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Belgium train guide | how to use trains in belgium.

How to travel Belgium by train — Tips for buying Belgian train tickets and advice for navigating Belgium by rail.

Transportation

Belgium is a small country that’s well-served by a modern and comfortable train system. Most people stick to the main cities of Antwerp, Brussels, Brugge, and Ghent (all of which have multiple train routes every day) but even smaller towns are connected by rail. There is also a separate high-speed train that connects Brussels to a handful of international destinations (Paris, Amsterdam, London, etc.). But don’t worry if you have questions because our Belgium Train Guide will cover everything you need to know about buying train tickets in Belgium and how to find the best prices.

How To Buy Train Tickets in Belgium

Let’s take a look at the various train ticket options…

Buying Domestic Train Tickets in Belgium

All domestic train tickets in Belgium use a fixed pricing model that is based on the distance traveled so tickets are always the same price no matter when you purchase them—simply show up at the station and buy your tickets. You can also buy tickets early at Omio (and have them sent straight to your phone) if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of buying them at the station. You can also check schedules and prices at belgianrail.be .

Domestic Train Discounts

Weekend Round Trip Ticket: If you buy a round-trip ticket for a journey after 7 pm on a Friday night and return on/before the last train on Sunday then you get the entire journey costs the same as a one-way ticket.
Ten-Journey Card: Spending a lot of time in Belgium? You can buy a pack of 10 one-way tickets (good for a year) for €77 2nd class or €118 in 1st class — which is under €8 for 2nd class. These tickets can be used for any journey.
Go Pass 10: Are you under 26? Check out the Go Pass 10 which is 10 tickets to any destination for €59—which is €5.90 per ticket. Not too shabby.

Buying International Train Tickets In Belgium

Belgium has quite a few high-speed connections to other international cities—the most notable destinations are Paris, London, and Amsterdam (but there are connections to just about every major city).

All these train tickets should be purchased in advance as they get much more expensive as the departure date approaches. For example, a Thalys high-speed train from Brussels to Amsterdam can be as cheap as € 29 when purchased three months in advance but you’ll pay closer to € 100 if you buy it the day of travel.

Where To Buy International Train Tickets

While you can buy international train tickets from any train station in Belgium, you’ll get the best prices when buying the tickets from a third-party booking website.

Omio : Omio is a great train booking engine that lets you book tickets from just about every country’s rail service and other digital tickets are sent straight to your phone. Omio charges little to no markup and they make the booking process very user-friendly.
TrainLine: TrainLine is another third-party train ticket booking site that connects directly to multiple European rail networks.

More Tips For Using Trains in Belgium

Brussels Central is a different station that still serves many routes and Brussels Nord is another less-frequently used station.
Study The Departures Board: You’ll find your train platform via the departure board at the train station. Don’t worry if you don’t see your train because they typically only display trains departing within the next 10-20 minutes.
Train Delays: Belgium doesn’t have the best record of trains being on time so it’s common for trains to be 10-15 minutes late.
Train Schedule: There are two trains every hour that connect Bruges, Ghent, and Brussels.
Self-Service Machines Are In English: All the ticket machines (and train station signs) are in English—there is a good chance customer service people also speak English.
Pack A Picnic: You’re allowed to bring your own food and alcohol on trains. It’s great for those long train rides.
No Luggage Limits: There aren’t any weight limits on luggage and you can bring as much as you want (well, as much as you can carry). Simply bring it on and store it above your head, behind your seat, or in the luggage racks in each car.
Open Seating: Domestic trains don’t have assigned seats so sit anywhere.
Making Connections: Belgium is a small country so many routes connect through Brussels. Don’t worry if there isn’t much time between trains because switching trains is usually fairly quick and easy (it’s not like flying).
Get To The Train Station Early: Train stations are usually fairly easy to navigate but they can be a little confusing.
Luggage Storage: Most large train stations will have luggage storage options but small stations most likely won’t have luggage storage.
Know Train Station Names: Brussels has multiple train stations so this often creates confusion. Double check to make sure you have the right station—especially when booking your ticket. Also, it’s common for there to be stops in the suburbs outside big cities but you won’t want to get off there (just watch what most of the train is doing).

Check out our Complete Guide To Train Travel In Europe for more tips about traveling Europe by train.

More Belgium Travel Advice from The Savvy Backpacker

Brussels City Guide : What to do, see, and eat in Brussels.
How To Choose The Best Travel Insurance : Travel insurance will help cover those non-refundable train tickets if something goes wrong during your trip.
Packing List For Europe Travel : Tips on packing light — which makes train travel much easier.
Travel Resources : Our favorite online travel resources.
Step-By-Step European Travel Planning Guide : Everything you need to know about planning your budget travel through Europe.
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Discover Belgium By Train: All The Info You Need

Probably one of the biggest struggles visitors to Belgium face is not having a car to get around. Luckily, Belgium has an extensive train network and a lot of wonderful places can easily be visited by train!

However, I know that this is a lot easier if you want to go on a city trip than when you want to go hiking for example. Nevertheless, in this post, I’ll try to give you as many options as possible to discover Belgium by train, regardless of whether you’re visiting Flanders or Wallonia!

Read on to find the best places accessible by train as well as more information about the Belgian train system and how to buy (the cheapest) tickets.

Places in Belgium to visit by train

Before I show you all the wonderful places you can visit by train I want to warn you that some are more accessible than others. A larger city such as Antwerp or Liège will easily be accessible while smaller places like Dinant or Gendron-Celles will require you to change trains, which takes a much longer time to get there.

Ease of access: easy

Bruges, just like all other cities in Belgium, is quite easy to reach by train with lots of direct trains, also from Brussels Airport. From the train station, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the city centre where you can see everything on foot. Thus, this is the ideal day trip destination by train!

Bruges is a perfect destination if you want to walk around in a historical setting, visit lots of museums or go on a romantic getaway!

For more information on visiting Bruges, take a look at my blog post about how to spend 1 day in Bruges ! Luckily, this destination is great to visit year-round, and for an even more cosy experience, visit the Christmas market in winter.

Related: the most beautiful Airbnbs in Bruges

As the largest city in Belgium, Antwerp is definitely worth a trip! It’s also one of the easiest destinations in Belgium to reach by train, plus it has one of the most impressive train stations in the country.

The zoo of Antwerp is directly located next to the train station, and if that’s nothing for you, you’ll find the finest shopping experiences in the city as well since Antwerp is the fashion capital of Belgium!

Some other must-visit places in Antwerp include the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) as well as plenty of other museums, its cathedral and plenty of other hidden gems.

Related: How to spend a weekend in Antwerp off the beaten path

Another historical city easy to reach by train in Flanders is Ghent. This medieval city is perfect for those of you who love to discover a bit of history about Belgium.

Located right in between Brussels and Bruges, it is one of the most central and easy-to-visit places in Belgium. Arrive at the train station of Gent-Sint-Pieters and take the tram to the heart of the city centre.

When in Gent, definitely pass by the Gravensteen, an impressive historical castle, take a boat ride on the canals, try Gentse Waterzooi, a historical dish, visit the belfry and many other historical sites.

Hasselt is another hip Belgian city that should definitely be added to your bucket list. As one of Belgium’s major cities, it’s very easy to reach by train, thus perfect for a day or weekend away!

Hasselt has quite some interesting places to visit. One of my favourites are the fashion museum with lots of temporary exhibitions, and the Jenever Museum (of course if you’re 18+ ;)) together with a Jenever walk through the city.

Hasselt is also a great city to go shopping, and just like in other Flemish cities, you’ll find your portion of historical buildings, churches and cathedrals.

C-Mine Genk

Ease of access: moderate

C-Mine in Genk is an old mine that has been transformed into a place where numerous exhibitions take place. I personally have been there to visit the exposition of Tim Burton a few years ago.

You can easily find a train to the station of Genk and from there you’ll find buses going to the entrance of C-Mine.

Besides temporary exhibitions, you can also go for a tour explaining everything about the history of the mine. This is not only targeted at adults but also a perfect visit to do with the whole family! Several activities are particularly focused on children.

Take a look at the current offers of C-Mine here.

Of course, no destination is easier to visit in Belgium than its capital Brussels! Most trains stop at the 3 major train stations here which are Brussel Zuid (Bruxelles Midi), Brussel Centraal (Bruxelles Central) and Brussel Noord (Bruxelles Nord).

Brussels is perfect for a weekend away, but a day trip might be too short to visit everything you should see!

My personal favourites are the Grande Place, the Strip museum (as well as the strip route), Manneken Pis, the many chocolate stores and so much more! A more detailed guide to Brussels can be found in my post about a perfect one-day Brussels itinerary .

The Belgian coast

If a city trip is nothing for you, you might visit one of Belgium’s great coastal cities such as Blankenberge, Knokke and Ostend. All three of these cities are quite easy to reach by train and from the train station, it is possible to walk straight to the beach (or the shopping stores of course).

From these hubs, it’s also very easy to take the coastal tram and visit other (smaller) towns along the coastline.

