Two Weeks Discovering Belgium's Heart & Soul
From Medieval Bruges to Art Nouveau Brussels and Wallonian Valleys
Trip Overview
This comprehensive two-week journey through Belgium unveils the country's remarkable diversity within its compact borders. You'll explore three distinct regions: Flanders with its medieval cities and art heritage, Brussels with its European grandeur and comic book culture, and Wallonia's dramatic river valleys and fortresses. The itinerary balances iconic attractions like the Grand Place and Bruges' canals with authentic experiences including chocolate workshops, brewery visits, and Art Nouveau architecture tours. You'll discover Belgium's multilingual culture, world-class museums, and legendary culinary scene. The moderate pace allows time to savor Belgian life—lingering in cozy cafés, exploring hidden courtyards, and enjoying the country's famous beers and chocolates without rushing.
Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
April to October for pleasant weather; December for Christmas markets; year-round for museums and indoor attractions
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Belgium, History and architecture enthusiasts, Art lovers, Food and beer connoisseurs, Couples seeking romantic getaways, Culture-focused travelers
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Brussels Arrival & Grand Place Magic
Brussels
Arrive in Belgium's capital and immerse yourself in the stunning Grand Place, one of Europe's most beautiful squares, before discovering Brussels' quirky side.
Morning
Arrival and Grand Place exploration
After settling into your accommodation, head straight to the Grand Place, Brussels' magnificent central square surrounded by ornate guildhalls and the Gothic town hall. The UNESCO World Heritage site is breathtaking in morning light. Spend time admiring the intricate facades, visiting the City Museum, and soaking in the atmosphere of this architectural masterpiece that serves as the heart of Brussels.
Lunch
A traditional brasserie near Grand Place serving Belgian classics
Afternoon
Manneken Pis and surrounding medieval streets
Visit Brussels' most famous resident, the Manneken Pis statue, just a short walk from Grand Place. While small, this cheeky bronze fountain has become an iconic symbol of Brussels' irreverent spirit. Explore the surrounding medieval lanes filled with chocolate shops, lace boutiques, and waffle stands. Don't miss Jeanneke Pis, the female counterpart, tucked away in a nearby alley, representing Brussels' playful character.
Evening
Dinner and evening stroll
Dine at a traditional restaurant in the Ilot Sacré area, then return to Grand Place to see it illuminated at night—the golden facades create an unforgettable spectacle
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Brussels (near Grand Place) (Mid-range hotel in the historic center)
Being centrally located allows easy access to major attractions and lets you experience Grand Place both day and night
Grand Place is most magical early morning before 9am or after 8pm when the crowds thin out. The light show on summer evenings is spectacular.
Day 1 Budget: $140-200
2
Royal Brussels & European Quarter
Brussels
Discover Brussels' royal heritage and grand monuments, from palaces to triumphal arches, culminating in the impressive Parc du Cinquantenaire.
Morning
Royal Palace of Brussels and surrounding area
Visit the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official palace of the Belgian royal family. While the King doesn't reside here, the palace opens to visitors during summer months, showcasing opulent state rooms. Even when closed, the exterior and surrounding Place Royale area are magnificent. Explore the adjacent Brussels Park, a formal garden perfect for a morning stroll, and admire the neoclassical architecture defining this aristocratic quarter.
Check opening dates if visiting in summer; the palace typically opens late July through early September
Lunch
A café in the Sablon district known for antiques and chocolates
Afternoon
Parc du Cinquantenaire and Triumphal Arch
Head to the magnificent Parc du Cinquantenaire, dominated by its impressive Triumphal Arch commemorating Belgium's 50th anniversary. The sprawling park houses three excellent museums: the Art & History Museum, the Royal Military Museum, and Autoworld. Choose one or two based on your interests, or simply enjoy the grand architecture and green spaces. The arch offers panoramic views of Brussels if you climb to the top.
Evening
European Quarter exploration and dinner
Walk through the nearby European Quarter to see the EU institutions, then dine in the trendy Ixelles neighborhood with its international restaurants and vibrant atmosphere
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Brussels (Same hotel as Day 1)
Staying central maximizes your time and minimizes luggage moves
The Art & History Museum in Parc du Cinquantenaire is underrated and contains incredible collections from ancient civilizations—budget at least 2 hours if you're a museum lover.
