Belgium 5 Day Itinerary

Belgium Itinerary: 5 Days of Waffles, Beer, and History

Day 1: Brussels - The Heart of Europe

  • Morning: Arrive in Brussels, the capital city of Belgium. Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
  • Brussels Grand Place (9:00 am - 10:30 am): Start your day at the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture of the City Hall, King’s House, and Guildhalls.
  • Waffle Tasting (11:00 am - 12:00 pm): Indulge in a delicious Belgian waffle at a local café or bakery. Try it with whipped cream, chocolate, or fresh fruits.
  • Atomium and Mini-Europe (1:00 pm - 4:00 pm): Visit the Atomium, a landmark building representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Explore Mini-Europe, a theme park featuring miniature versions of European cities.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Belgian dinner at a local restaurant and sample some of the country’s famous beers.

Day 2: Brussels - More Wonders

  • Morning: Visit the Royal Palace of Brussels (9:00 am - 10:30 am), although it’s only open to the public during summer months.
  • Magritte Museum (11:00 am - 1:00 pm): Discover the life and works of René Magritte, a renowned Belgian surrealist artist.
  • Saint-Gilles Neighborhood (2:00 pm - 4:00 pm): Explore this charming neighborhood known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, trendy boutiques, and lively atmosphere.
  • Evening: Relax at a local park or enjoy the city’s nightlife.

Day 3: Bruges - The Venice of the North

  • Morning: Take a train to Bruges (approximately 1 hour journey).
  • Bruges City Tour (9:00 am - 12:00 pm): Explore this medieval town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Belfry Tower, Church of Our Lady, and the historic city center.
  • Lace Making Demonstration (1:00 pm - 2:30 pm): Learn about Bruges’ famous lace-making tradition at a local workshop or museum.
  • Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner at a cozy restaurant overlooking the canals.

Day 4: Ghent - The City of Waterways

  • Morning: Take a train to Ghent (approximately 25 minutes journey).
  • Ghent City Tour (9:00 am - 12:00 pm): Visit the stunning St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Castle of the Counts, and the picturesque Patershol neighborhood.
  • Boat Tour (1:00 pm - 2:30 pm): Admire Ghent’s beautiful waterways on a guided boat tour.
  • Evening: Sample some local beers at a brewery or enjoy traditional Flemish cuisine.

Day 5: Antwerp - The Diamond Capital

  • Morning: Take a train to Antwerp (approximately 1 hour journey).
  • Antwerp City Tour (9:00 am - 12:00 pm): Explore the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Grote Markt, and the picturesque Meir shopping street.
  • Diamond District (1:00 pm - 2:30 pm): Visit the world-famous Diamond District, where you can learn about diamond cutting and polishing.
  • Evening: Return to Brussels or depart from Antwerp.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries do not need a visa to enter Belgium for tourism or business stays up to 90 days. Check the Belgian government’s website for specific requirements.

Transportation

  • Trains: Frequent trains connect major cities in Belgium. You can buy tickets at train stations or online.
  • Buses: Bus services are available, but less frequent than trains.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but more expensive than public transportation.
  • Walking and Cycling: Both are excellent ways to explore Belgian cities.

Other Essentials

  • Language: Dutch, French, and German are official languages. English is widely spoken.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Power Adapter: Type E/F (230V, 50Hz)
  • Weather: Belgium’s climate is temperate, with mild winters and cool summers. Pack accordingly.
  • Safety: Belgium is generally a safe country, but take usual precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Tips and Insights

  • Try to visit during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for fewer tourists and more pleasant weather.
  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven pavement in historic areas.
  • Don’t forget to try Belgian chocolate and fries!
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or historical sites.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and relaxation, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Have a wonderful trip to Belgium!