Knokke is known for being a more expensive and decadent place to visit, here you’ll find the more high-end stores, hotels and restaurants as well as activities like golfing.

Blankenberge is one of the most popular beach destinations in Flanders and this is definitely the place to be if you’d like to spend some time in one of the numerous beach bars. Another popular activity here is Sea Life Blankenberge, where families can get to know all living creatures that inhabit the sea.

Ostend is a much larger city than Blankenberge or Knokke. Here you’ll find the Q Beach House in the summer (radio on the beach) as well as numerous historical monuments such as Fort Napoleon and the Mercator, an ancient renovated ship.

Oudenaarde is a great ancient town to visit in Flanders with not only a lot of history but also great natural areas to hike in the neighbourhood.

From the train station of Oudenaarde, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the heart of the city centre, which is perfect for a day trip! Some great activities in Oudenaarde include the MOU (Museum Oudenaarde en de Vlaamse Ardennen), Centrum ronde van Vlaanderen and walking through its beautiful beguinage.

By taking a bus it is possible to go to the centre of Ename where a beautiful 2-hour hike starts which takes you through the forest of Ename.

Geraardsbergen

Although Geraardsbergen is not one of the major popular hubs in Belgium, it still attracts many tourists, in particular, because of its iconic place in the Ronde van Vlaanderen, the most popular Flemish cycling race.

From the train station of Geraardsbergen, it’s a 15-minute walk to the tourist office where you can get a map with a walking route which takes you past all the important sights of Geraardsbergen. Make sure to bring good shoes you can easily walk with because you’ll need to climb the ‘wall of Geraardsbergen’!

Did you know that Geraardsbergen also has a Manneken Pis? It is said that this statue has been standing here even before the more famous one in Brussels. Of course, this is up for debate ;).

Leuven is one of the easier cities to visit in Belgium as it has direct trains arriving at its station from all over the country. The city is mainly known for the oldest Belgian university, KU Leuven, and is a real student city!

No lack of historic places and buildings in Leuven, this in combination with a lot of green zones outside the city centre. As I have been studying in Leuven for 5 years now, I know the city quite well. Some of my favourite places are Barboek (drink a coffee and buy a book), St. Peter’s Church, the great beguinage and Abdij van Park.

More interesting places and activities can be found in my blog post on how to spend a weekend in Leuven ! If you’re visiting on a tight budget, I’ve also got you covered! Read about the best free activities in Leuven here !

Durbuy is, without doubt, one of the most charming villages of Belgium, and actually the smallest city in the world!

Reaching Durbuy via public transport is not very easy. The nearest train station is Barvaux from where you can take bus 99 to Durbuy (about a 10-minute drive).

Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in and around Durbuy! Take a stroll through the old centre, visit some local shops, take a look at the Anticlinal, go on adventure in the Adventure Valley Challenge park and much more!

For a full guide on Durbuy, check out my blog post about the best activities to do in Durbuy !

Besides Durbuy, Dinant is probably also one of the most charming cities in Belgium! From the train station of Dinant, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the city centre, which makes Dinant perfect for a day trip!

Did you know that Dinant was the birthplace of Adolphe Sax? The inventor of the Saxophone? You’ll see saxophones everywhere in the city and you can even visit the Adolphe Sax museum!

The most amazing view over the region can be seen when visiting the citadel of Dinant, reachable by stairs or the funicular. Here you’ll learn about the role Dinant played during the world wars.

More great activities in the region can be found in my blog post on what to visit on a day trip to Dinant !

Spa used to be renowed worldwide for its wellness facilities. Ever wondered how we started to use the word ‘spa’? Well, it comes from this city!

From the train station of Spa, it’s not more than a 10-minute walk to the heart of the city centre. Of course, the number one activity to do in Spa is going to a wellness!

Other great activities in this city include hiking up to the Therms of Spa where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the city, walk around the city and admire the impressive historical buildings or take a visit to its casino!

Parc De Furfooz

Ease of access: difficult

Parc de Furfooz is one of the most beautiful natural reserves in Belgium! During spring, summer and fall you can come to visit and take a 5 km hike around the domain which will leave you breathless!

Luckily, this wonderful place is also accessible by train, however, only if you are willing to hike a little bit longer. At 2 km of the park, you’ll find the train station of Gendron-Celles. Following the river, the Lesse, you should come out at the right location.

Note that if you’re looking it up on Google maps, it says that you need to do a 1.5-hour walk to get there, which is NOT true! There is indeed a shorter way. For the exact information, visit the website of Parc de Furfooz .

Related: the best hikes in Belgium that take your breath away

Abbey of Villers-La-Ville

The abbey of Villers-la-Ville is a wonderful, large and ancient ruin of a more than 1000 years old abbey that can be visited any day of the week. All around the property, you’ll find information boards and QR codes to scan for more information.

You’ll get here by train through the station of Villers-La-Ville and a 15-minute walk to the entrance of the abbey. As the whole experience is open-air, I’d recommend visiting on a beautiful day and avoid visiting in the rain.

You can walk around for about 2 hours here, and have a drink or snack at the abbey’s bistro. If you’d like to make this a day trip, visit the tourist centre and take a look at all the hikes available in the region. From short walks to longer hikes, you’ll find them all here!

Practical information

Now that you know where to go by train in Belgium, it is important to know how exactly. In what follows I’m going to explain the ins and outs of the Belgian train system for you!

Buying your train ticket

Buying a train ticket can actually be quite complicated since there are so many options to choose from! Besides a standard ticket (which isn’t really cheap) you have many discount tickets for several occasions or groups of people. I’m going to list the important ones you should know about below!

Youth Ticket (-26) – €7.10
Senior Ticket (65+) – €7.80
Youth Multi (-26) – 10 train rides – €59
Standard Multi – 10 train rides – €96
Discovery ticket – for special attractions
Kids Ticket – 50% discount for children under 12

You can buy your ticket in multiple ways. Or you download the NMBS app and buy it through the app, or you buy through one of your bank apps (with my KBC app I can buy train tickets directly), or you go to the train station and buy it at one of the ticket vending machines, or you go to one of the humanly staffed ticket boots at the train station to buy it there.

When you buy your ticket take into account that you can buy one for first or second class. I must say that there’s not much of a difference between both of them, except that first class costs you more and is generally less busy ;).

It is also possible to take your bike or pet on the train for a little supplement (€8 and €6 respectively). Don’t forget to buy this extra ticket for your bike or pet! In case you’re taking your bike with you, ask the train conductor where to step on and off.

Do I need to make seat reservations on Belgian trains?

The answer here is very straightforward: no . You don’t have to make any reservations on Belgian trains unless of course you’re traveling outside of Belgium by train.

How to check the train schedule

Checking the train schedule can be done through the website of the NMBS , but an even more convenient way is to download the NMBS app (can be found in the App Store) and check (plus buy tickets) that way.

Of course, you can also consult the train schedule at the train station itself.

I hope this post gave you enough inspiration and information to successfully plan your trip within Belgium with the train!

If you have any additions to this post, please let me know in the comments! I’d love to include any other wonderful destinations within Belgium that are easy to reach by train!

Belgium By Train

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Although geographically small, Belgium is bursting with sites and activities. Visit the cosmopolitan capital of Brussels and take the train to popular cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp. Visit the lush green hills of the Ardennes region and be sure to try some Belgian beers and delicious chocolate along the way.

Train types in Belgium

Domestic trains
International trains

Map with main train connections in Belgium

There are a number of train types in Belgium ready to transport you. The Belgium network is operated by NMBS/SNCB , the Belgian National Railway Company. Use the Eurail train timetable to check times for trains in Belgium.

Regional and intercity trains in Belgium

InterCity trains (IC)

Run between larger cities like Brussels, Antwerp and Liège.

International travel to The Hague/Rotterdam (Netherlands), Luxembourg City, and Lille Flandres (France).

No reservation required.

CityRail trains

Run in the area around Brussels.

Brussels Airport supplement trains

Run from Brussels Airport to cities like Antwerp, Ghent, and Brussels.

A supplement required, see here for more information.

International high-speed trains in Belgium

Eurostar (ES)

Brussels – Lille – London
Brussels – Paris
Amsterdam – Rotterdam – Antwerp – Brussels – Paris
Amsterdam – Rotterdam – Antwerp – Brussels – Disneyland Paris
Dortmund – Düsseldorf – Cologne – Liège – Brussels – Paris
Reservations are compulsory for these trains, which can get fully booked. We recommend making your reservations as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Read more about special booking conditions on our dedicated Eurostar page .
Services to Amsterdam, Dortmund, and (Disneyland) Paris are operated by red-coloured former Thalys trains.
Brussels – Cologne – Frankfurt am Main
Reservations are compulsory from June 1st until September 1st
Lille, Marne la Vallée Chessy (Disneyland), Strasbourg, Rennes, Nantes, Lyon, Marseille, and Montpellier.
Reservations are compulsory.