Day 2 Budget: $130-170
3
Atomium, Mini-Europe & Art Nouveau
Brussels
Experience Brussels' futuristic side at the Atomium and Mini-Europe, then dive into the city's stunning Art Nouveau architectural heritage.
Morning
Atomium and Mini-Europe
Visit the iconic Atomium, a 335-foot-tall structure representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, built for the 1958 World's Fair. Take the elevator through the spheres for panoramic city views and explore the exhibitions inside. Adjacent Mini-Europe features detailed 1:25 scale models of Europe's most famous monuments, offering a whimsical tour of the continent in a few hours—perfect for getting inspired about future travels.
Book combo tickets online for savings; arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in summer
Lunch
A casual eatery near the Atomium or back toward the city center
Afternoon
Art Nouveau architecture tour
Brussels is the Art Nouveau capital of Europe. Explore the Ixelles and Saint-Gilles neighborhoods to see stunning examples by Victor Horta and other masters. Visit the Horta Museum (his former home and studio) to understand this revolutionary architectural style from the inside. Walk along Avenue Louise and surrounding streets to spot elaborate facades with flowing lines, wrought iron, and stained glass that define this uniquely Belgian contribution to architecture.
Evening
Dinner and local beer tasting
Find a traditional beer café serving hundreds of Belgian beers with expert guidance—try Trappist ales, lambics, and regional specialties paired with cheese or charcuterie
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Brussels (Same hotel)
Final night in Brussels before heading to other regions
Many Art Nouveau buildings are private residences, but you can admire exteriors freely. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography.
Day 3 Budget: $145-185
4
Journey to Medieval Bruges
Travel to Bruges, Belgium's fairy-tale medieval city, and begin exploring its UNESCO-listed historic center with canals, cobblestones, and timeless charm.
Morning
Train to Bruges and historic centre exploration
Take the comfortable one-hour train from Brussels to Bruges. Upon arrival, walk or take a short bus ride to the Historic centre of Brugge, a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels frozen in medieval times. Check into your accommodation, then begin wandering the car-free cobblestone streets, discovering hidden courtyards, canal-side views, and chocolate shops around every corner. The entire center is the attraction—get pleasantly lost.
Trains run frequently; no advance booking needed for this short journey
Lunch
A cozy restaurant in a medieval building near the Markt square
Afternoon
Belfry of Bruges climb
Climb the 366 steps of the Belfry of Bruges, the city's most iconic landmark dominating the Markt square. This medieval bell tower offers breathtaking panoramic views over Bruges' rooftops, canals, and surrounding Flemish countryside. The climb passes the impressive carillon mechanism and treasury room. At the top, you'll understand why Bruges is called the 'Venice of the North'—the view is absolutely worth the effort.
Arrive early or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds on the narrow staircase
Evening
Canal walk and dinner
Stroll along the canals at sunset when the light turns golden, then enjoy dinner at a canal-side restaurant. Bruges is magical in the evening when day-trippers leave
Where to Stay Tonight
Bruges historic center (Charming B&B or boutique hotel within the old town)
Staying inside the historic center lets you experience Bruges' magic in the quiet evening and early morning hours
Bruges gets overwhelmed with day-trippers from 10am-5pm. Experience it at its best by exploring early morning (before 9am) or after 6pm when the city returns to its peaceful medieval atmosphere.
Day 4 Budget: $150-190
5
Bruges' Sacred Sites & Canals
Explore Bruges' spiritual heritage at the Basilica of the Holy Blood and De Burg square, then experience the city from its famous canals.
Morning
Basilica of the Holy Blood and De Burg
Visit the remarkable Basilica of the Holy Blood in the beautiful De Burg square, Bruges' historic administrative heart. This double-level church houses a venerated relic believed to contain Christ's blood, brought from Jerusalem during the Crusades. The Romanesque lower chapel contrasts dramatically with the ornate Gothic upper chapel. The square itself, surrounded by impressive civic buildings including the old Town Hall, represents centuries of Bruges' wealth and power as a medieval trading center.
Lunch
A traditional Flemish tavern near the canals
Afternoon
Canal boat tour and museum exploration
Take a canal boat tour to see Bruges from the water—the perspective reveals hidden architectural details and provides access to views impossible from streets. Guides share fascinating history about the medieval trading port. Afterward, visit one of Bruges' excellent museums: the Groeninge Museum for Flemish Primitives, the Memling Museum in a medieval hospital, or a chocolate museum to understand Belgium's most famous export.
