tour is available from Brussels to Maastricht. Once you arrive in Maastricht, you can take a sightseeing TRAIN – a new way to explore a city. Learn more about this tour here

Brussels to Cologne Day Trip (2 hr)

Cologne is a stunning city, located in Germany over the Rhine River. A 2000-year-old medieval town, with a gorgeous old town center marked by a twin cathedral, arts and CHOCOLATE museums, and of sweeping Rhine River.

Best Things to do in Cologne

• Cologne Cathedral – Cologne Cathedral is a 13th-century catholic cathedral. It is the seat of the archbishop of Cologne. The cathedral is a listed UNESCO world heritage site.
• Chocolate museum –  Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum or the chocolate Museum opened its doors in 1993 and has been a popular tourist spot. The entry fee is 11.50 euros. It is located at the town square
• Museum Ludwig – Museum Ludwig is one of the popular fine arts museums in Cologne. It houses of the largest Picasso collections in Europe
• Take the River Rhine cruise
• Visit Cologne Zoological Gardens and Schildergasse shopping lanes

How to visit Cologne from Brussels?

Train (Fastest) : The fastest way to reach Cologne is via train. Brussels to Cologne train ride is less than 2 hours, one way. Fare starts at 19 euros. You can travel via SNCB trains. 

Drive: Drive to Cologne will take you around 2.75 hours, one way. 

Tours: Here is an awesome day tour to Cologne (with Monschau) from Brussels. Includes a return trip and sightseeing for less than $100 USD. Book your tour here. 

Utrecht to Brussels Day Trip (2 hr)

Utrecht is located in the Netherlands, Belgium’s closest neighbor. Utrecht has been an iconic religious center for centuries. This city is characterized by the Dom – a 14th-century bell tower, cathedrals, canals, and medieval castles.

Best Things to do in Utrecht

• Dom Tower of Utrecht – Dom Tower of Utrecht is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. You can take 465 steps of the Gothic bell tower to access panoramic views of Utrecht.  It is located opposite the Gothic Cathedral of St. Martin in the central square.
• Visit Utrecht Botanical Gardens and Utrecht canals.
• Castle De Haar – Castle De Haar is a medieval castle, built in gothic style. There are stunning gardens located around the castle.
• Centraal Museum (prime museum of Utrecht) and Railway Museum (railway Museum, housed in a 19th railway station).

How to visit Utrecht from Brussels?

Train : A train ride to Utrecht from Brussels is 2.50 minutes, one way. Fares are around 30 Euros.

Drive (Fastest): Driving is the fastest way to reach Utrecht from Brussels – around 2 hours. (Buses are available to Utrecht, fares start at 10 Euros, but not ideal for a day trip – as it takes 4 hours to arrive) 

Tours: No day tour is available which includes a return trip from Brussels to Utrecht. The Tourism Board of Utrecht offers sightseeing tours in Utrecht. 

Brussels to Charleroi Day trip (50 mins)

Charleroi is the third-largest municipality of Belgium. Although not very popular with Belgians, this city is marked with a lot of industrial history.

Built as a mining town in the late 1900s, Charleroi saw a growth of coke metallurgy, mining, and other industrial units set up in the city. So much for trading and mining, the city was nicknamed as the “black country”. Charleroi has also witnessed many industrial and general strikes here. So why visit Charleroi?

Top Things to see in Charleroi

• River Sambre – Start with a walkover river Sambre. The bridge and the views of the river are beautiful. Yes, Charleroi is located on the River Sambre. The banks of the river are lined with stunning boulevards Quai de Brabant and Quai de Flandre.
• Ville Basse – The town is split into two – upper town (located on a hill) and lower town (ville basse). Ville Basee is perfect for a leisurely stroll and  for admiring this industrial town
• Town Hall of Charleroi
• Centre – The city centre is marked by the Place Charles II, which features the Saint-Christophe church, with a beautiful belfry tower.
• Museums  – There are many industrial museums that you can visit – Museum of Glass, Industry Museum, Museum of Photography

How to visit Charleroi from Brussels?

Train : A train ride to Charleroi from Brussels is 50 minutes, one way. Fares are around 5-10 Euros

Drive: Driving takes the same amount to time to reach Charleroi from Brussels – 50 minutes. 

Tours: There are not a lot of tours available for Charleroi. You will have to plan ahead and then reach the museums or drive or take a local bus to reach the tourist spots. The city centre is not that big, can be easily explored on foot.

Brussels to Liege Day Trip (1 hr)

Liege is a stunning city of Belgium, located on the Meuse river. This place is jam-packed with medieval history, culture, and beautiful river views. And it is only an hour away from Brussels.

There are monuments, museums, operas to choose from here. And the FOOD here is “finger-licking good”. Here are some of the top things to see in Liege

Top Things to see in Liege

• Montagne de Bueren – Montagne de Bueren is a 374-step staircase in Liege. It was built in 1881 to commemorate the soldiers who died while defending the town of Liege against the attack of Duke of Burgandy.
• Grand Curtius Museum – The Grand Curtius Museum is located within a 17th-century mansion and has archaeological treasures and art displays.
• Palace of the Prince-Bishops – Historical building with stunning architecture
• St. Paul’s Cathedral in Liege – Part of Liege heritage and cultural landmark
• Museum of Walloon Life – Museum with exhibits of Walloon life. Liege is located in the Walloon region.

How to visit Liege from Brussels?

Train : A train ride to Liege from Brussels is 1-1.50 hours, one way. Fares start at 5-10 Euros

Drive: Drive to Liege takes about the same time 1-1.50 hours. 

Tours: There are no available full-day tours from Brussels to Liege. Visit Liege tourism for more exploration ideas

Namur – Brussels Day Trips (45 mins)

Namur is the gorgeous capital city of the Wallonia region of Belgium. This city is characterized by medieval castles, citadels, and canals, and is considered as an important political and cultural seat in Belgium. The city gets its unique characteristics from the confluence of the two rivers – Meuse and Sambre, which makes this city, very stunning. Namur is also the ninth populous city in Belgium.

Top Things to see in Namur

• Citadel of Namur – Built in the 10th century, the Citadel of Namur, is built at the confluence of the rivers of Meuse and Sambre and offers great panoramic views of the city.
• Maredsous Abbey – A Benedictine abbey, built in Gothic style
• St Aubin’s Cathedral – The stunning cathedral, the only church built in Late Baroque style
• Scladina or Sclayn Cave  – An archaeological cave

How to visit Namur from Brussels?

Train (Fastest) : A train ride to Namur from Brussels is 45 minutes, one way. Fares start at 10 Euros

Drive: Driving takes you to Namur in about an hour. Having a vehicle can help in exploring more of the tourists’ areas, located outside of the city centre.

Tours: There are no day tours available for Namur from Brussels. Here are some options for Namur city guided tours

Day Trip to Dinant from Brussels (1.25 hr)

Dinant is another stunning town located in Belgium’s Walloon region. It is located very close to the French border, yet it is completely different in landscape and architecture from both France and Belgium.

The Meuse river runs through this little town, making it as picturesque and romantic as ever. Dinant is a perfect small-town getaway that comes with a quiet, laidback, yet serene vibe.

Dinant’s history traces back to many centuries, but it was the First World War that brought this small town into the limelight. The Battle of Dinant fought as part of the First World War saw mass destruction of this small town (Charles de Gaulle was wounded in this battle). After the end of the war, many of the town’s heritage buildings were completely destroyed and had to be rebuilt in later years. 

Top Things to see in Dinant

• Dinant Citadel – The Dinant fortress was built in the early 19th century. It is a medieval museum, with access to some amazing panoramic views.
• Notre Dame de Dinant – The Notre Dame de Dinant is a 13th-century Gothic cathedral dedicated to the Church of our lady. The cathedral welcomes you, as soon as you arrive Dinant.
• Birthplace of Adolphe Sax – Dinant is famous, as the birthplace of the founder of Saxophone, Adolphe Sax
• Meuse River – Dinant is perfect for romantic strolls across the bridge, overlooking the river Meuse. You can also take a cruise over the river.
• Maison Leffe –  A beer museum, and hotel.

How to visit Dinant from Brussels?

Train : You can easily take the SNBC trains to reach Dinant from Brussels. It takes 1.50 hours. The fare costs 14 euros, one way.

Drive (Fastest): The fastest way to reach Dinant is to drive there and then spend the whole day, at your leisure. 1.25 hours to reach Dinant from Brussels. 

Tours: Multi-country tours are available. Dinant is on the way to Luxembourg city, so definitely deserves a stop. There is a full-day tour that covers both Dinant and Luxembourg city. Book your tour here

Brussels to Luxembourg Day Trip (2.50 hr)

Luxembourg is a small European nation, located very close to the Belgium and German border. It is very convenient to take a day tour to Luxembourg city from Brussels to explore. Luxembourg is small but mighty in terms of financial institutions. Their architecture is not Flemish, unlike their Belgium neighbor. It is simple, yet full of impact.

Top Things to see in Luxembourg City

• Grand Ducal Palace – The Grand Ducal Palace is a palace in Luxembourg City. It is the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg. All administrative decisions are taken here. He is also the head of state of the Grand Duchy.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral  – Notre-Dame Cathedral is the only Cathedral of Luxembourg City. Located at the centre, this Roman Catholic cathedral was built in 1613.
• Adolphe Bridge – Adolphe Bridge is an arch bridge in Luxembourg City. The bridge looks stunning from the centre
• Gelle Fra – Gelle Fra or the Monument of Remembrance is a war memorial, located in Luxembourg City. It is dedicated to the thousands of Luxembourgers who volunteered for service in the armed forces of the Allied Powers during both World Wars and the Korean War.
• Pétrusse Casemates – Medieval ruins
• Other notable landmarks – Luxembourg City History Museum, Place D’ Arms All of the above sightseeing locations can be explored in a day tour from Brussels

How to visit Luxembourg city from Brussels?

Train : Trains are available to reach Luxembourg city from Brussels. It takes 3.50 hours. The fare costs 25-45 euros, one way.

Drive (Fastest): The fastest way to reach Luxembourg city is to drive there and then spend the whole day. It takes 2.50 hours to reach Luxembourg from Brussels. You can take a sightseeing tour to explore Luxembourg city. Book your tour here 

Tours (Recommend) : Take the multi-country tour to Luxembourg for less than $100 USD – great value. It covers a return trip and sightseeing in Luxembourg. Also covers a few hours in Dinant. There is a full tour day that covers both Dinant and Luxembourg city. Book your tour here

Brussels to Rotterdam Day Trip (1.50 hr)

Rotterdam is a port city located in the Netherlands. It is located in the southern part of the Netherlands and it characterized by iconic yellow cube houses, food markets, museums, and of course ships and port terminals. There are quite a few things to see in Rotterdam day trip from Brussels.

Top Things to see in Rotterdam

• Yellow Cube Houses – These unique yellow houses were built on the concept of “living with an urban roof”. These houses make for an amazing photography prop. They are located near the Blaak metro station.
• Erasmusburg – Beautiful white bridge, second largest in the Netherlands
• Visit Euromast (TV tower) and Rotterdam Zoo
• The Destroyed City – Second World War memorial sculpture
• Maritime Museum – A museum displaying vintage maritime ships and Harbor

How to visit Rotterdam from Brussels?

Train (Fastest): The fastest way to reach Rotterdam is via train. It takes 1.50 hours, one way and fares start at 19 euros.

Drive: Drive to Rotterdam will take you about 2 hours.

Tours: Here is a 2-3 hour “little bit of everything in Rotterdam” tour. It is not a day tour from Brussels, but it can be taken in Rotterdam to explore the city’s highlights . Book your tour here

Day trip to Amsterdam from Brussels (2 hr)

Amsterdam is the stunning capital city of the Netherlands . A stylish canal city lined with narrow tall houses and a cycling kingdom, Amsterdam is a delightful place to be in. It is possible to visit Amsterdam on a day trip from Brussels.

We took a Thalys train (high-speed train) in the morning – 07:00 am from Brussels Midi and arrived at Amsterdam Centraal Station (at 09:00 am). A majority of the tourist sightseeing spots in Amsterdam are located very close to the station, which makes it easy to explore. Many tours also start at the central train station in Amsterdam. Find how to spend one day in Amsterdam 

Best Things to do in Amsterdam

• Dam Square – Located very close to the Amsterdam Centraal station is the Dam Square. It is the heart of Amsterdam and is important since the 17th century. The square is surrounded by the Royal Palace and the Madame Tussauds museum.
• Take a canal cruise or simply stroll down the banks and admire the stunning houses. Book your canal cruise here 
• Anne Frank’s House – Anne Frank’s House is located near the central station as well. To explore the house from inside, you will have to allot 2-3 hours of your day’s visit and also book tickets online/in advance.
• Other places to visit in your day trip include Fleu market, Heineken Experience, Adam’s Lookout,  Rijksmuseum (allot 2-3 hours to explore the museum and reserve your tickets online here)

How to visit Amsterdam from Brussels?

Train (Fastest): The fastest way to reach Amsterdam is via train. It takes 2 hours, one way on a high-speed train and fares start at 29 euros. Book 2-3 months in advance and choose the second class for cheaper fares.

Drive: Drive to Amsterdam will take you about 2- 2.35 hours.

Tours: There is a day tour available to Amsterdam from Brussels. This tour takes you to Dam Square and around. But you will only get 5- 6 hours of sightseeing.

If you plan on returning to Amsterdam again, this is not a bad option to get a quick orientation to the canal city for a great price (less then 100 USD/return sightseeing trip). This tour also explores the Dutch countryside and takes you to a cheese farm. Book your Amsterdam-Brussels tour here. 

Pro-Tip: Zaanse Schans is a neighborhood in the Netherlands that can be visited on a day trip from Brussels as well. You can arrive in Amsterdam Central Station and take a day tour to the windmills town of Zaanse Schans .

Book your 3-hour tour here – to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam to explore the windmills

Volendam Day trip from Brussels (2.50 hr)

Okay, do you wish to see cute wooden houses in a pretty village in the Netherlands? Head to Volendam. This Dutch town with its traditional harbor setting with boats and colorful houses will surely melt your heart!

Things to do in Volendam

• Cheese Factory Volendam – Enjoy a cheese tasting tour in Volendam Netherlands, their cheese is delicious!
• Eat Seafood by the harbor
• The Volendam Museum – This museum features paintings, sculptures, and pottery from the 1800s to the present times. 
• Other museums : Historical Museum and Photography studio, Palingsound Museum, Halve Maen
• Lighthouse near Marken – Admire the Paard van Marken – a lighthouse – before making your way back to Brussels in the evening! This landmark lighthouse is known to have existed since the 18th century. 

How to visit Volendam from Brussels?

Train (fastest) : Fastest way to reach Volendam from Brussels is by taking the train. It takes 2.50 hours to reach there, one way

Drive: Drive to Volendam will take about 2.75 to 3 hours by road

Tour: There are no full day tour options from Brussels

Day trip from Brussels to Paris (1.65 hr)

Dreaming of Effiel tower and unsure if you can cover this romantic city on your trip to Brussels, Belgium? Yes, you can. Paris can be explored on a day tour from Brussels.

Paris needs no introduction. It is the capital city of France and an iconic city, a symbol of love, romance, cafes and croissants, and Louis Vuitton and arts and so much more (I can go on and on).

So what all can you cover on a day trip to Paris? Well, you can definitely cover 4-5 prime tourist areas for sure. Take the high-speed train from Brussels Midi train station to Paris Gare du Nord (Earliest train leaves at 06:15 am, with 1.75 hour transit time. Last train leaves after 08:45 pm or so).

Once you arrive at Gare du Nord – head to Trocadero Gardens. You can start your sightseeing from here or take a hop-on and hop off tour to take you around the city’s highlights.

Top Things to see in Paris

• Trocadero Gardens  – Trocadero is a public area in Paris. It is located right across the Eiffel Tower and the Seine river. Entry to the gardens is FREE. Here you can get your Insta-worthy Eiffel Tower pictures.
• Eiffel Tower – Few steps away from Trocadero is the Eiffel tower. You can explore the grounds or go up the tower. Keep in mind to go up the tower requires a time investment of 45 minutes – 2 hours. Reserve your Eiffel Tower Summit priority access ticket.
• Take a sightseeing  cruise over the Seine river or simply stroll down the banks and admire the stunning houses. Book your sightseeing cruise here 
• Champs Elysee and Arc de Triumphe can be explored next
• Notre Dame Cathedral – Finest French Gothic architecture, this medieval Catholic cathedral is a popular Parisian landmark.
• Louvre Museum – Visit the world’s popular art museum is not free nor is it easy. Louvre is crowded at most times of the day. Head there in the early morning or late evening to explore. Entry and visit to the museum require a time investment of 2-4 hours.
• Read our extended itinerary in Paris

How to visit Paris from Brussels?