Other international trains in Belgium

ÖBB Nightjet

Brussels – Munich – Salzburg – Vienna
Brussels – Erfurt – Halle – Berlin
Reservations are compulsory

International IC

Brussels – Namur – Luxembourg
Brussels – Antwerp – Rotterdam – Amsterdam
Antwerp – Gent – Kortrijk – Lille
Liège – Luxembourg
No reservation

European Sleeper

Brussels – Antwerp – Rotterdam – Amsterdam – Berlin – Dresden – Prague
To Dresden and Prague from 25th March
Runs three times a week

Popular connections

Domestic connections
International connections

View approximate train travel times between popular Belgian cities using InterCity trains:

Reservations

Eurail reservation self-service system

Eurostar, TGV, ICE, RailJet, Nightjet

Administration costs when booking through Eurail self-service

€ 2,- p.p.per train
Additional € 9,- per order (for paper tickets)

With railway carriers

Eurostar, TGV, European Sleeper, Nightjet
European Sleeper : Only European Sleeper trains, international
ÖBB Nightjet : Only Nightjet

Other platforms

Eurostar and TGV

An explanation of how each booking platform works can be found here: How do I book my reservations

Locally at the train station in Belgium

ICE to Germany: € 7
European Sleeper, Eurostar and TGV: € 12

Eurostar trains are popular and therefore, usually sell out quickly. Make sure to get your seat reservation in time. Alternatively, find trains without seat reservations in our timetable by toggling on the ‘no reservation needed’ button.

Get your Pass for Belgium

Benelux pass.

Discover Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg by rail.

Standard prices from $ 131

Global Pass

Have the freedom to explore Belgium and up to 30 other Eurail countries.

Standard prices from $ 233

Tips and tricks for Belgium

Quick facts.

Capital: Brussels

Population: 11 million

Language: Dutch (Flemish), French, German

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Dialing code: +32

Train stations in Belgium

The main hub stations in Belgium are Bruxelles Midi/Brussel Zuid, Brussel Centraal, Brussel Noord, Antwerpen Centraal, Gent Sint-Pieters and Luik Guillemins. At these train stations, it's possible to connect to trains to Belgium’s main cities and many international destinations.

Station facilities

Stations in Belgium usually have excellent facilities, often including:

Luggage lockers

Foreign exchange desks

Restaurants and cafés

Tourist information offices

ATM cash machines

Elevators and escalators

Access for disabled passengers

Spelling of city names

On the Eurail train timetable and at stations you'll usually find the local spelling of Belgian cities and train stations.

Here is the local spelling of some popular Belgian cities:

Antwerp = Antwerpen

Bruges = Brugge

Brussels = Brussel/Bruxelles

Ghent = Gent

Ostend = Oostende

Transport and accommodation deals

With a Eurail Pass valid in Belgium, you can travel by bus to neighboring countries, and get a 10% discount at the Brussels Meininger Hotel.

See all pass benefits for Belgium

Get inspired

Change of currency

You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.

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International rail routes from Belgium:

High speed trains comprise most of the international rail services from and to Belgium; pictured above are the TGVs used on the services to cities in France, the ICEs which travel to Germany; the Thalys trains which connect Belgium to Paris, Germany and The Netherlands; and a Eurostar train,

Trains from Belgium to France primarily take one of five routes.

(1) via the LGV Nord high speed line:

Four different train services take this route:

The Thalys trains from Antwerpen and Liege via Bruxelles/Brussels to Paris; by far the most frequent train service from the Belgian capital to central Paris.
Up to 2 x Thalys per day trains from Antwerpen to Marne Le Valléé (for Disneyland Paris). These services are currently suspended.
The Eurostars from Bruxelles to Britain via Lille - a few trains per day also call at Calais (Frethun). The number of departures continues to be very limited compared to the usual levels of service. Tickets are currently not available for journeys to and from Ashford or Ebbsfleet.
The TGV Bruxelles/France trains which live up to their name by linking the Belgian capital to multiple cities in France other than Paris. These trains all call at Aeroport CDG station, for Paris Charles De Gaulle airport, and Marne La Vallée station, for Disneyland Paris.

They then travel beyond these stations on various routes across France, to provide direct rail links from Bruxelles to multiple cities including: Avignon; Lyon ; Marseille ; Montpellier ; Nimes; Strasbourg and Valence. So if you target these trains you can avoid having to make the transfer between stations across central Paris

(2) Mouscron > Tourcoing:

Hourly Belgian IC trains travel from Kortrijk to Lille on this route and most, but not all, of these trains commence their journeys in Antwerpen and also call at Gent. These are by far the most frequent trains from Antwerp/Antwerpen to Lille and the only trains from Gent/Ghent to Lille; easy connections are available in Gent with trains from Brugge/Bruges.

(3) via Blandain:

On Monday to Friday hourly IC trains take a Namur – Charleroi Sud – Mons – Tournai – Lille route*, but at weekends these trains only travel between Tournai and Lille. *You may have to change trains in Tournai no matter which day of the week you will making this journey.

(4) Jeumont - Maubeuge:

Two trains per day now travel to Maubeuge from Namur via Charleroi-Sud station (they don't call in Jeumont). At Maubeuge station they have connections into TER trains on to Paris Gare Du Nord; and Eurail and InterRail users can avoid paying the rail pass reservation fees on the Thalys trains by taking this route. There are connecting trains available from Liege to Namur.

Trains from Belgium to Germany take one of two routes.

1: the high speed line:

Two different high speed trains services travel on this line:

(1) Up to 6 x ICE train s per day follow this route: Bruxelles-Midi – Bruxelles-Nord – Liege – Aachen – Koln/Cologne – Frankfurt Flughafen/Airport – Frankfurt (Main) Connections are available in Frankfurt (Main) on to multiple other desinations including, Dresden, Linz, Munchen/Munich, Nurnberg, Stuttgart and Wien/Vienna. Change trains in Koln/Cologne if you'll be heading to these other cities, which have no direct trains from Belgium - Berlin, Hamburg and Hannover.

(2) Up to five Thalys trains per day take a Bruxelles-Midi – Liege – Aachen – Koln/Cologne – Dusseldorf – Essen route, with three of the trains continuing beyond Essen to Dortmund.

2: via Welkenraedt:

Hourly local trains operate on a Spa – Verviers – Welkenraedt - Aachen route . Hourly Belgian IC trains, which connect into these trains, operate on a Oostende – Brugge – Gent – Bruxelles – Leuven – Liege – Welkenraedt route.

On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays a Nightjet train now travels on this route Bruxelles - Liege - Nurnberg - Linz - Wien/Vienna This is the only direct train service from from Belgium to Austria.

Hourly Belgian IC trains take a Bruxelles – Namur – Libramont - Arlon – Luxembourg route On Mondays – Fridays there are also hourly local trains that take a different route from Libramont to Arlon via Virton.

Gouvy >Troisvierges:

Every other hour trains travel from Liege to Luxembourg on Belgium's most scenic railway line Connections are available in Luxembourg into trains on to Metz, so this is the optimum route for a train journey from eastern Belgium to eastern France.

Trains from Belgium to The Netherlands follow three routes.

Two train services travel on the high speed line from Belgium to The Netherlands:

(1) Up to 14 x Thalys trains per day take this route: Bruxelles-Midi – Antwerpen Central – Rottterdam – Schiphol Airport – Amsterdam

(2) InterCity Bruxelles trains which take the high speed line, but don’t travel at high speed. These trains operate hourly on this route: Bruxelles-Midi - Bruxelles-Central – Bruxelles Nord – Bruxelles Aeroport – Mechelen – Antwerpen Berchem – Antwerpen Central – Breda* - Rotterdam Three of these trains per day continue beyond Rotterdam to Den Haag HS, but the other trains all continue on to Amsterdam via Schiphol. *Connections are available in Breda into trains which travel on to Arnhem via Den Bosch and Nijmegen

2: Essen > Roosendaal

Local trains still use the older line between Belgium and The Netherlands, they depart Antwerpen Centraal hourly and head over the border to Roosendaal where further connections are available into trains to Den Bosch, to Vlissingen via Middleburg; and for IC trains to Amsterdam, which call at Dordrecht, Delft and Leiden.

On the departure screens in Antwerpen these trains may be shown as heading to Belgian border town, Essen (not to be confused with Essen in Germany). But on arrival in Essen the same train forms the service on to Roosendaal

3: via Vise

Hourly local trains depart Liege for Maastricht, connect there for a Dutch IC train to Den Helder, which travels via Eindhoven, Den Bosch, Utrecht and Amsterdam.

International Train Services From and To Belgium

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The Best 1 Week In Belgium Itinerary By Train (2024)

Are you looking for the perfect 1 week Belgium itinerary by train?

You came to the right place!

I lived in Belgium as a student and traveled extensively around the country by train countless times. Some places I visited once, and others I came back to time and time again.

Belgium is one of the best places to backpack in Europe, perfect for solo female travelers and first-time backpackers.

It is a small country, easy to get around, and English is widely spoken.

