Travel to Belgium is a deep love for me and often feel it doesn’t get the recognition it deserves in Western Europe. Why, you ask? Because it’s charming, tasty, and brimming with amazing experiences—yet it remains modest, understated, and often overlooked. Belgium truly has something for everyone. I was so sure of this that I brought my in-laws there for their very first trip to Europe in 2022.

From lively cities to picturesque towns, Belgium boasts a rich cultural heritage that’s ready to be explored!

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Since moving to Cologne, Germany in 2019, I’ve returned to Belgium several times, uncovering new and delightful experiences on each visit. Whether you’re fascinated by history, passionate about food, a beer enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing escape, Travel to Belgium is an ideal destination. In this post, I’m sharing my favorite spots to help you see the very best of Travel to Belgium in just one week. From tasting the country’s renowned chocolate to exploring its top-notch museums, this itinerary is filled with memorable adventures.

Itinerary Overview
This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want to experience the highlights of Travel to Belgium in just seven days. Belgium is a fairly compact country, so one week provides enough time to explore its main attractions without feeling rushed, while still making the most of your trip.

Over the course of this week, you’ll visit some of Travel to Belgium is a deep love for me and often feel it doesn’t get the recognition it deserves in Western Europe. Belgium’s most famous cities, including Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. I’ve also included a few lesser-known spots and hidden gems to help you discover the country’s unique charm. All of the destinations are shown on the map below. Traveling across Belgium is quick and convenient, so you can move between locations with ease.

Getting Around Belgium
This itinerary is tailored to be convenient by train. Travel to Belgium has a comprehensive and dependable rail system operated by the National Railway Company of Belgium (NMBS/SNCB). On my first trip, I relied solely on trains and found it very straightforward. I highly recommend this option, especially if you want to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling. You can either purchase single tickets for each journey or opt for a multi-ride pass that covers multiple trips.

If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car is another option. This itinerary works well for a road trip too, giving you the freedom to explore smaller towns at your own pace. However, driving is more costly (fuel prices are high) and parking in city centers, particularly in historic areas, can be tricky. Roads are generally in excellent condition, and the weather is usually manageable, so a car trip can be a comfortable and scenic way to see Travel to Belgium.

Day 1: Brussels
Since Brussels serves as both Belgium’s capital and the heart of the European Union, it’s a common starting point for trips to the country. While Brussels is lively and culturally diverse, it’s not necessarily the most captivating spot in Belgium. A day or two is sufficient to explore, so there’s no need to linger longer, especially for first-time visitors.

In just one day, you can take in the city’s highlights, from its stunning architecture to its tasty cuisine and renowned beers. A top attraction in Brussels is the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often praised as one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. Don’t miss stopping by one of the city’s famous chocolatiers to sample some of the finest truffles and pralines you’ll ever taste. You’ll also find plenty of places nearby to enjoy a classic Belgian waffle or a serving of crispy frites.

Day 2: Antwerp
For a striking change from Brussels, take a trip to Antwerp, Belgium’s historic port city. Antwerp is still somewhat off the beaten path, and I was genuinely impressed by how much I enjoyed exploring it. Just an hour by train, you’ll arrive at what might be one of Europe’s most stunning railway stations. Antwerp Central Station is a true Art Nouveau gem, featuring a soaring glass-roofed hall, ornate gilded accents, colorful marble, and a grand clock.

For a more thorough guide to Antwerp’s highlights, take a look at my post covering the city’s must-see attractions.

From the station, stroll through the old town and toward the revitalized harbor district. The old town’s charm lies in its delightful streets. Winding lanes and scenic squares are dotted with cozy boutiques and cafés. My personal favorite is Vlaeykensgang Alley, a hidden street with tucked-away restaurants, ideal for a leisurely lunch.

Day 3 & 4: Bruges
Bruges is famous worldwide for its medieval architecture, romantic atmosphere, and scenic canals. In fact, the entire historic center has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site! While many visitors just stop in Bruges for a quick day trip from Brussels or Ghent, I think it deserves at least one overnight stay, if not two. Since there’s so much to see in this city, I can’t cover everything in this post. Be sure to check out my separate guide for a full 48-hour itinerary in this beautiful city.