Train (Fastest): The fastest way to reach Paris is via train. It takes 1.65 hours, one way on a high-speed train and fares start at 29 euros. Book 2-3 months in advance and choose the second class for cheaper fares.

Drive: Drive to Paris will take you about 4 hours.

Tours: There are no direct day tours for Paris. Taking the train and then opting for a sightseeing tour in Paris is your best bet.

Pro- Tip: Palace of Versailles (in France) can be explored in a day trip from Brussels. Take a Thalys train to Paris (Gare du Nord) from Brussels. Take a half-day tour from Paris to Versailles- explore the palace with a guided tour and return to Brussels via train. Book your half tour to Versailles here (4-hour tour).

Maasmechelen Day Trip from Brussels (1.25 hr)

Looking for a shopping paradise with discounts and a great variety? Well, Maasmechelen is your town. Maasmechelen is located in the province of Limburg, on the Meuse river. This municipality has tons of outlet stores, great restaurants – a perfect hang out place. This town also has a functioning windmill and a small carnival museum.

Packing for Brussels Belgium

SHOP TRAVEL GEAR FOR EUROPE

MIRROR-LESS CAMERA // CLEAR POUCH // ANTI THEFT BACKPACK // SUN-GLASS // UNIVERSAL ADAPTER // EYE MASK //  PASSPORT HOLDER // WALKING SHOE // HEADPHONES // WATERPROOF JACKET (TRENCH COAT) // CHARGING CABLES //  PACKING CUBES // ANTI THEFT PURSE // NECK PILLOW

READ : ULTIMATE PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Hope you found this post and reviews helpful and you are on your way to crafting your amazing day trip from Brussels.

Pin – 18+ Day trip from Brussels for your Belgium Itinerary

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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23 Comments

Ghent is my favorite city!! But I would love to return to Belgium and do more of these day trips! I think I’d like some of the smaller towns.

Ghent is stunning. We fell in love with Belgium – cant wait to go back!

Wow, this is such an exhaustive list. I will remember these places when I go to Brussels. 🙂

Yay! Thanks so much, Glad you liked it

My city! I love reading articles about the place I live. Well written and good tips.

Thanks so much! Glad you liked the information we shared here 🙂

I had no idea there were so many great day trips from Brussels! Thanks so much for sharing 🙂

Everything is so close! I’ve been wanting to visit Bruges for a while now, and I’m definitely adding the rest of these places to my list! 🙂

Bruges is one of my favorite cities in Europe. You will love it too!

Wow, I had no idea there were so many day trips from Brussels! This is amazing! I had never heard of Dinant before and your photo of it really makes me want to visit. Wonderful article!

Dinant is stunning. We hope you visit this gem – you won’t be disappointed.

Wow, I had no idea Brussels was such a good base for day trips! Charleroi looks super pretty and crazy to think (as a Kiwi) that you can do day trips to other countries!

That is one of the reasons we LOVE Europe 🙂

This list is amazing! I love getting settled in a city and taking day trips around, it feels more grounded than hauling my pack all over. Thanks for such a solid list. Happy travels!

Thats awesome! Thank you so much

I’m so glad to have stumbled on this site, so may good tips! We had almost crossed Paris off our list but now it’s definitely on:) Thanks so much for all the great advice and insight, much appreciated. Happy travels!!

Hi Kimberly! We are SOOO glad you found the site helpful! We loved Brussels and Paris too.

Happy Travels to you too <3

Hello! We are looking to be in belgium in december and do a lots of day trips by car. I understand that Brussels is very congested by traffic. Is there any outskirts in belgium that you recommend that we can stay as a hub and leave freely everyday in car without facing the day-to-day traffic? Thank you!

Hi Alex! We really enjoyed our time in Dinant. It is a small town and will be a perfect place as a hub to take day trips. Brussels is only an hour away, both Luxembourg City and the French border are close by as well. Namur is another city to consider.

Have fun in Belgium – we loved it so much! December will be an amazing time to visit Brugge as well. (Brugge to Dinant is about 2 hours one way)

Hi I am going in jan 2020 to Belgium for month and half this is so exting information thanks a lot it will help me thank u so much

That’s awesome! I am glad. Enjoy your time in Belgium.

Hello, we are headed to Brussels with an infant and toddler. We are planning day trips to Bruges, Ghent and zantwerp. Any other kid friendly places or tops you would recommend?

Hi Ajni, those are all great choices and located a short drive away from Brussels. Namur is another good option and you can also explore Dinant – which is very beautiful. We loved it. Namur to Dinant is 30 minutes one way by car or train. Places are kid friendly. Dinant has a funicular if you wish to explore the fort.

Have a great time to Belgium!

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Brussels

Day trips from brussels.

• Brussels to Bruges
• Brussels to Ghent
• Brussels to Amsterdam
• Brussels to Luxembourg City
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• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
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• Chinese (Simplified)
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels

2. Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels

3. Private Brussels Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Custom

4. Bruges Day Trip from Brussels

5. Amsterdam Day Trip from Brussels

6. Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels

7. Private Bastogne, Battle of the Bulge tour from Brussels (by car)

8. Antwerp and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels With Atomium Photo Stop

9. Best Of Bruges and Ghent Private Tour from Brussels

10. Private Full-Day Trip to Bruges&Ghent from Brussels with tastings

11. Historic Battle of the Bulge Sites Private Tour from Brussels

12. Bus day trip to Ghent from Brussels

13. Flanders Fields Remembrance Tour from Brussels with Lunch

14. The Battle of The Bulge tour

15. Delft and Keukenhof Gardens Tour from Brussels

16. Private tour : Treasures of Flanders Ghent and Bruges from Brussels Full day

17. Private Tour: Ghent and Bruges From Brussels Full Day

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23. Brussels City Tour: Day Trip from Amsterdam

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26. Private Customized Guided Tour in Brussels

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29. Antwerp Sightseeing Tour from Brussels

30. Private tour : Treasures of Flanders Ghent and Bruges from Brussels Full day

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Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 15 Best Day Trips from Brussels

15 Best Day Trips from Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is now one of the most interesting destinations in Europe.

People from all over the world visit this fascinating city in order to get in touch with Belgium’s history, art, and culture.

In addition, Brussels is one of the cities favoured by foodies who are eager to indulge in its famous delights, such as the waffles, chocolate, fries, as well as its famous beer.

Besides the interesting things to see and do in Belgium’s capital, there is also a lot to explore within a day trip from Brussels.

So here are 15-day trips that will conquer even the most sceptical traveller.

Located 100 kilometres northwest of Brussels and only 15 kilometres from the North Sea, Bruges, also known as the “Venice of the North”, is a great choice for a day trip from Brussels.

Great history, beautiful architecture, and the chance to indulge in some of the best chocolate in Belgium are some of the many things this charming medieval city offers its visitors.

Wander around the beautifully arranged streets and catch a glimpse of the fascinating architecture.

Admire the Belfry of Bruges, a medieval bell tower in the centre of the city and one if its symbols, see the famous Hospital of St. John, and the Saint-Salvator Cathedral.

Get in touch with history at the Historium Bruges, a unique museum with audio guides, and explore the beautiful Flemish art at The Groeningemuseum.

Known for being one of Belgium’s medieval treasures, Ghent is also a cultural city defined by music, theatre, film and visual arts.

It is located only 60 kilometres far from Brussels and can be easily reached by car or by train.

One of the best things to do in this charming medieval city is to explore it by foot, in order to catch a glimpse of its incredible medieval architecture, as well as to feel its vibrant atmosphere.

Praise “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers located inside the Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral.

Visit the Belfry of Ghent, the Town Hall, and get closer to Ghent’s trading history at the Old Fish Market.

3. Amsterdam

There are 200 kilometres between Brussels and Amsterdam, so the beautiful Dutch capital is a good choice for an unforgettable day trip.

Not only does it offer an incredible scenic beauty thanks to its canals and waterfront views, but Amsterdam is also an oasis of history, culture, and art.

Get in touch with the past at Anne Frank House, learn about art at the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh and Rembrandt House museums, and enjoy the famous Heineken Experience.

Adventurous travellers can rent a bike and explore the streets, historic landmarks, and main pubs of Amsterdam.

In the meantime, romantics can have a unique Amsterdam experience while enjoying a relaxing boat ride.

4. Luxemburg

Luxemburg is a fantastic day trip from Brussels especially for travellers who are fond of beautiful rural sceneries.

After two hours and a half you get to the capital of the Grand Duchy and begin your tour with exploring the Kirchberg quarter and its many important buildings such as the European Court of Justice, and the European Commission.

Luxembourg is also a great destination for architecture enthusiasts who have the chance to marvel at the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a landmark that perfectly combines the late Gothic architecture with Renaissance adornments.

Continue with wandering around the charming streets, and don’t miss catching a glimpse of the Palace of the Grand Duke and the city’s fortifications.

Antwerp is a delightful port city on Belgium’s Scheldt River.

With a Middle Age-history, fascinating art and architecture, Antwerp is an old, but cool place to visit.

Located only 55 kilometres far from Belgium’s capital, the city makes a perfect destination for a day trip.

Visit the largest Gothic church in the Low Countries and see two of the most beautiful masterpieces of the baroque painter Paul Peter Rubens.

See the Central Train Station, explore the diamond district, and don’t miss getting closer to the locals in the marketplace.

History aficionados who visit Brussels and want to remember some of the bloodiest battles of the WWI must visit Ypres.

There are only 123 kilometres between Belgium’s capital and this interesting place and the road is filled with breathtaking views.

The charming town is surrounded by the Ypres Salient battlefields, giving visitors the chance to go back in time while visiting the war museums, memorials, as well as cemeteries and discovering the horrors of war, its heroes, and villains.

Langemark- the German cemetery, the Menin Gate Memorial, and Saint George’s Chapel are some of the most important landmarks of this area.

Located to the east of Brussels, and known for its youthful atmosphere during the month of September and for its breweries, Leuven is another amazing choice for travellers who want to enjoy a day trip from Belgium’s capital.

Visit the Grote Markt or ‘Plaza Mayor,’ admire the imposing St.

Peter’s Church, and the well-known Town Hall, a great monument of ‘Gotico brabantino’. In addition, makes sure you don’t miss seeing the “longest bar in the world” in the Oude Mark.

Hasselt can be reached in an hour by car and it is a great place for visitors who want to spend a day surrounded by peaceful exotic landscapes.

Wander around the impressive 17th-century Japanese tea garden and let the paths, waterfalls, and cherry trees inspire and relax you.

Get in touch with history at the Bokrijk, an interesting park and museum complex and have some fun at Plopsa Indoor Hasselt, an amazing theme park with Indoor rides and attractions, as well as a great outdoor zone.

9. Waterloo Battlefield

History enthusiasts who want to satisfy their thirst should spend a day visiting the famous Waterloo Battlefield, located just 30 kilometres from Brussels.

The most important attraction at the battlefield is the Butte du Lion, translated as Lion Mound.

Don’t leave without checking out the Memorial 1815, a compelling underground centre illustrating the battle’s historic significance.

Furthermore, for those who are passionate about the past and want to enlarge their knowledge, visiting the Musée Wellington, in the town of Waterloo is also a great option.

10. Tournai

Tournai is an adorable Belgian city with a unique history, including a short period of time when it was under British rule.

The main landmark of the city is its magnificent cathedral, as well as its surrounding area which is a fantastic example of 12th and 13th-century architecture.

Make your way to the belfry in order to admire the whole city centre below.

Then, wander around the beautifully arranged streets of Tournai and stop at The Museum of Fine Arts, where amazing pieces of art can be cherished.

There are only 30 kilometres between Brussels and Aalst and the road is filled with unique sights.

The city has a rich history and great landmarks that could satisfy history and art enthusiasts from all over the world.

Visit Aldermen’s House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, catch a glimpse at the 15th-century belfry next to the town hall, and admire the Gothic style “unfinished” St. Martin’s Collegiate Church.

Enjoy a long walk around the city and stop at the statue of Dirk Martens, the first printer in the Netherlands.

In addition, taste your way around Aalst and explore the old breweries that produce their own hops.

Though modest in size, Namur is an intriguing town located in a lovely area between two rivers and surrounded by castles.

It can be reached in just an hour from Brussels and it gives visitors the chance to relax and get in touch with the great history of the area.

Walk around the graceful alleys, then stop and admire the most important landmarks such as the Saint Aubain Cathedral and the Felicien Rops Museum.

In addition, if the weather is fine, enjoy a short Namourette boat ride.

13. Moorsel

Travellers who want to get closer to the traditions of Belgium must visit Moorsel, an inviting village in the province East Flanders, dating back from the early Middle Ages.

Visit the 14th century Saint Gudula chapel and the Renaissance castle.

Even if this might sound impossible, the castle is still preserved in its original condition.

Then, unwind and enjoy the quiet beauty of an old Flemish village before going back to the busy city of Brussels.

Situated in Belgium’s Walloon Region, only 105 kilometres from Brussels, Dinant welcomes all people who want to have a relaxing day filled with culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Wander around the picturesque village of Dinant, exploring its fifteenth century collegial, the citadel, as well as the tiny, but very interesting saxophone museum.

In addition, beer enthusiasts must visit Maison Leffe, an inviting beer museum.

Last but not least, stop at the famous Brasserie Caracole and indulge in the goodies served there.

15. Maastricht

Famous for its medieval-era architecture and vibrant cultural scene, Maastricht is a perfect destination for a day trip from Brussels, especially if you want to visit two countries in one day.

Visit the Romanesque Basilica of St.

Servatius and the Gothic-style church Sint Janskerk, explore the amazing cobbled old town, and get in touch with history at the tiny, but interesting Maastricht Natural History Museum.

Take your time admiring the lovely streets and interesting architecture, then stop for a drink at one of the inviting terraces.

15 Best Day Trips from Brussels:

• Waterloo Battlefield

15 Best Day Trips From Brussels By Train Or Bus (2024)

Are you looking for the best day trips from Brussels by train? You came to the right place!

I lived in Belgium as a student and came back many times to travel around the country. I didn’t have a car, but Belgium is a great country to visit without a car!

You can easily visit picturesque towns like Ghent or Bruges, or go to the Belgian coastline on a sunny summer day.

All these day trips from Brussels are accessible by public transport: train or bus . Therefore, you do not need to own or rent a car to explore Belgium. 

If you’re ready to discover the best day trips from Brussels by train, let’s get started!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

Best Day Trips From Brussels: By Train and Bus!

Brussels is ideally situated for day trips in Belgium!

You can make your way to the north, and discover the Flanders region, or the south and discover Wallonia.

Here are the best day trips to add to your Brussels itinerary !

Best day trips from Brussels to Flanders

Flanders, the Flemish (Dutch) speaking region, is home to some of the most popular places in Belgium.

Most backpackers in Belgium stay in this area, and it is easy to see why is it the most visited part of Belgium with cities like Bruges and Ghent.

Yet, there are other less-known destinations in Flanders as well!

1. Day trip from Brussels to Leuven 

Leuven is a University town located 15 minutes by train from Brussels, so it makes for a perfect day trip. It is a small town, but you can easily spend a whole day exploring.

Some of the highlights include one of the most beautiful Town Halls in Belgium, Groot and Klein Begijnhof, Monseigneur Ladeuzeplein with a neoclassical library building, and a modern beetle on a needle sculpture. 

One of the most unique spots in Leuven is the Groot Begijnhof, a medieval, well-preserved beguinage.

Today, it is completely restored and home to University staff and students. It is one of the largest remaining beguinages, and walking around will make you feel like you’ve been transported in time.

You can end your visit with a drink in the world’s longest bar. The Oude Markt is a square lined with over 30 bars! 

How to get to Leuven from Brussels?

Since Leuven is so close to Brussels, you can either take a train or a local bus . The train will take approximately 20 minutes, while the bus will take around 50 minutes. 

To go to Leuven from Brussels by bus, you can take bus 358. You can check the bus schedule on the DeLijn website . 

The bus trip is longer, but cheaper than a train.

2. Day trip from Brussels to Bruges

Bruges is, without a doubt, the most whimsical town in Belgium and one of the most popular Brussels day trips by train. 

Once you get to Bruges, start your day from the Market Square and walk towards the Town Hall and Basilica of Holly Blood. Both are very intricate architectural masterpieces.

Afterward, just let yourself get lost in the maze of narrow cobblestone streets and canals. There is something beautiful anywhere you look in Bruges!

Since Bruges is the most popular place to visit on a day trip from Brussels, it gets very busy during the day. Try arriving as early as possible to avoid the midday crowds.

Bruges is a must-visit if you are backpacking Europe in winter , as it has one of the most charming Christmas Markets!

How to get to Bruges from Brussels?

