visit belgium or germany

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belgium vs. Germany for Families, Museums & Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

• Pros & Cons
• Museums & Attractions
• Culture & History
• Small Towns
• National Parks
• Watersports
• Outdoor Activities
• Backpackers
• Transportation
• More time in Belgium or Germany?
• Which is Cheaper, Belgium or Germany?
• What are the cheapest places in Belgium or Germany?
• How can you save money in Belgium or Germany?
• When to Visit Belgium or Germany?
• Weather: Belgium vs. Germany

Should you visit Belgium or Germany?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Should I visit Belgium or Germany? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which country has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

We'll start with a quick overview, and below we will go into all of the details.

Germany and Belgium are both interesting countries with a lot to offer visitors. They are also very different countries both in size and in personality. Germany is a very large country, so if you hope to explore Germany in depth, you'll need a lot of time. Even though it is large, Germany is a very efficient country to visit. Trains and buses are reliable and run like clockwork. The cities are very clean and modern and the facilities are comfortable.

Belgium is also a very clean and modern country, with an international feel, particularly in Brussels. Because of it's smaller size, it's relatively easy to integrate a trip to Belgium in to a trip to other parts of Europe. One great perk about visiting Belgium is that you can pick one base, and explore the country with several great day trips. The transportation network is excellent and if you don't want to spend a lot of time packing and unpacking, this is the way to go.

Belgium is a diverse, quaint, and prosperous country. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, museums, and theater.

Belgium is a smaller but diverse nation with a long history, lots of attractions, and a mix of cultures. As it's at a crossroads in Europe, visitors can see influences from the native Belgian and Flemish people as well as from nearby France, Germany, and Holland. Historic and world-class cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent offer amazing cuisine, historic art and architecture, and fun activities for all types of travelers. Smaller cities such as Bruges, Liege, and Leuven let you delve into history in their historic old towns with cathedrals, charming cafes, art galleries, and carriage tours. And as a smaller country, it's easy to get around to see everything on the trains in just a few hours at the most between destinations.

Germany is a historic, modern, and industrious country. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the theater, adventure travel, national parks, and history and culture.

At the heart of Europe, Germany is one of the largest countries on the continent and offers visitors a wealth of history, art, and culture mixed with modern attractions and beautiful natural scenery. The large cities offer museums, nightlife, theatre, and cultural activities, while the countryside is diverse with wine regions, gorgeous mountains, winding rivers, national parks, and historic towns.

Belgium and Germany: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Great culture, history, and arts
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Less attractive beach
• Less popular at Christmas
• Less hiking options
• Not as many national parks
• Less outdoor activities
• Not as many road trip options
• Popular at Christmas
• Good for hiking
• Beautiful national parks
• Numerous outdoor activities
• Great road trips
• Impressive beauty

How is Belgium different from Germany?

Which is better for a holiday.

Below we will examine the differences and similarities between Belgium and Germany. With this information, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Belgium or Germany?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Belgium and Germany .

Belgium offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. From art to history to culture, you'll find something for everyone. Some of the most popular art museums include The Magritte Museum in Brussels, François Duesberg Museum in Mons, and the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art (SMAK) in Ghent. But it's not all about art, as visitors also love the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) in Antwerp which focuses on the city's history as a maritime port. Also, science lovers should check out the Euro Space Center and the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences. For interesting history lessons, visit the Gallo-Roman Museum, Dossin Casern, and the In Flanders Fields museum.

Many visitors head to Germany specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With thousands of museums, it might be difficult to decide where to go first. Some of the best museums in Germany include the Museum Island area of Berlin which showcases a combination of art and ancient history, the Mercedes-Benz museum dedicated to the automobile, Zwinger Palace in Dresden which hosts historic art and antique weapons, the German Museum in Munich which focuses on Science, and the International Maritime Museum in Hamburg. Plenty more can be found in every corner of the country, though.

Berlin : Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

Nuremberg : It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

Würzburg : The Franconian city is known for its history and architecture. One of the most well know sights is the 18th-century Residenz palace. Other attractions in town include the Martin von Wagner Museum, the Würzburg Court Gardens, the Marienberg Fortress, and the Würzburg Cathedral & Museum.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Culture, Arts, and History?

You'll find great culture, arts, and history when visiting both Belgium and Germany .

Belgium is an extremely popular destination for those that want to visit historical and cultural sights and attractions, as it offers plenty. Although it's a smaller country, the history and culture here is packed into its cities and small towns. You'll find museums that focus on art, history, science, and more in many of the cities and town. For example, visit the Grand Palace in Brussels, the Castle of the Counts in Ghent, or the grand cathedrals of Antwerp. Large castles dot the countryside, many with grand views such as the one in Bouillon. Theaters are everywhere, too, so you can take in a play, opera, or the ballet in addition to enjoying the cafe culture and the unique cuisine.

See also 14 Free Things to do in Brussels .

Germany has many famous historic and cultural sights and attractions worth visiting, and is one of the main reasons why poeple come here. With a deep and rich history, Germany's cities and small towns showcase a variety of architecture, art, theatre, cultural traditions, and more to visitors and locals alike. Many of the big cities are home to not just art museums, but also museums that provide insight into German and European history, technology, food, and its people. Even the small towns across the country offer their own piece of history and art, as the countryside is dotted with castles and ancient ruins showcasing medieval times, Roman history, and modern periods up to and after the major wars.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Big City Activities?

Germany is considered to have more larger cities than Belgium.

Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions in the big cities of Germany that attract lots of visitors. Berlin, the capital, offers a diverse set of urban experiences from museums and historical sights to iconic modern music, trendy fashions, delicious cuisine, and more. Other larger cities include Munich, Cologne and Bonn, Hamburg, and Frankfurt, just to name a few. Each has its own personality while still offering typical big city amenities and attractions such as museums, beautiful architecture, fine dining, nightlife, and nice hotels.

See also The 13 Best Free Things to do in Berlin , and Things to do in Dresden .

Because of the large cities in Belgium, visitors will find many sights and attractions. Brussels and Antwerp are both popular destinations for visitors because of the large number of attractions and activities. In both of these cities you'll find a wide array of hotels, restaurants, historical sites, museums, and activities for every type of traveler. In Brussels, tour the Grand Palace, climb the Atomium, and go shopping at the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. In Antwerp, after admiring the historic railway station, check out the Meir area for some shopping and chocolates, the Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp, and the windows of the Diamond District.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Small Towns and Villages?

Germany is considered to have more smaller towns and villages than Belgium.

Because Germany offers so many small towns with a variety of charming activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. One of the main attractions to many regions of Germany is the large number of small, beautiful towns. Many of these towns, especially those along the Rhine river, in Bavaria, and in the Black Forest, are extremely scenic and historic. Visitors to these towns experience history, culture, great cuisine, fun activities, wine tasting, mountain views, and more. Some of the most scenic towns in Germany include Quedlinburg, Cochem, Rottach-Egern, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Fussen , Bamberg, and Gorlitz, although there are many others that are also popular.

See also The Best Day Trips from Munich .

As Belgium is a destination with many small towns and villages, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Some of the more popular small towns to visit draw large crowds to see the old cathedrals, local markets, narrow canals, historic homes, and delicious local cuisine. Bruges is one of the most popular towns for travelers because it has several gorgeous cathedrals, scenic canals, museums, and terrific restaurants all packed into a small walkable area. Other popular smaller towns include Spa, where you'll find relaxing hot springs; Bouillon, home of a beautiful castle; Durbuy, with its winding narrow streets; Dinant, with cliffs above a scenic river; and Rochefort, famous for its beer from the historic monastery. But dozens more small towns are dotted around the countryside, and if you have the time, are worth visiting.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Theater?

There are great theater venues available in both Belgium and Germany .

If you have some extra time in Belgium , take in a show. While Brussels has the most theater productions, Antwerp, Ghent, and others host a variety of shows and concerts, too. The most popular theaters in Brussels include the Théâtre Royal du Parc, Vaux-Hall, and the KVS. For other interesting performances, don't miss the Royal Toone Theatre with its myriad of puppets or La Montagne Magique (Magic Mountain) which offers youth and children's productions in French. In Antwerp, a few of the most popular theaters are Koningin Elisabethzaal, De Roma, Stadsschouwburg, and Bourla, among others.

Germany offers a number of shows and performances. Opera, ballet, performance art, and live plays are all very popular and commonly found in the big cities of Berlin, Munich, Cologne, Hamburg, and others. Many of the theatres which host events are historic buildings themselves, making the experiences that much more exciting.

Is the Food Better in Belgium or Germany? Which Country Has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Germany a bit more than Belgium.

Germany has a huge number of terrific restaurants. German food traditionally consists of meat and potatoes, along with beer, naturally. But in recent decades the food scene in the major cities has exploded. So, while you definitely should try the bratwurst and other related sausages along with schnitzel (breaded fried pork) and spatzle (egg noodles), you can also find modern cuisine from Germany and abroad in almost every town across the country. Modern chefs, especially in the big cities, are catering to the modern local German population, as well as tourists, with gourmet food in a variety of restaurant styles. But of course, while in Germany you still need to try the potato pancakes, rabbit stew, pork knuckle, and roast beef stew. And wash it all down with some local German beer, of course! You'll find a wide variety of beer styles, flavors, and brewing techniques all around the regions of this beer-loving country.

Baden-Baden : There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Belgium area. While Belgium is famous for waffles, beer, and chocolate, plenty of other traditional dishes should be on your list as well. Furthermore, as a modern and diverse nation, you can find cuisine from all over the world in the big cities such as Brussels and Antwerp. World-class chefs have started terrific restaurants serving a wide variety of dishes. But if you're after some traditional fare, try the mussels (moules), fries with garlic-mayo, Flemish stew, or Croquettes, and Vol-au-vent.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Belgium and Germany .

The nightlife in Belgium has something for everybody. As the largest city, Brussels not only draws the biggest crowds in the evenings, but has also earned itself a reputation as a party-oriented city at night. With dozens of nightclubs offering every type of music, to the vibrant bar and pub scene, as well as the theater and fine dining offerings, Brussels has an active scene for both locals and visitors alike. Some of the best spots in Brussels include Madame Moustache, the Music Village, Fuse, and Spirito. Antwerp also offers its share of nightlife. Dozens of bars and clubs come alive at night here also. Ghent, Bruges, and other tourist destinations also offer plenty of bars and theaters, although the nightlife scene is not as active later in the night.

Ghent : With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Germany offers plenty to do in the evening. Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and other major cities offer plenty of nightlife options such as bars, clubs, pubs, concerts, theatre productions, and a variety of other options for both tourists and locals alike. Out in the smaller cities and rural areas, nightlife might be limited to the local bar, but it's still not hard to find some of that delicious German beer no matter where you visit.

Berlin : The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Munich : The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

See also Party Hostels in Munich , Party Hostels in Hamburg , and Party Hostels in Berlin .

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Belgium and Germany are great choices.

You can check out the beach in Belgium . The relatively short stretch of coastline here has some beautiful beaches which can be enjoyed during the warmer months. Some areas are more natural with sand dunes and open spaces, while others have stretches of hotels, restaurants, cafes, and seaside attractions. Knokke-Heist is a popular area with plenty of activities and hotels. De Panne and Nieuwpoort are also extremely popular with wide, white beaches and a diverse selection of dining options. On the other hand, Bredene is more secluded for those that want to escape the crowds.

You'll find a beach in Germany . Germany actually has a very long and extensive coastline along the North Sea and Baltic Sea. But as you might expect, this is not the warmest part of the world, so swimming and beach activities are limited to the warmest months. But despite this, Germany offers some beautiful stretches of coastline such as Hiddensee Island, Rugen Island, Juist Island, Sylt Beach, and more. Many of these beach towns have wide sandy beaches lined with dunes and sea grasses, plus natural areas for nice walks, local restaurants, and plenty of seaside activities. Also, some of the larger lakes inland have beach areas with fun activities, too.

Is the Shopping Better in Belgium or Germany?

Belgium often provides a better shopping experience than Germany.

Belgium is well-known for its shopping. Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and other major cities offer plenty of trendy shops, fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and chocolate shops. Also, you can't miss all of the diamond stores in Antwerp. Even if you're not buying, it's fun to peruse the window displays. In Brussels, make sure to visit the Royal Saint Hubert Galleries not just for the shops, but also for the architecture and history of the building. Another nice indoor spot is Passage du Nord, and Boulevard de Waterloo has plenty of upscale shops. In Antwerp, the diamond shops are located not far from the historic train station, while more of the clothing boutiques are found in De Modewijk, the fashion quarter of the city.

Brussels : Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Antwerp : The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Many visitors go to Germany to go shopping. Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg, and other large cities in Germany offer plenty of trendy and authentic shopping experiences. From high-end fashion to grunge to casual to hipster, the cities of Germany offer something for everyone.

Berlin : Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Munich : There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Christmas?

The Christmas season is more busy in Germany than Belgium.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Germany. Germany lights up at Christmas, as the large cities of Berlin, Cologne, Munich, Nuremburg, Dresden, and others host a variety of activities, put up large trees, adorn public buildings with lights, host concerts in their cathedrals, and offers shows, ice skating, and more. Plenty of smaller cities and small towns in the countryside do the same, combining the snowy landscape, alpine architecture, and holiday spirit into one large festive atmosphere in winter.

Cologne : Cologne is one of the top Christmas destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Many visitors go to Belgium during the Christmas season. The large public squares of Brussels, Antwerp, and other historical cities raise large Christmas trees and decorate their town centers with lights and decorations. Many towns have festivals and parades, especially during the arrival of Sinterklaas or Pere Noel (depending on the region). Also, many small towns and big cities host Christmas markets with food, drinks, gifts, crafts, ice skating, and more. Brussels has a Winter Wonderland Christmas Market where the buildings are illuminated. Other touristy towns such as Bruges host special events with entire sections of town covered in lights and special market shops.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Hiking?

Germany provides a better hiking experience than Belgium.

Many visitors go to Germany for the hiking trails. From the Alps in the south to the Baltic Sea coastline in the north, plenty of amazing hiking trails can be found throughout Germany. Some of the best include Painters' Way in the Elbe Mountains, the Rheinsteig Trail along the Rhine River in western Germany, Triberg Waterfalls in the Black Forest, and Partnachklamm Gorge in the Reintal Valley in Bavaria. But there are many more places to explore, as Germany is home to 16 national parks plus a number of wilderness and mountain regions.

While not known for its hiking, Belgium has a few options. Many hiking trails are within easy reach of nearby cities and towns, making them accessible. Many are also easy hikes since Belgium has a fairly low elevation. Some of the best areas to hike include Deux Ourthes Natural Park, Southern Ardennes Natural Park, or Eifel Natural Park.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for its National Parks?

Germany often provides a better experience visiting national parks than Belgium.

Visiting the national parks is a popular activity when in Germany. Some of the most popular national parks here include Berchtesgaden National Park in Bavaria, Jasmund National Park in the northeast, Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, and Black Forest National Park. Germany has 16 national parks with landscapes ranging from the mountains to the sea to the forests. Hiking, horseback riding, camping, adventure sports, and bird watching are popular activities in the parks, almost all of which are very accessible from nearby towns and cities.

Belgium has some national parks and wilderness areas for those that seek them out. With only two national parks and 10 other large natural protected areas, most visitors don't come here to see the wilderness. But a variety of beautiful scenery can still be found in this small country. Hiking trails and camping spots providing opportunities to see the rivers, hills, and native birds of the region. They make for a good escape from the cities if you're looking for somewhere nearby to get into nature.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Watersports?

Both Belgium and Germany have a good array of great watersports to choose from.

Belgium offers some fun watersports activities and attractions for travelers who seek them out. The beach along the coastline offers surfing, kite surfing, wind surfing, and swimming during the warmer months. Also, plenty of the canals and rivers through the country are great spots for kayaking, boating, or swimming, too. While you can explore the waterways of the countryside by kayak or canoe, don't forget that you can often do this in the cities and towns as well, which offer a fun perspective on the historic urban areas.

Germany does offer some watersports. While the sea on the north coast is a bit cold most of the year, many of the watersports in Germany take place inland on the lakes and rivers. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are popular both on the coast and inland on the larger lakes. Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are also popular on these rivers and lakes, especially in the mountainous regions where the waters are clean and clear and the scenery is beautiful.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Outdoor Activities?

Overall, Germany is considered to offer more outdoor activities and attractions to visitors.

Germany offers fun and exciting outdoor activities for visitors. With no shortage of outdoor activities, Germany offers a great deal of variety to visitors. The mountains in the southern regions near the Alps are very popular for outdoor enthusiast looking for hiking, climbing, skiing, camping, fishing, and more. Also, numerous national parks and other wilderness areas can be found in all corners of the country where travelers can find even more to do in the forests and coastline and rivers of the country. Some of the best areas for outdoor activities include Baden-Baden, Eifel, the Rhine Valley, and the Bergstrasse.

Belgium does have some outdoor activities to explore. Wildlife areas and parks are very accessible to the larger cities and towns, many by public transit. So, if you're looking to get out of the urban areas, these parks are a good option. Hiking trails, boating, swimming, and other fun activities are found all over the country. And while the country is smaller than many others, it still has scenic outdoor spots such as the West Coast (Westkust) cycling route from De Panne or the Zwin walking route in Knokke-Heist, or the Eifel Nature Park.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for a Road Trip?

Generally Germany is better for road trips, as it offers more possibilities.

Germany is a very popular destination for those that love to take road trips. The autobahns of Germany make for a terrific way of getting around the country. If you have a car, multiple road trips options throughout the country are very popular, and make it easy to see the Alps and Elbe mountains, the Black Forest, the small towns along the rivers, and the numerous castles. Visitors could easily spend weeks exploring everything from the cities to the national parks to the mountain peaks. A road trip is a great way to see Germany.

Belgium is generally not the best destination for road trips, but it has a few options. To see some of the small towns in the countryside, taking a road trip might be a good option. Since the distances between cities and towns are not large, driving can be quite quick between destinations. The roads are great, and having your own car means that you can see some of the small and quaint places that are not as easy to reach by train or bus. Don't miss some of the castles (such as in Bouillon, or the monasteries that produce beer such as the one in Rochefort. Keep in mind that visiting the big cities with a car is generally not recommended since parking is limited.

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Families?

There's generally more to do with your family in Germany than Belgium.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Germany is a very family-friendly destination. Families with kids will find plenty of activities here from theme parks to historic castles to kid-friendly museums. Almost every major city has some sort of theme park or water park nearby, along with easy to reach historical castles and small towns with fun shops and activities. Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the premier castles which inspired the Disney castles, but it's just one of many. Theme parks such as Phantasialand, Europa-Park, Heide-Park, Legoland, Movie Park Germany, and more. Add on the old medieval towns with their city walls, bratwurst-filled restaurants, and interesting local museums, and the kids will get a fill of history and culture, too. Finally, the mountain ranges to the south offer unique outdoor and adventure activities that the whole family will love such as hiking, horseback riding, ropes courses, and more.

Bonn : Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

Belgium is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. From fairy-tale cities such as Bruges to the large cathedrals filled with lights, and from the horse-drawn carriage rides and playgrounds to the old Castle of the Counts in Ghent, kids will be very entertained here. After all, this is the country of waffles and chocolate, and the adults can have a Belgian beer on the side, too. Many of the cities are also bike-friendly, which adds to the fun if you want to take a tour on two wheels. Or hop on a boat tour as Ghent, Bruges, and many others have canals and rivers with scenic views, too. And Brussels offers the Pixel Museum which is all about gaming and technology, as well as a puppet theater and various other art and history museums. You can also get into the outdoors to visit hiking trails and national parks, as well as interesting caves. And any kids interested in military history should visit Waterloo as well as the trenches of Ypres

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Belgium and Germany make for a great place to visit.

Belgium makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While it might not be the first place that couples think of, the big cities such as Brussels and Antwerp offer plenty of charming and romantic activities. Furthermore, many of the castles and chateaus in the countryside have been turned into luxury hotels, so you can experience history and luxury together. Hikes from some of the small villages to nearby castles are common any time of the year, especially in the spring and fall. And whether you're in a small town or one of the big cities, you'll find chocolate, waffles, and beer all over, not to mention plenty of other gourmet food options for that romantic evening out on the town. Theaters are also common, so take in a show or a concert after dinner.

See also Hostels for Solo Travellers, Couples, & Groups in Bruges , and Hostels for Solo Travellers, Female Travellers, & Couples in Brussels .

Germany is a good country for couples to visit. Many couples seek out the smaller towns and mountain regions of Germany as romantic destinations. In Bavaria and Baden-Wurttemberg, the southern regions, couples can find small mountain towns along rivers and lakes with views of the Alps. Also, wineries and vineyards are popular in Germany, as the quality of the wine is matched by the beauty of the landscape and quaintness of the small towns. River cruises, ski resorts, and historic cities are also popular options. A few of the best include Heidelberg, Berchtesgaden, Dresden, Fussen (Neuschwanstein Castle), and the Black Forest.

Bamberg : Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

See also Hostels for Solo Travellers, Couples, and Groups in Cologne , Hostels in Hamburg for Solo Travellers, Couples, & Groups , and Hostels in Munich for Solo Travellers, Female Travellers, & Couples .

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Travelers usually think of Germany as a better destination for backpackers than Belgium.

Many backpackers visit Germany. While this country is generally expensive, many affordable options can be found by those looking to save money. While the larger cities have hostels and other budget-friendly activities, the smaller towns also offer affordable amenities for younger travelers or those looking to plan their own route on a tight budget. Using public transit to save money is also a great way to get around, as Germany's rail system and the city's transit systems are top-notch.

Berlin : The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Munich : The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

See also Best Hostels in Berlin , Party Hostels in Munich , and Party Hostels in Hamburg .

Belgium is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and other major tourist destinations might not be the most budget-friendly places, but plenty of hostels and low-cost accommodations can be found in and around the cities. Furthermore, food at most restaurants is reasonably priced, especially if you avoid the touristy areas and the higher-end establishments. In generally, there's plenty of activities which are free or low in price. And younger travelers tend to enjoy Belgium's vibrant nightlife and bar scene, which is especially popular in Brussels as well as Antwerp, Ghent, and elsewhere. Transportation is also cheap and readily available.

See also Brussels Hotels & Hostels Near Grand Place , Hostels for Large Groups and Parties in Brussels , and Hostels for Solo Travellers, Couples, & Groups in Bruges .

Is Belgium or Germany Better for Students?

For students, both Belgium and Germany are great places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Belgium . With major universities attracting students from all over the world, along with an active nightlife and bar scene, as well as affordable travel options, this country is a pretty good place for students. You'll find hostels, affordable food, fun cafes, and cheap activities in Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and other cities. The largest university areas are found in Brussels, Leuven, Liege, Ghent, and Antwerp, so you might want to focus on these areas if you're visiting or are interested in studying abroad.

Ghent : The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

See also Hostels for Backpackers and Students in Belgium .

Germany is a good country to visit for students. As a large country, plenty of universities offer programs for students that come to study from countries around the world. Also, most of these universities are located in towns and cities with plenty of nightlife options and other activities for students and younger travelers.

Berlin : With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Munich : The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Frankfurt : The city offers prestigious universities and a world class education. The economy offers many internships and job opportunities and you'll find students from around the world studying here. Frankfurt is also well connected to the rest of Europe, so it's easy to explore the region.

See also Hostels for Backpackers and Students in Munich, Germany , and Hostels for Solo Travellers and Students in Frankfurt, Germany .

Is Belgium or Germany Easier for Transportation? Which is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Belgium and Germany both offer transportation to get you around.

Belgium has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the country. The combination of the national train system, city trams and buses, great roads, and a good network of bike paths makes this one of the easiest countries to get around. Belgium is fairly small as a country, so the major cities and towns are not too far apart. The trains run frequently and efficiently, as do the local city trams and buses. Roads are well built for those that want to drive, too.

• Traveling by train is extremely popular.
• Traveling by bus is very common and fairly easy.
• It's possible to travel with an organized tour.
• It's possible to travel by car.
• Travel by airplane is possible.

With a huge network, the transit system in Germany can get you around easily. The extensive train networks (Deutsche Bahn, among others) connects major cities, small towns, and rural areas so that everywhere is connected and accessible. And once you're in major cities such as Berlin, Cologne, and Munich, you'll find even more local public transit options. Even smaller cities and towns in Germany have their own bus and tram networks to get everyone around quickly. Furthermore, the famous autobahns of Germany can take those who wish to drive around the country quickly as well. On top of all of this, most major cities have airports with multiple international connections on a daily basis.

• It's possible to travel by bus.
• It's very easy and convenient to travel by car.

Is Belgium or Germany more Comfortable for a Trip?

Both Belgium and Germany can feel quite modern and comfortable as they both have an established tourist infrastructure.

People often come to Belgium because it is such a comfortable and luxurious destination. Modern European comforts and luxuries are found everywhere here, so whether you're traveling to the cities or the countryside, you can expect modern conveniences. The larger cities have the most variation in price ranges for accommodations and restaurants, but at any price range you can expect modern facilities and quality service. Transportation is efficient and safe, and a large network of infrastructure for both locals and tourists alike can be found everywhere. The food is also excellent, clean, and safe no matter where you visit in Belgium. So, whether your a family looking for comfortable places for the kids, a couple on a romantic break, or a younger backpacker on a tight budget, everyone can expect to travel around efficiently and in comfort.

Germany is extremely comfortable for travelers as it is a modern destination with plenty of amenities. As a prosperous and wealthy country, it's easy to relax and enjoy a trip in Germany. Every city and town has a wide range of hotel options at all price ranges with modern amenities and conveniences. You'll also find plenty of restaurants, a great transportation network within and between cities, and well-educated tour guides and staff everywhere you visit.

Is Belgium or Germany more Touristy?

Both Belgium and Germany host many visitors every year.

