Belgium Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a truly memorable journey with the Belgium Road Trip. This 7-day adventure will take you through some of the most beautiful and historically significant towns in Belgium. The route starts in Brussels and ends in Brussels, covering a total distance of 506km. The best time to drive is during the warmer months of the year.
The first stop is Leuven, a town known for its historical architecture and monuments. Here, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Grand Beguinage and the University Library. Antwerp is the next destination, home to the world-famous Antwerp Zoo, the Rubens House and the Plantin-Moretus Museum. Ghent is the third town, a major cultural center with a rich history and many attractions. These include the Gravensteen Castle, the Belfry of Ghent and the St. Bavo Cathedral.
Ostend is the fourth town, where you can enjoy the sandy beaches and the Royal Galleries of Ostend. The final destination is De Panne, a coastal town with a lively atmosphere and many attractions. Here, you can visit the Plopsaland De Panne amusement park, the Zeebrugge beach, and the Yser Tower.
The excellent road conditions throughout the entire route make this road trip suitable for all drivers. You can complete the journey with a moderate budget, making it a great way to experience the best of Belgium. With its stunning sights and historical sites, this journey will surely provide you with memories that will last a lifetime.
7
number of days
497 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
Belgium / Flemish Region / Brussels / Photo by dimitrisvetsikas1969 on Pixabay
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START
Brussels
Distance 497 km
Driving time 11.6 h
Pace: slow
114.3 kWh
Airports
BRU
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CRL
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Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a great place to start your Belgium Road Trip. The city is a cultural hub, with its numerous museums and other attractions. The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see, and the city also offers a variety of other attractions, such as the Royal Palace, the Atomium, the Manneken Pis, and the Musical Instruments Museum. It is also known for its delicious Belgian chocolates and beers.
For international travelers, Brussels Airport (BRU) is the closest airport to the city. From the airport, there are several car rental companies that offer car rental services. So, if you plan to explore the country by car, you can easily rent a car from the airport.
Once you have your car, you can make your way to the town and start exploring the various attractions in Brussels. From here, you can make your way to the other cities in Belgium, such as Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp.
So, if you’re looking for an exciting road trip, look no further than Belgium Road Trip. Start your journey in Brussels and enjoy the unique culture, history, and attractions that this beautiful city has to offer.
1
Brussels
- Leuven
Distance 24 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
7.1 kWh
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Embark on a 24km journey from Brussels to Leuven and experience the best of Belgium! With a driving time of less than an hour, you will be able to explore the historical city of Brussels, the Grand Place and the Manneken Pis, as well as the beautiful city of Leuven with its Gothic Town Hall and the Church of St. Peter. On the way, you will also be able to admire some UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Grand Place, the Major Mining Sites of Wallonia and the Four Lifts on the Canal du Centre. Enjoy the scenic views of the countryside, as you make your way from Brussels to Leuven. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Leuven - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Leuven
- Mechelen
- Antwerp
Distance 48 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: slow
11.0 kWh
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This road trip stage starts in the city of Leuven and leads you through the city of Mechelen, both with rich historical sites, before ending in Antwerp. The total distance of this stage is 50km and it should take you less than an hour to drive.
As you drive, take the time to appreciate the scenery and marvel at the historical sites. In Leuven, you can visit the impressive Gothic-style Town Hall, the St. Peter's Church, and the Grand Beguinage. In Mechelen, you can admire the iconic St. Rumbold's Tower, the St. John's Church, and the Town Hall.
Finally, you will arrive in Antwerp, the second largest city in Belgium. Here you can visit the world-famous Cathedral of Our Lady, the Rubens House Museum, and the Plantin-Moretus Museum.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Antwerp - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Antwerp - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Antwerp - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Antwerp
- Sint-Niklaas
- Ghent
Distance 60 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: slow
13.9 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip through Belgium? Start in Antwerp, a city full of history and culture, and drive 58 km to Sint-Niklaas. Along the way, you will pass by historical sites and scenic roads. Keep your eyes open for interesting places to visit. In Sint-Niklaas, you will find many interesting attractions, such as the Sint-Niklaas Church, the Sint-Niklaas Town Hall, and the City Park. Don't forget to try some of the local specialties while you're there. Finally, drive to Ghent and enjoy the beautiful views of the city. Here, you will find many interesting places to explore, such as the Ghent Citadel and the Graslei. Make sure to take some time to explore the city's many historical sites, churches, and museums. In less than two hours, you will be in Ghent, the perfect place to end your journey. Don't forget to check the Itinerary for this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Ghent - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
Ghent - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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4
Ghent
- Bruges
Distance 47 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: slow
10.9 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Ghent to Bruges, two of Belgium's most beloved cities! This 49 km journey will take you less than two hours, allowing you to explore the best of both cities. On your way, don't forget to take in the historical sites, scenic roads, and UNESCO Heritage sites.