To reach Bruges from Brussels, you will take a train. A train journey takes roughly an hour, and there are frequent daily departures.

3. Day Trip From Brussels to Ghent

Ghent is famous for its unique cultural significance and stunning architecture. It is a city full of history, and you will certainly enjoy just strolling around.

On a day trip to Ghent , you will come across a remarkable medieval town hall, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, Belfry, and St. Nicholas’ Church.

Be sure not to miss St. Michael’s bridge. It is my favorite viewpoint in the city. Wherever you look from the bridge, you see the well-preserved medieval buildings. Also, is a perfect spot to grab a drink and sit on the river banks with the local students.

Ghent has one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, so make sure to add it to your Christmas Market Itinerary .

How to get to Ghent from Brussels?

From Brussels, you can take a train to Ghent. There are multiple hourly connections between the cities.

A train journey from Brussels to Ghent will take around 30 minutes.

4. Day trip from Brussels to Oostende to Knokke-Heist

OK, we can all agree that Belgium is not a beach destination, but if you’re backpacking Europe in summer , you might want to escape the heat!

Luckily, the northern coast of Belgium is lined with long sandy beaches along the North Sea.

It will take roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach the closest beach from Brussels and you can take swimming in the North Sea off your Europe bucket list .

You can choose to spend a day on a beach anywhere along the coast from Oostende to Knokke-Heist. The best way to discover a beach you like is to hop on the Belgian Coastal Tram. 

The Belgian coastal tram line at 67 km is the world’s longest tram line in service. The tram connects Oostende and Knokke-Heist and stops in all the coastal towns along the way.

You can check the tram schedule and stops on the Belgian coast website . 

How to get to the beach from Brussels?

The best way to plan this day trip from Brussels is by train. You will take a train from Brussels to either Knokke-Heist or Oostende.

The trip takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, and you can check the train schedule on the SNCB website .

Alternatively, you could take a Flixbus to Oostend. However, the trip will be an hour longer, so it might not be worth it for a day trip.

5. Day Drip From Brussels to Ypres

Ypres is well worth the visit, even though it might seem far from Brussels.

It is a city with a long and rich history, as it was once a medieval trading center. Nowadays, it is predominantly known for its role in the First World War.

To learn more about the devastating historical events that occurred in the region, head to the In Flanders Fields Museum and Tyne Cot Cemetery.

The entrance to the cemetery memorial is free, but be sure to check the opening hours . 

How to get to Ypres from Brussels?

The best way to get to Ypres from Brussels is by train. The direct train is not very frequent, so you will have to transfer in Gent or Kortrijk, depending on the train.

The train journey from Brussels to Ypres takes around 2 hours. 

6. Day Trip From Brussels to Antwerp

Antwerp is the second-largest city in Belgium. The city has a long history as the world’s capital of diamonds and the world’s fifth-largest port. Today it is a lively city popular among young professionals.

You will be mesmerized by Antwerp as soon as you reach the train station. The Central Station of Antwerp is said to be one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. From there, you can explore the city on foot. 

The city center of Antwerp is a mix of the historic center and the modern shopping streets.

Walk around and discover the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, Groenplaats lined with cafes and restaurants, Groot Markt, and Het Steen Castle.

How to get to Antwerp from Brussels?

You can choose whether you want to take a train or a bus to Antwerp. 

There are frequent hourly departures from Brussels to Antwerp, and the train journey takes just under an hour.

Unlike other cities in Flanders, Antwerp is well connected to Brussels by long-distance busses. There are more than 10 daily Flixbus departures from Brussels Gare du Nord, and if you book in advance, the bus will be cheaper than the train. It will take the same time to travel by bus as the train.

7. Day trip from Brussels to Mechelen

Mechelen is a small city located between Brussels and Antwerp.

The most famous landmark is The St. Rumbold Tower. You can climb the tower and enjoy a view of Mechelen, and on a nice day, you can even see Brussels and Antwerp! 

The historic center of Mechelen features typical Flemish architecture, with a central Grote Markt square lined with bars and cafes.

Spend a day exploring the cobblestone streets, old Begunage, and lovely canals. 

How to get to Mechelen from Brussels?

You can easily reach Mechelen from Brussels by train. There are many daily departures, and the train journey takes around 20 minutes.

Best Day Trips From Brussels to Wallonia

The Wallonia region is the less-visited of the two Belgian regions. The cities in Wallonia are not as well known as Bruges and Ghent, yet there is so much to discover here.

The serene nature makes Wallonia a perfect place to enjoy a hike and explore cities while avoiding crowds.

All of these day trips from Brussels to Wallonia are accessible by train.

8. Day trip from Brussels to Villers La Ville

Villers La Ville is a small town in Wallonia and is famous for being the home of the Villers La Ville Abbey. This impressive Abbey was built in 1146. It is one of the most well-preserved in the whole of Europe. 

Once you reach Villers La Ville, you will have to walk to the site, since the Abbey is 2km from the train station.

For up-to-date information about the opening hours and tickets, check the official Abbey website .

How to get to Villers La Ville from Brussels?

The best way to get to Villers La Ville Abbey is to take a train from Brussels to Villers La Ville. There is no direct train, so you will have to transfer to Ottignies. 

9. Day trip from Brussels to Liege

Liege is situated in the eastern part of Belgium, close to the Dutch and German borders. It will impress you as soon as you reach the train station, as it was elected as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.

For the best view of the city and the surrounding region, climb up the Montagne de Bueren stairs and its 374 steps with an incline that reaches 30%. 

To learn more about the industrial history of the region, you can visit Blegny-Mine .

It is one of the 4 authentic coal mines in Europe whose underground galleries are accessible to visitors via the original shaft, and it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site .

How to get to Liege from Brussels?

The best way to get to Liege from Brussels is by train. You could also take a Flixbus from Brussels since it is cheaper than the train, but there is no suitable return option so you will have to go back by train. 

The train journey takes between 1 and 2 hours, so make sure you take a direct train. 

10. Day trip from Brussels to Namur

Namur is the capital of the French-speaking region of Wallonia and home to the Parliament and the Government of Wallonia. 

Overlooking the city stands the Citadel of Namur and a giant golden turtle statue. Nowadays, the Citadel is a museum and is open to the public.

You have to pay an entrance fee to get inside the Citadel, but it is free to walk around. Check out the prices and opening hours on the official website . 

The city center is walkable and as charming as other Belgian towns. 

How to get to Namur from Brussels?

The easiest way to get to Namur from Brussels is to take a train.

The journey takes less than an hour, and the train departs frequently throughout the day. 

11. Day trip from Brussels to Dinant

Dinant is a small town embedded between the Meuse River and steep mountain cliffs. Above the city stands a centuries-old fortified Citadel that was first built in the 11th century.

Another landmark is the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame de Dinant.

A fun fact about Dinant is that it is also known as the birthplace of the saxophone inventor, so you’ll see a large saxophone model!

Since you can walk the whole city within an hour, it is best to visit combined with Namur.

How to get to Dinant from Brussels?

You can easily reach Dinant from Brussels by train. The journey takes about 90 minutes. 

12. Day trip from Brussels to Mons

Mons is a small city with many interesting traditions. Plan your visit on Trinity Sunday to see The Doudou , Mons’ Ducasse Rituelle.

It was recognized as a UNESCO “masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity” in 2005.

It is hard to describe it, so you’ll have to see it for yourself!

If you visit some other time, take a stroll through the city center and admire the Town Hall, Belfry, and the Grand Place lined with cafes and historic buildings. 

How to get to Mons from Brussels?

The best way to get to Mons from Brussels is to take a train. The journey takes just under an hour, and the trains depart frequently during the day.

13. Day trip from Brussels to Durbuy

In Wallonia, you can visit Durbuy, a town that claims to be the smallest city in the world.

While it is actually not even the smallest city in Belgium, it is a charming medieval town to explore and spend a day.

How to get to Durbuy from Brussels?

To get to Durbuy from Brussels, you will take a train to Barvaux, with a transfer in Liege.

There is no direct train to Durbuy. Therefore, from Barvaux, you will take a shuttle bus to Durbuy.

Check the bus schedule on the Durbuy tourism website .  

14. Day trip from Brussels to Ottignies and Louvain-la-Neuve

The story of this University city is interesting.

Louvain-la-Nueve was built to house the Université Catholique de Louvain, which owns its entire territory, following the linguistic quarrels that took place in Belgium during the 1960s and the division of KU Leuven.

How to get to Ottignies and Louvain-la-Neuve from Brussels?

The best way to get to Ottignies and Louvain-la-Neuve from Brussels is to take a train.

A train journey takes around 50 minutes, depending on how many stops there are on the way. There are frequent departures from Brussels. 

15. Day trip from Brussels to Charleroi

Charleroi is best known for its airport. Also, it was once voted the ugliest city.

You must be wondering why am I recommending it then.

Because it is not nearly as bad!

After a 2010 article proclaimed it the ugliest city, tourists began coming to see what was that all about, so now it is a popular stop on Belgium’s itinerary.

I spent a day in Charleroi recently as I had a “stop-over” at Charleroi Airport, and I found quite a few picturesque corners in this industrial city.

How to get to Charleroi from Brussels?

The easiest way to get to Charleroi from Brussels is by train. The journey takes an hour, and there are multiple daily departures.

Public transport in Belgium 

Firstly, let’s quickly talk about public transport in Belgium. The country has an excellent public transport system. For all of the day trips listed, you can either take a train or a bus.

Considering a place easily accessible by public transport had to fulfill a couple of conditions. 

• Firstly, there should be an outbound train or a bus in the morning, preferably after 8 am, and a return option in the late afternoon. 
• Secondly, the trip should take no more than 3 hours in one direction. I think 6 hours of transportation is a healthy maximum for a day trip, especially if you know that there may be delays. 
• Finally, the price should be under 30€ for a return ticket. The price can easily be under 30€ regardless of the regular one-way ticket if you follow my advice in the section about traveling by train in Belgium. 

Generally, I use this website to compare the prices and departure times for trains and buses to make sure I pick the best option!

Trains are the most popular mode of public transport in Belgium. If you are wondering where to go from Brussels by train, the answer is everywhere! You can reach virtually any destination in Belgium by train. 

Train tickets in Belgium are affordable, which makes trains a perfect budget-friendly option. Also, there are often promotions on train tickets.

If you travel during the weekend, your return ticket will be half off. Your weekend train trip has to be a return ticket departing from Friday after 19:00 and returning by Sunday. 

If you are under 26 years old, you are eligible for significant discounts.

Go Pass 1 is a special ticket for people under 26, it is valid for a single one-way journey anywhere in Belgium for a fixed price of 6,60€. 

Go Pass 10 is a multi-ticket valid for 10 single trips for people under 26. It costs around 55€, depending on whether you buy it online or at the train station. It looks like a blank ticket, and you have to write on it when you take your trip. The same ticket can be shared between multiple people on the trip, which is transferable. 

If you are older than 26, you can get a Standard Multi ticket. It is valid for 10 single trips and costs 84-87€ depending on whether you buy it online or at the train station. It works the same way as a Go Pass 10.

All of these benefits of train travel make it very easy to have a day trip from Brussels by train.

Taking a bus is another option. Generally, the bus will be cheaper, but the trip will be longer. 

Some day trips will be accessible by local bus, DeLijn or TEC . For longer distances, the most popular long-distance bus operator is Flixbus , but you can check the prices and times of the Blabla bus as well .  

Final Thoughts: Best Day Trips From Brussels By Train

And there you have it! The best Brussels day trips by train or bus.

As you can see, Belgium is a diverse country full of culture and history with stunning nature.

And we didn’t even have time to cover all the best nature escapes in Belgium in this article!

If you’re wondering what’s the best route to visit all of these amazing cities, check out my complete Belgium without a car itinerary !

If you enjoyed this list of the best day trips from Brussels in Belgium, pin it for later and share it with your friends who should discover Belgium.

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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Exploring the world, one place at a time.

17 easy day trips from brussels, belgium.

• Post published: August 9, 2022
• Post category: Belgium
• Post author: Charu Goyal

Located at the centre of Europe, Brussels is a great base for exploring more of Belgium and its neighbouring countries. With fairy-tale cities like Bruges, Ghent and Dinant around the corner, there is so much that you can see in just a day trip from Brussels. Many popular international tourist destinations like Amsterdam and Luxembourg are also within easy reach.

During my last trip to Belgium, I enjoyed the comfort of not having to unpack and repack repeatedly in order to see many places at once. As a major European hub with seamless public transport, you can just book a hotel in Brussels for multiple nights and take a train or bus to explore somewhere else for a few hours. The opportunities for unforgettable day trips from Brussels are nearly endless.

To make planning easier for you, I have compiled this list of destinations that myself and other professional travel writers have personally visited and loved. In this article, you will find ideas for the best day trips from Brussels that are less than three and half hours away, along with how to get there. I hope it inspires you to spend more time in Brussels and explore its surrounding area to the fullest. There really is so much to see!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of those links, I may get a small commission. Thank you for your continued support!

Table of Contents

Recommended by Charu from Travel with CG

When thinking about day trips to take from Brussels, Bruges is the one name that usually comes first to mind. Home to otherworldly canals, mediaeval architecture, horse-drawn carriages and cobbled alleyways, it is an enchanting small city that is rightly one of the best places in Belgium. With only little ground to cover, it comes as no surprise that Bruges is also the most popular amongst Brussels day trips.

Begin your time in Bruges by visiting Grote Markt, the city’s main square housing the iconic colourful houses and the 13 th century Belfry of Bruges. You can take a tour inside and admire the treasury and the municipal archives, or head straight to the roof to get a bird’s eye perspective of the market square. Just keep in mind that you will have to climb 366 steps to get up there.

Next, walk past traditional Belgian confectionary shops selling delicious waffles and chocolates to make your way to Burg Square. The Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges City Hall and an Old Civil Registry are all located there. If you are an art enthusiast, make sure to buy a ticket to the basilica to see Madonna and Child, the only sculpture by Michelangelo that left Italy before his death.

Lastly, since no trip to Bruges can be complete without marvelling at its charming canals, hop on one of the many boats around you and see the city from an entirely new angle. If you are short on time, grab yourself a waffle and head to Bonifacius Bridge and sit by one of the benches overlooking the canals instead. You will soon realise why Bruges is popularly known as the “Venice of the North”.

Distance from Brussels: 98 kilometres (60 miles) approximately.

Getting to Bruges from Brussels: Multiple direct trains run between Brussels and Bruges every hour. You can book your tickets in advance or simply show up at Brussels North, Brussels Midi or Brussels Central station and get to Bruges in an hour. Alternatively, you can also rent a car and take the E40 heading northwest and get off at exit 397. Just be prepared to park further away as the historic centre of Bruges is pedestrian only.

Recommended Tour: Full Day Guided Tour from Brussels to Bruges

Currency: Euro

Located halfway between Brussels and Bruges, Ghent is one of the easiest yet overlooked day trips from Brussels. Known for being an amalgamation of the past and the present, it is a charming city home to heaps of history and modern developments. With plenty to see and do, you can easily spend a day appreciating its music, theatre, street art and mediaeval architecture. 

When visiting Ghent, spend some time exploring its historic centre on foot, uncovering picturesque alleys, gabled houses, and characteristic churches. The St. Bavo’s Cathedral housing the famous Ghent Altarpiece by Jan Van Eyck is definitely a must on any Ghent itinerary. If you are keen on incredible views, you can even make your way to the top and get a glimpse of the many canals and quaint pathways that make Ghent so alluring.

Moving further along, the 91 metre tall Belfry of Ghent is unmissable. You can tour the museum inside, experience the hourly music wheel in action, or directly take the elevator up to the roof. Being the tallest Belfry in all of Belgium, the 360 degree view from there is well worth the price. The Ghent City Hall situated in the same vicinity is also a nice stop before making your way to the canal banks.

Once near the waterfront, you can experience a young and vibrant Ghent with heaps of students sitting on either side of the Leie River. Known as Graslei and Korenlei, the two quays of Ghent are cultural hotspots of the city with many restaurants, café patios, and other dining options. You can take a stroll along the water’s edge, or sit out and enjoy the view. The enticing St. Michael’s Bridge connecting the two quays is perfect for pictures.

Finally, end your day trip by going on a canal tour from the port near St. Michael’s Bridge. On your boat ride, you will come across the splendid Gravesteen, a 12 th century mediaeval castle, which once served as the home of the Count of Flanders. You can also tour the Gravesteen castle first and then take a boat tour at sunset. 

CG’s tip: While many people combine Bruges and Ghent in one day trip, I would recommend giving them at least a day each. Although it is technically possible to see some of the major highlights of both in just one day, it doesn’t do justice to either of the cities and you will feel super rushed. But, if you are short on time, then this Bruges and Ghent full-day tour has great reviews.