Belgium has a reasonable number of visitors. Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, and Liege are the most popular destinations for visitors. They each see fairly large numbers of travelers, especially in the summer months. However, the cities themselves are large enough so that any particular area isn't overcrowded and the cities are easily manageable. Bruges is an especially popular place to visit, as this smaller city offers many attractions, so it can feel much more touristy than other places. Also, specific areas of each city are popular, such as the Castle of Counts in Ghent which sometimes has a long queue to enter. Other popular attractions include the Grand Palace in Brussels, the Belfry in Ghent, Bouillon Castle, and Waterloo. It's common to experience crowds at these locations and other popular spots, but again, it's usually manageable.

Germany is fairly touristy, with a decent number of visitors coming each year. The most popular tourist destinations in Germany can be very busy, especially during the peak seasons (usually summer). The busiest tourist areas include major cities such as Berlin and Munich, and they see many visitors at their main attractions, museums, and monuments. Also, other major tourist destinations include some of the castles in the countryside, the smaller villages in the Rhine Valley, the Alps, and the Black Forest that offer impressive beauty, the ski resorts during winter, and the various amusement parks around the country. However, the number of tourists can still be manageable at most of these locations and should not dissuade anyone from visiting.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium , The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium , The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium , The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels , The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany , The Best Historical Tours in Germany , The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany , The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany , The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany , The Best Adventure Tours to Germany , The Best Cultural Tours in Germany , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany , The Best Music Tours in Germany , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany , The Best Walking Tours in Germany , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany , The Best Luxury Tours to Germany , The Best Budget Tours to Germany , The Best Tours for Seniors to Germany , The Best 3-Day Tours from Munich , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin , The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin , and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin .

Should I spend more time in Germany or Belgium?

How long in belgium or germany.

Belgium and Germany both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Germany than Belgium because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Belgium, and 7-14 days is enough time in Germany.

Families should spend more time in Germany than Belgium. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Germany, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Germany than Belgium. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Germany that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Germany than Belgium if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Germany.

• How many days should I spend in Belgium or Germany? Ideal Length of Stay --> Belgium 3-7   Germany   7-14

A weekend in Belgium or Germany?

In Belgium, you'll find museums, theater, and history and culture. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Germany, you'll find national parks, history and culture, and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Belgium or Germany?

Belgium is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Belgium has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Germany is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belgium or Germany?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belgium. In Belgium, you'll find history and culture, nightlife, and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Germany. In Germany, you'll find skiing, nightlife, and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Two weeks in Belgium or Germany?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belgium. Many people enjoy the history and culture, nightlife, and food when visiting Belgium. Two weeks is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Germany. In Germany, you'll find skiing, nightlife, and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Two weeks is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Germany has to offer.

Which country is cheaper, Germany or Belgium?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Belgium Prices Germany Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Belgium € 142 Germany € 152

The average daily cost (per person) in Belgium is €142, while the average daily cost in Germany is €152. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each country. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Belgium and Germany in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Belgium € 71 Germany € 75
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Belgium € 142 Germany € 150

Compare Hotels in Belgium and Germany

Looking for a hotel in Belgium or Germany? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Belgium

Hotels in Germany

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Belgium € 17 Germany € 24

Typical Local Transportation prices in Belgium

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Belgium:

• Subway Pass € 4.50
• Five Day Bus Pass € 15
• Bike Rental for Day € 8.00
• Atomium train ticket (2) € 8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belgium

Also for Belgium, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $499
• Brussels Airport (BRU) To Amsterdam: VIP Transfer: $490
• Lille: Private Transfer to or from Bruxelles Zaventem: $372
• Lille: Private Transfer to or from Bruxelle Charlerois: $319
• Private Transfer From Bruges To Amsterdam, 2 hour stop in Utrecht: $298
• Shuttle Transfer Bruges <-> Paris (1 to 8 PLACES): $289
• Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> Disneyland Paris (1 to 8 SEATS): $289
• Private Arrival Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam by Luxury car: $285
• Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (1 to 8 PLACES) : $278
• Brussels Airport Shuttle Transfer <-> Disneyland Paris (1 to 8 PLACES): $278
• Charleroi Shuttle Transfer <-> Disneyland Paris (1 to 8 PLACES): $278
• Namur <-> Disneyland Paris Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 PLACES): $278

Typical Local Transportation prices in Germany

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Germany:

• Car Rental € 50
• Short Distance Ubahn Ticket € 1.70
• Short Trip Metro Ticket € 1.40
• Bahn Ticket € 3.00
• Short Taxi Ride € 20
• Single Zone Trip on Subway € 2.30
• Inner District Subway Day Pass € 5.20
• City transport day ticket € 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Germany

Also for Germany, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Private transfer from Frankfurt am Main to Prague: $1,054
• Private transfer from Munich to Vienna: $926
• Private transfer from Berlin to Prague: $702
• Private transfer from Munich to Prague: $702
• Frankfurt: Transfer from Frankfurt Airport to Munich: $692
• Hamburg Airport(HAM): Transfer to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $642
• Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg: $642
• Private transfer from Nuremberg to Prague: $617
• Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg city: $582
• Hamburg Airport (HAM): Transfer to Fredericia Cruise Port: $582
• Transfer Service from Salzburg to Hallstatt: $435
• Hamburg: Private One-Way Transfer to or from Kiel Port: $420

Is it cheaper to fly into Belgium or Belgium?

Prices for flights to both Germany and Belgium change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Belgium € 42 Germany € 40

Typical Food prices in Belgium

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Belgium:

• Ice Cream & Macaroons € 4.60
• Cup of Tea € 2.00
• Sandwich for Lunch € 3.25
• Dessert (Turkish Delights) € 4.75
• Cheese € 5.60
• Olives and Snacks € 6.98
• Waffle € 3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belgium

For Belgium, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Brussels: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $28
• Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $29
• Antwerp: 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $55
• Brussels: City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $61
• Antwerp: 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71
• Mechelen Small-Group Walking Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $75
• Walking Food Tour in Ghent: $81
• Mechelen Food Tour: $81
• Vegan Walking Food Tour in Mechelen: $81
• Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
• Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $106
• Secret Food Tours Brussels: $111

Typical Food prices in Germany

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Germany:

• Dinner for Two € 22
• Soda € 1.70
• Bratwurst € 5.00
• Coffee € 3.50
• Fast Food Lunch € 3.50
• Lunch € 10
• Coffee € 4.50
• Panini To Go € 2.00
• Soda € 2.00
• Salami € 1.99
• Nutella € 1.00
• Yogurt € 1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Germany

For Germany, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• English Comedy Ticket including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $18
• Berlin: English Stand-Up Comedy with Pizza and Shots: $19
• Munich: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
• Cologne: Hard Rock Café with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
• Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
• English Comedy Showcase Including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $28
• Hard Rock Cafe Cologne With Set Lunch or Dinner: $29
• Hard Rock Cafe Berlin With Set Lunch or Dinner : $34
• Munich: Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
• Dusseldorf: Flingern Food Tour: $47
• Munich Food Tour with Beer Tasting: $47
• St George's Culinary Food Tour: $48

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Belgium € 19 Germany € 28

Typical Entertainment prices in Belgium

For Belgium, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• Groeninge Museum Entrance € 8.00

Tours and Activities in Belgium

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Belgium.

• Beer Tasting Tour in Brussels: $24
• Brussels: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
• Christmas Gems of Brussels - Walking Tour: $261
• In Flanders Fields and Passchendaele Half Day Morning Tour: $87
• "Edges of Brugge" Photo Tour (2hr open city tour & workshop): $76
• "Essential Brugge" Photo Tour (3hr private city tour & workshop): $271
• "Hidden Brugge" Photo Tour (2hr open city tour & workshop): $76
• "The Alchemist" Tournai : Outdoor Escape Game: $21
• "Zombie Invasion" Tournai : outdoor escape game: $43
• 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour: $15
• 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Antwerp : $229
• 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour: $31

Typical Entertainment prices in Germany

For Germany, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• Formula 1 Tickets (for 2) € 670
• Tower at St. Michael's Church € 3.50
• Schack Gallery Entrance € 4.00
• Munich Zoo Entrance € 9.00
• Pub Crawl Munich Tour € 14
• Berlin Zoo (2) € 20
• Neuschwanstein Castle (2) € 24

Tours and Activities in Germany

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Germany.

• 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: Jewish Mainz: $206
• Access Munich: A tour for blind and partially sighted people: $98
• E-scooter Sightseeing Tours in Berlin: $66
• East Berlin and the Berlin Wall 2-Hour Walking Tour : $22
• Esslingen fountain tour with picnic from a local's perspective: $38
• Hamburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $287
• Hamburg: Safari tour in St Pauli: $33
• Romantic Road Ticket from Würzburg(Main) to Rothenburg/Tauber (SUNDAY): $40
• Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour from Berlin.: $32
• The Best of Berlin: Most Famous Sites Walking Tour: $21
• "Alles Kohle"-Tour: $83
• "Cruise in the City" - Sailing Yacht Event, Hamburg/Elbe: $73
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Belgium € 16 Germany € 22

Typical Alcohol prices in Belgium

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Belgium from other travelers:

• Bottle of Wine € 10
• Beer € 6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Belgium

Also in Belgium, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Bruges Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
• Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
• Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
• Mechelen Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
• Antwerp: City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
• Bruges: Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit: $17
• Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $17
• Brussels: Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18
• Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
• Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $66
• Antwerp: Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96
• Private: Discover Bruges beers & brewery with chocolate pairing by a young local: $190

Typical Alcohol prices in Germany

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Germany from other travelers:

• Becks Beer € 2.00
• Night Out Drinking € 25
• Drinks at a Show € 14
• Hofbrauhaus € 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Germany

Also in Germany, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Berlin: Mampe Schnapps Brewery Tour and Tasting: $13
• Original One80 Berlin Pub Crawl: $16
• Berlin: VIP Pub Crawl with Drinks and Challenges: $16
• Düsseldorf: Old Town Pub Crawl Self-Guided Tour: $16
• Bamberg: Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
• Cologne: Old Town Walking Tour with Brewery and Kölsch Beer: $18
• Guided tour of the old town with a visit to the brewery in Cologne: $19
• Berlin: brewery tour with beer tasting: $19
• Frankfurt: Night Pub Crawl through Alt-Sachsenhausen: $21
• Hamburg: Night Pub Crawl through The Repperbahn: $21
• Bremen: 3-Hour Beck's Brewery Tour: $22
• Cologne: Old Town Walking Tour inkl Brewery Visit: $23

When comparing the travel costs between Belgium and Germany, we can see that Germany is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

Why is Germany more expensive than Belgium?

In general, prices in Belgium and Germany are very comparable. A diverse range of hotels, hostels, and restaurants are available, so in most tourist destinations it's possible to find options for all budgets.

One noticeable difference is the amount you might spend on transportation within the country. Because Germany is quite large, if you hope to travel throughout the country you are likely to spend more money on trains and buses. Belgium is a much smaller country, and many places can even be visited as day trips, keeping costs to a minimum.

What are the most expensive and cheapest cities and regions in Germany and Belgium?

In Germany, cities like Berlin can be a bit more expensive than the countryside. In some cases though, there may only be one hostel and a few small hotels in a town, with just a few restaurants to choose from in a smaller town. This lack of competition may drive prices up.

Prices in Belgium are relatively consistent throughout. It's possible to find affordable hostels in most cities and towns, and there are a variety of restaurants with reasonable options as well. Travel times are also quite short within Belgium, so the cost of traveling between locations is reasonable.

How can you save money while visiting Germany and Belgium?

Eat where the locals eat. Restaurants that are geared toward tourists will inevitably be more expensive. Try to find a local eatery and you're sure to save a good bit of money. Alternatively, find a street vendor that sells bratwurst or a local dish. Then you can find a great place to sit and people watch while you enjoy your quick and cheap meal.

It's easy to visit either Belgium or Germany during the spring or fall when the prices are a bit less and the crowds aren't as intense. If you want to save some money then this is a great time to explore the area.

Belgium can be explored through a series of day trips. Pick a base and then spend some time in nearby towns. This will give you a feel for the country in a shorter amount of time.

Buses are almost always cheaper than trains, so look into all of your transportation options before buying tickets.

Slow down and take time to really enjoy the cities and towns you're in. Exploring less places in more detail will give you a feel for the area and also save you money, because you'll spend less money on transportation.

When is the best time to visit Belgium or Germany?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

The Belgian climate in northern Europe experiences four seasons with cooler summers and cold wet winters. While the temperatures are often cold in the winter, it only snows periodically near the coast. And because the summers are not too hot, the weather is very pleasant during this popular time to visit.

Germany experiences four seasons with warm summers and cold winters. The mountain ranges in the south are popular with skiers, and as such see quite a bit of snow and cold temperatures in the winter. Summers can be quite warm, especially in the central regions. Spring and autumn are both very pleasant.

Germany and Belgium are beautiful countries to visit year around. Temperatures are most comfortable and crowds less intense during the spring and fall seasons. These shoulder seasons are good options if you don't want to pay peak prices and wish to avoid the most intense crowds. If you do plan to visit during the summer months, the temperature is still much milder than southern Europe and it can actually be quite pleasant.

Winter is a beautiful time to visit both Germany and Belgium. In general, prices tend to be a bit cheaper during this season, but it has become a bit more difficult to get off season discounts in recent years. Even during the cold winter months, many hotels are popular with business travelers or tour groups, which drive up prices. Deals on airline tickets can still be found during these low times. The holiday season around Christmas can also be a more expensive time to visit as vacationers head to both countries.

Should I visit Belgium or Germany in the Summer?

Both Germany and Belgium are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Belgium because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Germany this time of year.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Berlin in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Berlin fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Berlin. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Berlin during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Berlin. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Brussels 18°C (65°F)   Brussels   19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Belgium or Germany in the Autumn?

Both Germany and Belgium during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Belgium this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Germany for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is a little warmer than Berlin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Berlin averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in October than Berlin. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Brussels 12°C (54°F)   Brussels   10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Belgium or Germany in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Belgium and Germany. Many travelers come to Belgium for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Germany in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Berlin can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In January, Brussels is generally much warmer than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Berlin fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Berlin. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Brussels 3°C (38°F)   Brussels   -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Belgium or Germany in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Belgium as well as Germany. Many visitors come to Belgium in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Germany for the natural beauty during these months.

Brussels is a little warmer than Berlin in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Berlin fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Berlin. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Berlin. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Brussels 10°C (49°F)   Brussels   9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Berlin and Brussels

Related articles for belgium, related articles for germany.

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Germany vs. Belgium

Table of Contents

Both Germany and Belgium are steeped in history and brimming with cultural delights. They offer a myriad of adventures that could cater to your taste, whether you’re a history buff, an art aficionado, or a nature lover. Excited to find out more? Dive in and explore what each destination has in store for you!

History & Culture

Delving into the rich histories of Germany and Belgium is like embarking on a fascinating journey through time. Both countries have diverse cultures shaped by their unique pasts.

Germany’s history is vast, spanning from the time of the Roman Empire to the modern day. You’ll find this reflected in its culture, from its traditional festivals to its architectural styles. German culture is also heavily influenced by its intellectual history, giving birth to some of the world’s most renowned philosophers, musicians, and scientists.

On the other hand, Belgium’s history, though equally compelling, is distinctly different. Belgium’s past is a tapestry of various cultural influences, from Roman to Spanish to French. This blend has resulted in a unique Belgian culture that celebrates diversity. Belgium is also known for its love for comic strips, being the birthplace of beloved characters like Tintin.

While Germany’s culture is often associated with precision and efficiency, Belgium’s is more laid back and jovial. Both countries, however, share a deep appreciation for the arts and have contributed significantly to various art movements throughout history.

In summary, while both Germany and Belgium boast intriguing histories and vibrant cultures, their expressions are quite distinct. Whether you’re drawn to Germany’s intellectual tradition or Belgium’s multicultural charm, you’re in for a cultural feast!

Attractions & Activities

When it comes to attractions and activities, Germany and Belgium are teeming with possibilities. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or an art lover, you’re sure to find something that sparks your interest.

In Germany, you can explore grand castles that seem straight out of fairy tales, or immerse yourself in the bustling metropolis of Berlin, where modern architecture stands side by side with historic buildings. If you’re into nature, the scenic beauty of the Black Forest or the stunning Bavarian Alps will leave you in awe.

Belgium, though smaller, packs a punch with its range of attractions. Walk through picturesque medieval towns like Bruges or Ghent, with their well-preserved architecture and charming canals. For art buffs, Belgium’s numerous museums, housing everything from Flemish primitives to modern art, are a must-visit.

If you’re more of an adventurer, Germany’s vast landscapes provide plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and winter sports. Meanwhile, Belgium’s flat landscapes are perfect for leisurely bike rides or canal cruises.

In a nutshell, both Germany and Belgium offer a wealth of attractions and activities. Whether you’re captivated by Germany’s grandeur and diverse landscapes or enchanted by Belgium’s charming towns and rich art scene, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable experience.

While neither Germany nor Belgium is primarily known for their beaches, they each offer unique coastal experiences that could add a refreshing touch to your vacation.

Germany’s coasts stretch along the Baltic and North Seas. One of the most notable beaches is Sylt Island, located in the North Sea. Sylt’s beaches are expansive, covering a total length of about 40 kilometers (or 25 miles). The sandy shores and dunes, coupled with its breezy climate, make it a popular spot for wind-based water sports.

In contrast, Belgium’s coastline is shorter, extending approximately 66 kilometers (or 41 miles) along the North Sea. The town of Ostend is particularly popular, boasting a wide sandy beach and a charming promenade. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing day by the sea, with the added bonus of Ostend’s lively city vibe within easy reach.

Summing it up, while Germany’s beaches offer a serene escape with the option of adrenaline-pumping activities, Belgium’s beaches provide a blend of relaxation and urban entertainment.

Eating, Drinking & Nightlife

Diving into the culinary scene is an essential part of any travel experience, and both Germany and Belgium have a lot to offer in this department.

German cuisine is hearty and diverse, with each region having its own specialties. From succulent bratwursts to the iconic pretzels, there’s plenty to delight your taste buds. Germany is also famous for its beer, with hundreds of breweries across the country. A trip to a traditional beer garden is a must-do when in Germany.

Belgian food, on the other hand, is a delightful fusion of French and German cuisine. Known worldwide for its waffles, chocolates, and fries, Belgian dishes are sure to leave you wanting more. And let’s not forget about Belgian beer! With a history dating back hundreds of years, Belgian breweries offer a wide variety of brews to suit any palate.

When it comes to nightlife, both countries have vibrant scenes. Germany’s Berlin is known for its world-class clubs and diverse music scene. Belgium’s Brussels, while more laid-back, offers a mix of trendy bars, pubs, and nightclubs.

In conclusion, whether you’re drawn to the hearty fare and beer culture of Germany, or the sweet treats and laid-back nightlife of Belgium, your taste buds and evening entertainment are well-catered for in both destinations.

Shopping can be an integral part of your travel experience. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or high-end luxury items, both Germany and Belgium offer a diverse array of shopping opportunities.

In Germany, shopping is a cultural experience. Cities like Berlin and Munich are packed with a mixture of traditional stores, modern shopping malls, and trendy boutiques. You can find locally made crafts, designer clothes, and world-renowned German engineering in everything from toys to cars.

On the other hand, Belgium offers its own unique shopping experience. Known for its fine chocolates, lace, and diamonds, Belgian shops are a treasure trove of distinctive items. Cities like Brussels and Antwerp are particularly famous for their shopping districts.

Ultimately, whether you prefer the rich variety in Germany’s shopping scene or the unique specialty items of Belgium, both countries have shopping experiences that cater to a range of preferences and budgets.

Accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your travel experience. Both Germany and Belgium offer a wide range of options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

Germany’s accommodation options range from luxury hotels in major cities to charming guesthouses in smaller towns. You can also find unique options like castle hotels, offering you the chance to live out a fairy-tale experience.

Belgium, too, has a diverse accommodation scene. From grand hotels in Brussels to quaint bed and breakfasts in the countryside, the choices are plentiful. Unique to Belgium are the gîtes, or holiday homes, often set in beautifully renovated old buildings.

In summary, whether you’re looking for luxury, charm, or something a little different, both Germany and Belgium offer a variety of accommodations that can enhance your travel experience.

Family-Friendliness & Children’s Activities

If you’re traveling with your family, you’ll want to consider which destination offers the most child-friendly attractions and activities. Both Germany and Belgium are known for their family-friendly cultures, but they offer different experiences.

Germany is packed with family-friendly activities. Cities like Berlin and Munich have many parks, zoos, and science centers that are sure to entertain kids of all ages. Additionally, Germany is the birthplace of many classic fairy tales, and the country boasts several theme parks and castles where your children can live out their storybook dreams.

On the other hand, Belgium also offers a wealth of family-friendly experiences. From its famous chocolate shops and comic book museums to the Mini-Europe park and the Atomium, Belgium has a lot to keep kids excited and engaged.

In conclusion, both Germany and Belgium offer a wide array of family-friendly activities. Your choice between the two will depend on the specific interests of your family members.

Getting There & Getting Around

Accessibility and transportation are essential factors to consider when planning your trip. Both Germany and Belgium are well-connected and have efficient public transportation systems.

Getting to Germany from most parts of the world is relatively easy. It has several international airports, with Frankfurt Airport being one of the busiest in Europe.

Once you’re in Germany, the country’s extensive railway network and autobahns (highways) make traveling around the country straightforward. The distance from Berlin to Munich is about 600 kilometers (372 miles), which can be covered in about 6 hours by car or 4 hours by high-speed train.

In contrast, Belgium is a smaller country and easier to navigate. Brussels Airport serves as the main international gateway.

Belgium also has an efficient railway system, and since the country is small, you can travel from one end of the country to the other in a few hours. For instance, the distance from Brussels to Antwerp is around 50 kilometers (31 miles), and a train ride between the two cities takes less than an hour.

In summary, whether you prefer the vastness of Germany with its efficient autobahns and railways, or the compact and easily navigable Belgium, both countries offer excellent accessibility and transportation options.

When planning a trip, it’s important to think about the weather, as it can greatly impact your activities and overall experience. Germany and Belgium, while geographically close, do offer some differences in their climates.

Germany generally experiences a temperate seasonal climate, with moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the year. The winters can get quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing (32°F or 0°C). Summers in Germany can be warm, with temperatures usually ranging between 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C).

Belgium, in contrast, has a maritime temperate climate. This means that it has mild summers and cool winters. During the summer, you can expect temperatures to hover around 70°F (21°C), while in winter it usually stays above freezing, averaging around 40°F (4°C).

In both Germany and Belgium, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast and pack accordingly. If you love snowy landscapes, a winter trip to Germany might be right up your alley. However, if you prefer milder winters, Belgium might be a better choice.

Safety is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a travel destination. Both Germany and Belgium are generally considered safe countries to visit, but like anywhere, they have their issues to be aware of.

In Germany, the crime rate is relatively low, but you should still take precautions, particularly in larger cities. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist spots and public transportation, where pickpocketing can occur.

Similarly, Belgium is a safe country for tourists. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in tourist areas and on public transport. Just like in Germany, you should always keep an eye on your belongings.

While both countries have excellent healthcare systems, it’s crucial to have appropriate travel insurance. This can protect you from unexpected costs like medical bills or if you have to cancel your trip.

In conclusion, both Germany and Belgium offer safe travel experiences with some precautions necessary. Always remain vigilant and ensure you’re covered by travel insurance to make your trip as smooth as possible.

When planning a trip, cost can be a significant factor. It’s important to understand the general expenses you might encounter in Germany and Belgium.

In Germany, the average cost of a hotel room can range from 70 Euros ($84) for a 3-star hotel to 110 Euros ($132) for a 4-star hotel per night. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant could cost around 15 Euros ($18) for a main dish. If you’re planning on using public transportation, a one-way ticket typically costs around 2.80 Euros ($3.36).

In comparison, Belgium’s prices can be slightly higher. A 3-star hotel may cost around 85 Euros ($102) per night, while a 4-star hotel could be around 120 Euros ($144) per night. A meal at a mid-range restaurant might set you back by about 20 Euros ($24), and a one-way ticket for public transportation is typically around 3 Euros ($3.60).

It’s also worth noting that prices can vary depending on the city you’re visiting and the time of year. Prices in major cities like Berlin or Brussels are usually higher, especially during peak tourist season.

Which Is Better – Germany or Belgium?

Choosing between Germany and Belgium can be challenging as both countries offer rich histories, unique cultures, and memorable experiences.

If you’re a history buff, you might lean towards Germany, with its impressive historical monuments and remnants of its influential past. On the other hand, Belgium’s vibrant history and diverse cultural influences also make it a captivating destination.

When it comes to attractions and activities, Germany offers a wider variety, from castles to hiking trails. In contrast, Belgium’s charm lies in its quaint towns, iconic architecture, and museums.

As for beaches, neither Germany nor Belgium is particularly renowned for them. However, if you’re seeking a coastal experience, Belgium’s coastline offers more accessible options.

If you’re a foodie, both countries will delight your taste buds. Belgium is famous for its chocolates and beers, while Germany offers hearty meals and world-renowned beers.

Accommodation and cost-wise, Belgium tends to be slightly more expensive than Germany. However, both countries offer a range of options to suit various budgets.

In conclusion, the choice between Germany and Belgium boils down to your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a more diverse range of attractions and a slightly less expensive trip, Germany might be your best bet. However, if you’re drawn to charming towns and delicious treats and don’t mind a slightly higher cost, Belgium could be your perfect destination.

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Belgium Itinerary: The Best Places in 3, 4 or 5 Days (2024)

Belgium might not be the first place you would think of travelling to, but in fact, there are many good reasons to visit this country . With its medieval cities, enchanting castles and local delicacies, Belgium has a lot to offer. This Belgium itinerary is ideal for first-timers who want to see the country’s highlights .

As I am from Belgium and lived here for most of my life, I have come to know this little country quite well.

To see the best of what it has to offer, you will need a minimum of 3 days in Belgium . To get to know it better and get a real taste of what this country is all about, 4 to 5 days would be perfect.

So, depending on how much time you have in the country, here’s the perfect Belgium itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 days.