Let’s start planning your week in Belgium!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

Overview: 1-week backpacking Belgium itinerary

Length : 7 days, 6 nights Start And End Point : Start and end in Brussels Cities To Visit : Brussels, Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Leuven, Namur, Dinant, Knokke-Heist

DAY 1: Explore Brussels
DAY 2: Day trip to Namur and Dinant
DAY 3: Day trip to Leuven
DAY 4: Explore Antwerp
DAY 5: Explore Gent
DAY 6: Discover Bruges
Day 7: Belgian Coastline or back to Brussels

This itinerary starts in Brussels and will end in Brussels – if that is where your onward journey is from.

Belgium is a rather small country, and you can reach Brussels from anywhere in the country in less than 3 hours by train.

If you are looking for an in-depth guide to backpacking in Belgium, check out my article on everything you need to know about visiting Belgium on a budget .

how many days in Belgium do you need?

Ideally, you would spend 7 days in Belgium.

This itinerary is adapted for one week in Belgium, but I will give you suggestions on how to adjust it for a shorter or longer trip.

In one week you will have enough time to see all the main sights in the country and get a taste of the Belgian way of life.

Most people only visit Brussels and Bruges, as those are the most tourist spots in the country. However, there is much more to Belgium than just that. It is worth venturing out and exploring the less-visited places.

Belgium is well worth visiting on your backpacking Europe itinerary or on a backpacking trip just by itself!

DAY 1: BRUSSELS

What to do in brussels.

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the capital of the European Union. It is the biggest city in Belgium, but you will notice that it does not feel like a big city.

It is possible to discover the best of Brussels in two days as most tourist attractions are in the city center.

1. Go on a free walking tour

If it is your first time in the city, go on a free walking tour. Local guides will take you around the city and show you the hidden gems. It is the best way to get introduced to a city.

2. Get lost in the historic city center

The historic center of Brussels is not that big, so the best thing to do is get lost in the cobblestone streets and admire old houses along the way.

Check out the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, the oldest shopping arcade in Europe!

3. Admire Grand Place

This magnificent main square is the most famous landmark in Brussels. This large square is surrounded by impressive historic guild buildings and the Old Town Hall.

The square was voted the most beautiful square in Europe, and it is a UNESCO site !

4. See Manneken Pis

Of Course, you have to see the most famous statue in Belgium. A little statue of a boy peeing in the fountain. It is exactly what it sounds like.

If you are lucky, the boy will be wearing a costume, he has many! There is even a museum where you can check out all the costumes.

5. Visit EU Quarter

If you are interested in EU politics, you can discover the EU Quarter and visit some of the institutions as well!

You can book a visit to the European Parliament and learn more about the EU. It is also a perfect activity for a rainy day in Brussels.

6. See The Atomium

Atomium is located outside the city center, and it is the only attraction you will probably need to use public transport to visit.

Just like the Eiffel Tower, Atomium was also constructed for the World Expo! You can get Atomium entry ticket and see the museum, but it is also a nice place to just walk around and admire it from the outside.

7. Discover Brussels nightlife

Belgium is known for its beer, so what better way to learn more about this cultural aspect than on a night out?

You can even join a guided Beer tasting tour of Brussels ! A knowledgeable local will point you in the right direction to taste the most iconic Belgian beers.

If you are up for a more intense nightlife experience, join Brussels Pub Crawl !

Joining a pub crawl is the best way to discover nightlife if you’re travelling solo .

Where to stay in Brussels

I suggest staying in the city center of Brussels. Most attractions are located in the city center, as is the train station from where you will go on day trips.

There are many hostels to choose from in Brussels, but these are the best hostels for backpackers :

Latroupe Grand Place – overall the best backpacker’s hostel in Brussels: great location, excellent ratings, and daily events.
MEININGER Bruxelles City Center – the best big hostel in Brussels, great location and nicely decorated.

Check out my hostel guide to see what things I check for before booking a hostel.

The highest-rated ones are usually located in the city center, and they often organize events for hostel guests, which is perfect for meeting other travelers .

Vegan Restaurants In Brussels

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to vegan options in Brussels. According to the Happycow app, there are 26 fully vegan restaurants, while there are more than 480 places with vegan options.

You will find nearly everything you can think of in the vegan version in Brussels. I cooked most of my meals while in Belgium, and supermarkets had a great variety of vegan substitutes.

I loved vegan waffles from Veganwaf close to the Grand Place. A real Belgian treat!

If you are looking for a calm place to work or study, TICH has an amazing Matcha latte and many vegan breakfast and lunch options.

golden turtle statue on top of the hill in namur belgium

DAY 2: DAY TRIP TO NAMUR

Brussels is ideally located, almost in the middle of the country, making it easy to travel to every part of Belgium on a day trip from Brussels.

Morning In Namur

Take a train from Brussels to Namur. The train departures are fairly often, so you can sleep in if you went out yesterday.

Namur is the capital of Wallonia, a French-speaking region. It is a perfect place to explore this less-visited Belgian region.

The city center is walkable and has the same historic charm as other Belgian towns.

Overlooking the city stands the Citadel of Namur and a giant golden turtle statue.

Afternoon In Dinant

Take a short train ride further south from Namur to Dinant.

Dinant is a small town embedded between a river and steep mountain cliffs.

It is well-known for being the birthplace of the saxophone inventor. Since you can walk the whole city within an hour, it is best to visit combined with Namur.

DAY 3: DAY TRIP TO LEUVEN

What to do in leuven.

Leuven is a University town 15 minutes by train away from Brussels.

It is truly a hidden gem since not many tourists visit, and there is so much to discover! Admire the most beautiful Town hall in Belgium, and walk around the old Begijnhof, which is still used to house University staff and students.

Did you know that Leuven is home to Stella Artois Brewery? The best way to enjoy this local specialty is at the world’s longest bar – Oude Markt.

Brussels is ideally situated for day trips in Belgium, so you can add even more day trips from Brussels to your itinerary!

DAY 4: ANTWERP

Next on our itinerary is Antwerp, the second-largest city in Belgium.

The city has a long history as the world’s capital of diamonds and the world’s fifth-largest port. Today, it is a lively city popular among young professionals.

You can easily reach Antwerp by train. It will take around 50 minutes from Brussels. Make sure that you get a train that goes directly to Antwerp to avoid multiple stops along the way!

What to do in Antwerp?

You will be stunned by Antwerp as soon as you reach the train station.

The Central Station of Antwerp is said to be one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. From there, you can explore the city on foot.

The city center of Antwerp is walkable, and you can visit all the main sights in a day. If you want to feel like a local, you can rent a bike and cycle around as well!

If you want to learn more about the history of Antwerp, join a free walking tour. Local guides will take you around the city and share the best stories.

2. Explore the city center of Antwerp

The city center of Antwerp is a mix of the historic center and the modern shopping streets.

Walk around and discover the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, Groenplaats lined with cafes and restaurants, and many unexpected sculptures such as one of a sleeping child and a dog.

3. Admire Grote Markt

This impressive square is the most beautiful spot in the Old city of Antwerp. Just like in other Belgian cities, the central square is the center of social life and should not be missed.

4. Het Steen Castle

This castle on the river banks is the oldest building in Antwerp. This impressive 13th-century castle can be visited for free, as long as you do not enter the exhibition part. Therefore, make sure not to miss it!

5. The Port House and other modern buildings

If you walk along the river, you will notice there are many modern-looking buildings.

One of the most impressive ones must be the Port House building! The Glass boat on top of the historic building is a unique sight.

Where to stay in Antwerp as a backpacker?

Hostels in Antwerp tend to be cheaper than in Brussels. At the same time, they offer more because fewer people choose to base themselves in Antwerp.

You will want to stay in the city center to be close to all the attractions and the train station if you decide to base yourself in Antwerp for longer than a day.

The best backpacker hostel in Antwerp is Yust Antwerp .

Vegan Restaurants In Antwerp

There is no lack of vegan restaurants in Antwerp. Currently, there are 18 fully vegan restaurants listed on Happycow and 329 listings with vegan options. You will be able to find any cuisine you desire.

ghent landscape from st michael's bridge

DAY 5: GHENT

At this point of the itinerary, you can base yourself in either Ghent or Bruges and visit the other on a day trip.

You can spend one night in Ghent and then two nights in Bruges, if you do not mind the logistics of moving around.

If you’re wondering if is Ghent worth visiting , the answer is yes.

What to do in Ghent

Ghent is a city full of history and culture and there are so many things to see in Ghent .

This medieval town will captivate you with its cobblestone alleyways, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere.

1. Join a free walking tour

While you will certainly enjoy just strolling around, it will be much more interesting if you know the story behind the sights.

2. Explore the historic centre of Ghent

It is easy to get lost admiring the city center of Ghent. You will come across a remarkable medieval town hall, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, Belfry, and St. Nicholas’ Church.

3. Kayak in the Ghent river

Kayaking through the city center of Ghent is a truly unique way to see the city!

Kayaks Korenlei offers 3-hour kayak rentals right in the city centre, where the medieval harbor used to be.

4. St. Michael’s bridge

Be sure not to miss St. Michael’s bridge.

It is my favorite viewpoint in the city. Wherever you look from the bridge, you see the well-preserved medieval buildings.

It is a perfect spot to grab a drink and sit on the river banks with the local students.

