A Weekend in Belgium: Chocolate, Beer & Medieval Charm
Brussels to Bruges in 48 Hours
Trip Overview
Experience the best of Belgium in one unforgettable weekend, combining the cosmopolitan energy of Brussels with the fairy-tale charm of Bruges. This carefully paced itinerary takes you through grand European squares, medieval canals, world-class museums, and Belgium's legendary food scene. You'll sample authentic Belgian waffles, discover centuries-old brewing traditions, indulge in artisan chocolates, and wander cobblestone streets that have remained unchanged for 800 years. With just an hour's train ride between the two cities, this itinerary maximizes your time while maintaining a comfortable pace that allows for spontaneous discoveries. Perfect for a first visit to Belgium, you'll leave with a genuine appreciation for Belgian culture, history, and gastronomy.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Brussels: European Grandeur & Belgian Delights
Where to Stay Tonight
Brussels city center or near Gare du Midi (Mid-range hotel like Hotel Manos or Motel One Brussels)
Staying central allows easy exploration on foot, and proximity to Gare du Midi provides quick access to tomorrow's train to Bruges. The area offers numerous dining options for evening plans.
Bruges: Medieval Magic & Canal Serenity
Where to Stay Tonight
Return to Brussels or stay in Bruges center (If staying: Hotel Prinsenhof or B&B Huyze Hertsberge)
Staying in Bruges allows you to experience the magical evening atmosphere after day-trippers leave, and enjoy the quiet morning streets. If returning to Brussels, you're positioned for onward travel connections.
Practical Information
Getting Around
Belgium's excellent rail network makes this itinerary seamless. Purchase a weekend rail pass or individual tickets through SNCB/NMBS website or app. Brussels to Bruges takes exactly 1 hour with trains departing every 30 minutes. Within cities, everything is walkable - Brussels city center is compact, and Bruges is entirely pedestrian-friendly. Consider a MOBIB card for Brussels public transport if staying outside the center. Taxis and Uber are available but rarely necessary for this itinerary.
Book Ahead
Book De Halve Maan brewery tour 3-7 days ahead. Reserve dinner at popular restaurants like Den Dyver or Park Restaurant. Purchase Belfry tickets online to skip queues. No advance booking needed for most attractions, but arriving early helps avoid crowds.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones everywhere), light rain jacket (weather changes quickly), day backpack for purchases, power adapter (Type E European plug), reusable water bottle, and extra luggage space for chocolate and beer souvenirs
Total Budget
$300-400 for 2 days (excluding accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels like Bruegel Youth Hostel Brussels or St. Christopher's Bruges ($30-40/night). Eat at friteries and sandwich shops, pack picnic lunches from supermarkets like Carrefour Express. Skip paid attractions and enjoy free walking tours, church visits, and simply wandering the streets. Use Flixbus instead of trains ($10 vs $25). Buy chocolate from Lidl or Delhaize supermarkets. Budget: $80-100 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at Hotel Amigo Brussels (Rocco Forte) and The Pand Hotel Bruges. Book private guided tours of both cities with Context Travel. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants like Comme Chez Soi (Brussels) or De Jonkman (Bruges). Private driver between cities. Exclusive chocolate-making workshop at Pierre Marcolini. Private after-hours canal cruise in Bruges. Premium beer tasting experiences at Cantillon brewery. Budget: $500-800 per day.
Family-Friendly
Add Mini-Europe and Atomium in Brussels for kids. Visit Choco-Story museum in Bruges with chocolate-making workshop for children. Take horse-drawn carriage ride instead of walking tours. Stay at apartment hotels with kitchenettes like Citadines. Pack picnics for flexible meal times. Skip beer-focused activities for waffle workshops and frites museums. Visit Boudewijn Seapark near Bruges if time allows. Children under 12 travel free on Belgian trains with paying adult.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Belgium