Belgium Itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 Days

The first 3 days of this itinerary will bring you to some of Belgium’s most beautiful places . However, if you have 4 or 5 days in this country, the next days will take you to some of the country’s most famous castles too.

Of course, you can easily switch things up according to your interests if you don’t have 5 days in Belgium.

Let’s dive into this itinerary!

Day 1: Brussels

This itinerary for Belgium starts in Brussels, the bustling capital. Brussels is a lively city that is worth visiting and one that cannot miss on your trip to the country.

This city is famous for being the unofficial capital of the EU and the self-proclaimed “comic book capital of the world” and there are quite some things to see here.

To see the city’s highlights, one day in Brussels will be enough. However, you will need more than one day if you want to visit some of Brussels’ museums and areas outside of the city centre too.

Tip: Brussels is a good place to base yourself when you’re visiting Belgium . It is located in the middle of the country, which makes it easy to access any region from here (Brussels is super small, so nothing is far away).

Brussels’ highlights

• Grand Place: The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site with some pretty amazing architecture. This is Brussels’ main square and it is often featured on lists featuring the most beautiful squares in Europe .
• Manneken Pis: This famous statue of a peeing little boy is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks . It is not far from the Grand Place and if you’re lucky, Manneken Pis will be wearing one of his 900 costumes.
• Galleries Royales Saint-Hubert: Built in 1847, this is Europe’s oldest shopping arcade. Apart from beautiful architecture, you will find plenty of luxury shops here.
• Mont des Arts: If you like beautiful views, you will love the Mont des Arts (“Mount of the Arts” in French), which is home to one of the most famous parks in Brussels. If you climb up this mount’s stairs, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the city.
• Saint Michael and Gudula Cathedral: It is in this cathedral that royal weddings, funerals and coronations take place. The Brussels Cathedral’s interior is quite sober and it has beautiful stained glass windows.
• Saint Catherine Church & La Tour Noire: French for the black tower, la Tour Noire is located right next to the beautiful Saint Catherine Church. This tower is part of the 13th-century city walls.
• Atomium: This giant molecule is a pretty unique landmark. It was built for the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958. As it is not located in the centre of the city, you will need to take the metro to get there.
• Beer tour: If you would like to taste some delicious Belgian beer, it is good to know that there are plenty of b eer tours in Brussels . You will learn more about this brew too if you decide to join one of these tours.

Fun fact: It rains for an average of 200 days in Brussels. Although it rarely rains all day, you will find the best indoor activities in Brussels in this post just in case.

Day 2: Bruges

Today, we’re heading to Bruges, one of the most charming medieval towns in Europe . Beautiful Bruges is located in the North of the country and visiting this city is one of the best things to do in Belgium , which is why it can’t miss from any itinerary for this country!

Note that if you’re using public transportation, it’s good to know that the train station in Bruges isn’t in the city centre. So you will need to take the bus to get there unless, of course, you want to walk.

Tip: If you would like to see Ghent too, it’s good to know that it’s possible to visit Ghent and Bruges in one day as these cities are just a 25-minute train ride apart. It will give you less time in Bruges, though.

Bruges’ highlights

Bruges’ cobblestoned streets, medieval buildings and picturesque canals make it one of the prettiest and most romantic destinations in the country .

You will find the best places to visit in Bruges in one day below:

• Grote Markt: This square has been used as a market square since the 10th century. It is surrounded by beautiful guild houses, and this is the perfect place to start exploring Bruges.
• Belfry of Bruges: This medieval bell tower is located on Market Square, and it can be visited. If you decide to climb its 366 steps, you will be rewarded with a stunning view over Bruges.
• Basilica of the Holy Blood: The interior of this Roman Catholic basilica, located on Burg Square, is truly stunning! It was originally built in the 12th century and houses the relic of the Holy Blood .
• Rosary Quay: Head to the “Rozenhoedkaai” for a beautiful view of the canals with Bruges’ historical buildings as a backdrop. This is one of the most photographed sites in Bruges!
• Bonifacius Bridge and Church of Our Lady: The Bonifacius Bridge, with the Church of Our Lady right next to it, is a truly enchanting area and also one of my favourites in Bruges. It is said that you will experience eternal love if you kiss your loved one on this bridge. If you decide to enter the Church of Our Lady, you will be able to admire the famous  Madonna and Child  sculpture by  Michelangelo .
• Beguinage: This former beguinage is one of the most peaceful parts of the city. It was once home to the beguines but the Nuns of the Order of St. Benedict now inhabit the place.

All in all, there are plenty of good reasons to visit Bruges , this is definitely one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities!

>> Check out my post featuring the best canal view hotels in Bruges if you would like to stay here for a night.

Day 3: Dinant and castles

On day 3 of this itinerary for Belgium, it is time to head to Wallonia , the French-speaking part of Belgium. Here, Dinant, the city of the saxophone, Walzin Castle and the Castle of Vêves are well worth visiting.

You can reach the city of Dinant by train from both Bruges and Brussels. However, if you’re coming from Bruges, the train ride will take approximately 3 hours whereas the ride takes a little less than 2 hours from Brussels.

Note that you can’t reach the castles surrounding Dinant by public transportation . The easiest option would be to rent a car for a day. If this is not an option, it is possible to take a taxi (a 15-minute ride) from Dinant.

Dinant’s highlights

Dinant is most famous for being the place where Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, was born. This is a charming city with some interesting things to see and do.

This city is quite small, so half a day here should be just enough. Here are some of the best places to visit in Dinant :

• Citadelle de Dinant: Standing high on the Dinant rock, the Citadel of Dinant is the place to go for a beautiful view of the city. There is a history and weapon museum inside that will teach you more about the history of Dinant.
• Notre Dame de Dinant: Notre Dame de Dinant is an eye-catching 13th-century cathedral with beautiful stained glass windows. Make sure not to miss it during a visit to this town.
• Saxophone Bridge: This bridge crosses the River Meuse. It is decorated with 28 colourful saxophones, each representing one of the countries of the European Union.
• Rocher Bayard: If you’re entering Dinant by car, Rocher Bayard is this city’s first famous landmark that you will encounter. This 35 m (114.8 ft) high rock formation is split in two, and the road goes right through both parts.

Vêves Castle

The medieval Vêves Castle looks as if it is coming straight out of a fairytale, which is probably the reason why it is often called Sleeping Beauty’s Castle . It towers above the village of Celles, and both its interior and exterior are stunning.

The ground on which Vêves Castle was built has a rich history that dates back to the time of Pépin de Herstal (685), a Frankish statesman and military leader. The current castle, however, was built in the 15th century.

If you would like to stay the night in an enchanting castle, it’s good to know that there are plenty of castle hotels in Belgium . Some of them are near Dinant.

Walzin Castle

Contrary to Vêves Castle, Walzin Castle can’t be visited on the inside because it is privately owned. Its stunning location, however, perched high on top of a rock, makes it one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium .

Vêves Castle was built during the 11th century and later destroyed. The castle has undergone multiple restorations since, and today, only the original watchtowers remain.

Tip: As Vêves Castle and Walzin Castle are pretty close to each other, it is possible to hike from one castle to another. This hike is 15 km (9,3 mi) long, and it will take you through the beautiful Nature Park of Furfooz. In my opinion, this is one of the best hikes in Belgium .

Day 4: Antwerp

If you have 4 days or more on your Belgium itinerary, it is time to head to Antwerp today. This Flemish city is a 40-minute train ride from Brussels or a 2.5-hour ride from Dinant.

Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world . This is a beautiful city with many interesting sights and it has an interesting legend too.

The Legend of Antwerp According to the legend, the name Antwerp comes from “hand werpen”, which means “to throw a hand” in Dutch. The story goes that a long time ago, the mythical Roman soldier Brabo killed a giant that demanded a toll on people who wanted to enter the city. If people refused to pay, the giant would cut off their hands and throw them in the River Scheldt. Brabo then decided to fight the giant by cutting off his hand and throwing it into the river.

You will find a statue of Brabo throwing away the hand of the giant on the Grote Markt.

Antwerp’s highlights

• Central Train Station: This station is often featured in lists of the most beautiful train stations in the world and it’s one of Belgium’s most famous landmarks . This is the first place that you will see if you’re visiting Antwerp by train. If not, make sure to head there and check out the station’s impressive main hall. You won’t be disappointed!
• Diamond District: Antwerp’s famous diamond district is located right next to the train station. This is the part of the city where diamonds are traded and where you will find plenty of jewellery shops.
• Grote Markt: The Grote Markt is the main square of Antwerp, and it is stunning! Beautiful guild houses surround this square, and you will also find a fountain of Brabo here.
• Cathedral of Our Lady: The 123-m (402.5 ft) high Cathedral of Our Lady is the tallest Gothic building in the low countries. It houses an impressive art collection that includes works of Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens .
• Vlaeykensgang: This picturesque alleyway dates back to the 16th century and this used to be a very poor area. Today, however, antique shops and art galleries dominate this area.
• MAS Museum: The MAS Museum houses many interesting exhibitions, and even if you don’t feel like visiting a museum, this is a must-see location. The modern red building in which the museum is housed has a rooftop terrace that is free to access. You will have some of the best views of Antwerp from here.
• Rubenshuis: This museum is located in the building where the famous painter Rubens’ home and workshop were. You will find a collection of his work inside and you will get to see where he painted many of his paintings.

Read m y one day in Antwerp itinerary to find out how to spend a perfect day in this city.

 ❗The Rubenshuis is currently closed due to renovation works. It will reopen in 2026.

>> Check out my post featuring the best hotels in Antwerp if you would like to stay here for a night.

Day 5: Bouillon

On the last day of the 5-day itinerary for Belgium, it is time to head to Bouillon. This is a beautiful destination in the Walloon Semois Valley of Belgian Luxembourg

If renting a car is not an option, you will have to take the train to Libramont and TEC bus number 8 to get there.

Libramont is a 2-hour train ride from Brussels and a 3-hour ride from Antwerp. The bus ride from Libramont to Bouillon takes another hour.

Castle of Bouillon

The Castle of Bouillon towers high above the city. Its history dates back almost a thousand years, and it was once owned by Godfrey of Bouillon – one of the leaders of the First Crusade.

You can visit the castle’s chambers and dungeons while learning about its history. While you’re there, you will also get to enjoy the wonderful view over Bouillon and its surroundings.

Hiking in the Semois Valley

After visiting the Castle of Bouillon, one of the best activities in the neighbourhood is to go for a hike. The Semois Valley is a stunning region that includes the Tombeau du Geant , which is argued to be the most beautiful view in Belgium.

It is good to know that there are many hikes around Bouillon . Some start from the city itself but to get to the starting point of some others, you will need a car.

Whichever hike you choose, you will be rewarded with some amazing landscapes!

Belgium Itinerary Map and Schedule

• Day 1: Arrive in Brussels and visit Belgium’s capital
• Day 2: Take a day trip to the medieval city of Bruges (and Ghent if you want to make an extra stop)
• Day 3: Visit Dinant, Vêves Castle and Walzin Castle in the Walloon Region of Belgium
• Day 4 (optional): Spend a day in Antwerp, the diamond capital of the world
• Day 5 (optional): Go to Bouillon, visit the castle and hike in the Semois Valley

It is good to know that Belgium is a small country and that the distances are short . Therefore, you can easily base yourself in Brussels and take day trips from here during your visit to Belgium.

How to Get to Brussels

Brussels is most likely the place where you will start your Belgian trip. The country’s capital is a well-connected city that can easily be reached by air , train or bus .

Zaventem Airport is 15 km (9.5 mi) from Brussels’ city centre and, from here, you can take a taxi, train or bus to get to the centre.

It’s also possible to head straight from Brussels Airport to Bruges and switch things up a little.

How to Get Around Belgium

Most parts of this itinerary can be done using public transportation , and all the cities that are mentioned are easily accessible by train.

Keep in mind, though, that you will have to walk a bit (or take the tram or bus) to get to the centre of the city from the station of Bruges (and Ghent if you decide to visit this city too).

If you want to visit the Castles of Vêves , the Castle of Walzin and the Semois Valley , however, you will either have to take a taxi or rent a car, which brings me to my next point.

The most flexible way to follow this Belgium itinerary is by renting a car . However, finding a parking spot in cities can be quite challenging and expensive unless you park your car further away from the city centre.

My recommendation: Visit Brussels, Bruges and Antwerp by train. Then, rent a car to visit Bouillon and Dinant. This way, you won’t need to stress about finding a cheap parking spot in the bigger cities, and you will be able to easily visit the castles and go for hikes.

If you want to rent a car in Belgium , I recommend using Discover Cars . This website checks various companies to make sure you get the best rates.

Best Time to Visit Belgium

The best time to visit Belgium is during April , May , June , September and October . At this time of the year, the weather will be pleasant and it is not peak season (this is in July and August).

If you don’t mind the peak season, July and August are good months to visit Belgium too, but hotels might be more expensive at this time of the year. July and August are school holidays in Belgium, and it tends to be more crowded during these months.

This being said, Belgium can be visited all year round. It will be colder and there will be more rain during the winter months ( December to March ), though.

Tips for Visiting Belgium

• If you’re getting around with public transport , use Omnio to check train schedules and book your tickets online.
• Belgium is a small country and the distances between places are short. So, you could easily base yourself in Brussels , which is in the middle of the country, and take day trips from here.
• Make sure to try some delicious Belgian chocolates , fries and beer while you’re in Belgium – they’re the best!
• There are many other beautiful places in Belgium, it all depends on your interests. I have a lot of content about this country so check out some of my other posts about Belgium to make sure that you won’t miss something you might like!

Belgium Itinerary FAQs

How many days are needed in belgium.

Belgium is a small country but there are some nice places to see. I recommend staying here for a minimum of 3 to 4 full days. This way, you will be able to see the country’s highlights and get an idea of what this country is all about.

Are 3 days enough in Belgium?

Three days are enough to see Belgium’s highlights. You can visit Brussels, Ghent, Bruges and Dinant in 3 days. If you have more time, however, you can head to Antwerp and the Semois Valley as well.

What should you not miss in Belgium?

Some of the places that you cannot miss on a visit to Belgium are Brussels, Bruges and Ghent. If you have more time, however, there are many other great things to do in Belgium.

Belgium Itinerary: Final Thoughts

And voila – this was my recommended itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 days in Belgium. I hope that you found exactly what you were looking for and that you will enjoy your trip to my home country! Belgium might indeed be small, but it does have a lot to offer.

If you have more time to spare in this country, I would recommend checking out my post with the best day trips from Brussels too. I spent a lot of time exploring Belgium during the pandemic and discovered some interesting places here!

Read more about Belgium:

• Backpacking Belgium: A Local’s Guide
• Benelux Itinerary: The Highlights in 10 Days (+ Map)
• The Best Hikes in Belgium
• The Most Beautiful Places in Belgium
• Reasons to Visit Belgium: Why it’s Worth Visiting
• Best Theme Parks in Belgium
• Souvenirs From Belgium That Don’t Suck
• Best Day Trips from Brussels: Ultimate Guide
• What is Belgium Famous For? The Most Surprising Facts

Belgium Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Belgium on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🚃 Use Omnio to book public transportation in Belgium. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars   to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa  to visit Belgium

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Waffles is also good choice. BTW I’m really happy to say it was an interesting post to read. I learned new information from your article, you are doing a great job. Continue

Waffles are delicious! And so is chocolate :p Thank you for your lovely message, I appreciate it! 🙂

Do you offer private tours? We will have 4-5 days and want to do Brussels, Ghent snd Bruges by private car. We were thinking 2 days Brussels, one day Ghent and two days Bruges.

Hi Shanea, nice to hear you’re planning a trip to Belgium! 🙂 I don’t offer private tours, so I can’t help you with that, unfortunately. Best of luck!

Get back to me as soon as possible we need an itinerary for visitors coming over her soon .

Came across your blog whilst planning my upcoming trip next month. This is going to sound like a silly question but if im staying in brussles and using public transport such as trains if i was to go to bruges and ghent. If i got a return ticket from brussels to bruges can i stop off on the way and walk round ghent or do i have to get tickets from station to station. Thanks in advance.

Hi Melisa, it’s not a silly question, it’s a good one actually! As long as you’re using your ticket on the same day, you can get off the train in Ghent and then continue to Bruges with a ticket from Brussels to Bruges. 🙂

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To 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Belgium

Often overlooked as a travel destination in favor of France, Spain, and Germany, I honestly think Belgium is the underrated gem of Europe!

Home to a collection of impossibly picturesque suspended-in-time medieval towns and cities, I personally think it offers some of the most beautiful and romantic breaks on the continent. From my time spent exploring, here are my favourite places…

This under-the-radar beautiful gem of a city sits on the banks of the river Meuse in Belgium’s Walloon region. The picturesque town is backed by a spectacular sheer cliff face and protected by the ancient fortified citadel.

The city’s historic buildings are steeped in legend – as you meander through the narrow streets, you can sense this place has many stories to tell.

Perhaps the city’s most famous connection comes from it being the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the man who invented the Saxophone whose house you can now visit. 

I would suggest trying the delicious Flamiche (a bit like a Tarte Flambe) or Couques de Dinant, which are delicious brittle honey biscuits.

Book A Trip!

  We can book your trip hopping around Belgium’s beautiful places through our top-rated travel planning service !

The perfectly preserved medieval city is the place for couples wanting to head out on a romantic European getaway.  Thousands of visitors can’t be wrong and I was personally a huge fan!

In fact, I couldn’t quite believe it existed! With a collection of attractive market squares, steep-gabled houses lining dreamy canals, and winding cobbled streets all tied up in a compact, primarily traffic-free package Bruges, the suspended-in-time canal-side city is very romantic and it’s also undeniably photogenic! 

I would recommend visiting  Burg Square, the 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall), which has an ornately carved ceiling, Market Square, which features a 13th-century belfry with panoramic views, and of course, one of the critically acclaimed restaurants (of which there are many)! 

3. Brussels

Forget the dull image that one of Europe’s premier cities seems saddled with; in my opinion, Brussels is beautiful and trip-worthy! The city has become a thriving cosmopolitan metropolis in the last few decades and it’s a joy to explore.

The historic architecture (including a perfectly-preserved late seventeenth-century centre) is genuinely superb and add in a fine collection of art galleries, museums, a famous foodie scene which consists of everything from chocolate and waffles to Michelin star adorned fine cuisine (and of course the delicious beer!) then I think Brussels easily deserves a place on this list! 

I loved Ghent! While most head for Brussels or Bruges, the small but beautiful port city is arguably Europe’s best-kept secret. Ghent was, in fact, the most powerful in Europe, but today, it’s a very relaxed, picturesque place with more than a whiff of bohemian air which I was totally charmed by.

Beautiful Ghent is also story-book pretty with a collection of canal-side medieval architecture, Michelin-starred restaurants, quirky boutique stores, and a rich calendar of cultural events.

To get the feel of the place, I would recommend skipping the touristy canal boat trips and discovering all the local hotspots instead! 

Spa is an elegant town which, yep, you’ve guessed it; it’s famous for being an ‘original’ spa. Located in the Ardennes region of eastern Belgium, it’s naturally blessed with abundant mineral-rich thermal waters.

Tourists flock here to relax and enjoy the water’s and hot springs’ health and wellness benefits.

It’s also easy on the eye with beautiful buildings, thermal baths, a historic casino, an array of luxury hotels, and an endearing 19th-century retro charm. 

6. Eifel Nature Park

With its low-hanging mist and miles of untamed, rugged wilderness, this park has a mystical and almost other-worldly beauty. The beech forest-covered conversation area lies mainly in Germany but also borders Belgium.

It also happens to be home to some incredible wildlife – wild cats, wild boars, wildcats, black grouse, red deer, and eagle owls all call this beautiful place home; since the new millennium, the lynx has again been sighted in this remote and highly protected area for the first time in three centuries.

I love that p art of the park’s moors dates back to the last Ice Age!

The accolade of the smallest town on earth and a population of just 500, Durbury is a tiny gem! It’s located just 2 hours from Brussels and in my opinion, it proves that the best things come in small packages! 

It’s maintained in its charming medieval setting. Today, its pedestrian streets are flowered, narrow, and cobbled, winding between the old bluestone homes and buildings, attracting curious visitors to its shops, fine restaurants, and hotels.

Shop for artisanal produce, gaze at half-timbered houses, visit the beautiful Topiary Park and stop to quench your thirst at La Ferme du Chêne, which brews beer using a 14th-century method. Sporty types can also kayak or raft the Ourthe River that passes through the city.

8. Chateau de La Hulpe

France isn’t the only country boasting fairytale castles; Gium’s finest is truly exquisite.

Located in the municipality of La Hulpe in the Walloon Brabant and less than an hour away from Brussels, this beautiful chateau was modelled after the castles in the Loire Valley in France and served as Marquis Maximilien de Béthune’s home.

The castle itself is not open to the public. Still, you can visit the garden, which is littered with sculptures and brimming with colourful flowers, and also the surrounding park, which is known for its rolling lawns, small ponds, and fragrant rhododendrons where I would recommend you take a walk, take a picnic or kick back and relax! 

9. The Sonian Forest

Part of this magnificent forest has just been awarded a UNESCO heritage status. Beginning in the Iron Age, the 4,000 hectares of woodlands used to be part of a long natural border of beeches and oaks stretching from Brabant to the north of France.

It’s a treasured, peaceful, and unspoiled place and in my opinion, definitely deserves a place on this list! It’s also a naturally picturesque destination to spot roaming wild boars, foxes, and roe deer! 

With more than a whiff of Provence, this idyllic little village is often cited as the prettiest in the country. Lying on the southernmost tip of Belgium lies Torgny in the Gaume region in the province of Luxemburg, south of the Ardennes and surrounded by France on three sides.

The houses consist of ochre-coloured, hand-hewn stones and red curved tiles, reminiscent of the south of France. The village also enjoys its little microclimate, which is well-suited for vineyards!

I would just say it’s a quiet place, so don’t expect too much going on. I suggest kicking back, relaxing, and taking in the rolling hills, the honey-coloured houses, the abundance of flowers, the gastronomy of the local restaurants, walks and bike rides in the countryside, and a visit to the Abbey of the Trappist Cistercian monks of Orval! 

11. Wallonia

In my opinion, a visit to Belgium would not be complete without a visit to beautiful Wallonia!  This French-speaking region of the country is among the larger land areas but still has a traditional and laid-back feel.

The region of Wallonia has much to offer tourists and locals, including picturesque medieval towns with half-timbered buildings, historic architecture (hailing from the classy Renaissance period), thick forests, rugged cliffs, traditional restaurants and my favourite, the traditional Trappist beers which you’ll find everywhere! 

Veurne was once an area of Belgium encompassed by fortresses to fend off the impending Viking attacks. However, fortification failed, and the room was invaded, but thankfully, all the scars of the past have faded and left Verne as a historical yet beautiful part of the country which I would recommend visiting!

Veurne is a city of historical significance, so it’s home to many beautifully preserved buildings. Many of the buildings and ruins throughout Veurne depict a distinct Renaissance and Gothic style and are very impressive! 

13. Hoge Kempen National Park

The national parks here are treasures just waiting to be explored, and in Belgium’s Hoge Kempen National Park, you can explore and stay directly in the park to immerse yourself in its immense natural beauty! 

Hiking and camping are available here and I would highly recommend both. It also offers modern lodging arrangements for those who don’t wish to get that close to nature!

14. De Haan

Coastal regions of Belgium draw in tourists from all over the world, and one my my personal favourites is De Haan. Just under 13,000 people populate De Haan and I love that it has a small-town vibe.

Attractions within De Haan range from unique shopping opportunities, traditional mills, and outdoor adventures such as exploring the dune forest.

There is no limit to what you can find in De Haan, and unlike other areas that only cater to high-end travelers, this area provides something for everyone on every budget. Views from Spioenkop are among the best photo opportunities in De Haan so I would suggest heading there!

15. La Roche-en-Ardenne

Driving around Belgium offers some beautiful scenery, but if you want something to enjoy outside your vehicle then I would suggest stopping at the pretty but low-key city of La Roche-en-Ardenne. La Roche-en-Ardenne is located in a picturesque valley at the bend of the Ourthe River. 

This location is full of picturesque scenery, from forests and hills to castle ruins and miles of fields! Enjoy your experience exploring this rugged countryside surrounded by unspoiled wilderness.

Cave explorers and outdoor enthusiasts love it here and I also would recommend bringing your camera along too, you’ll need it! 

16. Vallee du Ninglinspo

Dubbed “The Most Beautiful Walk in Adrennes,” Vallee du Ninglinspo is one of the country’s biggest outdoor attractions. It boasts miles of trails and enjoyable scenery through stunning wilderness.

A hiker’s paradise, I love that Vallee du Nignlinspo offers something new around every bend. Waterfalls, natural pools, and rocky landscapes mix beautifully with unspoiled wilderness in this area.

Damme is an area of Belgium that encompasses Oostkereke, Vivenkapelle, Sint-Rita, Sijsele, Lapscheure, Hoeke, and Moerkerke. The population of this growing area is just under 11,000 people. It remains a tiny, intimate town with much to offer tourists and locals.

Book enthusiasts flock to Damme, located in Belgium’s north region, as it is home to an increasing number of bookstores. Bookworms, poetry lovers and culture vultures will especially love it here!

Damme has a very walkable layout but also maintains an excellent bus route and is a bike-friendly area, so no matter how you travel in Damme, I’m sure you will enjoy this picturesque village just like I did!

18. Gaasbeek Castle

Located in Lennik, Flemish Brabant, Belgium, Gaasbeek Castle is a stunning and romantic spot! From April 1 to August 30, I recommend visiting the Castle for a tour. The castle is beautifully preserved, and I think the surrounding grounds are among the most beautiful in the country.

Ground admission is relatively inexpensive, and tours of the castle are available at various times throughout the day. .

19. Oud-Rekem

Dubbed “The Most Beautiful Village in Flanders,” Oud Reken is simply waiting for visitors to stroll their historic pathways and cobblestone pathways! 