Evening
Begijnhof visit and dinner
Visit the serene Begijnhof (beguinage) before it closes—a peaceful courtyard where religious women once lived. End with dinner at a restaurant specializing in local Flemish cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Bruges historic center (Same accommodation as Day 4)
Two full days allows proper exploration of Bruges without rushing
The Basilica's relic is displayed for veneration only during specific hours (typically mornings and early afternoon). Check times if this interests you, as the schedule can vary.
Day 5 Budget: $135-175
6
Ghent's Medieval Majesty
Ghent
Day trip to Ghent to explore the imposing Castle of the Counts and discover this vibrant university city's medieval architecture and contemporary energy.
Morning
Train to Ghent and Castle of the Counts
Take the 30-minute train to Ghent, Flanders' best-kept secret. Head directly to the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen), a formidable medieval fortress with intact walls, towers, and moat. This 12th-century castle offers a genuine medieval experience—explore the keep, walk the ramparts, and visit the museum of judicial objects (including torture instruments). The rooftop provides spectacular views over Ghent's three towers and canal confluence.
Lunch
A waterside café along Graslei, Ghent's picturesque medieval harbor
Afternoon
Ghent historic center exploration
Wander Ghent's magnificent historic center, less touristy than Bruges but equally beautiful. Visit St. Bavo's Cathedral to see the famous Ghent Altarpiece (one of art history's masterpieces), climb St. Nicholas Church tower, and stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei medieval guild houses lining the canal. Ghent perfectly blends medieval grandeur with vibrant student life, creating a dynamic atmosphere. The city's scale and energy feel more authentic than museum-like Bruges.
Evening
Return to Bruges
Take the evening train back to Bruges for a relaxed dinner in your familiar base, or stay for dinner in Ghent's lively Patershol neighborhood before returning
Where to Stay Tonight
Bruges historic center (Same accommodation)
Bruges makes an excellent base for day trips to nearby Flemish cities
Ghent is significantly less crowded than Bruges and offers better value for dining and shopping. The city comes alive in the evening with students, making it worth staying for dinner.
Day 6 Budget: $140-180
7
Brussels Museums & Culture
Brussels
Return to Brussels for world-class museums, exploring Belgium's artistic heritage and unique contributions to transportation history.
Morning
Return to Brussels and Royal Museums of Fine Arts
Take the morning train back to Brussels and check into your accommodation. Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, one of Europe's finest art collections spanning six centuries. The complex includes museums of ancient and modern art, featuring Flemish masters like Bruegel, Rubens, and Van Dyck, plus the extraordinary Magritte Museum dedicated to Belgium's surrealist icon. Plan to spend several hours—the breadth and quality of works is exceptional.
Lunch
A café in the Sablon area near the museums
Afternoon
Train World exploration
Visit Train World, Belgium's spectacular railway museum housed in the historic Schaerbeek station. This isn't just for train enthusiasts—the beautifully curated exhibits trace Belgium's pioneering role in European railways through magnificent vintage locomotives, royal carriages, and interactive displays. The architecture of the 1887 station building alone is worth the visit. The museum brilliantly connects transportation history with Belgium's industrial development and European integration.
Evening
Saint-Géry neighborhood dinner
Explore the trendy Saint-Géry and Sainte-Catherine areas, former working-class districts now filled with hip restaurants, bars, and galleries. Dine at a seafood restaurant near the old fish market
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Brussels (Mid-range hotel in the historic center)
Back in Brussels for easy access to remaining attractions and onward travel
The Royal Museums offer free entry on the first Wednesday afternoon of each month. Train World is less crowded on weekday mornings.
Day 7 Budget: $145-185
8
Brussels' Spiritual Heights
Brussels (Koekelberg)
Discover Brussels' monumental basilica and explore neighborhoods off the typical tourist path for authentic local experiences.
Morning
National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg
Visit the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, one of the world's largest churches and Brussels' most impressive religious monument. This Art Deco masterpiece, completed in 1970, dominates the city's western skyline. Take the elevator to the dome's panoramic terrace for stunning 360-degree views across Brussels and beyond. The vast interior, museum, and rooftop experience provide a completely different perspective on Brussels than the medieval center offers.