5. Admire the Gravensteen Castle

This castle located in the city centre of Ghent dates back to the Middle Ages. It is one of the most popular sights in Ghent, and at the entrance, you will have to pay a fee. If you are on a budget, you can still admire it from the outside!

6. Trade your shoe for a MAX beer in De Dulle Griet

You probably know by now that Belgium is a land of beer and many tourists like to take a souvenir in the form of a beer glass.

However, in this bar, you will have to give your shoe to prove that you will return the unique beer glass. Enjoy!

FUN FACT: There is a tiny Red light district in Ghent, so do not be surprised if you accidentally stumble upon it because it is practically in the city center.

Where to stay in Ghent as a backpacker?

You will find the accommodation in Ghent is more affordable than in Brussels.

The best backpacker hostel in Ghent is Hostel Uppelink .

Ghent is not a big city, so it should not take long to reach the city center from your accommodation.

Vegan Restaurants In Ghent

You will not have any problem finding vegan options in Ghent. There are 14 fully vegan restaurants listed on Happycow and over 140 with vegan options.

I loved Full Circle Cafe , it is a nice and cozy place where you can work or study. Their matcha latte with Oatly was delicious as well as their vegan doughnuts!

Have A Roll is probably my favorite desert place in the world. They make THE BEST vegan cinnamon rolls I’ve ever had.

famous viewpoint in Bruges with a tree in front of the river

DAY 6: BRUGES

Things to do in bruges.

Bruges is no doubt the whimsical town of Belgium and the most visited place in Belgium after Brussels!

If you want to avoid crowds, plan to arrive early. Many people visit Bruges on a day trip, so it gets very crowded during the day.

Start from the Market Square and walk towards the Town Hall and Basilica of Holly Blood. Both are very intricate architectural masterpieces.

Afterward, just let yourself get lost in the maze of narrow cobblestone streets and canals. There is something beautiful anywhere you look in Bruges.

The city is especially charming during the holiday season. Seeing Bruges decorated for Christmas is something that should be on your winter in Europe bucket list !

Where to stay in Bruges as a backpacker?

There are a couple of hostels in Bruges, and they are all highly rated on Hostelworld.

Most people visit Bruges on a day trip, therefore accommodation is more affordable than you would expect.

The best backpacker hostel in Bruges is St. Christophers Inn – Bauhaus Hostel .

The city center is the best area to stay in, especially for a short trip!

Vegan Restaurants In Bruges

There are only 2 fully vegan restaurants in Bruges. However, there are over 200 places with vegan options listed on the Happy Cow app. You should have no problem finding a place to eat!

natali standing in front of a sand dune along belgian coastline in knokke heist

DAY 7: DAY TRIP TO THE COAST

On your last day in Belgium, you can go on a day trip to the coast, or make your way to the airport if you’re already flying today!

Knokke Heist to Oostende

Even though Belgium is not known as a beach destination, the country has a long sandy coast on the North Sea. Many Belgians spend their summer weekends on the beach.

Along the coastline goes the longest tram line in the world.

The Belgian coastal tram line at 67 km is the world’s longest tram line in service. The tram connects Knokke Heist and Oostende.

You can hop on the tram and ride a couple of stops along the coast or the whole journey which takes around 2 and a half hours.

It is an amazing way to see many Belgian coastal communities from the comfort of your seat.

You can get off the tram and explore the coastal cities along the way that spark your interest. Check out the tram schedule on their website .

Other Places To Visit In Belgium

If you have more than a week for backpacking in Belgium, you will have time to discover some of the less-visited places in the country.

The Wallonia region is the less-visited of the two Belgian regions. Therefore, if you have more than a week in the country, that is the perfect opportunity to discover the south of Belgium.

Villers La Ville

Villers La Ville is a small town in Wallonia and home to the Villers La Ville Abbey. This impressive Abbey was built in 1146, and it is one of the most well-preserved in the whole of Europe.

Exploring the Abbey will not take you more than a couple of hours so you can spend the rest of the day in another place. For example, Charleroi or Mons!

Charleroi is most well known as the airport hub for budget airlines. If you fly into Belgium with Ryanair, you will probably land at Charleroi Airport.

If you choose to take a train to Brussels, it makes it a perfect short stop to explore before departing Brussels.

Mons is located half an hour’s train ride from Charleroi and an hour’s train ride from Brussels.

It is a perfect place for a day trip or half a day trip combined with Villers La Ville or Charleroi. The city is charming, small, and walkable.

Visit Durbuy, a town that claims to be the smallest city in the world.

While it is actually not even the smallest town in Belgium, it is a beautiful medieval town to explore.

Hiking Trails In Wallonia

Wallonia is known for its beautiful serene nature, and the best way to enjoy it is to go for a hike ! You will need a car to reach some sights, such as the famous Le Tombeau du Géant.

However, thanks to the extensive Belgian railway system, many of the best places are accessible by public transport.

Liege and Maastricht

You can visit the Netherlands on a day trip from Brussels. Maastricht is located less than a 2-hour train ride from Brussels.

On your way to Maastricht, you will have to change a train in Liege. That makes for a perfect stopover in Liege to discover this eastern Belgian city.

Best time to visit Belgium

Most activities in Belgium are not weather-specific as the main sights are cities, so it is possible to visit any time of the year and enjoy your trip.

However, the weather in Belgium is unpredictable. Belgium is known as a rainy country, especially in the Autumn and Winter months.

Belgium is home to some amazing Christmas markets and a worthy addition to the European Christmas Market Route .

Summer is the high season in Belgium, and it gets very busy. However, there is a reason everybody is backpacking Europe in the summer , it is the best time to visit!

How to get to Belgium

Belgium has good connections to almost every place in the world. You can either fly into Belgium or travel overland.

You can fly into Brussels Zaventem or Brussels Charleroi. Keep in mind that Charleroi is an hour away from Brussels.

If you are already in Europe, Brussels has good train and bus connections to all neighboring countries.

Getting around Belgium

You do not need a car to travel to Belgium. The Belgian public transport system is reliable and well-developed. There are good railway connections to almost every town in Belgium.

If you plan to travel within Belgium by train more than 3 times during your trip, look into Go pass 10 or a Standard Multi-ticket.

If you travel during the weekend, check out the weekend train ticket offer .

For shorter trips within the region, you can also use regional buses DeLijn in Flanders and TEC in Wallonia.

I use this website to compare the prices and departure times for trains and buses to make sure I pick the best option!

How Much Does A Week In Belgium Cost

You should budget anywhere from 60-100€ per day for visiting Belgium.

The price will be lower if you stay in hostels, and higher if you opt for private rooms in hotels.

If you are a student or under 26, you might be able to keep the price under 60€! There are hefty youth discounts.

A hostel dorm room will cost you on average 30€, and a meal outside will be around 15€.

Train tickets can cost anywhere from 5,5-20€ in one direction, while drinks in a bar are 5€ and upwards.

Is Belgium safe for solo female travellers?

Belgium is a generally safe country. Some areas of Brussels are considered riskier than the rest of the country, but you probably won’t end up there as a tourist.

Pickpocketing and petty thefts are common, so keep your valuables safely stored. Always zip or close your bags, and do not carry your phone in your back pocket.

General advice is, do not do anything you would not do at home. Use your common sense and avoid unnecessarily risky situations, like walking home intoxicated alone.

Can you get by in Belgium using English?

Yes, you can! English is widely spoken in Belgium, especially among younger generations.

Belgium has three official languages, and many Belgians do not speak French or Dutch, depending on the part of the country they are from, but almost everybody speaks English. In the tourism industry, this is almost the norm.

how to spend 1 week in belgium on a budget pinterest

Final thoughts: 1 Week In Belgium Itinerary By Train

With 7 days in Belgium, you get to see all the main tourist attractions including Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges.

Belgium is one of my favorite countries to visit, and perfect for solo female travelers and first-time backpackers.

It is easy to get around Belgium by train and you don’t need to rent a car!

Now that you have your itinerary sorted, here are more backpacking Belgium tips to help you plan a trip to Belgium!

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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Take some time off to see the world

Time off around the world

Travel Europe by train: 10 best week-end trips from Brussels by train

As you know, we aren’t full-time travellers and we actually like our day jobs quite a lot. This is why, week-end trips are our elixir of life. However, taking the plane over and over again starts to weigh on our conscience, especially when we have another option. This is why, we made a small overview of all these beautiful destinations to reach from Brussels by train.

Of course, living in Belgium, in the heart of Europe, helps a lot when choosing destinations. Indeed, we have several countries just around us: We can reach France, Germany, UK, Luxembourg and the Netherlands in only a few hours by train. And we do make use of this great advantage.

Tour guide: Brussels in one day for first-time visitors

These are our 10 favourite week-end destinations that you can reach by train:

Beautiful Paris! The City of Love and, I must say, one of my favourite cities in the world (again, being the German-part of our couple I am probably allowed to say that). Unbelievable that this world capital is just a 1 hour and 25 minutes train ride from Brussels away.