If like me you like your travelling pace to be a little slower, then Oud Reken is the perfect place! The Castle d’Aspremont-Lynden is one of the most famous sites, but it is not the only one.

Visitors enjoy access to this historical village, of various indoor and outdoor museums and friendly locals around every corner. If quaint is your idea of perfection then I think you’ll love it here!

Ypres is a city of almost 35,000 people, not a tiny village but a thriving town which would recommend visiting if you can!

Historically, Ypres has seen its share of fighting, including during WWII. Still, today’s Ypres is full of beautiful sites and a key pilgrimage site for those wishing to pay their respects to those who tragically lost their lives during war times.

Among the many historical sites throughout the city, tourists enjoy walking along the shores of the Yperlee River and taking pictures of the many memorials placed around Ypres. History comes alive in Ypres, so I would suggest bringing your camera and a good pair of walking shoes to take it all in.

My Stay at Indrani Lodge

I stayed in Indrani Lodge , located in the heart of the historic Brabant-Wallon village of Loupoigne, only a 45-minute drive from Brussels.

Combining contemporary stylish luxury with landmark elegance and personalized service, the lodge is a meticulously renovated medieval farm set amidst rural farmland, ace to escape city hassles but still within easy reach of the cultural attractions of one of Europe’s quirkier cities.

Surrounded by beautiful lush green landscapes, the hike was linked to a horse ride through rural farmland, ancient abbeys, historical battle sites, or a round of golf at one of several nearby courses!

Indrani Lodge offers five luxuriously appointed and designed en-suite bedrooms, a relaxing leafy garden, and a rejuvenating sauna.

In keeping with the harmonious surroundings, they’ve also recently launched a new retreat program offering a wide selection of wellness retreats and focusing on the themes of yoga, wellness, mindfulness, and healthy eating which I loved!

9 thoughts on “To 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Belgium”

hi sir who doesnt want to visit those beautiful places… Gaasbeek Castle is cool place for me

I just love traveling, beautiful places, really thanks for blog and photos. This are really gonna help.

Belgium having some many tourist places to visit..Thanks for sharing the photos which has the important places for tourists.

Fantastic looking places!

Belgium looks like a truly beautiful place to visit what wonderful photos too!

Wow I love this, such beautiful places in a beautiful looking country!

Bruges has certainly been on our travel wish list for a while now! We hear it’s great for chocolate, beer and bicycling :-).

Wow I didn’t know much about Belgium other than Brussels before now, but these look like incredibly scenic places to visit! Thanks for the travel inspiration! 🙂

Belgium is very picturesque.. I have been to Dinant and this city is truly breathtaking I had no idea about Eifel Nature Park before reading this post, looks so beautiful will definitely go there on my next visit. Thanks for sharing Becky!!

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Germany, Netherlands & Belgium Road Trip: A Tri-State Route

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Ice coffee-addicted, pun-loving, Oxford comma-embracing writer. Currently based in beautiful Bali after too many winters in Boston and London. Specializes in crafting content for hotels and travel.

Your ultimate Belgium travel guide: The best things to do & see

Considered the unofficial heart of Europe, Belgium is a diverse and artistic country with world-renowned cuisine and beer. Visitors are never at a loss for what to do in Belgium, from enjoying romantic canal cruises to taking breathtaking architecture walks and lively brewery tours.

If you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Belgium, this travel guide will show you the best things to do, see, and eat in the country. Of course, when you join us on one of our guided Belgium tours , we’ll take care of all of the logistics for you—all you need to do is decide whether you want to try the waffles or the chocolate first.

Jump ahead to... When to visit Where to go What to see What to eat and drink What to do Souvenirs to buy Packing tips

Currency: The Euro

Language: Belgium has three official languages: French, Dutch (which is known as Flemish in Belgium), and German. Many Belgians also speak some English.

UNESCO-listed sites: Belgium is home to 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Grand-Place of Brussels, the Historic Center of Bruges, and the Flemish béguinages.

The best way to get around: Cities in Belgium are very walkable, and most people drive or take the train between towns. When you join us on one of our Belgium tours, we’ll take you around in the comfort of a private motor coach.

Fun fact: We might call them French fries, but those delicious fried potato sticks were actually invented by the Belgians. The frites, as they call them, are usually served with mayonnaise and are some of the best in the world.

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The 15 best things to do in Belgium, from chocolate to comics to castles

May 26, 2022 • 10 min read

Enjoying a coffee or beer on a bustling city terrace is great pleasure in any of Belgium’s charming cities © Alena Veasey / Shutterstock

Belgium is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. This unpretentious country – ofter overlooked in favor of such neighbors as France or England – is rich in both food and culture, boasting world-renowned beer, superb street snacks, and sublime sweets. But there’s so much more to discover than just fries and chocolate (though under no circumstances should you miss out on those standbys).

From some of Europe’s oldest architecture, fabled peeing statues, and castles galore to more niche attractions that take travelers off the beaten path, these are 15 of the best things to do in beguiling Belgium.

Stop for a drink – or two – of domestic craft beer at a local pub

Belgian beer is renowned around the world for a reason. The country boasts more than 300 active breweries that make everything from monk-produced Trappist beer to natural-focused gueuze and fruit-forward lambic offerings. Bars and pubs across Belgium usually have a large selection of craft beers available on tap and in bottles – though you’ll want to remember that most Belgian beers have a higher alcohol percentage than you might be used to, with most domestic beers starting at 6% ABV.

The absolute best spot to stop for a drink of Belgian beer is the Délirium Café in Brussels. The no-frills pub offers over 2000 different local and international beers with extremely knowledgeable bartenders who are always more than happy to guide you through the abundance of different local options.

Grab a spot on a terrace and enjoy a coffee

With numerous buildings dating as far back as the thirteenth century, Belgium has some of the oldest architecture in Europe outside of Italy and England. The country takes advantage of its gorgeous and well-preserved buildings and squares with an abundance of outdoor seating, giving travelers and locals a front-row seat to contemplate and appreciate Flemish Renaissance and Renaissance Revival architecture.  Markt square in Bruges and the Grand Place in Brussels are two of the most architecturally stunning spots in the country, and both abound with charming sidewalk terraces. 

Indulge in fungus-focused fine dining at the Café des Spores in Brussels

Mushroom fiends should consider making a reservation at the Café des Spores in Brussels. This unique French-focused restaurant specializes in all things fungus and mushrooms – all the way down to the dessert menu, which includes items like wood-ear mushrooms with salted caramel figs and cheesecake made with dried porcini mushrooms. The bustling restaurant is spread out across two floors, with tables tucked into intimate nooks and crannies throughout the space. 

Treat your sweet tooth to some world-famous Belgian chocolate

It’s an unwritten rule that travelers with even the slightest sweet tooth cannot visit Belgium without stopping for a couple bites of chocolate. Belgian chocolate is justly acclaimed – especially the country’s take on praline and raw chocolate. One of the most popular chocolate makers in the country,  Pierre Marcolini  offers decadent and high-end sweets and bonbons at its many outposts. Neuhaus is an excellent option for praline lovers; the 165-year-old brand is said to have invented praline and continues to use the oldest praline recipe in the country.

Snack on sweet or savory street waffles

Belgian waffles are another one of those indulgent treats that travelers with a sweet tooth (and even those without one) have to try at least once. Belgian waffles are thicker, with extra-deep pockets that make the perfect vehicle for filling with chocolate and other goodies if you’re so inclined – though they’re just as good with a simple sprinkle of sugar.

You’ll almost always be no more than a stone’s throw away from street vendors selling waffles, especially in city centers and near main tourism hubs. Some of the best waffle vendors to look out for are House of Waffles in Bruges and the Wafelhuis Van Hecke in Antwerp.

Explore the dozens of museums and galleries across the country

Over a thousand museums throughout Belgium range from art and history museums to war memorials and special-interest collections catering to vintage automotive lovers and dinosaur enthusiasts.

Standouts include the Museum of Natural Sciences in Brussels, home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur bones in Europe. More than 30 fully intact iguanodon dinosaur skeletons were discovered in a coal mine at Bernissart in 1878, and have since found a permanent home as the a centerpiece of this museum’s exhibits.

Travelers interested in fashion and style should sashay to the ModeMuseum , a fashion-focused institution in the design capital of Antwerp featuring a whirlwind history of contemporary style with a major emphasis on Belgian designers.

Refuel with Belgian fries – and don’t skimp on the dipping sauces

There’s something about that first bite steaming hot Belgian fries that’ll make you swear off the likes of McDonald’s and Burger King forever. Belgian fries are double-cooked to order, making them extra crispy and satisfyingly starchy. Most fry stands also offer an overwhelming selection of dipping sauces to choose from. We recommend starting with the classic sauce andalouse , a mouthwatering combination of mayonnaise, tomato paste and roasted peppers.

Narrowing down the best spots for fries can easily cause a heated debate; ask any local and they’ll probably tell you something different. Nonetheless, Frit Flagey in Brussels almost always has a line snaking down the block. Don’t let this deter you, though: the line moves fast and the constant flow of traffic means both fries and sauces will always be fresh. 

Snap a photo with the Manneken Pis landmark in Brussels

Although it’s slightly off-putting and even inappropriate, the Manneken Pis  (the “little pissing man”) in Brussels is one of the most well-known landmarks in the entire country. The bronze fountain sculpture of the peeing boy is supposed to represent the folk humor for which Brussels is famous, and was originally erected in the 1600s (although a replica replaced the original in 1965).

Note that the landmark fountain is only about five minutes from the Grand Place and as such is almost always packed with tourists trying to snap a selfie or group photo. The best time to visit is in the early morning if you want to beat the crowds and examine the statue up close.

Looking for more cheeky fountains and sculptures to add to your selfie bucket list? The Jeanneke Pis is the slightly lesser-known female counterpart, about eight minutes north of the original fountain. The ​​Het Zinneke (Zinneke Pis) was erected in 1998 and depicts a urinating dog. 

Visit the wonders of the past and the future at the Atomium

Originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, the Atomium is both a cultural center and museum that somehow manages to capture both the past and the future at the same time. The 335ft(102m)-high structure was designed to look like an oversized atom, with stainless steel–clad spheres connecting with long aluminum tubes.

While the unique, gravity-defying structure is fascinating to admire from the outside, it’s even more impressive on the inside. The tubes and spheres make up a series of rooms, elevators and walking paths that showcase the history of the Brussels World’s Fair, including the exact displays and attractions that visitors would have seen more than 60 years ago. The highest sphere is home to the Atomium Restaurant. It’s well worth reserving time for a drink by one of the windows, where you’ll have one of the best views of Northern Brussels as well as a bird’s-eye view over the whimsical Mini Europe amusement park below.

Spend the day on the Belgian waterways

Exploring Belgium by boat is one of the most relaxing ways to see the sights and sounds of its cities, and a must-do if you’re planning a visit to Bruges or Ghent . Both towns have picturesque and justly famous canals, with plenty of options available for travelers looking to experience the city by water. 

Most boat tours are about half an hour in length and relatively cheap (about €10/US$10.70 per person)/ Same-day, on-location bookings are extremely easy to come across, as long as you don’t mind waiting. We recommend booking in advance to avoid any unnecessary queuing.

Pay a visit to one of Belgium’s thousands of castles and châteaux

With thousands of castles dotted all over the countryside, Belgium has more of them per square foot than any other country in the world – and many are open to receive visitors. The medieval Bouillon Castle in the Ardennes is one of the oldest in the country, dating all the way back to 988. The fortress sits atop the walled city of Bouillon with spectacular views of the canals below.

Get all medieval at the Gravensteen 

The Gravensteen is another famous example of medieval Belgian architecture. Located in Ghent, the storied structure was originally the home of the Counts of Flanders and has more recently functioned as a cotton factory, a court and even a prison, before opening to the public as a local attraction. You’ll want to book your spot ahead of time as reservations sell out quickly – and make sure to pick up a headset before setting off on your self-guided tour. The audio tour was written and recorded by a local comedian and is nearly as interesting as the structure itself.

Search for bric-a-brac and knickknacks at an open-air flea market

Belgium has a huge and passionate flea-market and vintage-shopping culture. This literal treasure trove of a country is a bargain- and antique-lovers dream, with most cities boasting open-air markets every weekend and many weekday mornings.

If you can only make time for one shopping excursion, make it Brussels’s  Place du Jeu-de-Balle Flea Market , where you’ll find vendors hawking retro trinkets, secondhand designer wares, and antique furniture and home decor every day of the week from morning until late afternoon. 

Take a tour of an authentic beguinage

Historically authentic beguinages only exist within Belgium and the Netherlands, which is why visiting one of the architectural complexes is an essential part of a Belgian itinerary. Built to house beguines, religious women who did not take formal vows or retire from society, some of these complexes date to the 13th century, with several having been named Unesco World Heritage Sites. Their exterior architectural ensembles were enclosed by walls or ditches with gates that would open to the public during the day, while the interiors were made up of churches, houses and green spaces.

The Old Saint Elisabeth Beguinage in Ghent is one of the most striking in the country thanks to its colorful facade, car-free cobblestone streets and reputation as the “holy corner.” This space of religious tolerance has three different churches in one square: one Anglican, one Orthodox and one Protestant.

Explore comic-book culture

From Tintin to the Smurfs, Belgium is responsible for some of the most famous comic-book characters of all time. There are plenty of ways to explore the history of comics culture, especially if you’re spending time in Brussels. The free self-guided comic-book walking tour will allow you to explore many of the comic-book murals within the city (we recommend picking up the official comic route handbook at a Brussels tourism office to get the most out of the experience), while the Comics Art Museum pays tribute to the country’s comic-book artists past and present.

Make time to commemorate the world wars

Belgium was heavily involved in both World War I and World War II, and as the seat of NATO and the EU the country continues to take international security and military history seriously. There are dozens of war memorial landmarks and museums throughout the country; the most popular site is  Flanders Fields , the battleground at which, staggeringly, that more than a million soldiers from 50 different countries were estimated to have been wounded or killed in action during WWI.

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The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Belgium Itinerary

Last Updated on February 13, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

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Besides Brussels , Bruges and Ghent , it can be hard to know just what to include as part a 5 to 7 days in Belgium itinerary. Often said to be where the north and south of the continent meet, the ‘Heart of Europe’ is incredibly diverse with so many different sides.

As it is quite a small country, Belgium is usually very quick and convenient to get around. This means you can see and experience a lot in just a short space of time when you visit Belgium. Everywhere you go, you’ll find hidden gems, gorgeous architecture and some great food to fuel all your exciting adventures!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Belgium?

Most tourists unfortunately only spend a couple of days in Brussels or Bruges before heading onto either Paris , London or Amsterdam . This obviously isn’t enough time to get a good feel for the country’s complex communities, their different languages, landscapes and identities.

5 days in Belgium is a great start as you can already fit in its vibrant capital and several of the major Flemish cities. As the distances and times involved aren’t too long, you won’t feel rushed despite seeing so many new places.

If you have 7 days in Belgium, that’s even better as you can also explore the country’s coastline and more of its bustling cities. This is a good amount of time to be able to get a really good feel for Belgium without feeling too rushed.

Getting To & Around Belgium

Due to its location at the crossroads of Western Europe , Belgium is very well connected to the neighbouring countries around it. The small nation’s efficient public transport system also makes travelling very easy and affordable.

One of the main places visitors arrive from abroad is Brussels Airport. Also known as Zaventem, it lies on the outskirts of the capital with flights departing to Africa, Asia and the USA all the time.

Located just outside of Charleroi in Wallonia is ‘Brussels South’; the country’s main cheap flight hub. Cunningly named to entice tourists, it is actually about an hour’s bus or taxi ride from BXL. You can organise airport transfers here.

Otherwise, most travellers arrive in Antwerp, Brussels, Bruges and Ghent by bus or train at one of their numerous stations. There are connections to these stations from neighbouring countries such as Lille in France, Amsterdam in the Netherlands or Luxembourg . You can view schedules here .

As the major Flemish cities lie roughly along the same line and are quite compact cities, taking the train and walking are the best ways to get around both Flanders and Brussels.

You definitely don’t need a car for your one week in Belgium as all of the stops are well-connected by the extensive public transit network.

If you have more than 7 days, you may find a hire car necessary to visit some of the smaller villages and forests in Wallonia. There is more information in the “Have More Time” section below.

5 to 7-Day Belgium Itinerary

This itinerary covers some of the country’s must-see sights in its three main regions of Brussels and Flanders. Whether you have 5 days or a full week, you’re going to see much more than most visitors do.

Day 1 – Brussels

After arriving in Brussels, most people head straight to the Grand Place to see the spectacular square and all its grand guild houses. One of the capital’s most iconic attractions, it lies right next to Manneken Pis – the city’s famous statue of a small peeing boy. You can also  organise a walking tour to learn more about the city when you arrive.

Afterwards, you can stroll about cute neighbourhoods like Les Marolles or the chic Sablon. Both are home to interesting antique shops and some amazing old churches. Expensive chocolatiers such as Pierre Marcolini and Neuhaus can also be found here.

Not all too far away is the impressive Royal Palace of Brussels and several top-class museums focusing on music, Magritte and the fine arts. After taking some pics or perusing their extensive collections, head to Mont des Arts for one of the best views over Brussels.

Back down next to the Grand Place is the world-famous Delirium which has over 2,000 different beers for you to try. The busy bar is also conveniently located near happening nightlife spots like Saint-Gery and Place Sainte-Catherine.

On the way back to your hotel or hostel, grab a packet of andalouse sauce-coated frites and eat them in the Grand Place gloriously illuminated at night – a quintessential Brussels experience.

Where to Stay in Brussels

Motel One Brussels -This centrally-located hotel is perfect for mid-range travellers to Brussels. There are a range of rooms to choose from, an excellent location for exploring the Belgian capital, a great buffet breakfast on offer each morning and an on-site bar to enjoy.

Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre – This is an excellent hotel for luxury visitors looking for a plush stay while visiting Brussels. They have a range of modern and comfortable rooms on offer, a fabulous breakfast available and plenty of amenities to ensure you have an amazing stay.

Appart’City Confort – Those who’d like to have their own flat while basing themselves in the Belgian capital will love this aparthotel. Offering a range of different apartments, they combine the comfort and amenities of a hotel with the convenience of a furnished flat.

MEININGER Bruxelles City Center – This hostel is a good option for those looking to save a bit of cash when visiting Brussels. Offering both dorms and private rooms, they have a great location and good self-catering facilities, as well.

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

Day 2 – Brussels

On the second day, take the time to dig a bit deeper in Brussels and enjoy more of the sites of this vibrant and diverse European city.

Spend your morning exploring the Atomium which lies a bit north of the city centre. This structure was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and it is a top attraction when visiting the Belgian capital. It takes about 40 minutes to reach her via metro from the city centre, so make sure to factor that into your daily plans. You can pre-book tickets here.

In the afternoon, spend some time strolling through the lovely Parc du Cinquantenaire and enjoy the vibes in this central green space. And then, as the day is beginning to draw to a close, spend some time exploring the diverse European Quarter where there are a number of interesting sites to see.

You also could take some time to enjoy some of the city’s vibrant street art and just simply enjoy the vibes of this bustling capital.

Day 3 – Ghent

Located very close to Brussels along the same train line as the town of Bruges further afield is the absolutely gorgeous Ghent. Although it is often overlooked in favour of Bruges, its small but scenic centre is certainly a must-visit if you have five days in Belgium.

Dominating its historic heart are three centuries-old towers that make for some fantastic photos and viewing from St. Michael’s Bridge.

Aside from entering St. Nicholas’ Church and seeing all its artworks, you can venture up to the top of the Belfry of Ghent and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Both offer phenomenal panoramas of the city below and other towers beside them.

Strolling along the Graslei and Korenlei quays next to its winding canals is also lovely, especially when all their old buildings are majestically lit up at night. Here you can sit on their steps or at a cafe’s patio for a drink and take relaxing boat trips along the river.

After checking out the gigantic Gravensteen Castle nearby, make your way to the Dulle Griet for more strong Belgian beers in a traditional setting. You can also organise a bike tour to learn more about the city.

As Ghent is a larger, livelier university city, you could always stay a night here if you fancy experiencing more of its vibrant ambience or alternatively head back to Brussels or onwards to Bruges.

Day 4 – Bruges

If you have 5 days in which to explore Belgium, then you’re definitely going to visit the beautiful city of Bruges at some point. Very walkable, the fairytale Flemish town lies only an hour’s train journey northwest of Brussels. The historic centre of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is absolutely charming.

Once you arrive, just slowly meander your way to the tall spire you see rising in the distance. One of its main landmarks, the Belfry of Bruges towers 83 metres in height and boasts sublime views from up high. You can also organise a walking tour and canal cruise of the historic centre to learn more about the history of the city.

At the foot of the thirteenth-century bell tower is the Grote Markt. Lined by attractive townhouses and lively restaurants, the ‘Venice of the North’s’ main square is always packed with people. The nearby Basilica of the Holy Blood in Burg Square also rightfully attracts lots of attention.

Of course, you can’t miss the Gothic Church of Our Lady and the imposing and beautiful town hall in Beuge, as well.

Other than visiting the Groenige Museum, most visitors spend their time ambling about its pretty cobbled streets and picture-perfect canals.

As Bruges empties at night, it is nice to stay if you want to see the atmospheric city in a different light. You can also take a dark side of Bruges tour in the evening.

Where to Stay in Bruges

Hotel Fevery – If you’re travelling on a mid-range budget, then this 3-star hotel located in city centre is a great choice. Situated in the heart of Bruges, they have a range of lovely rooms on offer and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Boutique Hotel Die Swaene – This luxury hotel is a great choice for those who’d like a sophisticated and opulent stay while visiting beautiful Bruges. There are a number of fantastic rooms to choose from along with plenty of great amenities. They also have an unbeatable location for exploring the city.

Snuffel Hostel – Those travelling solo or on a tight budget (or looking for a great social atmosphere) will love this central hostel. There are a number of both dorm beds and private rooms to choose from, they have a fantastic location for exploring the best of Bruges and great common areas.

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

Day 5 – Bruges

Though Bruges is a relatively small town, it can be worth spending more than a day here to really get a good feel for this lovely little city. There is a surprising amount to do in Bruges so it’s an excellent place to spend your final day in Belgium (if you only have five days to spare).

You have the option of either spending this day seeing some of the sites in Bruges that you didn’t before or you could opt to go on a day trip – the town of Ostend on the coast is a great option.

The latter choice is a good idea for those who only are planning a 5-day itinerary as it allows you to see more of the country in your limited time. If you’re spending 7 days, then spending this entire day in Bruges is the best choice for you.

If you opt to stay in Bruges, then you can spend your day doing activities such as visiting the Choco-Story Museum or the Frietmuseum or even wandering around trying to source the best Belgian waffle in the city (not a bad task, if you ask me!).

Or, if you fancy something with a bit more punch, then consider heading out on a beer tour to sample some famous Belgian beers! If you’re not a beer drinker, then  this food tour with a local is a good alternative.

Day 6 – Ostend & Belgium’s Coast

Travellers with a bit more time may want to visit the coast which is where Belgians go to relax, unwind and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. As Ostend, its largest city, is located not far from Bruges, you can always combine the two rather than take a ninety-minute train from Brussels.

Rather ugly to look at, its wall of huge high-rises overlooks a long, wide beach that stretches the entirety of the country’s coastline. Aside from lounging on its sands in summer, you can walk or cycle along its broad boardwalk before stopping off for some superb seafood.

Ostend’s bustling centre is also packed with plenty of local shops, several museums and the stupendous St. Peter and St. Paul Church which dates to 1907. If you fancy your luck, there is a large casino that also puts on some top-class shows and entertainment acts.

A wonderful way to actually see all the country’s North Sea coastline is to hop on the Kusstram. Stretching 67 kilometres in total, it is remarkably the longest tram line in all the world. Along the way, you can always get off and explore the beautiful dunes around Bredene or enjoy some fine dining at the chic seaside resort of Knokke.

At the end of the day, you can take the train to Antwerp to give you a full day to explore there or either stay in Ostend or Bruges if you want to spend longer in the area.

Where to Stay in Antwerp

Citybox Antwerp – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Antwerp is perfect for those looking for a mid-range place to stay in this Belgian city. They have a great, central location along with several twin, double and family rooms on offer.

Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt – Luxury travellers will love this sophisticated hotel located in the centre of Antwerp. There’s a fab breakfast each morning, several clean and modern rooms available, a lovely terrace and private parking.

Yust Antwerp – If you’re looking for a social and budget-friendly place to stay in Antwerp, you’re sure to love this highly-rated hostel. Offering plenty of dorms and private options, there is also an on-site bar and cafe for guests to enjoy.

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

Day 7 – Antwerp

Yet another popular place in Flanders that most people head to is the bustling port city of Antwerp. The undisputed diamond capital of the world, Belgium’s second-largest metropolis has loads of trendy bars, shops and restaurants for you to try out. You can book a walking tour to learn more about the city.

As with Bruges and Ghent, its historic main square is presided over by an enormous Gothic-style spire that towers over 120 metres in total. The tallest church in the Low Countries, the Cathedral of Our Lady displays some exquisite architecture while elaborate altars, artworks and effigies lie within.

If you want to delve more into the country’s rich artistic heritage then the nearby Rubenshuis is the best place to go. The former home and workshop of Peter Paul Rubens contains numerous paintings by the renowned Flemish master.

Also worth a visit is the Red Star Line Museum which presents another side of the city’s history. It instead looks at the lives of the shipping company’s two million or so passengers who passed through Antwerp on their way to the USA.

As it is known for its pounding nightclubs like Ampere and cool, classic bars such as Den Engel, Antwerp certainly has a lot to do once night falls. If you want to wake up early to catch a plane, however, it’s probably easier to head back to Brussels by train.

Have More Time?

If you have even more time left to explore the country (woohoo!), then there are countless other cool towns, cities and historic sites you can add to your Belgium itinerary.

While most travellers tend to stick to Flanders and Brussels, Wallonia also has some awesome cities to stop by. The most popular are Namur, its scenic capital, and Liege, its largest city, which boasts an absolutely incredible modern train station.