Lunch
A local neighborhood restaurant in Koekelberg or nearby Molenbeek
Afternoon
Comic book route and Belgian comic culture
Brussels is the world capital of comic books, home to Tintin, the Smurfs, and countless other characters. Follow the Comic Book Route through the city center, discovering over 50 colorful murals on building walls depicting famous Belgian comic characters. Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center (in a stunning Art Nouveau building) to understand this unique aspect of Belgian culture. The combination of high art and popular culture perfectly captures Brussels' character.
Evening
Dinner and nightlife
Enjoy dinner in the lively Place Saint-Boniface area, then experience Brussels' famous nightlife in the bars around Place du Luxembourg or the alternative scene in Saint-Gilles
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Brussels (Same hotel)
Centrally located for final Brussels explorations
The view from the Basilica's dome is spectacular at sunset. The building itself is controversial architecturally but represents an important period in Brussels' development.
Day 8 Budget: $130-170
9
The View Brussels & Free Exploration
Brussels
Experience Brussels from its highest viewpoint, then enjoy free time for shopping, chocolate tasting, or revisiting favorite spots.
Morning
The View - Bruxelles experience
Start your day at The View - Bruxelles, offering panoramic perspectives over the city from a modern vantage point. This observation experience provides context for all the neighborhoods and monuments you've explored, helping you understand Brussels' layout and growth. The interpretation helps connect the medieval core, Art Nouveau districts, European Quarter, and modern developments. It's an excellent way to synthesize your Brussels experience before moving on.
Lunch
A traditional friterie for authentic Belgian frites with various sauces
Afternoon
Free exploration and shopping
Spend the afternoon pursuing personal interests. Options include: chocolate tasting tours visiting premium chocolatiers, shopping along Rue Neuve and Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, exploring the antique markets in Sablon, visiting neighborhoods you haven't seen, or taking a brewery tour. This flexible time allows you to dive deeper into whatever aspects of Brussels most captivated you, whether food, shopping, architecture, or simply café culture.
Evening
Farewell Brussels dinner
Splurge on a memorable dinner at an upscale Belgian restaurant, trying refined versions of classic dishes paired with exceptional Belgian beers or wines
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Brussels (Same hotel)
Final night in Brussels before heading to Wallonia
The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Europe's oldest covered shopping arcade, is beautiful even if you don't shop. Many premium chocolate shops offer free samples if you're polite and genuinely interested.
Day 9 Budget: $150-200
10
Journey to Dinant & Citadel
Dinant
Travel south to Wallonia's Meuse Valley, discovering the dramatic Citadelle de Dinant perched above the river in this picturesque town.
Morning
Train to Dinant
Take the scenic train journey south to Dinant in Wallonia, Belgium's French-speaking region. The route follows the Meuse River through increasingly dramatic landscapes. Dinant appears suddenly—a stunning riverside town dominated by cliffs and its citadel. Check into your accommodation, then begin exploring this compact town known for its saxophone heritage (Adolphe Sax was born here) and distinctive Collegiate Church with its remarkable onion-domed bell tower.
Lunch
A riverside restaurant with terrace overlooking the Meuse
Afternoon
Citadelle de Dinant exploration
Visit the impressive Citadelle de Dinant, perched 100 meters above the town on sheer cliffs. Take the cable car up (or climb 408 steps if feeling energetic) to explore this fortress with origins dating to 1051, though the current structure is 19th century. The citadel offers spectacular views over the Meuse Valley, plus museums covering military history and the fortress's strategic importance. The setting is genuinely dramatic—one of Belgium's most photogenic sites.
Evening
Dinant riverside walk and dinner
Stroll along the Meuse River as the citadel and church are illuminated, then enjoy dinner featuring local Wallonian cuisine—heartier and more French-influenced than Flemish cooking
Where to Stay Tonight
Dinant town center (Small hotel or guesthouse near the river)
Staying in Dinant allows you to experience this beautiful town without the day-trip crowds
Dinant gets busy with day-trippers on weekends. The town is magical in early morning and evening when you can enjoy the riverside setting peacefully. Try the local specialty, Couque de Dinant, a very hard honey biscuit.
Day 10 Budget: $140-180
11
Meuse Valley Exploration
Dinant region
Explore the stunning Meuse Valley around Dinant, with options for kayaking, castle visits, or nature walks in this scenic region.