Climb up the Eiffel Tower , have a coffee on the famous Champs Elysées, feel like Amélie (from The Fabulous Destiny of Amélie) at Montmarte, take a Bateau-Mouche Boat on the Seine river, discover one of the thousands museums or theatres or try some awesome French cuisine. There are so many things to do in this city that a week-end in Paris is always a blast.

Best of Paris: A Guide to visiting the top of the Eiffel Tower

To reach Paris from Brussels by train, the fastest option is to take a Thalys . However, if you are travelling on a budget, it might be worth it to take the bus. There are several bus companies operating between those two European capitals such as Eurolines or Flixbus . Ticket prices start at 10 Euros and the journey will take you 3-4 hours.

Taking a shared drive with Blablacar is also an option.

Another must-do destination in Europe, even though it does not belong to the EU anymore, is London. And as unreal as it sounds, there is a direct train connecting Brussels to London in only two hours using the Eurotunnel under the sea. Tickets of the Eurostar train quickly get quite expensive, so you better book in advance.

Arriving in London is always quite special as you seem to arrive in another world where everything is just a little bit different than in other parts of Europe: traffic is on the left side, the Euro as a currency is not accepted and instead of using kilometers they often use miles (even though they do use the metric system for other things).

In London, the Big Ben, the Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Picadilly Circus and the Thames River with its Tower Bridge are among the must-sees for first-time visitors.

3. Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the Capital of the Netherlands, is situated a two hours train ride from Brussels away. Famous for it’s canals surrounded by beautiful colourful houses, coffee shops and its red light district, a trip to Amsterdam is definitely interesting.

The Thalys is the faster and more expensive option which takes you to Amsterdam in only two hours. There is also a cheaper alternative by taking the Dutch Regional train that takes 2h45 instead.

4. Luxembourg

Another country, another destination. Luxembourg is the Capital of … well, Luxembourg, one of the smallest countries in Europe and and with its less than 1,650 km2 ranked 167 of the 194 countries by its size.

You can discover the Old Town, visit the National Museum, see the bock cliffs as well as the Grand Ducale Palace.

The Belgian rail has a direct train service to Luxembourg which takes 3 hours and costs 25€. Unfortunately, this local train stops basically everywhere before finally arriving in the city.

Discover the 4th biggest city of Germany with its famous cathedral and its Rhine river promenade. In 1 hour and 52 minutes exactly you can get there by train.

Thalys and ICE both are a valid option and prices usually are around 35 € one way although you better book in advance.

Cologne is also famous for its extensive carnival celebrations. Go there for the carnival week-end before Ash Wednesday and be amazed by colourful celebrations and huge parades. In December, the Christmas markets in the area are another typical thing to discover.

From Cologne, it is also easy to visit other cities in the area, such as Bonn and Düsseldorf.

Bruges is one of the most popular destinations for daytrippers in Belgium. Indeed, its beautiful canals quickly get under your skin.

Have some French fries at the main square Grote Markt , buy Belgian chocolate, take a boat tour on its beautiful canals and climb up its centuries old Belfry to oversee the city.

You can reach Bruges from Brussels in only one hour and tickets cost around 15 € one way. If you go on a week-end don’t forget to take the week-end ticket and get a free return trip.

If you stay in Belgium for a longer period of time or if you are travelling in a group, the rail pass might be a good option.

7. Sea side

A typical summer activity of most Belgians is to go to the sea for the week-end or even just for a day. From Brussels, you can take local trains to Oostende and just around one hour later you can enjoy Belgian beach life. Although, let’s be honest, it is not the Maldives and huge grey apartment blocks cover the beach promenade.

Still, on a hot summer day it’s always fun to walk at the beach, have some coffee, ice cream or waffle with a sea view and if you are not too cold you can try to swim in the sea.

From Ostende, you can reach several smaller beach destinations like Knokke by the Coastal Tram .

The train ticket from Brussels costs around 17 € each way although on week-ends special, cheaper tariffs apply.

8. Normandy

Although a bit less close than the other destinations, you can go to Deauville in 4 hours and 30 minutes by train changing in Paris.

Walk at beautiful white beaches, eat Crepes and drink some Cidre in order to discover local traditions.

How to best spend a week-end in Normandy

9. strasburg.

The beauty of Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace, will not disappoint you. With its unique cathedral and the beautiful district of La petite France, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Strasbourg is a great week-end destination.

There is a direct train that links Brussels to Strasbourg in 3 hours and 35 minutes.

Aachen, the most western metropolis of Germany situated at the border triangle of Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium, is another interesting day-trip from Brussels.

The most famous sites in the city are the cathedral, the Old Town and the gardens of Elisenbrunnen with its famous fountain. Don’t hesitate to visit the city in December, as the Aachen Christmas Market is definitely worth a detour.

From Brussels, you can take local trains that bring you to Aachen in just under 2 hours.

10-Day Adventure in the belgian Ardennes: A scenic Campervan Trip Itinerary

A day-trip to bouillon in the belgian ardenne.

The Lesse Valley: A camper van week-end in the belgian Ardenne

One thought on “ travel europe by train: 10 best week-end trips from brussels by train ”.

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A perfect 1-week belgium itinerary by train.

Belgium is one of Europe’s underrated gems.

Towns and cities stuffed with medieval buildings, soaring bell towers and meandering canals tell of its rich history. And the best beer, chocolate and waffles in the world are reasons enough to visit Belgium.

Furthermore, as this is a small country, it is possible to cover a lot of ground in just 7 days. But how should you make the best use of your precious week in Belgium?

This is where I can help. Based on multiple visits, I have crafted a one-week Belgium itinerary that will allow you to see the very best that this country can offer, without feeling frazzled in the process.

a glass and bottle of chimay beer on tray with nits which must be tried on a 1 week Belgium itinerary

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IN THIS ARTICLE

How Many Days Are Enough for Belgium?

If you are visiting Belgium as a city break to Brussels, then two days will allow you to hit its highlights, leaving room to try its beer, chocolates and waffles. However, Belgium is so much more than Brussels. As a minimum, five days in Belgium will allow you to explore Ghent and Bruges plus a few other cities. Spend one week in Belgium and you will be able to visit all of these cities as well as some lesser-known places such as Leuven, Hasselt and Mechelen.

7-Day Belgium Itinerary in a Nutshell

Day 1: ghent, day 2: antwerp, day 3: bruges, day 4: brussels, day 5: leuven, day 6: hasselt, day 7: mechelen.

This is a fast-paced week in Belgium, designed to showcase some of its best cities and UNESCO sites. But if you prefer slower travel , simply omit a few of these cities from your itinerary. It’s a tough choice but I would cross off Antwerp, Mechelen or Hasselt.

Further in this article, I have made a few suggestions of places to include if you have just five days in Belgium.

Planning Your Week in Belgium

My top tip for spending a week in Belgium is to pick a few cities in which to base yourself, using them as hubs to visit other destinations as day trips. As you won’t have to spend time moving between hotels, not to mention packing and unpacking, this helps you make the most of your precious time.

This is a small country and is blessed with an excellent train network that runs frequent services between the main cities. Furthermore, the centres of all of the places mentioned in this Belgium itinerary are within walking distance of the train station (although Gehnt is a little bit of a stretch).

Thanks to its excellent train connections, Brussels is one of the best cities to base yourself in Belgium. However, if you are in Belgium for one week, I recommend splitting your time between Brussels and Ghent , Antwerp or even Bruges. My preference is Ghent but Antwerp and Bruges are also good choices.

One Week Belgium Itinerary

Your week in Belgium is one of two halves. You will use Ghent as a base for the first three or four days, moving to Brussels for the second half of the week.

If you find it helpful to map things out, here’s one showing the stops on this Belgium itinerary.

map showing the stops on a one week Belgium itinerary

Why visit Ghent?

Ghent is picture-postcard perfect. It has oodles of history and culture, friendly locals, glorious architecture and meandering canals. It is also home to a lively bar scene and a growing number of breweries.

GAZE AT THE MYSTIC LAMB IN ST. BAVO’S CATHEDRAL

Jan van Eyck’s masterpiece, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb , aka The Ghent Altarpiece, has been restored to its former luminous glory and is sited in the cathedral’s Villa Chapel.

ADMIRE THE VIEW FROM ST. MICHAEL’S BRIDGE

This Ghent landmark offers the best vantage point from which to admire the city centre and its iconic quays, the Graslei and the Korenlei.

CLIMB GHENT’S BELFRY

Ascend to the viewing platform at the top of the UNESCO-listed Belfort of Ghent for a bird’s eye view of the city centre.

TAKE A BOAT TOUR OF GHENT’S CANALS

Learn more about the city on a relaxing 50-minute trip along Ghent’s canals.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR GHENT BOAT TOUR

VISIT THE CASTLE OF THE COUNTS

Venture behind the forbidding walls and turrets of Het Gravensteen to learn more about Ghent’s history and for fabulous views over Ghent’s city centre.

JOIN A BEER TOUR WITH A LOCAL

a group of people sitting around a table with beer in ghent belgium

This excellent beer tour was my favourite thing to do in Ghent. Liselot, our enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, introduced us to five types of Belgian beer in three bars.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

Ghent travel tips

Depending on what you plan to do, the CityCard Gent can be excellent value . As ever, do the maths to see if it is likely to save you money.