The WWI battlefields and cemeteries at Ypres are also interesting to check out as is Waterloo – the site of Napoleon’s final defeat in 1815.

Another option is to take a beautiful tram ride to Tervuren from Brussels and visit the fascinating Royal Museum for Central Africa. After seeing the lush, green park and woods outside, you can then head to the nearby Leuven – a lively university town home to lots of lovely architecture.

While the French-speaking region does have some interesting cities such as Namur, Liege and Mons, you can also visit small towns in the Ardennes like Dinant and Durbuy. As they are harder to reach by public transport, it’s best to rent a car so you can make the most of your time in Belgium.

From Brussels, it is only an hour’s drive to Dinant which lies along the banks of the Meuse River backed by dramatic rocky cliffs. Its stunning setting, soaring church and the colourful houses of its old town all make for some fabulous photos and viewing.

What a way to spend one week in Belgium or even longer! There is so much to see and do in this beautiful country that a week may well not seem long enough.

Are you planning to a trip to Belgium? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Bruges or Ghent: Which Belgian City to Visit?

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Brussels Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bruges Itinerary

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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Must-Visit Attractions in Belgium

Nestled between Germany and France , the small country of Belgium has every reason to be confident in its cultural offerings. From Medieval fairytale settings to vast nature reserves and eerie ghost towns, here are the best places to visit in Belgium.

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The Atomium

Building, Memorial, Historical Landmark

Nine giant steel balls connected with thin tubes: it’s what Belgium and its capital Brussels call one of their ultimate symbols, the Atomium . The remarkable architectural structure was designed to look like an elementary iron crystal blown up to 165 billion times its size. The crown jewel to Brussels’ 1958 World’s Fair, the gravity-defying Atomium has remained a defining part of the city’s skyline. The sculpture now sits on the Heysel Plateau in Laeken, a suburb in northwestern Brussels, where the expo took place.

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Napoleon’s Waterloo

Memorial The hundreds of re-enactors who come together annually to remember Napoleon’s defeat by the United Kingdom, Prussia, Hanover, the Netherlands, Nassau and Brunswick on the fields near Waterloo in 1815 are proof that the battle lives on in the collective imagination. Besides the yearly spectacle, the Lion’s Mound – a man-made hill with a statue of a lion at the top, about 20km (12mi) south of Brussels – and several of other memorials recall the coalition’s victory over the French general more than two centuries ago.

Brussels’ Grand Place

Building, Memorial

Tell an extravagant architect to come up with a prosperous, late Medieval market square, and chances are you’ll get something like Brussels’s Grand Place . The plaza, hidden from view and accessible through one of six spindly cobbled alleys, is guaranteed to overwhelm with dozens of baroque guild houses, the ornate King’s House, now the city museum, and the 15th-century City Hall. All contribute to the remarkably homogeneous look of Europe’s best-preserved Medieval plaza.

Victor Horta’s Major Townhouses

Museum, Architectural Landmark

Often exalted as the father of the art nouveau movement, Victor Horta has left Brussels dotted with innovative townhouses that changed the face of late 19th-century architecture in the West. If you’re short on time and have to choose between his four Unesco-labelled townhouses, the Horta Museum honours the artist in his former home and workshop, the Maison & Atelier Horta in the Brussels suburb of Saint-Gilles, while Unesco describes the Hotel Solvay in central Brussels as “the most ambitious and spectacular” of his work in the art nouveau period.

St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

Cathedral, Church The most stolen piece of art in the world resides in Ghent’s Saint Bavo’s Cathedral , its rightful home ever since Jan van Eyck and lesser-known brother Hubert created it in 1432. More commonly referred to as the Ghent Altarpiece , the 12-panel polyptych has survived a tumultuous eight centuries. Seen as the first great painting that kick-started the Renaissance, the work was taken by Napoleon’s troops, commandeered by the Nazis, recovered from salt mines by the “monuments men” and at one point sold by a duplicitous priest.

Flanders Fields

Museum For the better part of World War I, allied troops found themselves buried in a gruesome trench-war stalemate in the fields surrounding Ypres , in the Flemish part of Belgium. Memorials dot the countryside and city, and the nearly destroyed Cloth Hall is now the In Flanders Fields Museum, named after the poem by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae.

The Basilica of the Holy Blood

Church, Building, Memorial Squeezed into a corner on the generally pale, cream-coloured Burg Square in Bruges’ historic core, the darker-hued, romanesque Basilica of the Holy Blood, built in the 12th century, stands out like a sore thumb. Of course, the extraordinary chapel contains an extraordinary relic; a vial believed to contain the blood of Jesus, which is brought out for worship every day.

The Bruges Belfry

If you’re deciding what to see in Belgium, or more specifically its most picturesque city, then climbing the Bruges Belfry ’s 366 steps is an excellent way to start – survey the cobweb of Medieval streets in this Venice of the North and decide which buildings you want to see up close. The belfry itself was used for spotting fires or other threats to the city, after it was built in the market square in 1240. The tower itself caught fire 40 years later and although the belfry was successfully rebuilt, the city archives were destroyed.

The Hallerbos or blue forest

Forest Spring forests overflowing with bluebells are not just a feature of the a British countryside. They exist all over Europe, and Belgium’s Hallerbos, which lies mainly in the Flemish Brabant region, puts on a particularly lovely display. Timing is everything on this one. The purple carpet of flowers can appear anytime between the start of April and the end of May, and only sticks around for a couple of weeks.

The Beaufort Project’s permanent pieces

Architectural Landmark

Since the Beaufort Project started, more and more strange-looking sculptures have popped up in Belgium’s coastal towns. From Arne Quinze’s giant, indented orange titans ( Rock Strangers ) in Ostend, to Jan Fabre’s self-portrait that has him riding a massive bronze turtle ( Searching for Utopia ) in Nieuwpoort, the exceptional pieces that earned a permanent spot at the end of the public art triennial make the country’s seaside a more exciting place to explore.

The Grand Curtius Museum

Museum It might not be on many people’s lists of what to do in Belgium, but history and anthropology buffs will find their own piece of heaven in Liège’s Grand Curtius Museum . Archaeological objects are preserved and displayed in great numbers, telling the tale of humanity and our evolution through the ages. Thanks to the merging of several other museums into the Grand Curtius, including those specialising in arms and decorative arts, it tells this story from several perspectives.

The charming town of Durbuy

Tiny Durbuy, a cheery storybook town on the banks of the Ourthe River in the forested Ardennes region, is one of the cutest places to visit in Belgium. This “smallest city in the world” with a population of around 11,300, is an ideal base for long hikes or kayaking trips. The artisan jam factory and quirky topiary park can’t help but up the quirky factor considerably.

The High Fens

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark In a natural no-man’s-land straddling the Belgian-German border, the High Fens nature reserve, with its mysterious moors and rare wildlife, makes for a hiker’s dream. Be on the lookout for wild boar, the hen harrier bird, and the protected black grouse. The fens are closed during droughts, when there is a high risk of fire.

The Rubens House

That Peter Paul Rubens was a man of many talents is evident when entering his home and workshop in Antwerp. The Italian-style home now offers glimpses of the painter’s art and that of his contemporaries, as well as objects he would have used in his life, including a silver ewer and basin.

Antwerp’s MAS and neighbourhood Het Eilandje

Museum Out of Antwerp’s tight relationship with the sea – the Belgian capital of cool is also Europe’s second largest port – the impressive MAS museum , one of the most imposing of Belgium landmarks, was born. And the MAS, in turn, took care of the rebirth of the old dock neighbourhood Het Eilandje . To get a panoramic view of one of Antwerp’s hippest neighbourhoods, climb the museum’s freely accessible “horizontal boulevard”.

The Plantin-Moretus Museum

Museum, Library

Precious 16th-century dictionaries that creak upon opening, some of the world’s oldest printing presses and the copper plates that revolutionised printing technology are among the wonders you’ll find at the Plantin-Moretus Museum . The museum is at the former Plantin Press, and this is where the first atlas and the multi-language Plantin Polyglot Bible was printed.

The Carnaval de Binche

Amusement Park In the small Walloon town of Binche, clown-like figures known as “Gilles”, which are meant to ward off evil spirits, have been celebrating Mardi Gras by parading around town in ostrich plume hats and pelting oranges at the crowd (don’t throw them back – they’re considered good luck) for as long as memory serves.

The ghost town of Doel

Architectural Landmark An accidental ghost town in the shadows of a nuclear power plant – and therefore a graffiti haven – the village of Doel in East Flanders was long ago slated for demolition to expand the harbour of Antwerp, but protests have stopped this happening so far, and the town is in limbo. It has become an unofficial urban canvas for Belgian and international street artists in which to go hog-wild. Fittingly, seeing as Doel looks like it’s right out of a post-apocalyptic film, there is a dwindling population of rebel inhabitants who refuse to leave.

The abandoned IM cooling tower

Building Talking about urban explorers’ pilgrimages, the abandoned IM power plant of Charleroi is one for the books. Entering its sky-high cooling tower, which was built in 1921, and looking up from its moss-covered bowels is enough to send shivers down the spine. Security guards are often on-site to prevent explorers from entering the aging construction, though, as safety can’t be guaranteed.

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How to Get Around Belgium Like a Local

Belgium, grouped with Luxembourg and the Netherlands to make up the Benelux countries, is a fascinating tourism destination. It's a required side trip on the Grand Tour for beer and chocolate lovers. The landscape is a lush green, and it's flat for easy rural walking. There are plenty of castles and gardens to keep the traveler enamored with the medieval period busy.

Art lovers can be kept busy viewing the likes of the masters Peter Paul Rubens, Sir Antony van Dyck and Rene Magritte. Adolphe Sax, born in Dinant , invented the famous jazz instrument that takes his name--and jazz has become increasingly popular in Belgium in recent years.

And talk about diversity! Belgium is divided into three regions, each with language, culinary and cultural differences. The Flemish Region or Flanders occupies the north, the Walloon Region or Wallonia occupies the south, and the Brussels-Capital Region is central to Belgium.

Belgium doesn't seem to take the standard prizes in the "What's the best place in Europe to visit?" popularity sweepstakes, which is why I tend to think of it as Europe's Best Kept Travel Secret.

Belgium Tourism Map Showing Rail Lines

One of the great things about visiting Belgium is its diminutive size and the interesting cities crammed together so they're just a short train ride from each other. You won't spend a lot of time (or money) getting from one destination to another. Plus, it's very easy to get to London and Paris as well as other destinations in Germany, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

The Thalys high speed train whisks you from Brussels to Paris in about an hour and a half. Brussels to London takes a little over two hours. You can be in Cologne, Germany from Brussels on the cheaper normal trains in under three hours.

Belgium Cities and towns

The major cities popular with tourists are Brussels , Bruges , and Ghent, and Antwerp, followed by smaller cities like Liège, Dinant , Damme , Mechelen, and Mon.

Belgium is also a focal point for World War I sites, many including remnants of the rather brutal trench warfare as in the Trench of Death in Dixmude .

Where to Stay

Belgium has a wide range of accommodations. There are usually hotels near train stations, many budget, a few seedy. You may inspect a hotel before committing to it. There are many hostels in larger cities like Brussels.

Belgium has many self-catering accommodations, from small apartments to sprawling villas for large families and groups. Self-catering can save money over renting hotel rooms, especially for families. HomeAway lists almost 400 vacation rentals in Belgium (book direct).

Farm stays are popular with those who like the rural environment; we enjoyed our stay at Hoeve Spreeuwenburg.

What to Eat and Drink in Belgium

Frites  -or the misnamed "french" fries. Pretty much the national dish, except for the superb waterzooi. You have them with mayonnaise. Find: The Best Belgian Frites

Waterzooi -from a Flemish word meaning "simmering water" comes a hearty stew of local fish (or chicken) with vegetables and herbs, often enriched by a trio of the kitchen god's best: butter, egg yolks and cream.

Carbonnades  - meat cooked with brown beer, the national dish of Belgium. (Cabonnades Flamandes recipe)

Belgian Endive  - White Gold, an endive kept in darkness for most of its life. Often served braised (recipe)

Chocolate  - Belgian Chocolate! Yes, it goes without saying. See: The Best Belgian Chocolate Shops Travel Guide

Beer  - Aficionados of Bud Lite need not read further. The rest of you who like variety and flavor must try one of these: Lambic Ale, Abbey and Trappist Ale, Witbier (wheat), Sour Ale, Brown Ale, Amber Ale, or Strong Golden Ale. You can even order Pilsner. See: Belgian Beer Styles and Food Pairings.

The language spoken in the northern region of Flanders speak Dutch. People in the southern region, Wallonia, speak French. German is spoken in the East near the German Border. English is widely spoken in main tourist areas.

If you would like to learn a few words of Dutch, there are online resources enabling you to do so. One of them is SpeakDutch .

Transportation to and within Belgium

Brussels Airport , east of Brussels, is the only international airport in Belgium. "Taxis with a taximeter are permanently available in front of the arrivals hall. The fare from the airport to the city centre of Brussels is normally around € 45. Licensed taxis can be recognized by the blue and yellow emblem. Travellers are advised to avoid unlicensed taxis!" There is also bus service.

Getting to Belgium - By Train

The  Eurostar goes  between Brussels and London and fast  TGV trains  link Brussels with Paris and  Amsterdam . There is a Benelux rail pass available as well as one which adds France, and one which adds Germany (buy direct). See Our Belgium Map and Travel Essentials for more detailed transportation information.

Belgium is served by an extensive rail system as you can see in the map above. The Belgian Railway is called the SNCB and its website is here . Many discounts and passes are offered to the tourist or occasional traveler.

The fast trains in Belgium are the TGV trains. They run on three routes shown in red on the map. The red Thalys high-speed train links Paris to Amsterdam, Brussels, Cologne and Dusseldorf.

Railpasses: A Benelux Tourrail Pass is good for five days unlimited rail travel throughout Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands within a one month period. Two adults traveling together get a discount. The Youth Pass will save money for folks younger than 26. A France-Belgium-Luxembourg-Netherlands Pass is also available.

The Eurostar will take you quickly from London to Brussels and other cities in Belgium.

There is direct bus transportation from the airport to Antwerp, Eindhoven (Sabena) and to Rotterdam (Virgin Express).

There are about 150,000 miles of highways in Belgium. You will need a car to take you to the smaller villages.

Belgium enjoys a moderate climate. It rains frequently but for short durations in most of Belgium. For an overview of climate throughout the year in some of Belgium's most popular destinations see the interactive map at Belgium Travel Weather .

Etiquette and Culture in Belgium

Visitors to Belgium might be concerned about cultural habits and etiquette, especially when business is part of the plan. Executive Planet has information on the most common situations that might get you in trouble.

Restaurants in Belgium

A restaurant in Belgium is a pretty elegant eating place. If you're looking for something a little more informal, look for a bistro, café, restaurant-café, or brasserie. While food is relatively expensive in Belgium, you can also find broodjeswinkel (sandwich shops), or pannekoekhuije (pancake houses) offering good bargains in food.

Lunch is generally served from 12 to 3pm and dinner from 7 to 10 pm.

A "menu" refers to the special of the day.

See the food section of our Belgium article for what to look for in the way of food and drink.

Service charges are included in hotel, restaurant, shopping bills and taxi fares. Belgians commonly round up the total amount to determine the tip.

Alison Wellner, our guide to Culinary travel, recommends the 6 Belgian Food Experiences for Travelers.

Currency in Belgium

The currency in Belgium is the Euro. At the time the Euro was adopted, its value was set at 44.3399 Belgian Francs.

Belgian Chocolate and How It Became Popular

You have checked into your hotel. Bags have been dumped on the bed, a map has been procured from the front desk, and off you go.

It won't be more than 5 minutes before you will encounter a shop with things made of chocolate. Yes, there are little shells like you'll encounter in Guylian chocolates--but there are way more tempting ways to market chocolate for some people: if you don't want your children to gander upon the lusty wonders as you see in the picture, you may need an opaque shopping bag to throw over their heads. Belgians do not flee, especially from breasts.

Belgians make a relatively pure chocolate, but so does Italy. There's a reason you think of Belgian chocolate before you think of Italian chocolate. First of all there are over 2,130 chocolate shops in little Belgium. Then there's consumption:

"According to the International Cocoa Organization, Belgium ranks number two in per capita consumption of chocolate, with Belgians enjoying an average of 11.03 kilograms per year." ~ Belgium Chocolate .

During the 17th century Spain ruled Belgium. The Spanish consumed chocolate as a drink from chocolate they got in South America.

Once the Belgians got a taste for it, they looked for their own source. Remember the deep, dark, Belgian Congo? Yep, they exploited it for cocoa beans.

Neuhaus, Belgium's first chocolate shop, opened in Brussels in 1857. They're still kicking, and you can even order their chocolate from the US: Neuhaus Chocolates .

Antwerp Central: The Railroad Cathedral

It wasn't so long ago that railway stations weren't tall sheds or malls with shopping and a jumble of train tracks. Even in the 1970s there were some great, elegant restaurants in some of Europe's train stations. To go to the station wasn't all a burden but an adventure.

The station that's stood out to frequent travelers is Antwerp's central station. Built between 1895 and 1905, it replaced a wooden station built in 1854 by Auguste Lambeau.

The station is surrounded by diamond and gold shops. If that wasn't enough to be reverential about, the 44-meter high glass vault reaching toward the heavens was designed by the architect J. Van Asperen.

You should visit, even if you're not going anywhere. But then again, there are compelling cities not so far from Antwerp to explore. Look at the chart of departing trains. Dreaming is planning, too.

You could, after all, head to Rotterdam to buy a warm Belgian waffle with chocolate melted on top

The Railway cathedral was recently updated, the renovation started in 1993 was completed 16 years later--in 2009. This, like the chocolate, horses, mussels in great, steaming pots, and long, rambling countryside walks are things about Belgium to remember.

Walking and Biking in the Belgian Countryside

The picture you see above shows you just about all you need to know about the Belgian countryside near the Netherlands border. There are those horses. They are everywhere. The ground is flat. The polder landscape holds a secret: amongst those trees in the background there are waterways, and many of the waterways had tow paths which are now bike and trekking paths that criss-cross the country, even ​between big cities. Here are some resources:

The 16 Best Things to Do in Belgium

What to Do in Lille in Northern France

Top Eurostar Destinations from London

Traveling by Train in Europe: Where, Why, and How

Brussels Travel Guide

France Guide: Planning Your Trip

Travel Guide to Bruges, Belgium

Visiting Liege, Belgium

About Single Europe Train Tickets

France Travel Planner for Every Vacation

10 Classic Belgian Dishes (and Where to Try Them)

5 Best Places to Visit in the 10th Arrondissement of Paris

Low Countries in Northwestern Europe

Everything You Need to Know About Taking the Train in France

Antwerp in Belgium: a Spellbinding City Where Medieval Meets Tomorrow

The 10 Best Places to Drink Craft Beer in Paris

Touropia Travel Experts

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10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Traveling in Belgium brings forth images of medieval rooftops, lovely canals, tasty beer, and even more indulgent chocolates. However, there is much for one to see in this remarkable European country, where time seems to move at a slower pace and the people are friendly and welcoming to tourists. From modern cities boasting designer shops and glamorous galleries to cobblestone streets laden with museums and native indulgences, the best places to visit in Belgium have something for everyone to enjoy on a vacation.

10. Mons [SEE MAP]

As the capital of the province of Hainaut, Mons is best known for the magical and surprising ringing of the town’s glorious Belfry bells, which hail from the 80 meter (270 foot) tower. Winding streets allow visitors to easily traverse the city sites that are a rich mixture of architectural styles. The Gothic-style Mons Town Hall is eye-catching, and the Collegiate Church of Sainte-Waudru boasts a highly impressive collection of 16th century Jacques Du Broeucq alabaster statues. Naturally, a stop by the Van Gogh House is a must to see amazing reproductions of this master’s works.

9. Dinant [SEE MAP]

This city lies along the sparkling Meuse River in the Namur province just 65 km (40 miles) south of the capital city. The Caves of Han and the Grotto of Dinant are some of the natural attractions that bring visitors here. These caves are some of Europe’s largest and most beautiful and are situated in within a Wildlife Reserve teeming with native flora and fauna. However, the city’s landmark, The Collegiate Church of Notre Dame is still remarkable after being partially rebuild post a massive landslide, as does the restored Citadel that overlooks the city. Accesses to most of Dinant’s sanctuaries are accessible with an appointment, but the Sanctuary of Beauraing is open daily.

8. Leuven [SEE MAP]

Home to the oldest Catholic university in the world, Leuven is home about 100,000 residents with nearly 35,000 of them being students that keep the city lively when classes are in session. Two seemingly endless streets are laden with interesting shops and galleries, while the more historical section of the city boasts sites such as the The Belfry on St. Peter’s Church and the Grand Beguinage. Visitors will find much action and things to do in the Grote Market in Leuven, where sites like the City Hall are adjacent to exceptional dining options and street side pubs and cafes. This city’s location makes it an ideal alternative to Brussels as a vacationer’s main hub to explore the rest of the country.

7. Tournai [SEE MAP]

Adjacent to France, the quaint and lovely community of Tournai is an excellent place to tune out the hustle and bustle of larger Belgium cities. More than 2000 years of rich cultural history can be explored here, and this city is home to what is believed to be one of the most beautiful churches in the world – the five-towered Gothic and Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral. Constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries, the cathedral houses the Shrine of Our Lady and works by Ruvens and Jordaens. The town Belfry is the oldest in the country and offers visitors 257 steps to the most remarkable views in the city of Tournai. The Museum of Fine Arts is filled with masterpieces from primitive and contemporary artists ranging from Campin and Rubens to Roger Van der Weyden and Van Gogh.

6. Mechelen [SEE MAP]

A vibrant town that doesn’t draw the tourism that many other Belgium cities do, Mechelen is actually one of the best places to visit in Belgium. From tours of the Beguinage Brewery to river boat tours, there’s much to see and do in this Flanders locale. A trip to the top of the St. Rombout Cathedral’s massive tower is the best way to get a panoramic view of the Antwerp Port and this lovely city. One don’t miss stop is the magnificent Carillion School, where students come from across the globe to get instruction on playing this complex instrument of bells.

5. Ardennes [SEE MAP]

For hiking, biking and camping, visitors to Belgium should head to the rugged hills of the Ardennes with their tight forests, caves and cliffs. They are home to wild boar, deer and lynx and hide a number of friendly villages, lots of castles and a few other notable sights. The impressive caves of Han-sur-Lesse, the castle of Bouillon and the modern Labyrinth of Barvaux are some of the best picks. The city of Namur makes a great base from where to explore the Ardennes and has some fine sights itself too.

4. Antwerp [SEE MAP]

Antwerp is a city with many faces. While it may not be as historically preserved as Bruges or Ghent, it is a very dynamic city, offering a perfect mix of history and present-day modern life. Lovers of great food, great beer, and good times, this city is most well-known for the Diamond District, where more than 70 percent of the world’s rough diamonds are traded. Art abounds in Antwerp , with Revenshuis celebrates the baroque works of Peter Paul Ruebens and the Plantin Moretus Museum is the home of printer and bookbinder Christoffel Plantin. Architectural wonders await with the 1351 construction the gothic Cathedral of Our Lady, and the majestic combination of baroque and Gothic architecture of the Saint Paul’s Church.

3. Ghent [SEE MAP]

Belgium’s best kept secret, Ghent is a city of history. During the Middle Ages, it was one of the richest and most powerful cities in Europe. It was once considered the second largest city north of the alps, after Paris. The impact of this rich past can be clearly seen when viewing the imposing architecture of churches and the houses of rich traders. The whole of the city center is restored in this fashion, and still breathes the atmosphere of a thriving late-medieval city state. This is particularly so along the scenic old Graslei harbour, and grand medieval cathedrals and the Gravensteen castle.

2. Brussels [SEE MAP]

Known for its diversity of sites and places of interest, Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and is likely where visitors will begin their sightseeing. As the headquarters of many European institutions, Brussels might also be considered something of a capital for the European Union.

Most notably, the Grand Place is the city’s center and was established in the 13th century. Terrace cafes and pubs are plentiful around this central square, as are other sites of interest such as the stunning Gothic style Town Hall. Shopping is plentiful amid the Galeries St. Hubert, a centrally located glass-roof arcade filled with shops, cafes, and theaters.

1. Bruges [SEE MAP]

Located in northwestern Belgium, Bruges is one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval towns, boasting an old world charm and romantic atmosphere. Once an important center for Flemish art and textiles, Bruges today is best known for its beautiful canals.

Bruges may be the largest city in the West Flanders province, but it is still small enough to explore by walking. The main attraction in Bruges is the postcard-perfect Old Town. Surrounded by picturesque canals and medieval walls, the historic district is teeming in beautiful old architecture including Romanesque and Gothic churches like the Church of Our Lady that houses a Michelangelo sculpture, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which claims to possess a vial of blood from Jesus Christ.

The city’s most famous landmark is the Markt Square belfry. Visitors can climb this 13th-century bell tower to admire spectacular views of the city. Other sites not to miss include the spectacular Gruuthuse Mansion, and the impressive Saint John’s Hospital, which was built in 1188.

Must-do activities in Bruges include visiting the museums, which exhibit the city’s culture, traditions and art works by famous Flemish artists. Strolls down cobblestone streets offer dozens of shops selling delicious chocolates, Belgian beer and traditional lacework. Scenic canal cruises are readily available, while horse-drawn carriage rides present romantic experiences.

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Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

A real gem of the European Low Countries, Belgium might be small but boy does it pack a punch! Ranging from the Francophone villages of Wallonia in the south to the Flemish diamond towns and North Sea coast, this nation hosts everything from buzzing European parliaments to sobering war memorials between its borders. Here, we take a look at all the best places to visit in Belgium , checking off the energetic capital, the wilds of the Ardennes, culturally-rich Mons and plenty, plenty more along the way!

Catapulted to fame by the 2008 hit film In Bruges, this pop-up cut-out of a medieval town in the heartlands of Flemish Belgium rarely fails to impress.