Morning
Meuse River activities or nearby exploration
Spend the morning enjoying the Meuse Valley's natural beauty. Options include renting a kayak to paddle the gentle river between scenic villages, taking a river cruise to see the valley's dramatic cliffs from water level, or visiting nearby attractions like the Freÿr Castle and Gardens or the Caves of Han. The region offers a completely different pace from Belgium's cities—focused on nature, outdoor activities, and Wallonian rural culture.
Lunch
A country inn or riverside café in a nearby village
Afternoon
Dinant town exploration and Saxophone heritage
Return to Dinant to explore what you missed yesterday. Visit the Adolphe Sax House to learn about the saxophone's inventor, browse the artisan shops along the main street, and discover the town's copper-working heritage. Walk across the Charles de Gaulle Bridge decorated with colorful saxophones. The compact town rewards leisurely exploration, revealing charming details and offering numerous photo opportunities with the dramatic backdrop.
Evening
Relaxed evening in Dinant
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, then perhaps attend a live music performance if available—Dinant celebrates its musical heritage with regular concerts
Where to Stay Tonight
Dinant town center (Same accommodation as Day 10)
Two nights allows proper exploration of both Dinant and the surrounding valley
The Meuse Valley is excellent for cycling. Consider renting bikes to explore the riverside paths connecting picturesque villages—the terrain is relatively flat along the river.
Day 11 Budget: $130-170
12
Return to Brussels via Namur
Brussels (via Namur)
Journey back to Brussels with a stop in Namur, Wallonia's capital, to explore its impressive citadel and charming old town.
Morning
Travel to Namur and citadel visit
Take the train to Namur, Wallonia's capital city at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers. Visit the Citadel of Namur, one of Europe's largest fortresses, with fortifications spanning multiple eras. Take the tourist train or walk up to explore the ramparts, underground passages, and museums. The citadel's strategic position controlled river trade for centuries. The views over the two rivers meeting and the city below are exceptional.
Lunch
A restaurant in Namur's old town near the cathedral
Afternoon
Namur old town and return to Brussels
Explore Namur's attractive old town with its baroque cathedral, pedestrian shopping streets, and riverside setting. The city has a relaxed, authentic feel as a working regional capital rather than tourist destination. Browse local shops, enjoy a coffee in a square, then take the afternoon train back to Brussels. The journey gives you time to reflect on the contrast between Flanders and Wallonia—two regions, two languages, one fascinating country.
Evening
Brussels neighborhood dinner
Settle back into Brussels with dinner in a neighborhood you haven't explored yet, like the trendy Châtelain area or multicultural Matongé district
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Brussels (Mid-range hotel in the historic center)
Back in Brussels for the final days to wrap up any missed experiences
Namur is often overlooked by tourists but offers an authentic Wallonian city experience without crowds. The citadel is impressive and the old town is charming for a few hours.
Day 12 Budget: $145-185
13
Brussels Revisited & Hidden Gems
Brussels
Spend your penultimate day discovering Brussels neighborhoods and experiences you've missed, or revisiting favorites at a leisurely pace.
Morning
Neighborhood exploration
Explore Brussels neighborhoods beyond the tourist center. Visit the European Quarter to see the EU institutions and Parc Léopold, wander through the African-influenced Matongé district, discover the Art Deco architecture of the Deco Walk, or explore the working-class charm of Marolles with its daily flea market. Each neighborhood reveals different facets of Brussels' complex, multicultural identity. This is your chance to see the living city beyond the monuments.
Lunch
A neighborhood café or market food stall in the area you're exploring
Afternoon
Personal interest pursuit or museum revisit
Use this flexible afternoon for whatever most interests you. Options include: revisiting the Royal Museums if you rushed through, taking a specialized food tour, visiting the Horta Museum if you missed it, shopping for Belgian products to take home, attending a chocolate-making workshop, or simply relaxing in a café watching Brussels life pass by. This unstructured time lets you travel at your own pace.
Evening
Farewell Belgium dinner
Book a special farewell dinner at a renowned Belgian restaurant, celebrating two weeks of discoveries with excellent food, beer, and perhaps a final visit to Grand Place illuminated at night
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Brussels (Same hotel)
Final night in Belgium
The Marolles flea market (Place du Jeu de Balle) operates daily but is best on weekends. It's a great place to find Belgian vintage items, antiques, and souvenirs with character.