Ghent St. Peter’s Station is a 30-minute walk to the historic city centre. However, tram line 1 runs from the station to the city centre every ten minutes.

Travel time from Ghent to Antwerp by train: 1 hour

bronze statue in front of large half gabled building with flags

Why visit Antwerp?

With its striking modern architecture, hipster coffee bars, superb restaurants and vintage clothing shops, Antwerp is Belgium’s capital of cool. However, this modern city retains reminders of its 16 th Century golden age with magnificent medieval churches and Rubens’ legacy.

Best things to do in Antwerp

SEE THE RUBENS QUARTET IN THE ONZE-LIEVE-VROUWEKATHEDRAAL

Antwerp’s Cathedral of Our Lady is one of Belgium’s finest Gothic churches and is home to four early paintings by Peter Paul Rubens.

EXPLORE ANTWERP’S GROTE MARKT

Close to the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal is the Grote Markt, which is lined with restored medieval guildhalls and the Stadhuis.

VISIT THE UNESCO-LISTED MUSEUM PLANTIN-MORETUS

Occupying the former mansion of the 16 th Century printer Christopher Plantin, this museum is another work by Rubens and the world’s two oldest surviving orienting presses.

VISIT RUBEN’S HOUSE (RUBENHUIS)

Antwerp’s favourite son lived in this mansion for most of his adult life and it was restored and opened as a museum in 1946. Its permanent collection includes works by Rubens as well as his peers and contemporaries, including Anthony van Dyck.

Travel time from Ghent to Bruges by train: 30 minutes

pretty canalside old buildings and church tower in bruges belgium

Why visit Bruges?

Bruges deserves its many accolades. With its tangle of medieval buildings lining a labyrinth of narrow canals, this is one of Western Europe’s most beautiful cities. Try to ignore the tourist crowds. You would be crazy to spend a week in Belgium and not visit Bruges.

Best things to do in Bruges

TAKE A CHOCOLATE TOUR OF BRUGES

Crammed with more than 70 chocolate shops, Bruges is a chocoholic’s dream. Do your DIY chocolate tour of Bruges to taste the best and learn more about Belgian chocolate at Choco-Story.

CLIMB THE BELFORT

At the heart of Bruges is its Belfort, which occupies the south side of the Markt. Climb the narrow belfry staircase to the roof for fabulous views over the city.

VENERATE THE PHIAL OF THE HOLY BLOOD

Helig Bloed Basiliek (Basilica of the Holy Blood) is named after one of the holiest relics in medieval Europe, a phial purporting to hold a few drops of Jesus’s blood.

CRUISE THE CANALS OF BRUGES

See the best of this UNESCO-listed city by taking a cruise along its waterways.

TAKE IN THE VIEW AT ROZENHOEDKAAI

A strong contender for the prettiest location in Bruges, the much-photographed Quay of the Rosary marks the spot where the Groenerei and Dijver canals meet.

Travel time from Ghent to Brussels by train: 35 minutes

detailed sculpture of figures on a pillar with gable roof buildings in background

Why visit Brussels?

Brussels is the Marmite of Belgium: you will love it or hate it. Whilst I don’t hate it, I’m not that keen on it either. But what is beyond doubt is that Brussels is one of the best bases in Belgium for day trips by train. The city is not without its charms. It is lively and cosmopolitan. Brussels’ Grand Place is jaw-dropping, it has some of the best Art Nouveau architecture to be found anywhere and some charming squares.

Best things to do in Brussels

ADMIRE THE BUILDINGS OF THE GRAND PLACE

Home to Brussels’ gable-roofed guild houses and its Hôtel de Ville, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Europe’s most magnificent squares.

STROLL THROUGH THE MONT DES ARTS

This landscaped garden and stone staircase connect the Lower Town and Upper Town. From its terrace, there are fine views of Brussels.

TAKE TIME OUT IN THE PLACE DU PETIT SABLON

The small and pretty Place du Petit Sablon is a refuge from the busy city and close to the lovely Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon (Notre Dame du Sablon).

gothic church and a small landscaped garden

STOP FOR COFFEE IN ROYAL GALLERIES OF SAINT HUBERT (GALERIES ROYALES SAINT-HUBERT)

These magnificent glass-vaulted galleries form one of Europe’s oldest and finest indoor shopping arcades. This is a great spot to stop for a coffee or a refreshing Belgian beer.

DELVE INTO ART NOUVEAU AT THE VICTOR HORTA MUSEUM

Housed in the former residence and studio of Victor Horta, one of the movement’s leading lights, this museum is an Art Nouveau wonderland.

HAVE THE BEST WAFFLE OF YOUR LIFE

You cannot leave Belgium without trying a waffle and one of my favourites was at Aux Gaufres De Bruxelles. Grab a pavement table and savour.

Travel time from Brussels to Leuven by train: 25 minutes

narrow cobblestone street lined with red-brick buildings

Why visit Leuven?

The small university city of Leuven is one of Belgium’s treasures. It has a UNESCO-listed library, Belgium’s oldest botanical garden and a magnificent town hall. But it is perhaps best known as the home of Stella Artois beer.

Best things to do in Leuven

TOUR LEUVEN’S STADHUIS

Leuven has one of the most magnificent Gothic town halls that I have ever seen, giving the one in Brussels a run for its money. Today, the Stadhuis is used mainly for weddings and other functions, but you can visit its historic rooms on one of the daily tours.

ADMIRE THE LAST SUPPER IN ST. PETER’S CHURCH

Across Grote Markt from the Stadhuis is Sint-Pieterskerk (St. Peter’s Church), which is home to The Last Supper by Dirk Bouts. This exceptional piece of 15 th Century art shows Christ and his disciples in a typical Flemish dining room.

VISIT LEUVEN’S UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

For the price of one ticket, you get to visit the library’s magnificent wood-panelled reading room and climb its 74-metre-tall bell tower for sweeping views over Leuven.

STOP TO SMELL THE ROSES IN LEUVEN’S BOTANICAL GARDEN

a pink camellia at De Kruidtuin Leuven belgium

Founded in 1738 by the University of Leuven, the tranquil Leuven Botanical Garden (De Kruidtuin Leuven in Dutch) is the oldest botanical garden in Belgium . Covering an area of over two hectares, it has a wide variety of trees, plants, flowers and shrubs.

EXPLORE LEUVEN’S GREAT BEGUINAGE

The UNESCO-listed Groot Begijnhof of Leuven is it is one of the largest remaining beguinages in the Low Countries. This labyrinth of cobbled streets, straddling two canals is a wonderful area to stroll around.

Travel time from Brussels to Hasselt by train: 80 minutes

poi carp in water in front of ceremonial tea house

Why visit Hasselt?

Although Hasselt is a longer day trip from Brussels, it is well worth it. This unassuming small city has the largest authentic Japanese garden in Belgium , some of the best street art in Belgium and a museum dedicated to Belgian gin.

RELAX IN JAPANSE TUIN HASSELT

Covering an area of six acres, the Japanese Garden of Hasselt is the real deal. Designed as a traditional 17 th Century garden, it has ponds filled with koi carp, a tea house, a Shinto shrine and a peace bell. Visit in late Spring for the dazzling display of cherry blossom.

DISCOVER BELGIAN GIN AT THE JENEVER MUSEUM, HASSELT

Learn more about jenever, a Belgian gin, when you visit the Jenever Museum Hasselt . At the end of the self-guided museum tour, conduct a spot of empirical booze research at the tasting bar with your free shot.

DISCOVER HASSELT’S STREET ART

Hasselt is one of Europe’s great street art cities and you can explore its murals on a self-guided tour. Simply download the free Street Art Cities app.

EXPLORE HASSELT’S BEGUINAGE

Hasselt’s beguinage is another of the 13 in Belgium that have been collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and was home to beguines until 1886. Today, it is the site of the House for Contemporary Art, Design & Architecture.

Travel time from Brussels to Mechelen by train: 30 minutes

narrow cobblestone lane and arch in mechelen belgium

Why visit Mechelen?

Home of the primate of Belgium and the country’s ecclesiastical capital, Mechelen is brimming with charm and history. This hidden gem is an easy day trip from Brussels and is mercifully crowd-free.

Best things to do in Mechelen

EXPLORE MECHELEN’S BEGUINAGES

Mechelen has two beguinages. Klein Begijnhof (Small Beguinage)) was the first to be founded, with beguines living there from 1256.

Mechelen’s UNESCO-listed Groot Begijnhof (Large Beguinage) was founded at the end of the 16 th Century and features a Baroque church and many convents.

REFLECT ON BELGIUM’S DARK PAST

During the Nazi occupation of Belgium (1940 – 1945), Mechelen’s Dossin was chosen as the transit point for those destined for the concentration camps of eastern Europe. These dark times are recalled over three floors at Kazerne Dossin, the excellent museum across the road from the barracks.

STROLL ALONG THE RIVER DIJLE

Explore Mechelen by walking along the Dijle Path. This pontoon walkway extends from the charming Haverwerf as far as the city’s Botanic Garden.