One of the most enchanting areas of Bruges is its network of canals. You can easily enjoy them from land, whether walking or cycling. They circle the city, and each stretch seems more scenic than the previous one. You can also take to the water with a canal boat tour offered by various companies. Personally, I love exploring Bruges by bike. It’s convenient and safe, and the compact city center ensures you’re never far from your next fascinating spot.

Day 5: Ghent
A friend persuaded me to visit Ghent, claiming it was even more stunning than Bruges. After exploring it a few times, I completely agree and would wholeheartedly recommend it. Ghent is, in my opinion, Belgium’s most underrated gem! I suggest spending at least a full day there to truly take in the history, culture, and laid-back charm of this gothic city.

Some must-see sights in the historic center include the three iconic medieval towers. Standing close together in the city center, make sure to check out Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Saint Nicholas’ Church, and the Belfry Tower. For the best view of all three towers at once, head to the Sint-Michielsbrug stone bridge. Sunset is an especially magical time, as the riverbanks fill with students and locals enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Ghent, situated in the heart of Flanders, is also surprisingly known for its food scene. From cozy pubs to upscale restaurants, you can feel the pride locals have in their culinary offerings. Traditional Flemish dishes like hearty fish stews and cured meats are easy to find, while adventurous eaters can explore international flavors, vegetable-forward menus, and some of the freshest seafood available anywhere in Belgium.

Day 6: Quaint Villages
Up to now, this one-week Belgium itinerary has focused mostly on the major cities. Why not take a break from the crowds and discover some of Belgium’s charming smaller towns? There are plenty worth visiting! I suggest Dinant and Durbuy, two picturesque towns nestled in the Ardennes region in southern Belgium. Spending a day in both Dinant and Durbuy is enough to soak in their unique charm, explore their rich history, and admire the stunning scenery of the Belgian Ardennes.

These towns are among the trickiest in this itinerary to reach by train.

The journey takes roughly an hour, but only regional (slower) trains serve the route. While train travel is still an option, driving is often easier and more convenient for exploring these small towns. The drive also takes about an hour. With a bit of planning, visiting these villages is absolutely worthwhile. The mix of historical landmarks and natural landscapes makes Dinant and Durbuy a perfect destination for travelers of all ages, offering something enjoyable for everyone.

Dinant
Located along the banks of the Meuse River, Dinant is a quaint town with a rich musical heritage. It is famously the birthplace of the saxophone, and it also features a renowned museum dedicated to musical instruments. Throughout the year, the town hosts various music-related events.

A key attraction in Dinant is the citadel, a historic fortress perched on a cliff that offers breathtaking views of the town. Visitors can take a cable car to reach the top. Another highlight is the Notre-Dame de Dinant cathedral, an impressive Gothic church dating back to the 13th century.

Durbuy
Often called “the smallest city in the world,” Durbuy is a charming destination that feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. While it attracts more visitors than Dinant, its appeal remains undeniable.

Wandering through its cobblestone streets, you’ll find old houses, quaint shops, and a central castle that enhances the town’s storybook charm. Strolling around the village is delightful, and there are plenty of local eateries where you can enjoy a hearty meal.

Day 7: Back in Brussels
As your delightful week in Belgium comes to a close, it’s time to head back to Brussels to catch your flight home. If you have a bit of spare time, one notable place to visit is the Atomium. Situated in the northern part of the city, it’s slightly off the main path. Built for the 1958 World Expo, this iconic structure has recently gained popularity, partly thanks to Instagram. The Atomium is surrounded by a park, and you can also go inside for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Belgian Food & Drink
Belgium sits at the heart of Europe, influenced by neighboring countries like France and Germany. Its cuisine blends these inspirations into something uniquely Belgian. From rich, comforting stews to delicate pastries, the country offers an array of delicious dishes.

Some Belgian specialties you shouldn’t miss include:

Moules-frites – mussels served with fries

Carbonade flamande – a savory beef stew

Waffles – try both Brussels and Liège varieties!

Belgian chocolate – world-famous for a reason

Belgium is also renowned for its extensive beer culture, boasting over 200 different types. Popular brands include Leffe, Chimay, and Duvel. For those new to Belgian beer, my husband Sam, a former bartender and devoted beer enthusiast, helped put together a beginner’s guide. It explains the various beer styles and highlights the best bars and breweries to explore in Belgium.