Distance from Brussels: 55 kilometres (34 miles) approximately.

Getting to Ghent from Brussels: Several direct trains run between Brussels and Ghent within an hour, reaching in roughly 40 minutes. You can also drive to Ghent yourself or book a guided tour from Brussels.

Recommended Tour: Full-day Brussels to Ghent Guided Tour

Recommended by Dymphe from Dymabroad

Another popular day trip from Brussels is one to the city of Antwerp. It is the second largest city in the country and you can find it in the Flanders region. With many historical sites under its belt and an array of diamond dealers and fashion houses, there is plenty to keep you occupied for a day’s time.

When in Antwerp, begin your time by visiting the many interesting museums in the city and learning about its rich culture. The Museum aan de Stroom, located along the river, covers a variety of aspects of the city and is a great place to get your bearings in. The Rubens House, showcasing the incredible works of the famous artist Peter Paul Rubens, in his former home, is worth visiting too.

Next, make your way to the Grote Markt, a town square located in the heart of Antwerp, to admire the beautiful architecture of the City Hall and Brabo Fountain. The Cathedral of Our Lady, dominating the skyline of the city with its Renaissance design and Gothic elements, is also worth noticing.

Another great activity to partake in Antwerp is to visit the Chocolate Nation. Being the largest Belgian chocolate museum in the world, it is a wonderful place to take a tour and learn about all things Belgian chocolate. The best part is that you will get to taste 10 different flavours of chocolate when there.

After being on foot for the majority of the day, head to Park Spoor Noord for some relaxation. Built on a former railway track, it is an urban park housing numerous restaurants and walking trails. Lastly, end your day by walking underneath St. Anna’s Tunnel, a historic pedestrian and bicycle tunnel below the Scheldt river.

Getting to Antwerp from Brussels: From Brussels, it takes about 45 minutes to get to Antwerp by train . You can also rent a car in Brussels and drive yourself, the journey time is roughly one hour by road.

Recommend Tour: Antwerp Day Trip from Brussels

4. Leuven 

Recommended by Megan from Wander Toes

A university city in Belgium, Leuven has an energetic vibe and decreased crowds (even in the traditionally busy season), making it an excellent day trip from Brussels. It is located just 29 km west of Brussels, so it is a quick and easy trip between the cities.  

A day in Leuven consists of world renown architecture, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, weekly markets, and a rich beer brewing history. The city’s top landmarks are within easy walking distance of each other, as well as the train station, making it convenient to see the highlights in a day’s time. Begin your trip by heading to Grote Markt, a central square located only a 10-minute walk from the train station.

Once there, you can visit the St. Peter’s Church with its soaring interior, ornately carved pulpit, and museum within the chancel and ambulatory. The world-famous Town Hall with lace-like Gothic architecture and 236 exterior statues is also located within the same area. Oude Markt, nicknamed the “longest bar in the world” because of the 40-ish bars lining the square, is also worth checking out.

Next, walking a bit farther will bring you to Leuven’s Groot Begijnhof, one of the largest remaining beguinages in the Low Countries. This ‘town within a town’ has been beautifully restored and now houses the KU University. You can stroll its paths and linger on the bridges over the two canals. 

Finally, be sure to tour KU University Library to learn its heart-wrenching WWII history before heading back. For more details, check out this guide to plan your day trip to Leuven .

Distance from Brussels: 29 kilometres (18 miles) approximately.

Getting to Leuven from Brussels: Although you can easily rent a car and drive to Leuven from Brussels, the cost and distance for car parking in Leuven may not be worth it. There are frequent direct trains between the two cities many times per hour, making it the most convenient and cost-effective method. You can reach Leuven in under 30 minutes. 

Recommend Tour: Private Day Trip from Brussels to Leuven

Recommended by Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Namur, the capital of the Wallonia region in Belgium, is another wonderful destination for a day trip from Brussels. Home to quaint alleyways boosting historic landmarks, great restaurants, and boutique chocolate shops, it is a charming city to walk around and explore on foot.

There are plenty of things to do in Namur in one day, starting with a visit to the Citadel which overlooks the city. A few years ago a new cable car connecting the centre of the city with the top of the Citadel was opened, which makes getting up there so much more fun. You can get beautiful views over the city whilst slowly climbing up in the cable car. Alternatively, you can also walk up to the Citadel if you prefer doing a bit of a hike. 

One of the most interesting tours you can do at the Citadel in Namur is exploring the underground tunnels with a guide. The visit is interactive, as well as a good history lesson in which you will learn more about the defence system of the Citadel and how different conquerors improved it. 

The Felicien Rops Museum, housing some of the famous works by the artist is another place worth checking out. In fact, the giant golden turtle from the Citadel is a tribute to the artist as well. Created by Jan Fabre, the turtle is supposed to be carrying the Belgian artist on its back. 

Distance from Brussels: 71 kilometres (44 miles) approximately.

Getting to Namur from Brussels: Getting to Namur from Brussels is very easy, with hourly trains that connect the two cities in just over one hour. You can also rent a car and drive there yourself, or book a guided day-tour.

Recommended Tour: Private 8-hour Tour to Namur with Hotel Pick up

Recommended by Jackie from Jou Jou Travels

Dinant is a beautiful, and under-the-radar town waiting to be discovered in Belgium. It is also located in the Wallonia region of the country and is an easy day trip from Brussels.

Dinant is famous for the saxophone as this is where the inventor Adolphe Sax was born. In the city centre, you will find the Charles de Gaulle Saxophone Bridge which was built in honour of Adolphe, but named after Charles de Gaulle after he suffered a wound here during the war. The bridge showcases 28 saxophones each dedicated to a different country in Europe. You will also find a tiny free Saxophone Museum where you can learn more about the wonderful inventor of this iconic instrument. 

The city of Dinant was sadly a war zone, being the gateway of protection preventing the Germans from crossing the Meuse River to invade France. This is why you will find the towering Citadel soaring high into the sky. You can take a cable car up and see the incredible views of the city as well as learn about the history behind this charming town. You can also take the 408 steps down if you’d like to soak in more views. The cost to enter the Citadel is 11 Euros. 

The beautiful Gothic Cathedral known as the Notre Dame Cathedral is also part of the postcard-perfect backdrop of any photo you will find of Dinant. It is free to enter and the interiors are stunning to see. For more things to do in this wonderful town, read about Dinant in Belgium here.

Distance from Brussels: 98 kilometres (61 miles) approximately. 

Getting to Dinant from Brussels: There are several direct trains connecting Brussels and Dinant daily. You can head to Bruxelles Midi train station and reach Dinant in just two hours. Alternatively, driving is also an option, with the journey taking roughly an hour. You can also book a guided tour to Dinant and have them take care of the transport.

Recommended Tour: Private Day Tour to Wallonia from Brussels in a Limo

7. The Belgian Coast

Recommended by Natali from She’s Abroad Again

Did you know there are approximately 65 kilometres of white, sandy beaches along the Belgian coast? Yes, Belgium might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think about beach destinations. Yet, on a hot summer day, a day trip to the Belgian coast is a perfect way to escape the heat in the capital.

Once you reach the Belgian coast, you can spend the day swimming and enjoying the beach if the ocean is not too cold. Otherwise, for an active day in true Belgian style, you can rent a bike to explore the coast. The ride is exceedingly scenic, and you will love the nature and the sand dunes along the way. Make sure to stop for some pictures!

Alternatively, you can also take the iconic coastal tram along the coastline to Oostende. The Belgian coastal tram connects Knokke and De Panne, and is the longest (operational) tram line in the world. You can hop on, sit back and enjoy the scenic ride as you pass multiple towns. It is the perfect way to explore the area as you can also jump off the train at any of the 68 stops whenever you see something you like.

Distance from Brussels to De Panne: 142 kilometres (88 miles) approximately.

Getting to the Belgian coast from Brussels : To reach the Belgian coast, take a train from Brussels to either Knokke or De Panne . These two coastal towns are located on opposite sides of the coastline. A train from Brussel to Knokke takes about an hour and 20 minutes, while the one to De Panne takes 2 hours. 

Recommended Tour: Private 2 hour Ostend Walking Tour

8. Hallerbos

Recommended by Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers

If you get a bit tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, there is a great forest near Brussels that you can visit called Hallerbos. It’s only 20 kilometres from the centre of Brussels, on the outskirts of the city of Halle, but you’ll be in another world altogether. The surroundings are serene and quiet and occasionally you can spot a deer or a wild rabbit too.

Hallerbos is a year-round local touristic destination, but it gets more attention around May, especially internationally. This is because, come spring, thousands of Bluebells start blooming all over the forest, making it all the more alluring. The terrain turns completely purple and walking around the forest becomes a magical experience. People from all over the world visit the Hallerbos in spring to enjoy this natural spectacle.

You probably won’t get a full day trip out of visiting the Hallerbos since it’s very close to Brussels. So a fun thing to do, before or after visiting the forest, is to take a tour at a local farm brewery called Brouwerij Boon. They offer tours of the premises on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, which costs €12 per person. It also includes a beer tasting! 

You can also stop at ‘t Kriekske to have a drink or a bite after your walk. It is an enjoyable place offering typical Belgian cuisine and a large terrace.

Distance from Brussels: 20 kilometres (13 miles) approximately.

Getting to Hallerbos from Brussels: From Brussels, there is no public transport to the forest so you’ll have to take a taxi or rent a car . The most convenient place to park near the forest is at a restaurant called ‘t Kriekske. There’s a parking space next to it and the road into the forest starts there.

Currency: Euro 

Recommended by Ella from Many More Maps

If you’re a history buff, there’s no better day trip from Brussels than Ypres (which is also called Ieper). The original city of Ypres was almost completely decimated in WW1, and it was in the fields surrounding the city where a big bulk of the fighting took place. Today, the town and its landmarks such as the stunning Town Hall, have been completely restored and are worth seeing.

There are many interesting things to do in Ypres , but if you’re only able to visit on a day trip, you’ll have to limit yourself to the city’s very best attractions. The In Flanders Fields Museum documents the experiences of the soldiers who fought in the area during WW1. 

Unlike the norm, this museum focuses on the people involved in the war at Ypres, rather than conventional military strategy. There’s also a huge attention on the physical and mental toll that the war took on the soldiers and inhabitants of Ypres, and you’re sure to learn a lot whilst visiting.

Another must-see place in Ypres is the Menin Gate, a huge white archway which is inscribed with the names of over 54,000 soldiers who went missing during the war, and whose remains were never located. To get the most of the Menin Gate, stay in Ypres until the evening to see the Last Post Memorial ceremony. It takes place every night at 8 pm and is truly touching.

Distance from Brussels: 124 kilometres (77 miles) approximately. 

Getting to Ypres from Brussels: From Brussel-Centraal station, you can catch a direct train to Ypres , which takes around 1 hour and 54 minutes to get there. Alternatively, you can also rent a car and drive there, or book a guided tour that takes care of everything.

Recommended Tour: Flanders Battlefields Tour from Brussels

10. Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the picturesque capital city of the Netherlands, is another wonderful day trip from Brussels. Due to the close proximity of the Netherlands with Belgium, you can easily hop onto the other side of the border in just a few hours and witness the major touristic landmarks in the City of Canals. 

Once there, begin your trip by heading to Damrak, a beautiful area known for its historic crooked houses along the Damrak canal. Also known as the Dancing Houses of Damrak, these stunning homes are an iconic symbol of the city and only a few minutes away from the Amsterdam Central station. You can stop there for a picture or two on your way to the Dam Square.

Dam Square or the Dam is the main square housing the Royal Palace of Amsterdam , the National Monument, Madame Tussauds Museum and the New Church. You can visit any of these landmarks from inside or aboard a tram to continue onto the Rijksmuseum, showcasing millions of artworks. Being one of the more popular places in Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum gets incredibly busy so make sure to purchase your tickets online from before.

Another landmark that you should also book the tickets in advance for is Ann Frank’s house . Known for being the diarist’s home during the Holocaust, you can tour the interiors shedding a light on everything that people went through via quotes, photos, films, her original diary and many other items. Just keep in mind that tickets are not sold on site and there usually is a big queue to enter.

Other notable sites to visit in Amsterdam are the Van Gogh and Rembrandt House museums. Depending on your interest, you can experience these from inside or head to the famous Heineken Experience directly before ending the day admiring the canals at sunset. Keizersgracht, Oudezijds Voorburgwal, Prinsengracht, and Brouwersgracht are amongst some of the most Instagrammable canals in Amsterdam.

Distance from Brussels: 209 kilometres (130 miles) approximately. 

Getting to Amsterdam from Brussels: The fastest way to get to Amsterdam from Brussels is via train . Multiple high speed trains such as the Eurostar and the Thalys run daily between the two cities. You can reach Amsterdam in about two to two and a half hours depending on the train you book. Otherwise, renting a car and covering the distance by road is also possible.

Recommended Tour: Full day trip to Amsterdam from Brussels

11. Rotterdam

Recommended by Kerry from VeggTravel

Another best day trip from Brussels to the Netherlands is to visit the trendy industrial town of Rotterdam. It is a major port city of South Holland and a thriving logistics and economic centre. As such there are many things to do in the city and plenty of unique and interesting architecture to discover. 

Firstly, visit the iconic cube houses, designed with the vision of ‘living as an urban roof’. You can admire the structure from the outside or delve into the history and style by visiting the museum. Another interesting and practical place to visit is the vibrant market hall. This unique dome-like structure has a beautifully decorated roof that overlooks a bustling market, restaurant and bar facility. 

Finally, understand more about Rotterdam’s culture and history at the Maritime Museum . The walk along the canal will whet your appetite for seeing more of the old boats and structures that you will find within. Whether you’re an art-buff or just intrigued by modern exhibits, Rotterdam makes a great day out from Brussels.

Distance from Brussels: 151 kilometres (94 miles) approximately.

Getting to Rotterdam from Brussels: The easiest way to get to Rotterdam is to drive as it is only approximately 100 miles away and will take about 1 hour 45 minutes. Other alternatives are trains or buses which both run frequently and take a similar length of time, but without the hassle of finding somewhere to park!  

Recommended Tour: Rotterdam Highlights 2.5 Hour Bike Tour

12. Utrecht 

Recommended by Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue

Utrecht is a small college town in the Netherlands with a rich history and mediaeval heritage. Dubbed Europe’s most beautiful canal city, this relaxed destination is a wonderful idea for an unforgettable day trip from Brussels.

Start your time in Utrecht by heading over to Dom Tower, the highest mediaeval church tower in the Netherlands. There are 465 steps to get to the top, but don’t let the climb discourage you from going. The panoramic view of the city from there is rewarding, so is the famous bell play that you don’t want to miss when visiting.

Another iconic site in Utrecht is St. Martin’s Cathedral, next to Dom Tower. You can spend some time marvelling at its stained glass windows and majestic Gothic architecture, followed by a stroll in the secluded courtyard to enjoy a sunny afternoon.  

Being a quaint town, Utrecht is a perfect place to unwind and simply enjoy the day with a beer in your hand. Grab a terrace seat in one of the bars along the canal, or visit the popular underground church converted into a beer restaurant. The offerings for a relaxing day trip are nearly limitless in Utrecht.

Utrecht is an excellent low-key destination for day trippers from Brussels who want to stay away from busy cities with a load of tourists. And fortunately for you, one day is just enough to explore this historic city and its beautiful canals.

Distance from Brussels: 180 kilometres (112 miles) approximately. 

Getting to Utrecht from Brussels: Thanks to an excellent train system, it is not difficult to travel to Utrecht. Take a train from Brussels to Rotterdam, then transfer to a Dutch intercity train to Utrecht. The entire journey takes 2 and a half hours or less. You can check prices here .

Recommended Tour: Utrecht Walking Tour

13. Maastricht

Recommended by Zoe from Together in Transit

If you are looking for more beautiful day trips to the Netherlands from Belgium, make your way to Maastricht. This gorgeous southern Dutch city is the capital of the Limburg province in the country. 

Upon arrival, you can get acquainted with Maastricht by joining a local walking tour through the city centre, Binnenstad. It’s one of the many popular things to do in Maastricht to learn more about the city. There are lots of historical points to see and admire in Binnenstad, such as the old castle walls and fortifications. 

Afterwards you can also go on a tour of the underground caves of Maastricht. This tour will take you deep into where the famous Rembrandt’s Night Watch painting was kept hidden during the war. Make sure to have a warm jumper with you when visiting here, even if it is during summer. The underground can be really cold.

Once done with the tours, spend some time in the city centre of Maastricht to get a feel of the city. With heaps of unique boutiques and cosy restaurants, you can walk around or sit back and dine as you people watch. Depending on the weather, you can choose to go for an indoor or outdoor seating.