In Ghent, be sure to visit the Gravensteen Castle, the Belfry of Ghent, and the St. Bavo's Cathedral. Bruges is also home to a number of breathtaking historical sites, including the Belfry of Bruges, the Groeningemuseum, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of Ghent and Bruges!
Bruges - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - www.publicdomainpictures.net
Bruges - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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5
Bruges
- Blankenberge
- Ostend
Distance 43 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: slow
9.9 kWh
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Embark on a magical road trip from Bruges to Ostend and discover the wonders of the Belgian coast! Start your journey in Bruges, the beautiful medieval city, and make sure to visit the iconic Belfry of Bruges and the Markt square. Then, drive to Blankenberge, a charming seaside resort where you can admire the stunning sandy beach, the vibrant promenade, and the impressive pier. After that, continue your journey to Ostend, the largest and most vibrant seaside city in Belgium. Here, you can explore the lively beach promenade, visit the iconic Mercator sailing ship, and take a stroll in the Albert I Promenade. The entire route is 42 km long and takes less than two hours to drive. Along the way, be sure to keep an eye out for the historical sites and the scenic roads. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Ostend - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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6
Ostend
- De Panne
Distance 32 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: slow
7.4 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Ostend, Belgium to De Panne! This 33 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you will be mesmerized by the scenic road. Start your journey by exploring Ostend's many attractions, such as the Ostend-Bruges International Airport and the Ostend-Leopold Canal. From there, you can visit the Ostend Market Square and the Ostend City Hall.
Next, you will continue your journey to De Panne, where you can visit the Plopsaland amusement park, the De Panne beach, and the Zwarte Polder Nature Reserve. Enjoy the stunning views of the coastline and the unique landscapes of the nature reserve.
Be sure to also check out the De Panne Market Square and the De Panne City Hall.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
De Panne - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
De Panne
- Ypres
- Kortrijk
Distance 74 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: modest
19.1 kWh
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Start your road trip in De Panne, a charming coastal town in Belgium, and discover the beauty of the Belgian countryside. Drive 71 km along the scenic road, stopping to admire the historical sites along the way. Take a break in Ypres, a town known for its war memorials and monuments, and explore its impressive architecture. Then, continue your journey to Kortrijk, a city full of history and culture. Here, you can explore the old town, visit the city’s many museums, and take a stroll through the beautiful parks. With fewer than 2 hours of driving time, this road trip is the perfect way to discover the best of Belgium. Don’t forget to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Kortrijk - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - www.pikrepo.com
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8
Kortrijk
- Tournai
Distance 38 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
11.3 kWh
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Are you looking for an amazing road trip experience? Join us on a journey from Kortrijk to Tournai, only 38km away and a driving time of less than an hour. On this route you can discover some of the most interesting places in Belgium, from UNESCO Heritage sites to historical attractions. Start your journey in Kortrijk and explore the beautiful Grote Markt, the City Hall and the Beguinage. From there, continue to Tournai, where you can visit the impressive Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Belfry of Tournai. Don't miss the chance to explore the Tournai Grand Place and the City Hall. Along the way, you can also enjoy the stunning landscape and the unique architecture of the region. Make sure to keep an eye out for some of the UNESCO Heritage sites, too. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Join us on this amazing road trip and explore the best of Belgium!
Tournai - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
Tournai - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - sco.m.wikipedia.org
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9
Tournai
- Mons
Distance 50 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
15.0 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for a beautiful journey from Tournai to Mons. This 60 km drive will take you less than an hour and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in Belgium.
Start your adventure in Tournai, where you can visit the beautiful Cathedral of Notre-Dame and the Belfry of Tournai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, you can admire the Tournai City Hall and the Town Hall, built in the 16th century.
Continue your journey to Mons, where you can explore the Grand-Place and the BAM Cultural Center. Don't miss the chance to visit the Belfry of Mons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Collegiate Church of St. Waudru.
On your way, take some time to enjoy the stunning countryside views and the historical sites. As you drive, make sure to keep an eye out for interesting attractions and restaurants.