Its old centre is an enchanting labyrinth of winding stony streets, each fringed with the rising apses of Low Country townhouses. Here, soaring belfries clad in Gothic carvings and twisted gargoyles peak above the Grote Markt; chip merchants tout double-fried cones of Belgian frites next to ubiquitous Irish pubs (there’s an unexpectedly lively nightlife), and romantic gondolas drift up and down the canals.

Oh, and don’t miss the Basilica of the Holy Blood – a Gothic masterpiece that’s said to house a vial of Christ’s congealed blood! Also see our guide to Bruges !

It’s just a matter of time before Ghent begins to vie against Antwerp and Brussels for the top spot on lists of Belgium’s must-see metropolitan destinations.

Once one of the most powerful city states in Europe, it opted to take something of a backseat in the modern age; preferring to hide its gorgeous location on the confluence of the Scheldt and Leie and that chocolate box old town area (the largest pedestrianised urban zone in the country).

Today, travelers head in to explore the postcard-perfect rows of Flemish townhouses that line the Graslei docks, or delve into the Gothic medley that rises with the bulwarks of the Gravensteen castle. Others sip Belgian brews in the riverside pubs, or devour platters of moules frites amidst the tight-knit alleyways. Read more in our best things to do in Ghent !

Nestled deep in a wooded valley in the midst of the Wallonia Ardennes, Durbuy enchants visitors with a rustic web of winding cobblestone lanes and bucolic cottages dressed in rhododendron, ivy vines and poppy blooms.

A clutch of hearty and welcoming Belgian beer joints rubs shoulders with accomplished fine-dining restaurants between the streets of the medieval centre, while narrow lanes like Rue des Récollets are a real treat for strollers.

Summertime brings booming crowds to the craft boutiques of the self-proclaimed ‘smallest town in the world’, while winter gives a wilder hue to the riparian setting in the middle of pretty Luxembourg province.

Cool, confident and classically subversive, Antwerp has really honed its rep as the second city of Belgium.

A booming diamond trading centre and moneyed to the hilt, the town touts grandiose Flemish houses, winding medieval streets overshadowed by the looming Gothicism of the city Cathedral, the glorious old home of Rubens, and an endearingly gaudy Red Light district where Toots Thielemans tunes echo past candlelit beer bars.

And then – of course – there’s the Het Zuid neighbourhood; Antwerp’s sleepless modern edge, where bohemian coffee shops rub shoulders with antique emporiums, fixie riders glide past graffiti artists and the acclaimed MUHKA art gallery offers cutting-edge avant-garde. See our post on the best things to do in Antwerp to learn more!

Etched into the minds of many as the site of one of the most bloody and destructive battles of the First World War, little Ypres in the midst of the Westhoek is a real must for any history buffs making their way through Belgium.

From 1914 onwards, the rolling fields around this ancient city were dug-out by French, Canadian, British, ANZAC and other allied troops as they vied for control of West Flanders and attempted to push German lines back over the infamous Passendale Ridge.

Today, this bloody struggle is commemorated by the Menin Gate Memorial and the In Flanders Fields Museum, which has been hailed as the most comprehensive World War I exhibit in all of Europe.

6. The Hoge Kempen National Park

Belgium’s solitary National Park is a real patchwork of natural beauty that does well to sum up the wild hinterland of Eastern Flanders.

Covering 60 square kilometers of the picturesque Limburg region, the park is home to rolling heath and undulating hills, misty pine forests and mirror-like lakes, all dotted with packs of wild deer and sweeping blooms of lavender and thistle.

With a whopping total of more than 200 kilometers of winding hiking trails and countless bridal paths and biking tracks besides, it’s hardly surprising that this one’s now a real favourite amongst outdoorsy types making their way through the Low Countries.

Touting its 800-year-old university, a booming student population of more than 25,000 beer-loving erudite Belgians and the famous Grand Béguinage district (a UNESCO-attested area of cobbled streets, enchanting red-brick buildings and pretty Flemish facades), it’s hardly a surprise that Leuven is on the up.

Yes sir, travelers are now more eager than ever to delve into the elegant streets that weave around the Grote Markt below the filigreed Gothic spires of one eye-watering City Hall, while others will come just for the beer – this is the home of the sprawling InBev brewery (one of the largest of its kind in the world), along with countless specialist craft bars touting ancient Trappist ales and Belgian abbey beers to boot!

Also see: the 15 best things to do in Leuven .

8. Brussels

No list of Belgium’s top must-see sights could possibly be complete without at least a mention of its sprawling, action-packed and indelibly exciting capital city.

Not only is Brussels the beating heart of modern European politics, drawing lawmakers from Estonia to Portugal, but it’s also the home of the iconic Grand Place market square, where a palimpsest of the Gothic, the Baroque the  fin de siècle and Beaux-Arts styles coalesce amidst the apses and spires.

And all around this historic plaza, hidden alleys conceal Belgian beer bars bursting with Trappist brews and frothy ales, famous chocolatiers, holes-in-the-wall touting waffles and stacks of double-cooked Belgian frites, fine art museums bulging with Bruegel and Rubens, regal parks with soaring monuments like the Cinquantenaire – the list goes on as you’ll see in our guide on Brussels .

Proud former European Capital of Culture and the home of perhaps the most elegant historic centre in all of Belgium, Mons and its array of Luxembourgish-come-Germanic townhouses sits draped over the southwestern hillsides just a stone’s throw from the border with France.

The action focusses on the irresistible Grand Place square, where the elaborate facades of one seriously photogenic town hall sit in the shadow of Belgium’s only Baroque belfry (a UNESCO World Heritage Site to boot).

The town is also home to the erstwhile house of the totemic Dutch post-impressionist Vincent Van Gogh, while the famous Ducasse festivities in the spring make for a striking display of local religious traditions, complete with biblical re-enactments, pitched battles between St George and the dragon, horse parades and more.

Responsible for adding the prefix ‘spa’ to destinations famed for their bubbling mineral springs right across the globe, this charming little town in the heart of Liege province comes complete with row upon row of regal facades and La Belle Époque architectural pieces.

It has been hailed for its healing waters since way back in the 14th century, and today folk still flock to the all-new Thermes baths that look over the downtown streets where once Dumas and Victor Hugo and the fictional Hercule Poirot would have flitted between Parisian-style cafes and babbling fountains.

A patchwork of traditional Mosan-style homes built from grey brick and stoic black slate, crisscrossing cobblestone lanes and pretty riverside promenades, Namur belies its official status as a regional capital with a laid-back, historic vibe.

Its undisputed piece de resistance is the sprawling medieval Citadelle that crowns the hillsides above the Sambre. More than 1,000 years old, it remains one of the largest fortresses in all of Europe and comes complete with oodles of escape tunnels and bulwarks that were used right up until WWII.

And once travelers are done touring the castle complex on the hill, Namur’s cobbled Place du Vieux Marché beckons; a pretty European square that’s awash with al fresco cafes and Belgian beer bars aplenty.

Straddling the Meuse River as it meanders northwards through the grassy valleys and woods of Wallonia, Liege is one of the less-trodden cities in Belgium. However, travelers who linger here just a little before heading out to explore the wilds of the Ardennes are in for a real treat.

For one there’s a seriously pretty medieval old town area that cascades down from the fascinating Citadel of Liege to the riverbanks, encompassing the flying buttresses of a reconstructed city cathedral, acclaimed institutions like Musée des Beaux-Arts and the eclectic Egyptology-come-Bonapartist collections of the Curtius Museum as it goes.

And then there’s the nightlife – a medley of student-led jazz bars and Low Country pubs that bustles between the Victorian and Art Deco homes of the Le Carré neighbourhood. Learn more about Liege: best things to do in Liege .

13. The Ardennes

A sprawling section of southern Belgium that’s famed as one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in all of Northern Europe, the Ardennes ranges from the city of Namur, across the valleys of the meandering Meuse River and down to the wild plateau Fens on the edge of the German Eifel Mountains.

Between its borders travelers can seek out rock-clad castles like Chateau de Bouillon, Mardi Gras festivities in Malmedy , beautiful canoeing waters along the River Lesse, stalactite-dotted caves and grottoes amidst the Ourthe hills, dense woodlands and Trappist monasteries in Rochefort , rugged cliffs in Dinant , verdant valleys that give way to winding river channels, misty forests that go on for miles and oodles, oodles more!

Escape the inland cities and towns of Belgium for a blast of North Sea air along the sun-splashed (at least by summer!) esplanades of Ostend , which runs its way along the windswept coastline of West-Flanders just a short ride out of Bruges.

Much-loved by locals for its buzzing atmosphere and sandy beaches between June and August, it’s actually surprisingly easy to fall in love with this one’s cookie cutter seaside hotels, curiously English tearooms and hedonistic clubs along Langestraat.

There’s history to explore too, most notably at the infamous Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum, which chronicles German fortification of the European seaboard, while aquariums and various marine-themed expos relate the town’s indelible connection to the North Sea.

15. Bastogne

Perched right on the borderlands with Luxembourg to the south, the now sleepy, 15,000-strong town of Bastogne boasts a history going all the way back to the centuries when Gallic tribes waged war with Roman centurions in the Low Countries.

However, the spot is now better known for its place at the heart of the tumultuous and dark histories of the 20th century. In 1944 it was from here that German divisions planned the Battle of the Bulge, and the town subsequently played host to the heroic 101st Airborne Division as they were encircled by Axis troops.

Today, this pivotal moment of the Western Front is commemorated at the acclaimed Bastogne War Museum, the colossal Mardasson Memorial and the Bastogne Barracks alike.

15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium:

• The Hoge Kempen National Park
• The Ardennes

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11 Best first-time Europe itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 weeks

Europe is going to be very busy in the summer of 2024 as the world is back to normal and travel demand is higher than ever. One other key factor is that most European currencies are still hovering at lower levels historically compared to the US dollar, which means that Europe will feel somewhat cheap again this year. In fact, according to our World Backpacker Index , European cities like Lisbon, Madrid, and Munich are about 30% cheaper to visit than Boston, Chicago, and New York City. In other words, flying to Europe might seem expensive, but most things will be cheaper once you get there compared to the costs of visiting a large US city.

Below you’ll find 11 of the most popular and best itineraries for a first visit to Europe. Your first visit is not really the time to be different or creative, and the famous destinations tend to be popular for a reason. In other words, it’s kind of silly to visit, say, Bulgaria, if you’ve not yet been to France or Italy. I lay out the best options along with how long to stay in each place as a general guide. I also discuss Mediterranean cruises, which can actually be an amazing way to see a lot of Europe on your first visit, especially if you don’t like going back and forth to train stations and airports every 2 or 3 days.

For a bit of fun you might be interested in the cheapest 5-star hotels in Europe , which start at US$80 per night for really nice hotels. It helps show that if you choose some of the cheaper cities, you can treat yourself to some luxury that you can’t afford in most other places.

This article was last updated in March, 2024.

There are 11 starter itineraries described in detail below

• Classic London and Paris
• England and Scotland
• Paris and Italy
• Mediterranean cruise
• France, Belgium, and Netherlands
• Paris and elsewhere in France
• Switzerland
• Best of cheap eastern Europe

For each itinerary there are suggestions of other destinations that are easy to add on to the main cities.

Note: This article was most recently updated in March, 2024

Building the best itinerary for your first trip to Europe

Below there are 11 popular itineraries for one week in Europe. If you’ve only got a week then choose one of them and assume you’ll return again to conquer more of this amazing part of the world. If you’ve got more time then you can choose from some of the top add-on suggestions for each one.

Start in the most famous cities

Your first visit to Europe is no time to try to be different or edgy. I recommend that you  focus on these 5 great cities  before you start branching out into cheaper or more obscure places.

Keep your travel days to a minimum

Spend 3 (or 4) nights in almost every major city

So many first-time visitors are initially planning on spending only 1 or 2 nights in major cities that I wrote a detailed explanation of why  3 nights is ideal for almost all European cities , even if you want to see as much as possible.

3 (or 4) nights will be enough for any city on your first trip

Most first-time visitors are tempted to move too quickly, but it can also be a mistake to move too slowly. It’s really amazing how much you can see in two full sightseeing days. If you spend too long in one city you’ll end up seeing things that are way down your list, while you could be in another city seeing things at the top of your list there.

Choose cities that are easy to reach from each other

For your first trip it’s best to visit cities that are no more than a 5-hour train ride apart.

Choose cities that are connected by reasonable train rides rather than flights

To build on the point above, finding cheap flights within Europe is easy, but train travel is about a million times more enjoyable and less stressful. You’ll enjoy the train rides almost as much as the cities, so focus on places that are within 5 hours of each other by train.

Start with one of the classic itineraries below, and then add to it if you have more time

If you only have 7 days then you’ll find a list below of classic itineraries that are well-suited to a first visit to Europe. Hopefully you have more than 7 days though, and if you do you can add in one or more of the suggested add-on cities to build an itinerary that appeals most to you.

Best 1-week itineraries for the first time in Europe

Itinerary 1: classic london and paris.

• London  (3 or 4 nights)
• Paris  (3 or 4 nights)

Fly into either city and take the 2-hour Eurostar train between them

London highlights

• Big Ben and Parliament
• Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Tower of London and Tower Bridge
• West End shows (Broadway equivalent) and classic pubs
• Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle

Paris is actually far more beautiful than London and the food is famously much better as well. Since Paris gets so many tourists from non-French speaking countries, it’s easy to get by on just English, and the Metro system makes it fast and easy to get around. The architecture of both cities is amazing from the Tower of London, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey to the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. These cities each pack a huge punch and they are very different from each other as well. Actually, England is arguably the best choice for your first trip to Europe .

Paris highlights

• Eiffel Tower
• Louvre Museum and Museum de Orsay
• Arc de Triomphe and other monuments
• Montmartre neighborhood and Sacré Coeur Cathedral
• Probably the world’s best affordable restaurants and wine

Best add-ons to London and Paris

• Edinburgh  (2 or 3 nights, from London)
• Amsterdam  (2 or 3 nights, from Paris)
• Bruges  and  Brussels  (2 nights, from Paris)

>>> Best one-week London and Paris itinerary in detail >>> Check London hotel deals >>> Check Paris hotel deals

Itinerary 2: England and Scotland

• York (1 night)
• Edinburgh, Scotland  (2 or 3 nights)
• Inverness, Scotland (2 or 3 nights)

York is a small Roman city with intact city walls and one of the most famous cathedrals in Europe. Edinburgh is not only the capital of Scotland, but it’s easily the second most interesting city in all of Britain. If your time is short, skip York and spend more time in Edinburgh.

If you prefer to focus on the south of England on your first trip then the best option is to go to Bath or nearby Bristol after London. Bath is another of England’s top destinations and it’s a gorgeous city that has been a spa resort for many centuries. It’s also reasonably close to Stonehenge. You can also easily get to Cornwall in England’s southwest corner from Bath, and that’s a whole different and fascinating experience (with nicer weather than up north).

If you’ve got more than a week and want to spend more time in Scotland, especially in the summer months, the place to head to is Inverness. It’s a small town that is considered the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, but it’s an interesting and charming place on its own. You can take day-trips by bus to the highlights of the Highlands including the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness. Between you and me, it’s better to minimize time in Loch Ness or skip it altogether because it’s not one of the more photogenic parts of Scotland and the monster has always been a hoax.

Travel times between the recommended places

• London to York by train: 2 hours
• York to Edinburgh by train: 2.5 hours
• London to Edinburgh by train: 4 hours
• Edinburgh to Inverness by train: 3.5 hours
• London to Bath by train: 85 minutes

Best add-ons to England and Scotland

• Paris  (3 or 4 nights from London)
• Amsterdam  (3 nights from Paris)

If you think you want to spend your whole trip in Britain you should have a look at our article on the  best itineraries in England, Scotland, and Wales .

>>> Check London hotel deals >>> Check Edinburgh hotel deals

Itinerary 3: Paris and Italy

• Paris (3 or 4 nights)
• Venice (1 night)
• Florence (2 or 3 nights)
• Rome (3 nights)

From Paris you can easily fly to Venice (or nearby Treviso) where you should try to spend about 24 hours. Venice is small enough to see in a full day, and so crowded that most people are satisfied to leave after that day. The key is to stay in the main part of the main island so you can enjoy Venice before the cruise passengers and day-trippers arrive, and also after they leave for the day. Two nights in Venice would not be wasted time, and it’s possibly the most gorgeous city in the entire world, but you can see the best of it in a bit over 24 hours.

Rome also lives up to the hype and spending a day in the Vatican City will be a highlight even for non-Catholics, but it’s also a crowded and busy city so three days is usually enough for most people. Similar to Paris, Rome is an unusually beautiful city from almost any angle when you are in the historical center. You’ll walk through a stunning piazza (town square) and then turn a corner and you’ll see gorgeous buildings or public statues that are as nice as anything in the museums. Seriously, it’s worth a visit.

Paris to Venice flight: 1 hour 35 minutes Venice to Florence by train: 1 hour 53 minutes Florence to Rome by train: 1 hour 16 minutes

You can of course instead fly from Paris to Rome and then go north to Florence and then to Venice and fly home (or back to Paris) from there, and it would be just as enjoyable.

Best add-ons to Paris and Italy

• Nice/Cannes/Monaco  (2 or 3 nights)
• Avignon (2 nights)
• Bourges (2 nights)
• Bordeaux (2 nights)
• Aix-en-Provence (2 nights)
• Reims (2 nights)
• Dijon/Burgundy (2 nights)
• Milan  (1 or 2 nights)
• Lake Como (2 nights)
• Siena (2 nights)
• Cinque Terre (1 night)
• Naples / Sorrento /Amalfi Coast/Pompeii/Capri (3 to 5 nights)
• Sicily (3 to 4 nights)

>>>Much more information in this article about the best France and Italy itineraries >>> Check Paris hotel deals >>> Check Venice hotel deals >>> Check Florence hotel deals >>> Check Rome hotel deals

Itinerary 4: Mediterranean cruise

In spite of the reputation of cruises to be floating buffets, they can actually be an excellent way to visit a great number of amazing European cities in a short time. The ship typically is in port from the early morning until mid evening, often giving you the opportunity to have dinner in the city (unlike Caribbean cruises). Better still, the cruise ports are often near the center of town, so you can just walk off the ship and do sightseeing on foot or by public transportation.

Mediterranean cruises usually start at 7 nights but can go up to 3 weeks, which can provide an amazing tour of the entire region without having to pack and repack your bags more than once. They also can provide excellent value, especially compared to the price of taking trains or flights and finding new hotels in every destination.

Most popular Mediterranean departure ports

Barcelona, Spain – It’s an easy port to reach. Ships generally go from Barcelona with stops in France and then Italy.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy – The port isn’t very close to Rome, but it’s easy to get back and forth. Ships go west to France and Spain as well as south around the tip of Italy and then on to Croatia, Venice, and to Greece.

Venice, Italy – The cruise ships no longer dock close to the best tourist areas, but it’s easy enough to visit Venice for a day or two before boarding a ship. Ships starting in Venice go south and then head west and to Rome and then to France, or they go south to Croatia and then head east to Greece.

Athens, Greece – The cruise port of Piraeus is just south of Athens and easy to reach. Ships from Athens usually head west towards Croatia, Italy, France, and Spain, but there are also ships that visit Greek islands and Turkey.

>>> Check for deals on Mediterranean cruises

Alternative to consider: a river cruise

Amsterdam ,  Budapest , and  Prague  are some of the most popular river cruise ports, but there are dozens of others including many smaller towns in France where few other tourists will be when you stroll off the ship. There is little or no entertainment on the river cruise ships, but passengers don’t miss it because the entire day and into the evening is spent just steps from local cultural offerings and restaurants.

>>> Check for Europe and river cruise deals

Itinerary 5: France, Belgium, and Netherlands

• Paris  (3 nights)
• Brussels  and  Bruges  (1 or 2 nights)
• Amsterdam  (2 or 3 nights)

Paris to Brussels: 1 hour 22 minutes Brussels to Bruge: 58 minutes Bruges to Amsterdam: 2 hours 45 minutes Amsterdam to Paris: 3 hours 17 minutes

Spending 4 nights in Paris and 3 nights in Amsterdam would be a great trip, but if you want to see something else you’ve got a couple options in between. My advice is to spend an afternoon looking around the Grand Place (main square) in Brussels and then hop a 58-minute train ride to Bruges for a night or two. Brussels isn’t a great tourist city, but Bruges really is so it’s a better option for most people. Whatever you choose out of this group, you can be back in Paris on another high-speed train for your flight home.

Best add-ons to France, Belgium, and Netherlands

• Luxembourg City  (1 or 2 nights)
• Cologne, Germany (1 or 2 nights)
• Interlaken, Switzerland  (2 or 3 nights)

>>> Check Paris hotel deals >>> Check Bruges hotel deals >>> Check Amsterdam hotel deals

Itinerary 6: Paris and elsewhere in France

And a choice of:

• Normandy (2 nights)

While Nice is a wonderful tourist city for a look at the French Riviera, the other larger cities of Lyon and Marseilles are probably better saved for a future trip because they are light on key sights compared to many smaller towns. Wine lovers can rent a car or take trains into Bordeaux or Burgundy. Since you can get between most of these towns by train in 2 hours or less, spending only 2 nights in each one is a reasonable option if you want to see a lot in a short time.

Normandy is an interesting choice and easy to reach in only about two hours by train from Paris. Some visitors like to see the famous WWII beaches and memorials, while others (especially in summer) like to check out one or more of the beach-resort towns. Deauville is one of the more famous of those, and it’s also famous for its horse race track and as one of the epicenters of the industry in Europe.

Best add-ons to Paris and elsewhere

• More France, of course

>>> Check Paris hotel deals >>> Check Nice hotel deals

Itinerary 7: Italy

• Rome  (3 nights)
• Florence  (2 or 3 nights)
• Venice  (1 or 2 nights)

Rome to Florence: 1 hour 16 minutes Florence to Venice: 1 hour 53 minutes

Venice is small enough that you can see the main sights in about 24 hours, and it’s so insanely crowded that many people tire of it after about a day as well. It’s better to pay more for a hotel to be on the main island and visit quickly than to save money with a hotel on the mainland where you’ll be in crowds going back and forth as well. Florence is the most relaxing of the 3, and also a great base for side trips to Pisa, Siena, and Cinque Terre, just to name a few.

Going to Italy? Here are the  best first-time Italy itineraries for 3 days to 2 weeks  (in much greater detail)

Best add-ons to Italy

>>> Check Rome hotel deals >>> Check Florence hotel deals >>> Check Venice hotel deals

Itinerary 8: Spain

• Madrid  (4 nights) (including day trip to Toledo)
• Barcelona  (3 nights)

Madrid to Barcelona: 2 hours 30 minutes

A huge part of Spain’s tourism industry is built around its southern beaches and islands such as Ibiza, Mallorca, and Tenerife (in the Canary Islands). For most people it’s best to ignore those places on your first trip because none of the beaches are special enough to spend days on them compared to the culture of the cities.

Best add-ons to Spain

• Valencia  (2 nights)
• Seville  (2 or 3 nights)
• Granada  (2 or 3 nights)
• Lisbon  (3 nights)

By popular demand, I’ve added a full article on where to go in Spain with itineraries from 7 to 10 days up to two weeks .

>>> Check Madrid hotel deals >>> Check Barcelona hotel deals >>> Check Lisbon hotel deals

Itinerary 9: Germany

• Berlin  (3 nights)
• Munich  (2 or 3 nights)
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber (1 night)
• Füssen (1 night)

Berlin to Munich: 6 hours 2 minutes Munich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber: 2 hours 56 minutes Munich to Füssen: 2 hours 4 minutes

Those two cities are the keys to a Germany visit, and after that you’ve got a wide variety of choices. I cover most of the popular choices in my article on  where to go in Germany , which covers several smaller towns that are major highlights.

Best add-ons to Germany

• Cologne (1 or 2 nights)
• Hamburg  (2 or 3 nights)
• Amsterdam  (3 nights)
• Prague  (3 nights)
• Salzburg  (2 or 3 nights)
• Vienna  (3 nights)
• Interlaken, Switzerland  (3 nights)
• Lucerne, Switzerland  (2 or 3 nights)

>>> Check Berlin hotel deals >>> Check Munich hotel deals

Itinerary 10: Switzerland

• Interlaken  (3 nights)
• Bern (1 night)
• Lucerne  (3 nights)

Zurich Airport to Interlaken: 2 hours 10 minutes Interlaken to Bern: 53 minutes Bern to Lucerne: 1 hour 50 minutes Lucerne to Zurich Airport: 1 hour 3 minutes

Interlaken is the best hub for the most dramatic Alps views and experiences. The one-hour cable car ride up to the Schilthorn observation deck is something you’ll never forget, and the only thing that might be more dramatic is the train ride up to the Jungfraujoch station, which is the highest in Europe. Lucerne is almost as beautiful with a scenic lake at its heart and also great mountaintop views nearby. If you do want to see a Swiss city then the capital of Bern is the most interesting and photogenic on a short visit. Read more about  where to go in Switzerland  for even more ideas.

Best add-ons to Switzerland

• Munich  (3 nights)
• Italy (as long as you’ve got)

>>> Check Interlaken hotel deals >>> Check Lucerne hotel deals

Itinerary 11: Eastern Europe’s best cheap cities

• Budapest  (3 nights) and/or
• Krakow  (3 nights)

Each of these cities is beautiful and historic, but English is less widely spoken so they can also be quite a bit more challenging for a first-time visitor. Another difficulty is that the trains between them are still quite slow compared to the high-speed rail in the West, so it takes most of a day from one to another, and a bus is often a better choice. I cover this best cheap Europe itinerary more fully in the linked article.