Being a car free zone filled with cobblestone streets, the city centre of Maastricht is a very pleasant area to explore by foot. If you fancy a coffee and a delicious piece of a Limburg’s vlaai to keep you going, visit the Bisschopsmolen bakery for the best options. 

Distance from Brussels: 125 kilometres (77 miles) approximately.

Getting to Maastricht from Brussels: From Brussels, it takes only 1 hour and 40 minutes to get to Maastricht by train . You can also rent a car and drive there, the journey is usually quicker with an average time of only 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Recommended Tour: Self Guided Tour of Maastricht with an Interactive Game

14. Luxembourg

Recommended by Tjasa from The Travel Momento

The only remaining Grand Duchy in the world, Luxembourg is a small yet incredibly diverse country near Belgium. Being a destination of compact size, it can be easily seen in a day’s time. You can make the most out of your one day in Luxembourg by exploring the city on foot. 

From the train station, it is a 15-minute walk to the city centre where you can find the majority of the most known sights of Luxembourg. Once there, spend your time touring the Palace of the Grand Duke and admiring the gothic Notre Dame Cathedral . The Luxembourg City Museum and The National Museum of Art and History are also interesting places if you feel like diving into the local history.

Afterwards, take a stroll in the beautiful gardens at the Place de la Constitution and spend your afternoon shopping around Place d’Armes at leisure. The hilly structure of Luxembourg separates the city centre into two parts: upper city centre or Haute Ville described above and the lower city centre, also known as the Grund.

For panoramic views of Luxembourg City, make your way to the 17 th century Chemin de la Corniche, a beautiful walkway overlooking the Alzette valley. There are several medieval fortifications around it, and the view makes it a beautiful spot to take some pictures to remember your day trip by.

After hours of getting lost in small cobblestone streets and admiring the city from the top, finish the day by visiting local restaurants. Some Luxembourgish food to try includes Gromperekichelcher (potato fritters) and Stäerzelen (dumplings). For drinks, the traditional sparkling wine, Crémant, or one of the time-honoured Luxembourgish beers is good too. 

Distance from Brussels: 198 kilometres (123 miles) approximately. 

Getting to Luxembourg from Brussels: Only 3 hours from Brussels, you can easily reach Luxembourg by a bus , scenic train ride or rental car . Another popular option to get there is to book an organised tour . Just plan for an early departure so that you can make the most of your day trip to Luxembourg.

Recommended Tour: Guided City Tour with Wine Tasting

Recommended by Alex and Leah from Alex and Leah on Tour

Located close to the border with Belgium in northern France, Lille is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. Being an important cultural and commercial hub, as well as a historical centre, it is a great place to visit from Brussels on a day trip. 

There is plenty to see and do in Lille, but it is best to start your visit in the beautiful city centre. Reminiscent of Lille’s historical past, the buildings in the main square are truly breath-taking. Make sure to spend some time ambling around, admiring the stunning French and Flemish architecture. The compact size of the city makes it ideal for aimlessly exploring on foot.

If you are an art fanatic, make your way to the Palace of the Fine Arts (also known as Palais des Beaux-Arts), a municipal museum housing one of the largest art collections in the country. Depending on your interest and the amount of time you have to spare, you can opt to choose the walking trail of your tour accordingly. Just keep in mind that it remains closed on Tuesdays.

Once done, resume your walking tour of Lille and head to the picturesque streets of Vieux Lille to marvel at the interior of the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Treille, also known as Lille Cathedral. Next, to get a unique perspective of Lille, head straight to the Belfry tower and climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. 

Lille is also a great destination to visit for some shopping. Streets such as Rue de la Clef, Rue Masurel, Rue de la Grande Chaussée and Rue Basse in Old Lille have everything from luxury brands to antique shops. If you would prefer a closed space, the Westfield Euralille is a great alternative.

Finally, end your day by taking a stroll along the Canal de la Moyenne-Deule, or sit back for a picnic and watch the world go by. It is a beautiful area for relaxation. 

Distance from Brussels: 111 kilometres (69 miles) approximately. 

Getting to Lille from Brussels: Lille is extremely accessible from Brussels by both car and train. The latter is incredibly easy as the Bruxelles Midi train station has a direct line to both Gare de Lille and Lille Flandres. The journey costs around €20 and takes 1 hour and 10 minutes to get there on average.

Recommended Tour: 2 hour Guided Lille City Centre Tour

Although a day’s time is not enough to fully soak in the magic of the City of Love, it is still worth making the trip from Brussels to Paris if that is all you have. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame and the Louvre, the capital city of France has no dearth of places to see. If you leave early, you can still explore plenty in just a day. 

Start your trip with a visit to Notre-Dame de Paris, one of the most famous Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages. Though it is not possible to admire the interiors of this Parisian symbol due to the ongoing reconstruction until 2024, just being able to stand beneath it to marvel at the architecture is reason enough for a quick stop. The construction of Notre-Dame Cathedral took nearly 200 years to complete.

Next, make your way to the nearby Louvre, the most famous art museum in the country housing the Mona Lisa. You can book your tickets in advance and visit the important parts of the museum in a couple of hours or simply take pictures with the pyramid from outside. While you are in the area, you can also grab yourself a seat in one of the restaurants overlooking the Louvre and eat with a view. 

Once done, head towards Champs-Élysées to visit the Arc de Triomphe in all its glory. Being an historic landmark honouring all those who lost their lives during the French Revolution, it is one of the must-see spots in Paris. Besides, the architecture is striking and you can even climb the 284 steps to the top for an unmissable view.

Since no trip to the French capital can be complete without seeing the majestic Eiffel Tower, head to Trocadero for stunning views of the symbol of Paris. Located right across the Eiffel Tower, this free-to-visit platform is an ideal spot to take Instagrammable Eiffel Tower pictures. Later on, make your way down to the tower to see it up close, or purchase a ticket in advance to get a direct elevator access to the top. The view is seriously amazing!

Lastly, end your day with a cruise on the Seine. Starting at the Eiffel Tower, this one hour ride will take you past some of the most spectacular landmarks in Paris such as the Louvre, The Grand Palais, Musée d’Orsay, and Notre Dame Cathedral. There is even a bar onboard, so you can enjoy some refreshments as you sail beneath iconic bridges of the city like Pont de Bir-Hakeim, before ending at the Eiffel Tower.

Distance from Brussels: 312 kilometres (194 miles) approximately. 

Getting to Paris from Brussels: There are multiple fast trains between Paris and Brussels every day, taking less than 2 hours. Driving is also an option, but it will take you nearly 3 hours and 30 minutes to get there, so it is best to take a train. Just book your tickets in advance as the fares can go up quickly. 

Recommended Tour: Seine River Hop-on Hop-off Tour

While a little further away from Brussels than some of the other recommendations in this post, London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is still easy to reach because of the Eurostar. Boosting a plethora of world-renowned sights and museums, it is a destination with so much to offer that no amount of time is enough to see them all. 

But, if you leave early in the morning from Brussels, then a day is still plenty to see the highlights of London on a packed itinerary. Upon reaching St. Pancras Station, the Eurostar terminal in London, take a moment to admire its Victorian Gothic architecture from outside. It is one of the most iconic stations in the world and you will quickly realise why once there.

Next, connect to King’s Cross Station and take a tube to Buckingham Palace to watch the famous Changing of the Guards. Starting at 10:45 am, it is a free ceremony that lasts for 45 minutes and takes place right outside Buckingham Palace. Once done, make your way to the Waterloo Station to visit two of the most famed landmarks of London: The London Eye and Big Ben.

Providing incomparable views of the city of London, the 30-minute London Eye ride will give you an ever-changing perspective of your surroundings as it rotates. There are both standard and fast track tickets available, so you can book whichever suits you best online and save time on the day. 

Big Ben, the most famous chiming clock in the world, is also nearby. You can walk up to it and do a free tour of the bell tower as it chimes or simply admire the exterior from the Westminster Bridge. There are many picture spots in this area and you are sure to even spot the classic red buses of London when there.

After being on your feet for the majority of the day, make your way to Borough market and fuel up on local and international delicacies. Dating back to at least the 12 th century, it is one of the largest food markets in the city. The Tower of London, a historic castle in the middle of the city, is also unmissable. You can stop outside to take some pictures of it by the Thames or go on a tour if you have time.

Lastly, end your day with a walk on the nearby Tower Bridge, the most beautiful bridge in London. There are several viewpoints to admire on either side of the river as well as many restaurants.

CG’s tip: If you are in Belgium on a Schengen visa, make sure to check whether you need an applicable visa for the UK to do this day trip from Brussels here. 

Distance from Brussels: 377 kilometres (234 miles) approximately. 

Getting to London from Brussels: The fastest way to get to London from Brussels is by taking a Eurostar high-speed train . There are also other trains available between the two cities, but you can reach in just 2 hours with the Eurostar.

Recommended Tour: Afternoon Tea Cruise on the River Thames

Currency: Pound Sterling

Final Thoughts

That’s a wrap on the best day trips from Brussels from me! I hope reading this post gave you tons of ideas about where else to go when visiting the Belgian capital. There really is so much to see near Brussels.

In case you have any questions or a suggestion to add, please do not hesitate to leave a comment below or reach out to me via email or Instagram DM . I always love hearing from you and helping you out!

Happy day tripping, Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ Best Day Trips from Vienna, Austria ” and “ A Complete Bruges, Belgium Guide ” too.

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9 Best Day Trips from Brussels

As the capital of Belgium, the city of Brussels is a major hub for the country as well as the entire European Union. It would be easy to spend your entire city trip exploring what Brussels has to offer. Bustling outdoor markets, a stunning royal palace and more than a dozen fantastic museums set the scene, and a variety of breweries and shops ensure nonstop enjoyment.

While visiting Brussels, don’t forget to soak up the culture outside of the city. These day trips from Brussels throughout Belgium, as well as the neighboring countries, are a wonderful way to see Europe.

Map of day trips from Brussels

Located west of Brussels, Tournai has a unique history, and it includes a brief period of time when it was under British rule. Today, many visitors head to Tournai to see the magnificent cathedral. Make your way to the belfry in order to view the entire city center below.

Much of the architecture surrounding the cathedral is from the 12th and 13th century, so even a brief self-guided tour can be a wonderful medieval experience. The Museum of Fine Arts is vastly underrated and contains works by the likes of Rubens, Monet and Van Gogh.

Getting to Tournai

• As direct trains run to Tournai every hour, it is very simple to get there by public transport; you can take a train from any one of the city’s main stations, which are Brussels Midi, Brussels Central, and Brussels North. All in all, it should take you an hour, and once you arrive, it’s just a 15-minute walk to the center.
• Driving takes almost the same amount of time. To get there, you want to head south out of Brussels on the E19 before taking the E429 west. Turn off at exit 34; from there, it’s just a short distance to the center of Tournai. Due to its proximity to Lille in neighboring France, it is well worth visiting both cities in one day if you have the time.

8. Waterloo Battlefield

Even if you’re not a serious history buff, you’ve probably heard of the Battle of Waterloo. It was at this historic site that Napoleon lost his final battle against the Duke of Wellington. You can visit the exact site of this epic defeat from 1815 today. The spot is marked clearly with an artificial hill and known as the Lion’s Mound.

Climb the steps to the top of the mound itself, admire the lion sculpture and take in the 360 degree views of the entire battlefield. Re-enactments are usually held on the weekend nearest the battle’s anniversary (18 June).

Getting to Waterloo

• Located just 30 km (20 miles) south of Brussels, the interesting historic site is very easy to get to by public transport, and trains depart every hour from the city center. Just hop on a train and alight at Braine-l’Alleud station 20 minutes later. From here, you can either walk half-an-hour to the battlefield or take a ten-minute bus ride on line W.
• It is also straightforward to drive to Waterloo Battlefields. This means you can easily visit another couple of places by car, such as the African Museum in Tervuren and the beautiful bluebells in Halle forest (depending on the season). Alternatively, you could stop off and hike in the lovely Foret de Soignes. To get to the battlefields from Brussels, drive east out of the city and pick up the ring road heading south to Waterloo. Once you get there, you’ll see signs pointing you to the visitor’s center and the distinctive Lion’s Mound.
• If you want to learn all there is to know about the battlefields and how Napoleon came to be defeated, you may want to take a guided tour to Waterloo. With an expert guide on hand, you’ll visit lots of interesting sights and memorials, as well as hideouts where each side prepared their battle strategies.

7. Amsterdam

The Dutch capital is a fascinating city with incredible scenic beauty. Nicknamed Venice of the North, Amsterdam boasts lots of canals that provide waterfront views from throughout the city. If you’re just there for the day, spend it in the medieval city center.

This part of Amsterdam is home to the 17th century Royal Palace as well as the former home of painter Rembrandt van Rijn. Don’t miss the slightly touristy but undeniably beautiful floating flower market that takes place every day on the waters of the Singel Canal.

Getting to Amsterdam

• From Brussels Midi, direct Thalys trains and Eurostars run between the two cities and the journey usually takes around two to two and a half hours in total. Once you arrive at Amsterdam Central Station, you’ll find most of the city’s main sights are just a short walk away.
• To make the most of your time in Amsterdam, it is not a bad idea to take a guided tour from Brussels, as this will take you around all the main sights without you having to worry about finding your way around. After a scenic drive through beautiful countryside, you’ll visit a crafts center in the Netherlands to learn about Dutch cheeses, clogs, and pottery before exploring what the center of Amsterdam has to offer up.

Dinant is located on the banks of the River Meuse in the French speaking region of Wallonia, and its main attraction is the striking Citadel of Dinant. The citadel was constructed in the 19th century on the cliffs overlooking the river, and it provides sweeping views of the landscape below.

To reach the Citadel of Dinant, you need to climb several hundred steps carved into the cliffs or take a cable car. Once you’re there, take the time to view the attached museum, which boasts medieval arms as well as interesting art from the region.

Getting to Dinant

• Direct trains run between Dinant and Brussels every hour, and on the way, you’ll pass through some lovely countryside. The journey takes about 90 mintues, and the train station is located right next to the center of Dinant. After seeing Dinant, you could take a train to nearby Namur before heading back to Brussels.
• Driving to Dinant is just as easy as taking public transport. All you have to do is head south out of Brussels and hop on the A4 which will take you almost all the way there. After an hour, turn off onto the N97 and follow it the last short stretch until you reach the town center. It takes about an hour and 15 minutes to drive the 100 kilometers there, and you can visit Namur on the way back to Brussels.
• Another option is to take a guided tour that not only takes you to see Dinant but also to visit Luxembourg City. This is a lovely way to see two very different places in one day. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the interesting sights on show in Luxembourg City, such as the Royal Palace of the Grand Duke and the European Court of Justice. Tours culminate in a visit to charming Dinant, where you will stop by the impressive 13th-century cathedral.

A short 45-minute train ride or car journey north of Brussels takes you to Antwerp, a city known as the hub of trade and economy in Belgium. Antwerp is a place with a thriving fashion industry and a major diamond trade, but there are plenty of culture attractions as well.

If you’re an art fan, make time to see the Rubenshuis, where Baroque painter Rubens once lived, as well as the Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten, or fine arts museum. If you’re in the market for souvenirs, the Meir is one of the busiest shopping destinations in all of Belgium.

Getting to Antwerp

• As it is just 45 minutes away by train, Antwerp is very easy to get to by public transport. Simply hop on a train in Brussels and alight at Antwerp Central Station – one of the most beautiful in Europe. Once there, it is just a short walk into the center of town.
• To make the most of your time in Antwerp, you may want to consider taking a guided tour; this will take you around all the main sights such as its stunning cathedral and wonderful Market Square. With a knowledgeable guide to assist you, you’ll come away with a greater understanding and appreciation for this fantastic city and its interesting medieval history.

4. Maastricht

Due east of Brussels is the Dutch province of Limburg , where you’ll be able to explore the city of Maastricht. The city is a true melting pot, thanks to its location just a few miles from both Germany and Belgium. Strolling around Maastricht , be sure to check out the two major plazas: The Markt and the Vrijthof.

In addition to the historic architecture and the world-class museums, you might be intrigued by the Saint Pietersberg Caves. These caves were dug as shelters is centuries past, and during the Second World War famed artwork was stored underground in them for safekeeping.

Getting to Maastricht

• Due to Belgium’s small size and fantastic transport links, it is very easy to cross the border and visit Maastricht in the Netherlands. While the train journey does involve one change, it will still only take you about an hour and 40 minutes in total. Just hop on a train to Liege from Brussels; once there, take a half hour train to Maastricht. From the train station, it is then a short walk to the city, and you cross over the lovely river Meuse on the way.
• Another option is to drive to Maastricht. This should take you an hour and a half depending on traffic. Just head east out of Brussels and take the E40 until the outskirts of Liege, where you then hop on the E25 heading north across the border to Maastricht. On the way back, it is well worth stopping off to see the impressive modern train station in Liege and the beautiful university town of Leuven.