At the end of your journey, you will arrive in Mons, where you can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Enjoy your road trip!
Mons - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Mons - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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10
Mons
- Waterloo
- Brussels
Distance 82 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
24.5 kWh
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This 81km-long road trip from Mons to Brussels is an excellent opportunity to explore the best of Belgium. Start your journey in Mons, where you can visit the Belfry of Mons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, drive to Waterloo, where you can visit the battlefields of the 1815 Battle of Waterloo, a must-see for history buffs. Finally, head to Brussels, where you can explore the Grand Place and the Manneken Pis. Along the way, take in the beautiful sights of the Belgian countryside. The entire trip should take you less than 2 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to explore. Don't forget to stop and take pictures of the charming villages you'll pass on the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Brussels - Belgium - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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Brussels
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End your Belgium Road Trip with a visit to Brussels, the capital of Belgium! This vibrant city is filled with cultural attractions, historical sites, and plenty of delicious dining options.
Start your visit with a trip to the Grand Place, the city’s main square. The ornate buildings here date back to the late 17th century and were originally built by wealthy merchants. Take a stroll around the square and admire the architecture, or enjoy a tasty meal at one of the many restaurants here.
Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Belgian monarch. The palace was built in the early 19th century and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Take a guided tour and see the impressive interiors, or observe the Changing of the Guards ceremony.
The Atomium, a model of an iron crystal, is another iconic sight in Brussels. This 102-meter-high structure was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and is now a museum. Climb up the tower and enjoy the stunning views of the city. For a unique experience, visit the nearby Mini-Europe theme park and explore miniature replicas of Europe’s most well-known landmarks.
Brussels also has a thriving art scene. Visit the Magritte Museum to admire the works of the famous surrealist painter, or explore the Museum of Modern Art. For something more interactive, head to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts and try your hand at sketching the masterpieces.
Finally, don’t forget to sample some of the delicious Belgian cuisine. Try out the traditional waffles, indulge in some chocolates, and wash it all down with a refreshing Belgian beer.
To get to Brussels, the closest international airport is Brussels Airport (BRU). From there, you can rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive through the Belgian countryside to the capital.
Belgium Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Brussels
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End:
Brussels
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Distance:
497 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Brussels Airport (BRU),
Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an enchanting 7-day Belgium Road Trip, encompassing approximately 506km of the country's most scenic routes. The journey begins and concludes in the cosmopolitan capital, Brussels, guiding travelers through quaint cobblestone streets, medieval towns, and lush countryside. This adventure offers a tapestry of Belgium's cultural heritage, from gothic architecture to modern attractions, against a backdrop of the nation's diverse landscapes.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Leuven: Explore the serene Grand Beguinage (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the impressive University Library with its stately tower.
- Antwerp: Discover the city's artistic legacy at the Rubens House, marvel at the world's oldest printing museum, the Plantin-Moretus Museum, or wander through one of the oldest zoos in the world, Antwerp Zoo.
- Ghent: Step back in time at the imposing Gravensteen Castle, climb the iconic Belfry of Ghent for panoramic views, and behold the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb in St. Bavo's Cathedral.
- Ostend: Stroll along the Royal Galleries of Ostend or relax on the bRoad sandy beaches of this seaside resort town.
- De Panne: Experience the thrills at Plopsaland De Panne amusement park, unwind at the pristine Zeebrugge beach, and reflect on history at the Yser Tower Memorial.
Best Time to Go:
Late spring to early autumn is the ideal period for a Belgium Road Trip, providing the perfect climate for both urban exploration and coastal leisure time.
Potential Risks:
Belgium boasts excellent Road conditions, but travelers should remain vigilant about local driving laws, customs, and potential congestion during high tourist seasons.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Belgium is a relatively small country, making it possible to enjoy a comprehensive Road Trip without extensive driving distances.
- The country is renowned for its delectable cuisine, including world-famous chocolates, waffles, and over 800 varieties of beers.
- Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German, reflecting its diverse cultural influences.
- The country is a treasure trove of over 3,000 castles, many of which are open to the public and offer a glimpse into Europe's rich feudal history.
A good choice for:
A Belgium Road Trip is an immersive expedition into the soul of Belgian culture, history, and landscape. It is a journey that balances comfort with adventure, convenience with discovery, making it an exemplary choice for travelers eager to forge unforgettable moments and a deep appreciation for Belgium's multifaceted charm.
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