Prague to Budapest: 6 hours 41 minutes Budapest to Krakow: 9 hours 54 minutes (flying might be better)

Best add-ons to cheap Eastern Europe

• Cesky Krumlov, Czechia  (2 nights)
• Ljubljana, Slovenia  (2 or 3 nights)
• Split, Croatia  (3 nights)
• Belgrade, Serbia  (2 or 3 nights)
• Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina  (2 or 3 nights)
• Sofia, Bulgaria  (2 or 3 nights)

>>> Check Prague hotel deals >>> Check Budapest hotel deals >>> Check Krakow hotel deals

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Hi Roger, was reading your article and reply to various questions and its actually too good and kind from you. if you pls,help me out a route plan for 15days. but my catch is, i have to start from Stockholm.i like to end in rome to head back home. in between what should be my plan?thanks

I’m happy to help. Stockholm to Rome could be done in 15 days, but it would require skipping quite a few great places along the way. My recommendation would be to choose 5 or maybe 6 cities total and spend 3 days in each. If Stockholm is one of your cities you’d only have 12 days left but even if Stockholm didn’t count on the 15 days I think it’s probably best to fly from Stockholm to a city closer to Italy and then do the rest of it on shorter train rides. You could do Stockholm to Copenhagen by train, but those are pretty long train rides and honestly those two cities are pretty similar to each other.

So maybe Stockholm and then a flight to Paris and then trains to Venice, Florence and Rome? That sort of thing. Stockholm is just so remote that it would require at least 3 or 4 longer train journeys but if you flew from Stockholm to Paris (or Berlin or Prague or Budapest or wherever) the remaining train rides would be relatively short. I hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Firstly, I would like to thank you for the article and itineraries; they are very helpful.

My wife and I are planning a 3 to 4-month trip around the EU (Western Europe). Before I delve into the specifics of our itinerary, I am wondering if the same 3 to 5-day in each-city principle applies for cases where travellers will spend more time travelling around?

I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks Raf

Wow. That sounds amazing! Even when traveling for longer periods like that I’d recommend a minimum of 3 nights in almost any place you go. The main reason is your travel days tend to be kind of long when you factor in everything from checking out of one hotel to getting to the train station and waiting and then the journey time and then getting to your next hotel and getting situated. All of that usually takes 4 to 6 hours even when the train journey is only an hour or two, so you just don’t get much sightseeing done on those days. So if you only stay 2 nights in each city it means every other day is a travel day and that just takes up too much time.

That said, I think 3 or 4 days is enough time in most places as well. If you really want to get to know Paris, for example, you might stay a week there. But for most cities there are diminishing marginal returns starting on day 3 or 4. In other words, you’ll be able to see the 10 things that most interest you in 3 days or so, and at that point you might be ready to see the Top 10 things in the next city instead of the #11 through #20 things in the first city.

Another thing that is important with longer trips like that is to plan some down time at least every few weeks. If you try to do sightseeing 7 days per week for weeks at a time it starts to feel like a job. What I like to do is every two or three weeks find a smaller town or cheaper place where I can rent a little apartment or some place larger and more comfortable than a typical small European hotel room. And I like to stop in places without many sights otherwise it’s too tempting to keep sightseeing every day.

I’ve actually done quite a few long trips like this and I’m happy to help with any other advice if you like. -Roger

Comment*We are planning on Athens to Amsterdam from June 4, 2024 to Amsterdam June 24th.

We are thinking trains to major cities inbetween Athens and Amsterdam. We are open to anything and everything.

Priorities: Parthenon in Athens, Art Museums in Amsterdam (3-5 days in Amsterdam) Can you help us?

That is a tricky one. Both Athens and Amsterdam are great and very worthwhile, but once you go north of Athens to Thessaloniki in northern Greece, the train service is spotty and very slow all the way until you reach Budapest. Strangely enough, buses tend to be faster and much more frequent in those “eastern” countries like Bulgaria and Romania. Also, being perfectly honest, most of those in-between cities such as Sofia and Belgrade are kind of dull by European standards, although they are quite cheap.

If you really want to visit Athens I’d definitely start there and then after a few days fly to Budapest or some other city in that area that interests you and then carry on from there by train. In fact, Athens to Budapest and then trains to Prague then Berlin and then Amsterdam could be perfect. You could even add in a couple of days in Cesky Krumlov near Prague if you want to include a gorgeous smaller town among the big cities.

Those are all first-class cities and several of them are quite affordable as well. I hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi, my wife and I would like to visit Rome, Florence, Italy, Venice, Prague, Berlin and maybe Switzerland. This will be the first time travelling to Europe and I would appreciate your help in planning where to start, where to stay, how to get there and where to go. We will be coming from Trinidad and Tobago for 2 weeks. If possible, i would like a day-to-day plan.

Unfortunately I don’t have time to do a day-by-day plan for you, but I can help get you started. If you’ve got 14 nights I would keep the list to 5 total cities. If you tried to include Switzerland on this trip it would mean spending only 1 or 2 days in some cities and that means spending every other day on trains.

I think the best thing to do would be to fly into Berlin or Prague and then spend 3 days there and then take a train to the other one and spend 3 days there and then fly to Venice. Spend 1 or 2 days in Venice and then take a short train ride to Florence for 2 days or so and then a train ride down to Rome for your final 3 days and then a flight home or back to your starting city if that is cheaper. I’m happy to help if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi, Roger. My wife and I (56 and 63) want to do our first trip to Europe from Canada and would like to start by visiting Portugal (Lisbon and Porto) and Spain (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada y Sevilla with day trips to close small cities in between). What it would be your suggestion for: 1. Stay in each city for a 15/17 days trip? 2. any additions/modifications? 3. Train over flights internally? 4. If we travel with one suitcase of 50 Lbs would it work to take public transit when required? 5. Instead of this plan, would it be better to visit 1/2 famous city in different countries? Would appreciate your inputs. Than you Roger

If you’ve only got about 16 days I’d recommend choosing 5 or maybe 6 cities in total. I strongly believe that 3 nights is the best amount of time to stay in each city so you have two full sightseeing days in each one, although some smaller cities can be done a bit quicker. I go over the reasons in detail on this other article about how long to stay in each European city , but the main point is that if you stay only two nights it means literally spending every other day on trains or in airports and such and you just don’t get much sightseeing done on those travel days with all of the packing and unpacking and checking in and out of hotels.

I’d definitely include Lisbon, Madrid, and Barcelona. You could add a 2-day visit to Porto and 2 or 3 days each in Sevilla and Granada. I’d save Valencia for a future trip. It’s nice, but aside from the new buildings clustered in one area, it’s more generic than any of the others on your list.

The only train between Portugal and Madrid goes over night and I’m not a fan of those so I’d fly on that leg. But from there I’d definitely take the high-speed trains, which are fast and comfortable. Buy your tickets at least a couple months in advance for the best fares.

There will be room for a 50 lb suitcase on the flights (of course) and on the trains as well. On older trains they have you put them on racks above the seats, but on most of the more modern ones (like the high-speed trains) they also have room for larger bags at each end of the carriage. If you can lift them, there will definitely be room for them.

I think your plan sounds really good and those are all great cities. That said, for most first-time visitors to Europe I’d recommend Paris and Italy as those are really more dramatic and interesting, although also more crowded and somewhat more expensive as well. I think once you do the Iberia trip you’ll be hooked and you’ll start planning a trip to France and Italy for the coming years. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi, Roger. Thank you for your comments and recommendations and also for your prompt response. I have modified my plan as I have now 22 days. My Itinerary is Porto(3), Lisbon(3), Seville(2), Malaga(2), Madrid(3),Barcelona(3), Zaragoza(2) and Bilbao(3). What do you think? is this a good plan? Any suggestions? I am still debating between Malaga and Granada though. I included Bilbao to visit friends. The question on the luggage was more related to the comfort to pull a large back in public transit than the allowance in the planes or trains. I will appreciate your inputs. Thank you again, Roger

Those six more days will help a lot. I think your new plan looks really good. You can probably enjoy Porto in 2 days and add an extra day somewhere else, but you might also be dealing with jet-lag so 3 days might be better. Your itinerary looks efficient and logical.

I really like Granada and Malaga, but I think if I were to choose between the two I would go with Granada. Malaga is (in my opinion) an underrated city that is close to some extremely popular beach towns and it’s got a lot going for it, but if you aren’t also going to be staying by the beach I think I’d save it for another trip. Granada has got the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens and those are unlike anything else in Spain or the world for that matter. Granada is small enough to enjoy in two days and I think seeing the Alhambra will be more memorable than anything in Malaga.

Buy your train tickets as early as possible for the best times and fares, and the flight for Lisbon to Seville (or you could take a bus).

And again, your 50 lb suitcase will fit on city to city trains (although not as well on buses or trams within a city), but still (as the saying goes) no one ever went on a trip around Europe like this and swore they would pack more stuff the next time. In other words, 40 lbs is much easier than 50 lbs and getting laundry done cheaply in a country like Spain is quite easy. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Comment*Hi travelling first time to europe next year we are 55 years age group any suggestions for 10-12 days itenary with guided tour would be nice if any suggestion are there also april or may better time to visit there anil

Actually, all of my best suggestions for first-time visits to Europe are in the article above. If you specifically want a guided tour you’ll obviously just be choosing from the ones that are available from the companies you look it, although many of those should resemble the itineraries in my article. Planning your own trip to Europe is actually quite easy, and especially if you are going to the classic and most popular cities. I’ve got lots of articles that could help you.

I’m not sure how many guided tours you’ve done, but one thing to consider is that they always move at the speed of the slowest person in the group. If YOU are the slowest person in the group then it’s fine, but if you are 55 then you should be much faster than most other people on a guided tour. For example, if you have a coach/bus tour for a day with 5 or 6 stops, you always have to wait for the slowest people to get on an off the bus. I’ve done countless day tours this way and it can be frustrating waiting 10 extra minutes many times each day as slow people are trying their best.

I think my top two best suggestions are London and maybe another stop or two in England and then Paris and other stop or two in France, OR, Paris then another stop in France and then Venice, Florence, and Rome. It obviously depends whether England or Italy sounds more interesting. Let me know if I can be of any other help. -Roger

Planning a family trip with a adult and nearly adult children. Hoping to be able to do 18 to 20 days. Must sees are Paris, Venice, England, and Prague but would adore seeing more! What route would you suggest and should we rent a car, fly, train, river cruise? There are so many options and I’m completely overwhelmed! A suggested itinerary would be amazing!! Thank you!

That sounds like a great start to a plan. As far as “England” is concerned it’s probably best to just think of it as 3 or probably 4 nights in London. With 4 nights you’d have enough time for a good day trip to Bath/Stonehenge and Windsor or to Oxford or even York, but London is big enough to keep you busy and it’s probably best to just stay there and then take the Eurostar train to Paris for 3 or 4 nights.

Prague is a bit out of the way, but you can fly there cheaply enough if you want and then after 3 nights fly to Venice. After 2 nights in Venice I’d take a train down to Florence for 2 nights and then another train to Rome for 3 nights. That would be just about a perfect 18 to 20 day trip including Prague. I definitely wouldn’t rent a car as they tend to be counter productive when visiting a string of large cities that have bad traffic and expensive parking. Your itinerary doesn’t really work with a river cruise at all, but hopefully you can plan one in the future.

It would probably be cheapest to fly from Rome back to London for your flight home (being careful of which of London’s 5 airports you fly into because your flight home will almost certainly go out of Heathrow), but if you can get a flight home straight from Rome for a good price, that would be even better. Getting around by train in Europe is by far the best way wherever it’s close and fast enough, so I’d focus on trains in the places I mentioned. I hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Yes, I meant London. Thank you for picking up on that. After reading though your site and many, many of these informative comments, I think I have figured out a basic itinerary and would love your feedback and suggestions!

-Fly into London London(3 days) -Eurostar Train to Paris Paris (3 days) -Train to Switzerland – unsure which train company Switzerland (3 days) -Train to Venice?? Venice (2 days) -Train to Florence – which train company? Is there a pass? Florence (2 days) -Train to Rome Rome (2 days) -Fly to Prague Prague (3 days) -Fly home out of Prague

Very interested to hear your feedback. I know you suggest 3 nights but I am ok with missing out on some things in Rome/Florence if needed. Would love train suggestions and if passes are best. NO idea on how the trains operate in Europe.

Thank you so much for your time!

This itinerary looks amazing. My only real suggestion would be to spend only one day in Venice and three days in Rome, or at least a day and a half in Venice rather than two, but you’ll enjoy it no matter what. The thing is that Venice is about the size of a theme park like Disneyland and from 9 AM until 5 PM it feels even more crowded than Disneyland. It’s absolutely amazing, but also easy to get tired of the crowds and you’ll do your best sightseeing in the mornings before the day-trippers come and in the evenings after they’ve left. And Rome is huge with a long list of really cool sights so with only one full sightseeing day you’ll miss quite a few of them. But again, you’ll enjoy it no matter how you divide your time.

In most of Europe including between France and Switzerland and Italy, there is just one rail company per country so just book whatever comes up. From Paris to Basel, Switzerland you’ll take the France national service and then change trains to a Swiss train for your ride to Interlaken or Lucern. Then from Switzerland you’ll take (probably) a Swiss train to Spiez or Brig and then change there for an Italian train to Venice. You’ll buy it just as one ticket and it’ll include all the legs required to get from one city to your final city, and usually come with seat reservations as well (except in Switzerland).

My favorite site for checking schedules all over Europe is the Trainline . But you can also check the official rail sites of each country involved and I’d definitely check those prices before booking anything. My article on buying European train tickets in advance is still pretty much up to date and it has links to the various national train companies.

It will be cheapest if you lock in your dates and buy all of your train tickets as early as possible, which will be around 3 months out in most cases. The tickets start off really cheap and go up in price as more seats are sold on each train, so earlier is always better. There are no rail passes that would be helpful on a trip like this, but that’s mostly because the tickets will be pretty cheap already, especially the ones within Italy.

Trains in Europe are really fun and shockingly easy once you get started. All the important signs will be in English as well as a local language. For most of them you can literally walk aboard just before it leaves and you are fine as long as you have a reserved seat, but the Eurostar works more like a flight with security and such so you have to be checked in at least 30 minutes in advance. Let me know if you have any other questions.

I won’t have time to update that other older article about trains vs planes vs buses, partly because these days there is a clear choice depending on which two cities you are going between. There are places in eastern Europe where there are advantages to each mode, but for the cities you’ll be doing the train is going to be the fastest, by far the most enjoyable, and probably the cheapest as well, at least once you factor in airport transportation costs. It’s going to be a great trip! -Roger

Thank you SO much for all of your help. Your in-depth website is an amazing resource! I get so lost in it and spend hours scouring your resources and links – it has everything anyone could need! And, the fact that you are also personally answering comments and offering personalized advice is mind blowing! Thank you for all that you do to inform us!

If you could suggest on a 14-15 day iterinary covering Athens, rome Milan paris London and Finland from New Delhi / Mumbai.

If you have 14 to 15 days I’d suggest choosing about 5 cities in total to visit. So your list should work out fairly well, although it depends on how much of Finland you’d hope to see. I’m guessing you must have a specific reason for wanting to go there? Finland normally isn’t very popular and honestly there isn’t much to see. Helsinki is, in my opinion, the least interesting of the Nordic capitals, although it’s pleasant enough and the country has some nice forests. If you are visiting relatives or something, that requires different planning of course.

It might be easiest to fly from Mumbai to London and then use that as a base. You could spend a few nights there and then fly to Helsinki and back after that or Helsinki to Paris for a few days. After Paris you could fly to Milan or Rome and then take a train to the other and then fly to Athens to finish your trip.

Milan actually isn’t a popular tourist city. It’s the home of most of Italy’s big banks and fashion brands, but neither of those are accessible to most tourists. Italy has amazing fashion shopping in Rome as well as Florence. Venice is also more popular. I hope this helps and I’m happy to help more if you have questions. -Roger

Comment* Planning first trip to Europe Want to do tour of England, Scotland, Wales and then to Paris for sites and Monet Gardens. Might take train to Brussels and Bruge. Then to Switzerland and home. Any suggestions what tour group to contact. Want slower pace trip…at least 3 weeks. Thank you.

I enjoy helping people plan independent trips, and I honestly don’t know much about booking all-inclusive tours like you are after. I’d imagine you’d have to do at least a few different tours to cover all the places you have in mind. The one outfit that I am familiar with is Rick Steves, who I am a huge fan of for his Europe travel guides and I know he has a big tour organization. I’d start with them and see if they have anything that fits what you are looking for. Best of luck. -Roger

• Belgium Travel Tips: 19 Things That Will Make Your Trip Easier

I’m not a fan of stereotypes, but Belgium really is all about fries, waffles, beer, chocolate, and beer. Did I mention the beer? This country deserves to be on your travel radar.  

Here are a few pointers and tips that could be useful for your travel to Belgium. Bits and bobs that you’ll only learn through experience.  

Before we start, here are our ratings for Belgium : 

• Belgium Itinerary: 7 Days in the Heart of Europe!
• The Top 15 Museums in Belgium: From Comics to Beer
• Our 9 Top Restaurants in Belgium
• 7 Best Day Trips from Brussels (Includes Train Details)

Prices 

Is Belgium expensive?  

1. Belgium is cheap compared to other Western European countries

Look at this happy guy in Bruges  

You’d think that the presence of the headquarters of the EU would make Belgium a very expensive country, but it’s in fact not that bad. Neighboring Netherlands, France and Luxembourg are all more expensive , so Belgium comes out looking pretty cheap! Although realistically, it’s still on the expensive side.  

Dinner for 2 at a nice restaurant costs €70–80. A pint of beer is around €5. A room in a good 4- or 5-star hotel can cost from €200 to €300.  

2. You rarely need cash

Money, money, money...  

You can pay by card everywhere except for maybe some tiny shops or souvenir shops. Even on public transportation you can usually pay not only with cards, but also your phone or smart watch .

Our top tips for traveling in Belgium : 

• Almost everywhere in Belgium can be easily visited as a day trip. Consider basing yourself in a fantastic hotel in Brussels (like the Radisson Red ) and making trips out from there.
• Take the train instead of driving. It’s fast, clean, cost-effective and cool. And ecology-minded, for those of you that are so inclined.
• Summers in Belgium are rainy and winters are foggy and damp. Visit in the spring instead.  

Transportation 

So how do you get around? Not in a car, that’s for sure! 

3. DON’T rent a car in Belgium

This time I recommend travelling by train  

Not only does the parking in popular Belgian cities suck (time limits on central parking, residential-only parking spots) and cost a fortune, the trains are just so good .  

4. DO travel by train in Belgium

The train station in Antwerp is one of the nicest in Europe!  

Belgian trains are comfortable, cheap, and fast as lightning . Brussels to Ghent or Antwerp is like 30 minutes! It makes making day trips from Brussels really easy.  

(I mean you could stay the night in Antwerp , because there’s plenty to see, but you don’t necessarily have to. If you can stay at the 5-star Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp , you’ll be doing yourself a favor.) 

We went as far as including Paris on our list of top day trips from Brussels . Yeah, it’ll still be a crazy long day, but hey, who wouldn’t want to see the Eiffel Tower on a trip to Belgium ?!  

Within the country, two people can travel on a train for the price of one with the “duo ticket”.  

Check connections and buy tickets on the website of the National Railway Company of Belgium (SNBC) . 

5. Within cities, walk or take taxis (or even trams)

Grand Place in Brussels  

As for transportation within cities , I’ll again step out of my comfort zone and endorse public transportation. It’s well organized and easy to get around with.

In Ghent , a day pass for public transportation costs €7.50, which is great value for money. In Bruges , the only alternative to a day pass is a 10-journey ticket for €17, which I’m not sure you’d utilize because almost everything is within walking distance.  

In general, in the compact city centers of Ghent and Bruges you’ll mostly just walk .  

In Brussels , since you’ll need to cover a larger area, taking public transportation often means multiple tram/bus changes (you can find connections online or in an app ). For us, that meant Bolt provided a better service with less hassle.  

Brussels reminded us of Berlin with its wide avenues and mostly flat geography . Perfect conditions for bikes and scooters (which can also be rented).  

Weather 

When should you visit Belgium?  

6. The best time to visit Belgium is not in the summer

We visited Belgium in April and as you can see, the weather was perfect! (The Atomium and Mini-Europe in Brussels )  

But also definitely not the winter! Unless you like sightseeing on cold, foggy days. Temperatures aren’t crazy low, hovering around 3–7°C, but it’s the damp air that’ll get you . It stays this cold until March. Then again, maybe you’ll find the frozen canals of Ghent charming.  

Summer in Belgium is short . Seriously, if you blink you might miss it. It starts in July and is over by August. I mean summer is usually stupidly short in the Czech Republic too, but this is just plain sad. Average daytime temperatures during Belgian summers are around 25°C. July also brings the most rain of the year . 

And so, I hereby proclaim April to June the best time to visit Belgium. Temperatures gradually rise to a pleasant 15–20°C, chances of rain are minimal and you’ll be missing the summer price surge. The mornings are crisp and skies are mostly blue—perfect for an outing!    

7. It rains a lot in Belgium

Pack an umbrella!  

You also better get ready for some rain. With an average of 200 rainy days per year , your chances of at least a drizzle are pretty high. Rain comes in pretty steady year-round with a slight increase in July and in December and the highest chance of a dry day in the spring (April-ish).   

It has to do with Belgium’s location by the sea .  

As they say in countries with crap weather: There is no bad weather, just bad clothing . So suit up! 

People 

Belgians are a friendly bunch.  

8. Almost 30% of Belgians aren’t Belgian

Wondering what to visit? We’ve got you covered: Read our list of top places in Belgium.  

Belgium is like the United Colors of Benetton in the best way possible. Now I’m a white dude so I’m not supposed to have an opinion on this, but from my perspective, Belgium had a positive multicultural vibe .  

It was very different from what I witnessed in South Africa and even the US where different races mean you hang out and live in different circles. Everyone in Belgium just seemed to get along and mingle .  

9. Belgians are polyglots

How about a day trip from Brussels to Antwerp?  

In general, the people of Belgium are super nice and speak perfect English . That’s along with their native Flemish (in the north) or French (in the south). In Brussels, people usually speak all three, or rather a mix of French and Dutch, and English on top of that.     

More on the languages of Belgium (plus history, geography, economics, etc.) in our Belgium Background article .  

Tourist infrastructure 

You’ll feel right at home in Belgium. Belgium’s infrastructure, in general, is top notch and tourists benefit from it greatly.  

10. You speak English, they speak English

Belgium is easy and delightful to travel through. The fact that most people have a good command of English makes finding your way around and figuring out the hows and whats of travel smooth sailing.  

Brussels is especially used to dealing in English, being a business city and the headquarters of the EU.  

(Speaking of which, the Stanhope Hotel by Thon Hotels and the Radisson Red are both fantastic hotels that are within spitting distance of the EU Parliament in Brussels . The Radisson is our personal favorite. Just saying.) 

11. Exploring is made easy in Belgium

We liked Ghent (pictured) a little better than Bruges  

Belgian trains are fantastic —fast, clean and cheap. They’ll get you anywhere in the country quickly and you can buy your tickets online with no trouble at all. See the transportation section above for details.  

Museum websites are always available in English, online tickets can easily be bought if you don’t want to deal with live humans at the ticket desk. The user-friendliness of museums is great, providing audio or interactive guides in many languages. Check out our list of the best museums in Belgium for info on some of the ones we liked the most.  

All the food in Belgium is basically comfort food , so if you aren’t exactly adventurous with your taste buds, Belgium will be easy on you. See below.  

Food and drinks 

Belgium is one of our favorite countries for food.  

12. Belgian food = wonderful, fried goodness

What more could you want? It’s almost impossible to be sad in Belgium!   

I don’t know if all the beer and fries clouded my judgment, but we ate really well. Granted, a lot of the food is fried and the variety isn’t huge , but you can’t argue with a satisfied stomach.  

Just don’t ask for French fries , because no self-respecting Belgian would ever use that term.  

Waffles are omnipresent, which sounds like a great thing. Who wouldn’t want delicious waffles on every corner, right? The problem is that they are usually crappy tourist waffles , and not the delights that Belgium is known for. Check out our guide to Belgian restaurants for a few tips on where to get the real deal.  

More on the best food and beer in Belgium in a separate article .  

13. The beer culture in Belgium is real

Left: Smell some hops and become a beer expert! Right: Taste some beer and become a beer expert! @  Bruges Beer Experience  in Bruges  

As a beer lover, I found the beer culture in Belgium very satisfying (and entertaining). I didn’t see a soul drinking wine!  

Beer is paired with absolutely everything even in the best restaurants. We learned a ton about beer on our Beer Experience tour in Bruges , which elevated this classic to a whole new level in our eyes.  

14. There are terrific restaurants all over the place

Find out which place in Brussels made us this happy in our best restaurants in Belgium article  

For restaurants, we usually check reviews on Google Maps or TripAdvisor before heading out to a meal. Make sure to make dinner reservations if you’re heading to a popular and centrally located restaurant. Our list of the best restaurants in Belgium can help you discover some fantastic options.   

Hotels 

You won’t have any trouble finding a great hotel in Belgium. You’ll have more trouble choosing the one out of many!  

15. In Brussels, you need to try the Radisson Red

The cool and comfortable Radisson Red  

We were loyal to our now-favorite Radisson Red in Brussels . It’s a super cool, stylish hotel that is excellent value for money. It’s all artsy and high-tech, you’ll love it.  

We first tried the Radisson Red chain in Lima, Peru , but they have hotels all over the world , including Europe, the US and South Africa , so we’ll for sure be staying with them again in the future. We only have good things to say about them and want to pass on the recommendation.  

16. Make your hotel reservations through booking.com

The charming Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce , right on the canals of Bruges  

We put hotel recommendations in all of our Belgium articles , but basically any hotel with a rating of at least 9.0 on booking.com , which is hands down our favorite booking website, will probably make you happy.  

A room in a good 4- or 5- star hotel in Belgium will cost you between €200 and €300 per night.  

We have an affiliate link for booking.com not because we get rich off of it (we don’t, trust us), but because we sincerely think it’s the best place to book your hotels and use it ourselves all the time. We do get a small kick-back if you book through our links, at no extra cost to you. We appreciate the love!  