3. Luxembourg City

Just two hours of driving southeast of Brussels will bring you across the border into Luxembourg. The capital, Luxembourg City, is divided into different districts. If you’re interested in medieval architecture, most of it will be concentrated in the High City, or Ville Haute.

Be sure to check out the Bock, a series of natural fortifications constructed in the 10th century that still stand and were designed to protect the city from invasion. For something a little more modern, the contemporary Musée d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean, known to locals at MUDAM, is packed with modern art.

Getting to Luxembourg City

• While it does take three to three and a half hours to get to Luxembourg City by public transport from Brussels, this still leaves you enough time to explore the small yet beautiful city center, so is a viable option if you don’t have a car. From any one of the three main stations in Brussels, take a train to Arlon, where you’ll have to change trains. You sometimes only have five to ten minutes to change trains, so make sure to gather up your things in preparation before alighting. From here, it is only a 20-minute train journey to Luxembourg City, and the center is then a 15-minute walk away.
• It is a lot quicker and easier to drive to Luxembourg City as it takes just two hours and 20 minutes. After heading south out of the center of Brussels, hop on the A4 and follow it after it turns into the E25. This will take you to the border with Luxembourg, where the road turns into the A6, which will take you to straight to Luxembourg City. On the way back to Brussels, you could stop by the small yet scenic Dinant or visit the impressive citadel in the city of Namur.
• If you don’t fancy driving or taking public transport there yourself, you could opt to take a guided tour to Luxembourg City. After taking a sightseeing trip to see interesting and varied sights such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the European Court of Justice, you’ll have free time to explore the city at your leisure. Tours also include a stop at the picturesque town of Dinant on the way home.

North of Brussels is Ghent, a city with a unique blend of history and modern sophistication. In the middle ages, Ghent was a major hub, and that influence is clear when walking through Ghent and admiring the architecture. Ghent is best known for the beautiful 15th century Ghent Altarpiece, or Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, painted by van Eyck.

Today, that marvelous piece of art is located in Sint-Baafskathedraal, or St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Canal cruises are also incredibly popular in Ghent, and a short one can be a fantastic way to see more of the city on a single day trip from Brussels.

Getting to Ghent

• Just 40 minutes away from Brussels by train, Ghent is very easy to get to, and trains depart very frequently during the day. At night, they leave less regularly, so you may find yourself with an hour wait when heading back to Brussels. From Gent-Sint-Pieters train station (Ghent’s main station), you can either walk the half hour to the city center or take tram number 2, which takes about 20 minutes.
• It takes roughly the same amount of time to get to Ghent from Brussels by car. Once you arrive, you’ll find that there are lots of car parks in the city center. Take the E40 heading northwest out of Brussels; after 40 minutes, turn off onto the E17 and follow signs to the city center. Due to its proximity to Bruges, you could always drive 20 minutes further to visit ‘the Venice of the North,’ as it is known, or even head east and check out Antwerp, which is about a 45-minute drive away.
• Lots of people who want to see as much of this beautiful part of Belgium as possible decide to take a guided tour which combines both a visit to Ghent and Bruges into one unforgettable day. With a knowledgeable guide on hand, you’ll get to explore both of the medieval cities. Highlights include a walk around Bruges’ ‘Lake of Love’ and Ghent’s Castle of the Counts of Flanders.

Located northwest of Brussels, Bruges is a picture-perfect town that looks like it could still be living in the past. Largely pedestrian, this is a city that is best explored on foot. Bruges is essentially surrounded by a circular canal, so it is easy to find your way around, and you’ll always be close to some water views. The central plaza, known as the Grote Markt, is home to the famous belfry. You can climb to its top, and be rewarded with amazing views, if you’re up for a climb of 366 steps.

Getting to Bruges

• To get to Bruges from Brussels by public transport is very easy, as direct trains run regularly between the two cities and take about an hour. You can take a train from any one of the three main stations in Brussels: Brussels North, Brussels Midi or Brussels Central. Once you arrive in Bruges, it is then a 15-minute walk to the center of the city; look for the towering belfry and slowly make your way there through the picturesque streets. If you take an early train to Bruges, it is possible to stop by beautiful Ghent on the way back to Brussels as they lie on the same train line.
• Driving to Bruges is also very simple; you simply need to hop on the E40 heading northwest, and this will take you all the way there. Turn off at exit 397 and follow the signs to the city center, parking the car before exploring scenic Bruges on foot. As it is only an hour to Bruges from Brussels, you can head further on to explore the Belgian coastal city of Ostend, which is only 20 minutes away – or stop by Ghent on the way back.
• If you are pressed for time and want to see both Bruges and Ghent in just one day, you may be better off taking a guided tour. These are a very fun and efficient way to see as many amazing sights as possible. Over the course of the day, your expert guide will take you to visit both the Chapel of the Holy Blood and St Bavo’s Cathedral; just two of the highlights which you can expect to see.

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14 Fun Day Trips from Brussels by Train

By Author Paulina

Posted on March 1, 2024

Here are exciting day trips from Brussels by train with my comprehensive list!

If you’re looking for things to do and places to go while in Brussels, you’ll be happy to know that getting around nearby areas is a breeze!

The capital is well-known for its efficient and extensive train network, and railway travel is convenient and eco-friendly. 

It’s the easiest way to get anywhere, including European cities like Paris, London, Amsterdam, and Cologne. 

That said, don’t fret about getting around as you plan activities and day trips from Brussels by train . 

In my list, I’ve put together helpful information for you so we can ensure you’ll have an easy and fantastic time as you travel Belgium ! 

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Belgium? Have a look at my other posts:

• Things To Do in Durbuy
• Unique Castles in Belgium
• Things To Do on Knokke Beach

Table of Contents

Top Resources to travel Belgium

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Best Day Trips from Brussels by Train – My top picks

• Luxembourg and Dinant from Brussels
• Antwerp Tour

• Buy train tickets with Omio . Take the train from Brussels South to Ghent St. Pieters and, for convenience, book tickets in advance. 
• Top activity: Enjoy the sights via a guided boat trip through the medieval city center of Ghent! 

Ready to see well-preserved medieval architecture and experience a vibrant cultural scene? 

Then Ghent is one of the places to visit in Belgium by train! 

Now a university town, it used to be a major medieval trading center known for its textile industry. 

• A stroll through Graslei and Korenlei, picturesque streets by the banks of the River Lys, is already one of the best day trips from Brussels! 
• See the famous “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb,” a 15th-century masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers, at St. Bavo’s Cathedral. 
• Into history like me? Check out the museum and exhibits at the city center’s medieval fortress of Gravensteen Castle. 

There’s so much history in Ghent, no matter where you look or go, and I enjoyed sightseeing and taking photos. 

It’s also one of those short trips from Brussels, and getting there can be as quick as thirty minutes! 

You can always decide beforehand where to stay in Ghent if you want to extend your stay in this lovely historical place! 

Check out Ghent tours now .

• Buy train tickets in advance . Trains bound for Bruges pass through all primary stations in Brussels (Brussels South, Brussels North, and Brussels Central), which means you can book beforehand for the station closest to you. 
• Top activity: Enjoy your Bruges day trip from Brussels on a guided biking tour and learn its history from a guide who’s lived there most of their life. 

If you’re a fan of medieval architecture, you’ll love UNESCO-listed Bruges with its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings. 

It’s one of the best day trips from Brussels by train if you want to escape into a fairy-tale city with picturesque canals and much more. 

• Home to the medieval bell tower Belfry with its carillon and 47 melodious bells—the other highlight for me is the stunning panoramic view of Bruges from the top!
• Visit the central square, Markt Square, with its colorful and historic guild houses. They are so unique and one of a kind, and they should be on your list of what to do in Bruges in 1 day !

It’s worth a long-term stay, and if you decide to do so, here’s where to stay in Bruges while you’re visiting. 

While we’re at it, you’ll want to take note of the best restaurants in Bruges because no trip is complete without trying out the local food!

Check out Bruges tours now .

• Buy train tickets upfront . From Brussels South, book an advance trip to Antwerpen Central, which takes less than an hour. 
• Top activity: Look: an Antwerp day trip from Brussels is all well and good, but do you want to see everything in a new light? Consider joining a private evening tour like I did! 

As far as day trips from Brussels by train are concerned, be sure you don’t leave out Belgium’s cultural and fashion capital! 

Antwerp is known as the “Cultural Capital of Europe” and was named so back in 1993, and it was apparent why during my trip. 

From when you arrive by train until you start walking around, there’s an old-world charm to everything, even with all the modernity! 

• The city is brimming with historical landmarks, and even Antwerpen Central is an architectural marvel on its own. 
• Home to the world’s top fashion academies, not to mention the famous Fashion Museum. 
• Make sure to visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its stunning architecture. It is also home to masterpieces by renowned Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. 
• Speaking of Rubens: if you’re interested in his art and life, a trip to Rubenshuis is a must—it’s his former residence and studio!
• Antwerp is known as the diamond district—I’ve never seen so many diamond stores in one place, specifically in Vestingstraat, Pelikaanstraat, and De Keyserlei. 

Antwerp is worth adding to your weekend trips from Brussels by train, and it was simply a delight walking around and enjoying the sights.

Check out Antwerp tours now .

• Buy train tickets here . This is one cheap day trip to Belgium and a quick one at less than forty minutes—book from Brussels to Leuven beforehand.
• Top activity: What about a self-guided walking tour to learn more about Leuven that you can do at your own pace if you’re doing more than just a one day trip from Brussels? 

Leuven is known as a university town thanks to the presence of the Catholic University of Leuven, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. 

What’s so interesting to me is how the university’s campus is spread across the city—this contributes a lot to the academic atmosphere! 

Founded in 1425, the renowned university, also known as KU Leuven , has significantly shaped European higher education. 

Day tours from Brussels are well worth it with places like M-Museum Leuven—we’re talking about another architectural gem housing other gems in visual arts. 

Look, when in Leuven, here’s another must-try that I recommend is getting a taste of the beer—try them where you can: traditional pubs, breweries, and contemporary beer pubs! 

Day trips from Belgium can be long and tiresome, so you’ll want to know where to stay in Brussels —there are the best ones I know!

Check out Leuven tours now .

5. Mechelen

• Get train tickets here . You can book advance tickets from Brussels South straight to Mechelen. The trip should take at most forty minutes, sometimes not even half an hour long. 
• Top activity: Spice up your visit with a self-guided escape tour —a city game you can play while sightseeing to find the secret exit of Mechelen! 

If you’re looking for more one day trips from Brussels to add to your itinerary, you must add Mechelen! 

Though it may not seem as prevalent, there’s a lot to see in the city, and just like the rest of Belgium, it has so much history. 

Walking around quaint streets surrounded by medieval architecture made me feel like I was at another time! 

St. Rumbold’s Cathedral is a must-see—it has the highest Gothic tower in all of Belgium, and the climb to the skywalk was so worth it for a view of the surrounding area. 

To really see and feel Mechelen’s way of life, you shouldn’t miss Grote Markt , the city’s central square: there are restaurants, bars, and shops, plus a canal boat ride won’t hurt! 

Whether you’re into them or not, visiting the Toy Museum was one of my best day trips from Brussels.

It was amazing to see so many toys from around the world, both past and present.

Check out Mechelen tours now .

• Get train tickets . Book an advance trip to Namur via Brussels South, lasting a little over an hour. 
• Top activity: Gamify your day trip from Brussels and explore popular attractions and hidden treasures through a city exploration game ! 

This was one of my more relaxing day trips from Brussels by train—Namur, the capital of Wallonia, isn’t crowded with tourists, unlike other towns!

It’s a great place to visit after enjoying traditional Belgian food in Brussels for a more laid-back sightseeing experience. 

• Don’t miss a visit to the Citadel: it has excellent picturesque viewpoints of Namur and is perfect for photos! I certainly took a lot. 
• If you’ve visited other cities and towns before going here, you’ll notice that St. Aubin’s Cathedral has a different architectural style—it’s the only cathedral in Belgium with a Late Baroque style. 
• After a long day, winding down in one of the parks that look out at the Meuse and Sambre Rivers or strolling down riverside paths right by it was relaxing. 

If you’re looking for other activities that will allow you to spend more time closer to nature, here are some of the best hiking trails near Brussels .

Check out Namur tours now .

• Buy train tickets upfront . Depending on which trip you book beforehand, you can either go straight to Dinant from Brussels-Luxembourg or take Brussels with a transfer to Namur. 
• Top activity: Add this to your list of day trips out of Brussels—a full day private tour so you can really enjoy this charming little town! 

Did you know that the saxophone inventor, Adolphe Sax, came from Dinant? Now you do! 

It’s worth visiting for the best day trip from Brussels because you enjoy historical sites while being close to nature. 

You can’t skip the Citadel of Dinant: the cliff-top fortress has a panoramic view of the town, a museum featuring its military history, and an Adolphe Sax exhibit. 

Dinant is home to the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame—this Gothic church is infamous for its distinct and impressive onion-shaped dome. 

From the citadel to the riverside, going on a cruise on the Meuse River really made me appreciate Dinant even more from another perspective, so it’s an activity worth considering! 

With the surrounding cliffs and the greenery in its way, I consider it one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium !

Check out Dinant tours now .

8. Waterloo

• Buy tickets with Omio . From Brussels South, book an advance ticket to Waterloo via Braine-l’Alleud station, which should take less than an hour! 
• Top activity: For Waterloo tours from Brussels, I recommend this educational and guided private battlegrounds tour so you can learn more about the area’s rich history. 

Well known for being the site of the famous Battle of Waterloo in 1815, this town should be among the items on your list of train trips from Brussels! 

If you visit at the right time of the year, aside from museums commemorating the battle, you may even be part of and witness commemorative events and reenactments. 

The Lion’s Mound monument is a must-see: the lion sculpture sits atop an artificial hill meant to commemorate the Prince of Orange. 

The exhibits at the Hougoumont Farm recounting the battle’s events are fascinating and provide much information about the end of the Napoleonic era. 

When in Waterloo, you can’t skip out on the Visitor Center—not only are there facilities for tourists, but there are even more comprehensive insights about the Battle of Waterloo and guided tours. 

Speaking of places that were battle sites or have a rich history relating to events that impacted the world, consider a Brussels to Ypres day trip.

• Check schedules here . Book a trip beforehand at Brussels Central to Tournai, either direct or with a transfer. The station is centrally located, making city exploration easy.  
• Top activity: The best way to get to know about the stories and legends of a city while exploring is through guided tours like this private one ! 

Considered an essential cultural site in Belgium and its oldest town, Tournai has a rich cultural heritage and a collection of artistic and architectural gems. 

It’s the birthplace of renowned French poet, Symbolist leader, and Decadent Paul Verlaine. 

Visit the uniquely shaped triangular Grand Place, a massive square that can be found in the middle of the city: it was the perfect place for me to relax, grab a bite to eat, and people-watch. 

Belgium is filled with architectural marvels, and the town’s version is the Romanesque and Gothic-inspired Tournai Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.  

Another UNESCO heritage site is the Belfry of Tournai, part of the Belfries of Belgium, with a fantastic view of the surrounding area once you reach the top!

This is another place that you’ll definitely want to include in your list of day trips from Brussels by train.

Check out Tournai tours now .

10. Luxembourg

• Check train schedules here . Book an advance ticket from Brussels South to Luxembourg with a transfer to Namur. 
• Top activity: If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Brussels, I personally recommend this guided tour so you can see all the highlights in Luxembourg in one day! 

Still looking for the best day trips from Brussels to other countries? 

It’s time to expand your trip to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg capital, my home country, with its medieval charm and modern architecture!

First on your list must be Grand Ducal Palace, home of the Grand Ducal family and a Renaissance architectural gem. 

If you’d like something different as far as adventures go, like me, don’t skip Bock Casemates: historical underground tunnels and fortifications carved into the city’s rocky cliffs. 

For a more laid-back visit, wind down and relax at the picturesque Grund District—it has a charming riverside view of the Alzette with quaint streets, cafes, and shops.

Check out Luxembourg tours now .

• Check schedules here . Book a ticket beforehand from Brussels South to Paris Gare du Nord for a less than two-hour trip. 
• Top activity: What about a relaxing one hour River Seine cruise to add to your day trips from Brussels to Paris? 

Who wouldn’t want a day trip from Paris to Brussels by train, considering it’s nearby?

I like making the most of my vacations, so a visit to the City of Lights when it’s accessible from Belgium? Big yes. 

Every visit to Paris is complete with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower, symbolic to France and one of the most well-known landmarks worldwide. 