Day 13 Budget: $140-200
14
Departure & Final Moments
Brussels
Final morning in Belgium for last-minute shopping, a favorite café revisit, or peaceful reflection before departure.
Morning
Final Brussels moments and departure preparation
Depending on your departure time, enjoy a final Belgian breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee. Take a last stroll through your favorite neighborhood or square, perhaps Grand Place one more time. Visit any shops for final purchases—Belgian chocolates, beer, lace, or comics make excellent gifts and souvenirs. If time allows, revisit a café that became a favorite or discover one last hidden courtyard. Pack your memories along with your luggage.
Lunch
Light meal at the airport or a final Belgian meal in the city depending on flight time
Afternoon
Departure
Head to Brussels Airport (Zaventem) by train from Brussels Central Station—the journey takes about 20 minutes and trains run every 15 minutes. Alternatively, if departing from Brussels South Charleroi Airport, take the shuttle bus which requires more time. Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to navigate check-in and security. As you depart, you'll carry memories of Belgium's remarkable diversity—medieval cities, world-class art, architectural innovation, culinary excellence, and the warm welcome of this small country with a big heart.
Evening
Departure
Safe travels with Belgian chocolates in your carry-on and plans to return
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Brussels Airport has excellent Belgian chocolate and beer shops after security—last chance for gifts or personal treats. Prices are reasonable compared to many airports.
Day 14 Budget: $80-120 (partial day)
Practical Information
Getting Around
Belgium has an excellent, affordable train network connecting all major cities. Brussels to Bruges takes 1 hour, Brussels to Ghent 30 minutes, Brussels to Dinant 90 minutes. Trains run frequently and rarely require advance booking except for international routes. Within cities, walking is best for historic centers, supplemented by trams, buses, and metro in Brussels. Consider a 10-journey MOBIB card in Brussels for public transport savings. Bikes are available for rent in most cities and Belgium has extensive cycling infrastructure. A car is unnecessary except for remote countryside exploration.
Book Ahead
Book accommodation well ahead for Bruges especially (limited options in the small historic center). Summer months and holiday weekends require early booking throughout Belgium. Most attractions don't require advance tickets, but booking online for the Atomium and Mini-Europe combo saves money. Reserve any specialized food tours or chocolate workshops a few days ahead. Train tickets can be purchased same-day, but booking international connections in advance saves significantly.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones everywhere), layered clothing (weather is changeable), rain jacket or umbrella (rain is frequent year-round), adapter for European plugs, reusable water bottle, day pack for sightseeing, camera for incredible architecture, appetite for chocolate and beer, and patience for multilingual signage (Dutch in Flanders, French in Wallonia, German in the east)
Total Budget
$1,890-2,520 for 14 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels or budget hotels outside city centers (€40-60/night instead of €80-120). Eat lunch as your main meal when restaurants offer cheaper prix-fixe menus, buy picnic supplies from supermarkets, and cook occasional dinners in hostel kitchens. Use the Belgium Rail Pass for unlimited train travel. Skip some museum entries and focus on free attractions like walking tours, architecture, and parks. Choose budget beer cafés over restaurants. Stay longer in each city to reduce transportation costs. Budget: $80-110/day.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay in five-star hotels like Brussels' Amigo or Bruges' Relais & Châteaux properties (€300-500/night). Book private guided tours of museums and cities. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants—Belgium has an exceptional fine dining scene. Hire private drivers between cities for countryside exploration. Take helicopter tours over medieval cities. Book beer and chocolate tastings with master sommeliers and chocolatiers. Stay in castle hotels in Wallonia. Upgrade to first-class train travel. Luxury budget: $400-600/day.
Family-Friendly
Add Walibi Belgium amusement park (one of Europe's best theme parks) near Brussels. Spend more time at Mini-Europe which kids love. Choose canal boat tours over long museum visits. Visit the Natural Sciences Museum in Brussels with its dinosaur collection. Book family rooms or apartments with kitchens to save on dining and provide familiar food options. Include hands-on chocolate workshops. Reduce walking with bike rentals or hop-on-hop-off buses. Add the Oceanopolis aquarium in Liège or Pairi Daiza zoo. Plan shorter days with playground breaks.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Belgium