Things to do in Belgium

I had high expectations from Belgium, but almost no expectations from Brussels in terms of interesting things to do. But alas, after some research, I started getting excited— Brussels was looking mighty fine! And even then, Brussels totally surpassed what I thought it would be!  

17. Cities are the top thing to visit in Belgium

Ghent was one of our favorite places in Belgium  

Brussels itself warrants a 3-day visit . There are so many fantastic museums to choose from, plus the EU Parliament, Mini-Europe and of course the Atomium. And so much more. Check out our Brussels guide of top things to do or start planning with our Brussels 3-day itinerary .  

Other popular cities , like Bruges , Ghent and Antwerp, should all be on your list of places to visit in Belgium. The former two have lovely historical centers set on numerous canals. They are all easy day trips from Brussels on the fantastic Belgian trains.  

A shout out to the Catholic Church, whose spectacular churches are almost always free to visit.  

We have an article with a list of the best places to visit in Belgium if you want more detailed descriptions.  

18. You can’t visit Belgium without going to the museums

The Parlamentarium in Brussels  

Like I said, the museums in Belgium are just fantastic—very high quality, well-curated, usually interactive and fun . They are also some of the biggest I’ve ever visited. The huge Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History in Brussels can take you all day (if you leave your wife at the hotel) .  

Some museums are interactive and tasty, like the Choco Story Museum in Brussels , or our personal favorite, the Beer Experience in Bruges .  

Almost all museums give you a tablet as a guide and off you go to explore.  

Ticket prices to most museums range from €10 to €20 .  

19. Belgium doesn’t have a lot of nature worth seeing

Check out the coast of Belgium: Zwin Nature Park  

As for nature , well, there is none. If you’re really set on seeing something that wasn’t created by humans, you can choose to visit the coast and Zwin Nature Park , a marshy area by the sea full of birds and sand dunes . Look for nests from the viewpoints and huts and enjoy the sea breeze.  

Or, visit the Meuse Valley . The Meuse River cuts deeply into the landscape in southern Belgium, creating great scenery along its banks, though most of what you’ll actually be stopping to see are man-made places like towns and castles picturesquely built next to or on the limestone cliffs along the river.   

For more ravishing information about this little country, click on over to our Belgium Background article . We’ll tell you how it became half-French, half-Dutch, why it’s called the Battlefield of Europe, and which red, yellow and black felines the Belgian flag represents.  

Where to next?

• Cities: Brussels , Bruges , Ghent
• The best of the best: Top museums in Belgium , Top restaurants in Belgium
• Make plans: Best day trips from Brussels , Best places in Belgium , Brussels 3-day itinerary
• Background: Belgium basics, The best food and beer in Belgium

This post may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps us keep this blog free, thank you!  

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Belgium’s selection of museums is the crème de la crème of museums. We museum’d out all over the country and these are the museums that we think are the best in Belgium. And yes, the top one is a beer museum.

Thoughts? Give us a shout!

Hi! I’m Jan. I live in Prague, Czech Republic. I try to experience the best the world has to offer, and I don’t cease to be impressed. But if I’m not, I’m sure going to tell you! You can count on my full honesty and real opinions here. No bullcrap. I own and run several companies, which gives me great (but not unlimited) freedom to roam the world.  

I was first inspired to start this blog by my own experience of researching for upcoming trips—I often struggle with a lack of good information, accuracy, and authenticity of resources. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” don’t even visit the destinations they write about! 

My goal with this blog is to provide you with complex and practical information so that you can plan your own vacation, complete with insights you’d only get if you visited the place. I also put together itineraries that are fully planned out trip guides.

Another aspect that drives this platform is my curiosity about the history, geography, politics, and economy of each country I visit, so I try to include this information in my articles, too. It’s always great to get the bigger picture, right? 

And just to be clear, I am not trying to compete with backpacking blogs or provide hacks for an economical and affordable experience. My vacations follow the standard pattern of traveling by plane, staying in good hotels, and renting a car on the spot to get around. I’m also always up for a fantastic meal, though I don’t shy away from local delicacies and street food, either.  

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When is the best time to visit Belgium?

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Because it’s a year-round destination, the best time to visit Belgium depends on your own personal tastes.

The country boasts warm summers (June to August) that aren’t too hot and are packed with cultural events and festivals. Those are the peak months for visitors, who come to enjoy the plentiful sunshine and take advantage of summer holidays taking place across Europe and North America.

You’ll also find pleasant weather in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) seasons, with mild days and cool nights. The crowds are much thinner than you’ll find in the summer and prices are lower.

There’s also a plethora of Christmas festivities you can enjoy in November and December, as well as Carnival in February and March. The winter months are generally quieter and offer great value, though Christmas markets and Carnival do cause a sharp increase in crowds.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Belgium

Visiting Belgium in December - March

While these are the coldest months in Belgium, it’s still a compelling time to visit. The crowds are much thinner but there is still plenty of entertainment across Belgium’s cities around Christmas. March also marks the beginning of Carnival season for many southern towns.

Events & Festivals

• In cities and small towns alike, food and gift vendors create a festive atmosphere in the streets and plazas with lights, skating and carols throughout the season.
• Bruges Beer Festival sees over 80 breweries take part in one of Belgium’s largest beer events, spanning five days.
• Easter is celebrated throughout the country and some attractions like museums or galleries are closed certain days. Parades, egg hunts and cultural celebrations fill the gaps.
• Salon du Chocolat is a three-day exhibition in Brussels featuring over 100 chefs, chocolatiers, confectioners and plenty of tasting opportunities.

Visiting Belgium in April - May

Warming temperatures and blooming flowers make Belgium an inviting destination in spring months. You’ll find that crowds are thinner, except for weekends in Brussels  and Ghent  — the cities tend to attract locals who are taking a quick city break. For the most part, however, hotels often offer great value in the slower period between Easter and summer.

Visiting Belgium in June - August

Belgium’s summer months bring the best weather, with warm temperatures and sunny skies. It’s also when you’ll encounter the largest crowds as local and international visitors take advantage of school summer holidays and the pleasant weather. Additionally, a busy schedule of seasonal festivals and events draws even more crowds. Together, that means that prices are somewhat higher during this season.

• Brussels International Film is a ten-day film festival that exhibits a mix of short films, long features and documentaries.
• Flowercarpet sees volunteers come together in front of the Grand-Place in Brussels to create an enormous, intricate floral design in the square using more than a million begonias.
• The city of Ghent goes a little wild during Ghent Festival, a ten-day event that includes musical acts, comedy shows, theater performances and plenty of street art and food vendors.

Visiting Belgium in September - November

The fall season sees slowly diminishing crowds — temperatures begin to drop as well. You might find some wind and rain during these months. Several art festivals happen during these cooler months, making it a relaxing time to explore the cultural side of Belgium.

• Armistice Day is a solemn day throughout Belgium, as the nation pauses to remember and celebrate the end of World War I.
• Film Fest Ghent is a week-long international film festival that celebrates the impact of music on film.

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14-Day Road Trip to Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France

Description

Embark on an unforgettable 14-day multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Brussels, Amsterdam, Cologne, Luxembourg, and Reims sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.

This enchanting 14-day multi-country tour allows you to journey through 5 extraordinary countries in Europe.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Belgium, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. Explore charming locales such as Brussels, Enghien, and Brugelette, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

As you move on to the second country, the Netherlands, prepare to be mesmerized by its diverse and vibrant landscapes. Immerse yourself in the allure of Amsterdam, Hilvarenbeek, Rotterdam, Lisse, and Eindhoven, where every street tells a story, and every corner reveals a new adventure.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Germany. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Cologne. From ancient architecture to culinary delights, Germany invites you to immerse yourself in its rich culture and experience a voyage like no other.

As your Euro trip unfolds, you'll find yourself in Luxembourg. Luxembourg offers a multitude of experiences to explore in destinations like Luxembourg. Whether you seek relaxation or crave excitement, Luxembourg promises an unforgettable journey filled with unforgettable moments.

In the next phase of your Europe tour, you'll drive to France. Look forward to enticing destinations, including Reims, Paris, Strasbourg, Villepreux, and Chessy, where you can savor its rich culture, splendid landscapes, and culinary delights. Whether you're a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, France is a destination filled with wonder.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 5 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.

In more detail, this carefully crafted travel itinerary invites you to stay 3 nights in Belgium, 2 nights in the Netherlands, 2 nights in Germany, 1 night in Luxembourg, and 5 nights in France. During these 14 days, you will be able to fully embrace the extraordinary beauty and immersive wonders of top destinations such as Brussels, Amsterdam, Cologne, Luxembourg, and Reims.

Throughout your tour around Europe, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

You can review and select your preferred accommodation for each destination of your road trip around Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France in the booking widget to the right of your screen or by scrolling down to the travel itinerary for each day of your trip.

Upon your arrival in Belgium, you’ll be greeted by the captivating city of Brussels. Here, you're going to collect your chosen rental car and begin your 14-day adventure. While in Brussels, you’ll have the chance to visit some of the best attractions in the city, including Grand-Place and the fascinating Atomium. This is only the start of all the wonders you'll be able to experience throughout your tour around Europe.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and Cologne's iconic Cologne Cathedral. In Luxembourg, marvel at the extraordinary Cathédrale Notre-Dame. During your time in Reims, appreciate the unforgettable Reims Cathedral. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy!

Shop at the popular shopping centers in Brussels, Amsterdam, Cologne, Luxembourg, and Reims and embark on a quest for rare souvenirs to give your friends and family back home. Shopping abroad is a fun experience that allows you to discover exclusive items that may not be available in your home country. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 14-day self-drive adventure in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail.

Make the most of this multi-country holiday package by adapting it to your needs. Effortlessly include top-tier car rental services and drive through the continent’s enchanting landscapes with confidence. The included insurance coverage ensures a seamless and stress-free journey. Choose from a range of lavish or wallet-friendly lodgings to wake up well-rested on each day of your trip. Add flight tickets for a smooth arrival and departure. Lastly, upgrade your road trip experience with the best tours and activities along your route to have something fun to look forward to at each destination.

This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries in one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Personalize your itinerary, day 1 – brussels - arrival day.

• Brussels - Arrival day
• Brussels Park

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Brussels in Belgium. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Brussels for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Belgium to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Brussels before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Brussels is the magnificent Brussels Park. Around 19,075 visitors have rated this excellent urban park and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Brussels. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Brussels. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Barge. Holding an impressive 1 Michelin-star rating and a remarkable menu, Barge consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional organic and market cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, one of the best 2-star Michelin fine dining venues in Brussels. Take your pick from the creative menu, which has consistently earned La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne high ratings and acclaim from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience at Bozar Restaurant in Brussels. With its prestigious 2-Michelin star rating, the menu is crafted to delight your palate and take you on a culinary journey. This acclaimed restaurant with a Bib-Gourmand award, serves modern french and creative dishes that have garnered numerous reviews from satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Delirium Café, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Delirium Café has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,478 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at À La Mort Subite, a crowd-favorite. Around 4,691 customers have rated their experience at À La Mort Subite an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Poechenellekelder belongs to the list of the best bars in Brussels, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,331 bar-goers.

Your multi-country road trip in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Experiences

Day 2 – brussels.

Drive 28 km, 1 hour 27 min

• Cinquantenaire
• Choco-Story Brussels
• Grand-Place
• Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Brussels. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated urban park and attraction in Brussels — Cinquantenaire. About 34,980 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Choco-Story Brussels is another top sight in Brussels that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved chocolate museum in the area, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,877 visitors.

Grand-Place is a spectacular square and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Brussels, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 149,732 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. Because of its allure and charm, around 38,005 visitors have rated this attraction and shopping mall an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Atomium. Echoing its popularity, 89,664 travelers have awarded this famous history museum and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Brussels by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the region’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Brussels.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Walvis, an iconic dining spot in Brussels. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,654 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Pasta Divina while in Brussels. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,190 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Le Cirio, a favorite in Brussels. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,548 discerning guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Monk. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,758 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous La Porte Noire. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,483 customers.

Bar Des Amis cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 1,677 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.3 out of 5 stars average rating.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Day 3 – Brussels, South Holland, and Amsterdam

Drive 253 km, 3 hours 40 min

• Erasmusbrug
• Diergaarde Blijdorp

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to South Holland in the Netherlands, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Amsterdam’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 33 min.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the region!

South Holland has something for every interest and travel budget.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Amsterdam.

As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Amsterdam's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of the Netherlands to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Amsterdam has them.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Gartine, a distinguished dining establishment in Amsterdam. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 678 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Amsterdam is The Pantry. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 3,646 happy diners.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Proeflokaal Arendsnest, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Amsterdam. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, backed by 3,048 delighted customers.

As the night falls in Amsterdam, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Day 4 – Amsterdam and North Holland

Drive 7 km, 1 hour 3 min

• Rijksmuseum
• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne Frank House

On day 4, you will wake up in North Holland with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Amsterdam before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Amsterdam is the magnificent Rijksmuseum. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 2,700,000 travelers from across the world. Around 91,223 visitors have rated this excellent national museum and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Van Gogh Museum on this leg of your adventure in the Netherlands. This attraction is a well-known art museum that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 84,751 travelers. Given this incredible site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 2,161,160 people visit it every year.

The remarkable Vondelpark is known to be one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 50,897 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Amsterdam by exploring the captivating Anne Frank House, which draws the attention of nearly 1,195,456 visitors annually. With a stellar average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,974 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Amsterdam exploration list!

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in North Holland in Belgium by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Amsterdam’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Amsterdam. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Don't forget to book a table at Restaurant Moeders, a well-known eatery in Amsterdam. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,647 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Café restaurant van Kerkwijk while exploring Amsterdam. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,859 discerning guests.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Amsterdam, SkyLounge Amsterdam. This famous place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,266 customers.

Another trendy bar is Excalibur Café. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 3,047 customers.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 5 – Amsterdam, North Brabant, Bergheim, and Cologne

Drive 331 km, 4 hours 21 min

• Beekse Bergen
• Stadswandelpark, Eindhoven
• Phantasialand

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - North Brabant in the Netherlands and Bergheim in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Amsterdam and set your GPS to Cologne, Germany. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 47 min.

On your break from the road, you will have a blast exploring North Brabant’s lovely eateries, captivating attractions, and engaging tour options.

Beekse Bergen is a travelers’ favorite in North Brabant, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,094 visitors.

In North Brabant, don’t miss Stadswandelpark, Eindhoven, a great park and place to see in the region. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,874 reviews.

Make more amazing memories during your vacation in Belgium by adding tours and activities to your travel itinerary. Tours are another exciting way to experience the best of North Brabant, immersing in local customs and meeting new friends.

It’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Cologne. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Cologne. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Le Moissonnier is the Bib Gourmand restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 2-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative french and classic meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Cologne, Ox & Klee. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern and creative dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Cologne you shouldn’t miss is La Cuisine Rademacher. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern french menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Toddy Tapper, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 590 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln. It is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,484 customers.

Gilden im Zims is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,823 customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France! Enjoy your evening in Cologne to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Day 6 – Cologne, Heidelberg, and Karlsruhe

Drive 317 km, 3 hours 49 min

• Cologne Cathedral
• Heidelberg Palace

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Cologne in Germany. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Cologne is the fantastic Old Market. As an appreciated point of interest and local gem in the area, Old Market has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,654 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Cologne Cathedral, which is a catholic cathedral that gets around 5,000,000 visits every year. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 68,667 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Feel the freedom as you navigate your way from Cologne to Karlsruhe. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 41 min without stops.

Cologne is where memories are made! Take time to explore the city’s most popular attractions and learn something new today.

A tour of Cologne is not complete without a visit to the famous Old Market. This incredible point of interest and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,654 travelers.

Make the most of your Cologne travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 68,667 travelers and gets around 5,000,000 annual visits.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Belgium, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Cologne's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in Cologne.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Karlsruhe. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Karlsruhe’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Bistro Margarete, a restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence and fine dining. This restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature regional meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Karlsruhe, sein. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Karlsruhe you shouldn’t miss is TAWA YAMA FINE. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern and international menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Karlsruhe. At Der KofferRaum - Cocktailbar, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 651 customers.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Day 7 – Karlsruhe, Strasbourg, and Luxembourg

Drive 306 km, 3 hours 54 min

• Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg
• Petit Train Touristique de Strasbourg
• Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg
• Parc de l'Orangerie

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Strasbourg in France and Luxembourg in Luxembourg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Luxembourg. Luxembourg will be your home for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Luxembourg, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Luxembourg. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Strasbourg, Belgium.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Luxembourg’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Luxembourg’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Indulge in an exquisite Bib Gourmand dining experience at Mosconi. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and an array of mouthwatering dishes, Mosconi consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional italian cuisine.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Scott's Pub. This famous bar in Luxembourg has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,108 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Lisboa II. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Lisboa II has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,381 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Konrad Café & Bar. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,103 customers.

Day 8 – Luxembourg and Reims

Drive 233 km, 2 hours 40 min

• Place d'Armes
• Grand Ducal Palace
• Notre-Dame Cathedral

On day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Luxembourg in Luxembourg and Reims in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Reims, where you will stay for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Luxembourg, including the outstanding Place d'Armes. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 490 reviews, this fascinating point of interest and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the region.

Luxembourg is also home to the captivating Palais Grand-Ducal, a local sightseeing destination considered one of the highlights of the region. About 3,907 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Cathédrale Notre-Dame is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Luxembourg. This extraordinary church and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,142 travelers.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Reims, France. This car ride takes around 2 hours 32 min.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Luxembourg, its culture, and people.

So be sure to reserve your slot early so you won’t miss the chance to join this highly recommended activity in Luxembourg.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Reims. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Reims boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of France.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Riad, an iconic dining spot in Reims. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 788 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Au Cul de Poule while in Reims. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, treasured by 741 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Le Millénaire, a favorite in Reims. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 655 discerning guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Dropkick bar. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 738 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Le Clos. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 878 customers.

Au Fût et à mesure cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 532 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.5 out of 5 stars average rating.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 9 – Reims, Melun, Villepreux, and Paris

Drive 200 km, 3 hours 7 min

• Disneyland Paris
• Gardens of Versailles
• Opéra royal de Versailles

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Melun in France, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Paris. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

After soaking in Reims’s unique atmosphere, jump back into your car with a full heart, and drive in the direction of your next destination: Villepreux. Expect your car journey to last a minimum of 2 hours 1 min.

Upon your arrival in Melun you’ll be greeted with an exciting opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this region and discover some of its most popular sights.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Melun is the fantastic Disneyland Paris, attracting around 13,400,000 visitors every year. As an appreciated amusement park and local gem in the area, Disneyland Paris has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 256,402 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Melun, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Paris may take around 1 hour 42 min.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Melun has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Belgium. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Paris of your choice.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Paris. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France.

Don't forget to book a table at Restaurant Guy Savoy, a well-known eatery in Paris. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,143 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Le Bistrot Du Perigord while exploring Paris. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 584 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kitchen Galerie Bis, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 512 discerning diners.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Le Calbar, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Le Calbar boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 775 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Little Red Door, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Little Red Door has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,722 customers.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Day 10 – Paris

Drive 20 km, 1 hour 25 min

• Palais Garnier
• Arc de Triomphe
• Eiffel Tower
• Champ de Mars

Wake up and see what day 10 of your great European road trip in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France has in store for you! You will be staying in Paris for 3 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Paris is the fantastic Sacré-Cœur, attracting around 11,000,000 visitors every year. As an appreciated church building and local gem in the area, Sacré-Cœur has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,527 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Palais Garnier. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,053 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Arc de Triomphe, a standout triumphal arch and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 193,235 reviewers, so it's no surprise that it attracts as many as 2,743,823 visitors annually.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Eiffel Tower. This lattice tower is a highly recommended attraction in the city, attracting more than 6,207,303 visitors per year and boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 322,389 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Champ de Mars, a popular urban park and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 172,488 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

To make your fun escapade in Paris, Belgium even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Paris's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Jules Verne while you’re in Paris. Famous for its lovely menu and delectable dishes, it has captivated around 1,525 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Paris is Le Petit Châtelet. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,057 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

While in Paris, enjoy Les Fous de l'Île’s delectable dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,046 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at The Bombardier. This famous bar in Paris has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,775 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Experimental Cocktail Club. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Experimental Cocktail Club has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,338 customers.

Take in the ambiance of Paris as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Day 11 – Paris

Drive 7 km, 1 hour 6 min

• Louvre Museum
• Musée d'Orsay
• Tuileries Garden
• Place de la Concorde
• Pont Alexandre III

Day 11 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Paris. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

Louvre Museum is a travelers’ favorite in Paris, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 visitors. More than 2,825,000 people visit this extraordinary art museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Paris, don’t miss Musée d'Orsay, a great art museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 71,115 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 3,651,616 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

Check other top attractions in Paris off your list when you visit the wonderful Tuileries Garden. This popular sight is an outstanding garden, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 92,172 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding place de la Concorde. This square and place of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 54,229 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Pont Alexandre III awaits. This deck arch bridge is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,899 visitors.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Belgium, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Paris's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in Paris.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Paris. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Île de la Réunion, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 935 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at L'Imprévu Café during your stay in Paris. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 846 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit The Highlander, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, The Highlander has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,285 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Velvet Bar Paris, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,018 customers have rated their experience at Velvet Bar Paris an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Café de Paris V belongs to the list of the best bars in Paris, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 981 bar-goers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France! Enjoy your evening in Paris to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Day 12 – Paris

Drive 32 km, 1 hour 25 min

• La Villette
• Jardin des plantes
• Jardin du Luxembourg
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

On day 12, you will wake up in Paris with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Paris before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Paris, including the outstanding La Villette. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 56,497 reviews, this fascinating commune of france and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Paris is also home to the captivating Jardin des plantes, a local botanical garden considered one of the highlights of the city. About 40,461 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Jardin du Luxembourg is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Paris. This extraordinary urban park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 94,043 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Panthéon will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing mausoleum and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,649 reviews.

Soak in Paris's rich culture at the fantastic Notre-Dame de Paris. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Paris is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 45,788 visitor reviews. Every year, travelers of more than 12,000,000 in count gather around this fascinating catholic cathedral and sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the city!

Paris has something for every interest and travel budget.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Paris. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Reserve a table at Le Restaurant Vingt Spts, a renowned restaurant in Paris. This culinary gem and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 628 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Joséphine Chez Dumonet while in Paris. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 544 discerning diners.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Les Fous de l'Île, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Les Fous de l'Île has charmed many with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,046 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at L'Imprévu Café, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. L'Imprévu Café captures hearts with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 846 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Le Requin Chagrin, another local party gem in Paris. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 737 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

As the night falls in Paris, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Day 13 – Paris, Ath, and Brussels

Drive 323 km, 4 hours 13 min

• Pairi Daiza
• Parc d’Enghien
• Château Empain

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 13 of your multi-country journey across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Ath in Belgium. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Brussels. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Paris, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brussels in Belgium. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Belgium. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 42 min.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in Ath in Belgium by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Brussels’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Brussels.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brussels. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Le Marmiton. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Brussels has received a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from around 1,876 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, The Blue Restaurant should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Brussels, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,345 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Le Pêcheur. This highly regarded restaurant in Brussels has earned a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 852 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery has charmed many with its 4.6 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,046 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Barbeton, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Barbeton captures hearts with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 1,044 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Little Delirium, another local party gem in Brussels. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 648 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Day 14 – Brussels - departure day

• Brussels - Departure day
• Mont des Arts - Kunstberg

On day 14 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Brussels before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Make the most of your final day in Belgium by visiting Brussels’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Belgium.

A tour of Brussels is not complete without a visit to the famous Mont des Arts - Kunstberg. This incredible square and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,523 travelers.

Get a last taste of Belgium’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Brussels and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France.

The time has come to say farewell to Brussels for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 14-day European road trip in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France with fond memories. Safe travels!

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When is Eid al-Fitr 2024 and how is it celebrated?

The three-day festival celebrates the completion of the fasting month of Ramadan by Muslims across the world.

As a new moon was not sighted on Monday evening after Maghrib prayers, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries will fast one more day, completing 30 days of Ramadan. The first day of Eid will then be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10.

The first day of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar.

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Lunar months last between 29 and 30 days so Muslims usually have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date.

Other countries follow independent sightings.

When the sighting has been verified, Eid is declared on television, radio stations and at mosques.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid?

Traditionally, Eid is celebrated for three days as an official holiday in Muslim-majority countries. However, the number of holiday days varies by country.

Muslims begin Eid day celebrations by partaking in a prayer service that takes place shortly after dawn, followed by a short sermon.

On their way to the prayer, which is traditionally held in an open area, Muslims recite takbeerat, praising God by saying “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “God is great”.

It is customary to eat something sweet before the prayer, such as date -filled biscuits known as maamoul in the Middle East. This particular festival is known as the “sweet” Eid – and the distribution of sweets is common across the Muslim world.

Muslims usually spend the day visiting relatives and neighbours and accepting sweets as they move around from house to house.

Each country has traditional desserts and sweets that are prepared before Eid or on the morning of the first day.

Children, dressed in new clothes, are offered gifts and money to celebrate the joyous occasion.

Girls and women in many countries decorate their hands with henna. The celebration for Eid begins the night before as women gather in neighbourhoods and large family gatherings for the application of henna.

In some countries, families visit graveyards to offer their respects to departed family members right after the morning prayers.

It is common for Muslim-majority countries to decorate their cities with lights and hold festivities to commemorate the end of the fasting month.

Eid amid the onslaught in Gaza

For some 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza this Eid, this will be the first Muslim religious holiday after more than 33,000 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. With little food aid, and very limited water, Gaza’s Eid al-Fitr will be mired in destruction amid the continuing attacks.

What are common Eid greetings?

The most popular greeting is “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid sa’id” (Happy Eid). Eid greetings also vary depending on the country and language.

The video below shows how people say Eid Mubarak in different languages around the world.