While you’re there, dropping by the Louvre Museum is also a must for the Mona Lisa painting; I also went there to see the sculpture Venus de Milo and The Raft of the Medusa by Théodore Géricault.

Don’t forget to see the French Gothic architectural masterpiece, Notre-Dame Cathedral, located on the Île de la Cité, a small island in the Seine River. 

Paris has to have a place on your list of day trips from Brussels by train!

Check out Paris tours now .

12. Amsterdam

• Get train tickets here . The trip from Brussels South to Amsterdam Central can take anywhere from two to three hours, and, as always, it’s best to book in advance. 
• Top activity: Personally recommend and really enjoyed this interactive art experience featuring Da Vinci ! 

On top of the list of things Amsterdam is well known for include the picturesque canals, historic and beautiful architecture, not to mention the richness of its culture! 

• It was interesting to see the Secret Annex in the Anne Frank House, where she and her family hid during World War II—I learned so much during this visit than just insights into the lives of her family. 
• If you love art and history like me, part of your itinerary should be the Rijksmuseum, which showcases works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other renowned artists.
• If you want a taste of what Amsterdam is about regarding people and way of life, Dam Square was perfect for me: I saw the Royal Palace, National Monument, and the Nieuwe Kerk but also enjoyed street performers, shops, and cafes! 

Undoubtedly, for those reasons alone, you should consider an Amsterdam day trip from Brussels!

Check out Amsterdam tours now .

• Check train schedules here . Book from Brussels to Liege-Guillemins in advance, which should take about an hour. 
• Top activity: This should be on top of the list of your things to do in Liege —a first discovery walking tour focused on the most beautiful routes! 

It is one of the oldest cities in Belgium. If you’re into cultural events, festivals, and artistic exhibitions, then make sure to visit Liege!

What I love about this place is how there seems to be something happening all year round. 

One of the first places to see is the Prince-Bishops’ Palace with its mix of architectural styles, including Renaissance and Gothic. 

While in Liege, you also have to climb Montagne de Bueren for the city view—it was a must for me, though take note that the staircase is considered one of the steepest in the world. 

Don’t forget to visit the Liege Cathedral, also known as Saint Paul’s Cathedral, with its notable Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, as well as take a look at the religious artifacts and artworks within!

From the time you arrive at the impressive Liege-Guillemins station, you’ll know this will be one of the best day trips from Brussels by train you’ve ever taken!

Check out Liege tours now .

14. Cologne

• Buy train tickets with Omio . Take Brussels South and book a trip in advance for Cologne Central Station. 
• Top activity: If we’re talking about day trips from Brussels to Germany, I recommend an old town beer tour —you won’t regret it! 

Of course, we can’t forget another nearby city across the border: day trips from Brussels to Germany, specifically Cologne, should be on your list!

This German city, on the banks of the Rhine River, is home to iconic landmarks, a blend of modern and medieval architecture, not to mention a vibrant arts scene! 

The majestic Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom, is a Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seeing the twin spires in person was a fantastic sight, and so was the interior with its stained glass windows.

This makes for an exciting stroll: Hohenzollern Bridge provides a fantastic view of the city, the love locks on both sides are quite a sight!

Sweet tooth or otherwise, you’ll love the Chocolate Museum and learn a lot like I did: not only do they show modern production of this famous dessert, but the exhibits also go as far back as the Olmecs, Maya, and Aztecs about chocolate!

Check out Cologne tours now .

My thoughts on day trips from Brussels by train

An efficient and effective railway system makes it more accessible to explore neighboring cities and regions by train in Brussels. 

This has allowed me to see Belgium differently because each is just a train ride away! 

My trip to Brussels and beyond allowed me to understand the people more through their culture and history—with the bonus of enjoying Belgium’s natural wonders. 

What has helped me a lot when planning train journeys is checking which station is closest to me and scheduling my trips from there. 

Don’t forget to book tickets in advance for convenience for smooth day trips!

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

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The Best Day Trips From Brussels

• by Jonny Duncan
• August 9, 2020 September 27, 2022

There are some exciting cities to include in your Belgium itinerary that make for great day trips from Brussels.

In fact, you may have even heard of some of them, like Leuven or Dinant. 

Belgium’s cities go far beyond Brussels, which is seen as a very international place with little Belgian tradition, according to part of the local population.

Well, that’s no surprise if you think that Brussels is the “capital of Europe” since most of the European Union Institutions (European Commission, EU Council, European External Action Service, and so many others) are located in Brussels.

Actually, there are two free museums about Europe and the European union that you can’t miss when visiting Brussels: the Parlamentarium and the House of European History. There are many positive benefits to the European Union .

Going back to day-trips from Brussels, depending on your availability, it is worth exploring some tourist cities near Brussels to get to know Belgium and its culture better.

There are also a few countries near Brussels to include in your itinerary. Suddenly, you can stop by one of the cities in France near Brussels. Or who knows, some German cities?

Continue reading and learn more!

Besides enjoying the sights of Brussels, some cities near Brussels are very cool to make a round trip, regardless of the season. Take a look at the five most famous:

The above list is in order of distance, departing from the cities closest to Brussels.

Leuven is the closest tourist city to Brussels (about 30 km), and Dinant is the most distant (approximately 110 km).

Belgium is a relatively small country. Therefore, the distance near or far for a Belgian is very different from the perspective of an American, Australian, Brazilian, Russian, or Chinese.

So maybe Dinant is close by for you to visit, especially if you have the time and the disposition.

In addition to Dinant, you can go to Oostende, Namur, Liège, and Hasselt, which are within a radius between 70 and 120 km from Brussels.

Despite being less touristy, these places near Brussels are also very interesting.

Find out more about Belgium’s cities in this article.

Day Trips From Brussels

Cities near brussels.

Leuven is a charming and university city in Belgium. In fact, it is home to one of the best Belgian universities and one of the oldest in the world: Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven).

A walk through Leuven reveals old buildings, shopping streets, squares, and castles.

The main point of the city is the city hall building, well-lit at night and surrounded by shops, restaurants, and bars.

You can properly enjoy the city’s nightlife and come back to Brussels to sleep. Being very close to the Belgian capital, you can go by train, car, or even bicycle!

How to get from Brussels to Leuven: train (between 20 and 30 min) | car (30 km – approximately 30 min) | bike (1:40 hour)

Antwerp or Antwerpen (Dutch) is one of the cities near Brussels that attracts many tourists. In addition to being the second-largest city in Belgium, Antwerp is known as the international diamond center and the Belgian fashion capital.

This makes the city one of the liveliest and most modern centers in Belgium. There you can shop, enjoy the nightlife and see the combination of old and contemporary architecture.

The main attractions for your Antwerp walking tour or Antwerp bike tour are the Grote Market, the Museum of Modern Art, the Fashion Museum, and the city port. Oh, and don’t forget to visit the red-light district! They literary have a shopping mall for it!

How to get from Brussels to Antwerp: train (between 40 min and 1h10) | car (45 km – approximately 50 min).

Ghent or Gent (Dutch) deserves to be on your itinerary in Belgium or even tour in Brussels, for those who like places with a medieval atmosphere with canals, green areas and many historical monuments.

It is one of the largest cities in Belgium (third largest) and, like Leuven, it is also a university town.

In the summer or spring in Belgium, Ghent is one of the cities near Brussels that hosts several music, theater, and film festivals.

But, regardless of the season, it is worth taking a walking tour of the historic center and getting to know Gravesteen (medieval castle in the middle of Ghent) and Korenmarkt (main city square).

How to get from Brussels to Gent: train (between 35 min and 1 hour) | car (57 km – approximately 1h).

Is there a traditional route in Belgium without the beautiful city of Bruges? I think not!

After all, the city is very charming (Bruges is a UNESCO world heritage site) and it is on the list of cities near Brussels for a daily trip.

Surrounded by canals and with typical medieval architecture, it has its historic center reserved only for pedestrians and cyclists. You can set aside one day to get to know it or stay in a hotel in Bruges to further enjoy the city’s sights.

The main attractions of the city for you to explore are the Grote Markt, the old belfry, and the traditional shops, especially those of chocolate and waffles.

How to get from Brussels to Bruges: train (between 1h and 1h10) | car (98 km – approximately 1h20).

Dinant is one of the tourist cities near Brussels with beautiful natural landscapes. And it’s no wonder: the city is located along the river Meuse and several caves, offering a medieval and romantic touch to tourists.

Dinant’s main attractions include the Notre-Dame Church, Freÿr’s Castle, and the Dinant Citadel. There are those who say that walking around Dinant is like being in a fairy tale setting.

From Brussels, you can take an excursion to Luxembourg and Dinant or stay in one of the hotels in Dinant.

How to get from Brussels to Dinant: bus and train route (between 1h40 and 2h) | car (110 km – approximately 1h20).

If you are interested in visiting some tourist cities near Brussels, but not necessarily in Belgium, you have good options for countries to visit: France, Germany, The Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

Some cities around Belgium are visited by travelers who are strolling in neighboring countries or by those who are staying in Belgium for a more extended period of time. This is possible because Belgium is so small that you can do a day trip to other countries near Brussels and come back in the evening. Just take a look below!

Cities in France near Brussels

France is an exceptional destination for those looking to visit medieval cities, try sophisticated dishes, taste excellent wines, and get to know a fascinating culture and history.

One of the cities in France near Brussels is Lille, which is approximately 110 km from Brussels (1h30 by car and 1h45 by train).

The city is close to Belgium’s border and has museums, churches, palaces, and other attractions. To get to know it, take a city tour in Lille.

A little further away is the French capital, Paris (320 km from Brussels – between 3:30 am and 5 am by car or public transport).

As the city is quite large, I advise you to stay three or more nights to fully enjoy all that Paris has to offer.

German cities near Brussels

A Belgium itinerary may include some German cities close to Brussels as well. Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Duisburg are between 200 and 230 km from Brussels, that is, between 2:30 am (car) and 3:30 am (public transport).

Germany is one of the countries near Brussels that enchants many travelers. And as small as these cities near the Belgian capital are, they have a lot of history, art, architecture, and gastronomy.

Enjoy the city by taking a city tour in Düsseldorf or a beer tasting tour in Cologne. You can take a trip between Belgium and Germany or spend one or more nights in Germany to get to know the places better and, who knows, maybe to travel a few hours to Berlin or Hamburg.

Cities in The Netherlands near Brussels

The Netherlands is one of the countries by Belgium that attracts many tourists and makes for some great day trips from Brussels.

Windmills, tulip gardens, canals, and colorful houses that follow a style of traditional Dutch architecture are some of the attractions in the country.

Leaving Brussels, it is possible to make a round trip in Eindhoven, Tilburg and/or Breda.

These cities are within a radius of 100 to 140 km from Brussels, which means between 1 and 2 hours by car or bus (it always takes a little longer).

If you want to see the south of the Netherlands, go to Maastricht (120 km – 1h30 by car or 1h40 by public transport). Maastricht is where the Euro (the EU common currency) was created!  

A little further away, you find Utrecht, Rotterdam, The Hague, and the capital of Holland, Amsterdam.

These larger and more famous cities are within a radius between 150 and 220 km from Brussels. You can make the journey by car or public transport (train and bus).

I only recommend spending at least a night or two in each city to make the most of it!

How to create a Belgium Itinerary

To create the itinerary, first decide how many days you will have available for this trip, what is your ideal budget, and what attractions you want to visit. Then, you have the basis for putting together an itinerary that meets your expectations.

And being in the capital of Belgium, be sure to enjoy the best restaurants in Brussels, the great nightlife, and obviously, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the best Belgian beers!

Belgium Travel

Find places to stay in Brussels here .

For more on travel in Belgium take a look at my Belgium destinations page .

Another cool place to visit near Belgium is the Moselle Valley and Cochem .

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.

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One Day in Ghent Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

Last Updated on March 6, 2024

by Audrey Webster

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With its close proximity to Brussels , it’s no surprise that Ghent is a popular day trip. Ghent itself is a charming Belgian city with plenty to see and do–from castles seated in the middle of the city to beautiful walks along the central canal. One day in Ghent is enough to explore the highlights without feeling rushed.

A little bit less crowded than ever-popular Bruges but no less charming, visiting Ghent is a wonderful addition to any trip to Belgium. Whether you’re looking to spend one day here or have several to dedicate, you’re sure to fall hard for this gorgeous town.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Ghent?

Ghent might be one of Belgium’s most underrated cities. Most tourists head straight for Brussels or Bruges without stopping in to explore everything that Ghent has to offer. One of the most common ways to see this city is by taking a day trip from Brussels to Ghent.

In one day, you can see most of the major highlights without feeling like you have to be constantly moving. A short train ride from Brussels means you have the vast majority of the day for your trip. There are several trains per day, so you can also be flexible with your arrival and departure times.

If you decide to spend 2 days in Ghent, you can dig a little deeper into the city’s history and attractions. You can visit a smaller, local museum or take a boat ride on the canal.

No matter how long you spend in Ghent, make sure to save time to try delicious local chocolate and Belgian waffles. 

To determine how many days to spend in Ghent, make a list of everything you want to do in the city. Ask yourself what you can realistically see at the pace you enjoy traveling then begin constructing an itinerary from there.

Getting To & Around Ghent

Luckily, Ghent is very easy to access from Brussels by train. It’s a short 30-minute train ride from Brussels to Ghent, and there are several trains per day. You can book trains in advance here .

If you prefer to go on a tour there are several options for an organised Ghent day trip from Brussels. This full-day tour takes you to both Ghent & Bruges while this tour takes you to Antwerp & Ghent.

It is also possible to book a half-day tour from Bruges to Ghent.

Once you arrive, getting around is equally easy. If you are visiting Ghent in one day, most of the highlights you’ll see are within walking distance of each other. Plus, exploring this city by foot means you also get to experience all the charm of its architecture, cobblestone streets, and narrow alleys that make Ghent so endearing.

If you prefer to use public transportation in Ghent, the bus is a good option. With the CityCard Ghent , you can ride all the trams and buses without paying the extra fee when you purchase a per-ride ticket. However, this might not make the most sense if you’re only spending one day in Ghent.

Alternatively, you can use the ticket machine at the tram or bus stop to purchase your ticket. Contactless payment is available on the buses and trams using a credit or debit card, smartphone, or smartwatch. You can also use rideshares and taxis to get around Ghent. 

Finally, if you find yourself interested in exploring Ghent like a local, consider renting a bike for a few hours to peddle around the city. Biking is a very popular way to navigate the city, so you’ll see bike racks posted outside many local shops and restaurants.

You can even organise a bike tour if you want to learn more about the history at the same time! That said, keep an eye out for bikers as you’re walking around Ghent.

1-Day Ghent Itinerary

Spending a day exploring Ghent will be a day well spent. Here is everything you should add to your trip. 

Walk along Graslei and Korenlei

The Graslei and Korenlei are the two walking paths on either side of the canal that carves their way through the city. Casually strolling along the canal bank is a great introduction to sightseeing in Ghent. On nice evenings, you’ll see locals sitting on the banks enjoying their time.

It’s also the place to be for stunning views of Ghent lit up after dark. The Graslei and Korenlei meet up at St. Michael’s Bridge, another great place for an iconic view of Ghent.

Consider grabbing a cup of coffee and pastry from a local coffee shop to sip and snack as you walk along the canal and soak up the exquisite architecture of Ghent. If you want to get a unique vantage point, you can also organise a short boat ride along the canals.

Visit the Gravensteen Castle

How many medieval castles are located in the center of European cities? There aren’t many, but the Gravensteen Castle is one of them. Also known as the Castle of the Counts, the Gravensteen Castle was the residence of the Counts of Flanders between 1180 and 1353.

Today, the castle is a central landmark in Ghent and invites visitors to enter its towering wall for a deep dive into its rocky history. You can purchase tickets at the entrance, where you can also opt in for the audio guide and to pay a visit to a torture museum.

A visit to the castle is a must for your itinerary and is one of the top things to do in Ghent. 

Explore St. Nicolas’ Church

St. Nicolas’ Church is one of the oldest (and coolest) sites in Ghent. Construction began in the early 13th century and continued for nearly 100 years. It’s built in the Scheldt Gothic style, which is an architectural style you’ll see in many prominent buildings throughout Ghent.

The church is located right next to St. Michael’s Bridge and opens at 10 AM, so stop in for a quick tour before the afternoon crowds arrive. It’s a great place to pause before or after a walk along the canal.

Climb the Ghent Belfry

Of the three towers that stand out on the Ghent skyline, the Belfry Tower is the most eye-catching. The tower itself is 91 meters tall and visitors can climb to the top for an unbeatable view of Ghent.

It was constructed in 1313 and many of the original art, sculptures, and statues still remain in the belfry. Inside, you can watch a video to learn about the history of bell making, see the belfry’s most famous bell named Roland, and enjoy the historic artwork.

