Travel Discovery

Day Trips from Brussels, Belgium

Destination: Brussels, Belgium

    1. Ghent
    2. Overview: Ghent, often hailed as a hidden gem, is a picturesque city just a short train ride away from Brussels. Its medieval center is filled with canals, stunning Gothic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. Stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei, the quayside lined with guildhouses dating back to the Middle Ages, and marvel at the Saint Bavo's Cathedral, home to the world-famous painting "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" by Jan van Eyck.
    3. Duration: Full Day

    4. Must Try Delicacy: Belgian waffles with strawberries and whipped cream.

    5. Bruges

    6. Overview: Known as the "Venice of the North," Bruges captivates visitors with its perfectly preserved medieval streets, charming canals, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Visit the Markt Square, dominated by the 13th-century Belfry Tower, and explore the Chocolate Museum to indulge in Belgium's famous chocolate-making heritage. A boat tour through the city's waterways offers a unique perspective on this fairy-tale-like town.
    7. Duration: Full Day
    8. Time: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

    9. Taste Local Specialty: Belgian fries with mayonnaise.

    10. Antwerp

    11. Overview: Antwerp, a city renowned for its fashion and diamonds, also has a rich artistic heritage. Visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts to see works by Rubens, Antwerp's most celebrated son. Stroll through the Grote Markt, surrounded by guild houses and the iconic Town Hall, before wandering down the Meir, a premier shopping street. Don't miss the stunning Antwerp Central Station, often regarded as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.
    12. Duration: Full Day

    13. Recommended Activity: Diamond District exploration.

    14. Hasselt

    15. Overview: For a more tranquil escape, head to Hasselt, a city known for its green spaces and a slower pace of life. Explore the Japanese Garden, a haven of tranquility, and visit the Jenever Museum to learn about Belgium's national spirit. Hasselt’s City Center, pedestrian-friendly, invites leisurely walks amongst historic buildings and modern boutiques.
    16. Duration: Half Day
    17. Local Delight: Jenever tasting.