A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for your 24 hours in Ghent itinerary.

Wander the streets of Ghent

One of the best ways to see Ghent is on foot, especially because the neighborhood streets of Ghent are filled with creative street art. One of the most famous neighborhoods to set out in is the Patershol. Here, narrow cobblestone streets with brick buildings on either side dominate.

Many years ago, the Patershol was considered a rougher neighborhood in Ghent. However, today it’s one of the most creative and artsy areas full of hidden restaurants and bars. It’s located near the Gravensteen, so stop in after you visit the castle.

Patershol is a great area to explore if you’re looking to get away from the tourist-packed areas.

Taste all the treats

Famous in Ghent are ‘Cuberdons’, also known as ‘red noses’, that can be purchased in sweet shops or from carts in more popular areas of the city. These tasty little candies are delicious. Your visit to Ghent would be incomplete without a Belgian waffle.

You’ve probably had a Belgian waffle before, but not like this. These sweet, fluffy, and mouth-watering waffles are staples of the country. Get yours smothered in chocolate or topped with more unique local flavor.

You must try Belgian chocolate during your visit. There are several chocolate shops throughout Ghent where you can sample some of the most delicious chocolate ever. Make sure to indulge in your sweet tooth while in Ghent. You can also organise a tour to learn more about chocolate making in Ghent!

If you don’t have much of a sweet tooth, you can consider a food tour of the city instead.

Have More Time?

If you have 2 days in Ghent, you can expand your trip to encompass some of the city’s lesser-known sites. You could also choose to stick to the highlights, but take them at a more leisurely pace.

When seeing Ghent in 2 days, make sure to add a canal boat ride to your itinerary. There are several options for seeing Ghent from the canal, but the view is stunning. Tours will provide historical and cultural context for the landmarks you see from the water.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can rent a canoe or kayak to explore parts of the canals and rivers of Ghent on your own. 

When you’re back on dry land, pay a visit to Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. This cathedral is one of the three that stand out on the Ghent skyline. Standing at 89 meters tall, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is where the Diocese of Ghent resides.

It boasts the same gothic architecture style that you’ll see across Ghent. Construction began around 1275 with several modifications and additions taking place between the 14th and 16th Centuries. Today, visitors are welcome to explore the cathedral – where you can see the incredible Ghent Altarpiece – at their leisure. 

Finally, if you have 2 days to spend in Ghent, visit some of the museums the city is known for. Art and history fans alike will be able to find a museum to suit their interests. The city’s museum of fine arts, MSK, houses in-depth collections of classic artists and modernists from Belgium’s creative history.

Those curious to learn more about the history of Ghent should visit the STAM. The museum traces Ghent’s history from a medieval trading town to the modern city it is today. It also features a room that has a giant map of Ghent projected on the ground that visitors love.

Finally, the most well-known museum in Ghent is the S.M.A.K., the contemporary art museum. It is where you can find some of Belgium’s most famous and impressive pieces of modern contemporary art–some that might even leave you scratching your head.

If you want to plan a Ghent itinerary that includes museums, remember that most museums in Ghent are closed on Mondays. 

Where to Stay in Ghent

B&B HOTEL Gent Centrum – A nice, modern hotel in the centre of Ghent, this makes a great base for exploring the city. They have a range of twin, double triple and quadruple rooms to choose from, are pet-friendly and ave a good breakfast available.

Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel Gent – A hip hotel within easy reach of Ghent’s top sites, there are countless luxe rooms, a great on-site restaurant and bar, superb breakfast, a fitness centre and much more.

Getaway Studios Gent – These studios are an excellent choice for visitors after their own flat while visiting Ghent. Equipped with kitchenettes and furnished with everything you may need, there are several different apartments to choose from.

Hostel Uppelink – This high-rated hostel is an excellent budget option and perfect for those after a lively, social atmosphere. There are lots of different rooms to choose from, kitchen facilities and great common areas.

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

Ghent is one of the lesser-visited cities in Belgium, but it is also one of the most dynamic. If you have a day to explore, you have time to see most of the city’s highlights. Within two days, you can get even more acquainted with the city.

With delicious food, awe-inspiring architecture, and historic landmarks galore, there is no shortage of ways to spend your time in Ghent.

Are you planning a day trip to Ghent? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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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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My £59 night on the first sleeper train from Brussels to Prague

It covers 800 miles, connecting four cities and bringing strangers together in couchettes — but is this a return to the golden age of rail travel.

A cork is popped and a young woman pours the red wine into plastic cups as her boyfriend shuffles a deck of cards. In the couchette next door a single father is wrestling one child into a bunk while their sibling, crayons in hand, thumps on the dividing wall.

Further along a Belgian woman reads a novel in a dimly lit compartment that she booked just for herself. “What’s the banging?” she asks as I almost fall into her room when the train ricochets over a set of points outside Antwerp station.

Welcome aboard the first European Sleeper to travel all the way from Brussels to Prague — an overnight adventure of 807 miles which, with stops in Amsterdam and Berlin, the previous terminus, connects four capitals.

We pull out of Brussels-Midi station at 19.22 on the dot, waving to the small crowd of train enthusiasts who have come to witness this maiden journey.

The Orient Express this is not. There is no dining car, no fleet of staff in velvet jackets and no luxury showers. There is no wi-fi. This is a valiant attempt at a return to a golden age of rail travel where strangers shack up in couchettes, play games and forge unexpected acquaintances.

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My journey started six hours earlier in the Eurostar departure hall — one of the most stylish ways to leave the UK from one of its most elegant stations, St Pancras.

• 12 of Europe’s most exciting sleeper trains • 24 of the best rail journeys in Europe

Brussels-Midi does not have the same charm, but it’s a means to a more enticing end. I skip the chance for frites and frikkadel (meatballs) but manage a quick stroll to the Marollen neighbourhood for a wander around the historic district with its antique shops, brasseries and quaint bars.

Back at the station my carriage awaits. My couchette-mates are already installed for the evening. Romain, from Paris, is joined by Salim, a fellow Frenchman and rail enthusiast. Despite there being room for five, we’re lucky, the attendant tells us — there will be just the three of us all the way to the Czech capital.

The lack of a dining car — notoriously expensive to run — means either an early dinner in Brussels or a picnic, foraged from around the station. We dine together, Romain tucking into his ludicrously overpriced sushi and Japanese beer, me a pricey Carrefour salad (charged by the 100g) and Belgian Jupiler beer.

There are three sleeping options. A section of compartments, each with three bunks and a small sink, are housed in cars built in 1954-56. These are the only European sleepers ever made in the American style with a fluted, stainless-steel body. They were overhauled in the 1990s and, from my stumble into the Belgian woman’s compartment, look comfortable (prices start at £93pp).

My five-bed couchette (from £59pp) is in former Deutsche Bahn rolling stock dating from 1997 and comes with the benefit of air conditioning. It has had some minor upgrades but retains the charm of a dog-eared travel guide that has been passed down through the generations.

At one point, passing over a particularly lively set of points on the Belgium-Netherlands border, the middle bunk comes crashing down with a loud thud. Had Salim not been in the (basic) loo at the end of the car he’d have been nursing a sore head.

The even older six-bed couchette cars — no air conditioning — are being phased out of operation. There are some seat-only cars, but you won’t get a decent night’s kip in one of those. Much more appealing are the five-bed compartments I’m in or a sleeper, both of which can be booked for solo or double occupancy for a premium.

It’s too dark to admire much of the scenery, but as we leave Amsterdam Schiphol at 22:11, we lean out of the windows (yes, they open) and wave at bleary-eyed airline passengers standing on the opposite platform. They look envious, or so we tell ourselves as Romain and I crack open a tin of European Sleeper’s white-labelled wheat beer. I neglect to tell him that even two small beers are enough to make me snore.

Before settling down for the night, we take a stroll along the train, peering nosily into each compartment. In one, a group of thirtysomething Dutch, French and Belgian friends are cracking into their second bottle of prosecco — they are on the Aperol spritzes — and the conversation is in a medley of languages. We chat away until it becomes apparent it is bedtime.

Back at our couchette Salim is in his pyjamas. I climb into bed as my phone buzzes: “Welcome to Germany.” Country three and, earplugs in, it’s time for sleep.

I’m lucky that I can kip in anything that moves — be it boat, plane, car or train. It’s just as well, as I’m this paper’s transport correspondent. In this case, bar the odd judder awake, I don’t stir until 8.30am.

Not everyone is so fortunate. “You slept like a marmot,” Romain says, as he tucks into a croissant from the breakfast box. I take it as a compliment, but later learn he’s of the opinion that marmots (ground squirrels) snore when they sleep.

I lie in bed and watch as we meander down the Elbe valley, passing pretty villages perched by the side of the river. A member of the service team brings me a paper cup of tea and creamer.

The train is running 45 minutes late, but it doesn’t matter. We arrive in Prague at 11.45am, more than 16 hours after leaving Brussels, and step out into the bright spring sunshine.

The Belgian-Dutch European Sleeper company aspires to open a new route every year, expanding its empire. Its sights are next set on an epic from Amsterdam to Spain, provided the French grant access to their precious tracks. The company would need to acquire a second train for the service, which could launch within a year.

For now Prague is the milestone. As we bid our farewells I’m somewhat envious of Salim, a dedicated sleeper-train fan who is heading back that evening ― although it’s hard to deny the appeal of a proper hotel bed. Ben Clatworthy was a guest of European Sleeper, which has five-bed couchettes from £59 ( europeansleeper.eu ) and Czech Tourism ( visitczechia.com ) . Take the Eurostar to Brussels

Where to stay

The Falkensteiner Hotel is ideally located by Prague’s central station and has stylish rooms, a modern spa and the Monkey Bar, a chic, dimly lit, cocktail bar that doubles as the breakfast room. Details B&B doubles from £192 (falkensteiner.com)

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Baltimore bridge collapse wasn't first major accident for giant container ship Dali

Propulsion failed on the cargo ship that struck the Francis Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday as it was leaving port, causing it to collapse into the frigid Patapsco River. Its crew warned Maryland officials of a possible collision because they had lost control.

“The vessel notified MD Department of Transportation (MDOT) that they had lost control of the vessel” and a collision with the bridge “was possible,” according to an unclassified Department of Homeland Security report. “The vessel struck the bridge causing a complete collapse.”

An official speaking on condition of anonymity confirmed to USA TODAY that the DHS’ Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is working with federal, state, and local officials “to understand the potential impacts of this morning’s collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.”

Clay Diamond, executive director, American Pilots’ Association, told USA TODAY power issues are not unusual on cargo ships, which are so large they cannot easily course correct.

“It’s likely that virtually every pilot in the country has experienced a power loss of some kind (but) it generally is momentary,” Diamond said. “This was a complete blackout of all the power on the ship, so that’s unusual. Of course this happened at the worst possible location.” 

The ship in Tuesday's crash, Dali, was involved in at least one prior accident when it collided with a shipping pier in Belgium.

That 2016 incident occurred as the Dali was leaving port in Antwerp and struck a loading pier made of stone, causing damage to the ship’s stern, according to VesselFinder.com, a site that tracks ships across the world. An investigation determined a mistake made by the ship’s master and pilot was to blame.

No one was injured in that crash, although the ship required repair and a full inspection before being returned to service. The pier – or berth – was also seriously damaged and had to be closed.

VesselFinder reports that the Dali was chartered by Maersk, the same company chartering it during the Baltimore harbor incident.

The 9-year-old container ship had passed previous inspections during its time at sea, but during one such inspection in June at the Port of San Antonio in Chile, officials discovered a deficiency with its "propulsion and auxiliary machinery (gauges, thermometers, etc)," according to the Tokyo MOU, an intergovernmental maritime authority in the Asia-Pacific region.

The report provided no other information about the deficiency except to note that it was not serious enough to remove the ship from service.

Follow here for live updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship strike; construction crew missing: Live Updates

Why did Dali crash into the Baltimore bridge?

Officials said Tuesday they’re investigating the collision, including whether systems on board lost electricity early Tuesday morning, which could be related to mechanical failure, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly.

Accidents at sea, known as marine casualties, are not uncommon, the source told USA TODAY. However, “allisions,” in which a moving object strikes a stationary one with catastrophic results, are far less common. The investigation of the power loss aboard the Dali, a Singapore-flagged vessel, will be a high priority.

In a video posted to social media, lights on the Dali shut off, then turned back on, then shut off again before the ship struck a support pier on the bridge.

Numerous cargo and cruise ships have lost power over the years.

The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea requires all international vessels to have two independent sources of electricity, both of which should be able to maintain the ship's seaworthiness on their own, according to a safety study about power failures on ships , citing the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.

The Dali's emergency generator was likely responsible for the lights coming back on after the initial blackout, Diamond said.

“There was still some steerage left when they initially lost power,” he said. “We’ve been told the ship never recovered propulsion. The emergency generator is a diesel itself – so if you light off the generator, that’s also going to put off a puff of exhaust.”

Under maritime law, all foreign flagged vessels must be piloted into state ports by a state licensed pilot so the Dali's pilot is licensed by Association of Maryland Pilots .

Diamond described the incident based on information from the Maryland agency that licensed the pilot aboard the ship. His organization represents that group and all other state piloting agencies in the US.

“The pilot was directing navigation of the ship as it happened,” he said. “He asked the captain to get the engines back online. They weren’t able to do that, so the pilot took all the action he could. He tried to steer, to keep the ship in the channel. He also dropped the ship’s anchor to slow the ship and guide the direction.

“Neither one was enough. The ship never did regain its engine power.”

How big is the Dali ship?

The Dali is a 984-foot container vessel built in 2015 by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea. With a cruising speed of about 22 knots – roughly 25 mph. It has traveled the world carrying goods from port to port.

The ship, constructed of high-strength steel, has one engine and one propeller, according to MarineTraffic.com.

The Dali arrived in Baltimore on Sunday from the Port of Norfolk in Virginia. Before that, it had been in New York and came through the Panama Canal.

It remains at the scene of the collapse as authorities investigate.

Who owns and operates the Dali?

It is owned by the Singapore-based Grace Ocean Pte Ltd but managed by Synergy Marine Group, also based in Singapore. It was carrying Maersk customers’ cargo, according to a statement from the shipping company.

“We are deeply concerned by this incident and are closely monitoring the situation,” Maersk said in the statement. 

Synergy, which describes itself as a leading ship manager with more than 600 vessels under its guidance, issued a statement on its website acknowledging the incident and reporting no injuries among its crew and no pollution in the water. There were two pilots on board and 22 crew members in all, according to Synergy, all of them from India.

USA TODAY reached out to Synergy on Tuesday, but the company did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Contributing: Josh Susong

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Discover our menu and enjoy a comfortable flight from the start of your journey from Chennai (MAA) to landing in Stockholm (STO). Whether you are planning a business trip or a family holiday, brusselsairlines.com offers the best choice and always attractive prices.

Fly to Stockholm (STO) with a calm mind, rested and ready for a great stay thanks to even more comfortable economy class seats.

Some of our aircrafts have been dedicated to Belgian icons. Discover Rackham, Airbus A320, with its Tintin theme, Trident - dedicated to our national footballers, Amare dedicated to the Tomorrowland festival, Aerosmurf dedicated to the children's idols - the Smurfs, and Bruegel which commemorates one of the most talented artists of the 16th century - Pieter Bruegel the Elder.

Discover competitive prices and travel from Chennai (MAA) to Stockholm (STO) from 45,501 INR.

*Please note: To provide you with the widest possible selection of flight destinations, some of the direct flights or connecting flights on brusselsairlines.com are operated by our partner airlines, which may result in a different flight experience than with Brussels Airlines.

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Entry regulations

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We offer an easy form for your online check-in. After you have received your booking confirmation, you can fill it out here .

On our flights within Europe, you can purchase a large selection of snacks, sandwiches and drinks on board. On longer trips to North America, Central or South Africa, you will enjoy a fully balanced meal on bord.

In general, you can bring hand bagage in the dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 23cm and a maximal weight of 8kg. Flying with economy travel classes, even two pieces of hand bagage are allowed. You can find further information in our hand bagage rules here .

No, during flight, you can only use your mobile devices and tablets in flight mode.

On the route Chennai to Stockholm, Sweden we offer flights from 45,501 INR.

In the event that your flight is cancelled, we will promptly reschedule all affected passengers. The revised flight information can be found under "My bookings". Our Brussels Chat Assistant Charlie is available 24/7 to assist you.

Free baggage allowance means the luggage that is already included in your ticket price so you don't have to pay more to bring it. The specifics, like size, weight, and quantity, are determined by your fare type, the flight route, and your frequent flyer status.

Our Premium Economy Class provides extra comfort, tailored for longer flights. Take advantage of features like a roomier seat with a bigger recline angle, making your flight more enjoyable.