TASTE THE LOCAL BREW

Gouden Carolus, one of Belgium’s best beers is brewed in Mechelen. Learn more on a 90-minute tour of Het Anker Brewery, which includes tasting two of their Gouden Carolus beers and a small present.

More Destinations for Your Belgium Itinerary

Not everyone has the same interests and tastes, and perhaps some of these cities don’t rock your boat. If that is the case, here are a few other destinations you should consider adding to your Belgium itinerary.

DINANT – As pretty as a picture postcard, Dinant lies alongside the River Meuse in the Ardennes and is where Leffe beer began.

YPRES – The heart of the World War I battlefields

OSTEND – For rolling dunes and the chance to dip your toe into the chilly waters of the North Sea.

TOURNAI – Home to a magnificent UNESCO-listed cathedral (undergoing restoration in 2022)

LIÈGE – For some of the best waffles and beer in the world.

waffle covered in strawberries whipped cream and chocolate

A 5-Day Belgium Itinerary

But how should you adapt this itinerary if you have only five days in Belgium?

To maximise your time, I recommend sticking with one base. Faced with a tough choice, I would plump for Ghent and visit Brussels, Bruges, Leuven and Antwerp as day trips.

The downside of using Ghent as a base for day trips is that its train station is not as conveniently located as those in Brussels. However, if you want to stay in Ghent’s historic centre and don’t fancy walking to the train station you can hop on the frequent tram service.

What is the Best Time to Visit Belgium?

For mild weather, fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation, visit Belgium between March and May, and in September and October. During the summer months (June – August), you can look forward to warmer days and nights and more festivals. The flip side is that there are a lot more visitors. Although winter in Belgium can be damp and grey and dreary, the twinkling lights and mulled wine of its Christmas markets will lift your spirits.

How to Get to Belgium

Brussels, the capital city, is Belgium’s main international transport hub.

Most flights to Belgium’s capital land at Brussels International Airport, 14 km northeast of the city centre. From here, regular trains run to the city’s three main railway stations.

Brussels-Charleroi airport, 50 km south of the city centre, serves budget airlines. There is a shuttle bus service from here to the city centre.

Brussels is also a major international train hub , including the Eurostar train from London. You can even visit Brussels as an easy day trip from London .

Getting Around Belgium

I travelled around Belgium by train several times. Its services are frequent and reliable and the system is easy to navigate, even as a first-time visitor to Belgium.

The price of tickets is based on distance and no seat reservations are necessary or even possible. There’s no need to pre-book and no cost advantage in doing so.

Thanks to Weekend Return Tickets, it is cheaper to travel on Saturdays and Sundays, costing you little more than a one-way ticket.

You can plan your train journeys here .

Where to Stay in Brussels

To make the most of your time in Brussels, especially if you are a first-time visitor, stay in the city centre, close to the Grand Place and Brussels Central Station.

Here are my recommendations:

Splurge : Hotel Le Dixseptième

I stayed at this elegant boutique hotel in the heart of the city centre. It is perfect if you are looking for a stylish and peaceful refuge just minutes from the train station.

Here are some other choices of accommodation that may suit other tastes and budgets:

Mid-range : B&B Villa 36

This 3-star guesthouse close to Brussels City Hall has garnered fabulous reviews. Breakfast is included in the room rates.

Where to Stay in Ghent

When choosing accommodation in Ghent , base yourself in the city’s historic centre to be close to the attractions included in this itinerary.

These are my recommendations:

Mid-range apartment : Snooz Ap Holiday & Business Flats

I stayed at this superb apartment in the heart of the historic city centre. This could be for you if you are looking for an affordable, comfortable and well-equipped apartment that includes a washing machine, The roof terrace was a welcome bonus.

room in a rental apartment with sofa table and chair and kitchenette

Mid-range hotel : B&B Inn Between

For a first-rate accommodation choice that is closer to the train station, take a look at this 4-star B&B.

Splurge : B&B The Verhaegen

Ready to treat yourself? If so, stay at this guesthouse housed in a historic building in the heart of the city.

Is Belgium Good for Solo Travel?

Belgium is an easy solo travel destination. It is compact, has an excellent transport infrastructure and has both history and hipster culture in spades.

You need not be lonely as a solo traveller in Belgium. There is a lively bar and restaurant scene and taking a beer tour in either Brussels or Ghent is an excellent way to meet other travellers .

A priority for women who are travelling alone solo travellers is staying safe as a solo traveller .

As a whole, Belgium is a relatively safe solo travel destination. That said, I found that the immediate vicinity of Brussels Centrale station was not too pleasant after dark. Ghent felt far more relaxed.

In recent years, there has also been the threat of terrorist attacks.

As ever, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. Although Belgian cities have low crime rates, remain vigilant. Keep your belongings close to you and use your hotel safe to store valuables.

Ready to spend a week in Belgium?

Have a fabulous time! For more in-depth information about the destinations on this itinerary, dive into my guides:

One Day in Ghent, Belgium: Itinerary + 20 Awesome Things to Do
Is the Ghent City Card Worth It
Where to Stay in Ghent, Belgium: The Best Areas for All Travellers
Top 10 Chocolate Shops in Bruges, Belgium You Must Visit
One Day in Brussels: Itinerary and Best Things to Do
One Day in Leuven, Belgium: Top 10 Things to Do
Visiting De Kruidtuin Leuven: The Oldest Botanical Garden in Belgium
10 Reasons to Visit Hasselt: Belgium’s Hidden Gem
Chasing Cherry Blossom in Japanse Tuin Hasselt
For The Love of Gin: Visiting the Jenever Museum Hasselt, Belgium
11 Awesome Reasons to Visit Mechelen, Belgium

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

14 Fun Day Trips from Brussels by Train

By Author Paulina

Posted on March 1, 2024

a facade view of a cathedral on a bright day with tourists walking, facing upwards, a stairs uphill with a lion monument on topan aerial view of a town near a river with a

Here are exciting day trips from Brussels by train with my comprehensive list!

If you’re looking for things to do and places to go while in Brussels, you’ll be happy to know that getting around nearby areas is a breeze!

The capital is well-known for its efficient and extensive train network, and railway travel is convenient and eco-friendly.

It’s the easiest way to get anywhere, including European cities like Paris, London, Amsterdam, and Cologne.

That said, don’t fret about getting around as you plan activities and day trips from Brussels by train .

In my list, I’ve put together helpful information for you so we can ensure you’ll have an easy and fantastic time as you travel Belgium !

a row of houses near a body of water with a moun

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Belgium? Have a look at my other posts:

Things To Do in Durbuy
Unique Castles in Belgium
Things To Do on Knokke Beach

Table of Contents

Top Resources to travel Belgium

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Best Day Trips from Brussels by Train – My top picks

Luxembourg and Dinant from Brussels
Antwerp Tour

ghent belgium old town with houses and a river on a good day with flowers hanging on a dress

Buy train tickets with Omio . Take the train from Brussels South to Ghent St. Pieters and, for convenience, book tickets in advance.
Top activity: Enjoy the sights via a guided boat trip through the medieval city center of Ghent!

Ready to see well-preserved medieval architecture and experience a vibrant cultural scene?

Then Ghent is one of the places to visit in Belgium by train!

Now a university town, it used to be a major medieval trading center known for its textile industry.

A stroll through Graslei and Korenlei, picturesque streets by the banks of the River Lys, is already one of the best day trips from Brussels!
See the famous “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb,” a 15th-century masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers, at St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
Into history like me? Check out the museum and exhibits at the city center’s medieval fortress of Gravensteen Castle.

There’s so much history in Ghent, no matter where you look or go, and I enjoyed sightseeing and taking photos.

It’s also one of those short trips from Brussels, and getting there can be as quick as thirty minutes!

You can always decide beforehand where to stay in Ghent if you want to extend your stay in this lovely historical place!

Check out Ghent tours now .

rent a bike in bruges, belgium, a woman on a bike in front of a building with a clock tower in bruges

Buy train tickets in advance . Trains bound for Bruges pass through all primary stations in Brussels (Brussels South, Brussels North, and Brussels Central), which means you can book beforehand for the station closest to you.
Top activity: Enjoy your Bruges day trip from Brussels on a guided biking tour and learn its history from a guide who’s lived there most of their life.

If you’re a fan of medieval architecture, you’ll love UNESCO-listed Bruges with its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings.

It’s one of the best day trips from Brussels by train if you want to escape into a fairy-tale city with picturesque canals and much more.

Home to the medieval bell tower Belfry with its carillon and 47 melodious bells—the other highlight for me is the stunning panoramic view of Bruges from the top!
Visit the central square, Markt Square, with its colorful and historic guild houses. They are so unique and one of a kind, and they should be on your list of what to do in Bruges in 1 day !

It’s worth a long-term stay, and if you decide to do so, here’s where to stay in Bruges while you’re visiting.

While we’re at it, you’ll want to take note of the best restaurants in Bruges because no trip is complete without trying out the local food!

Check out Bruges tours now .

Christmas on Grote Markt in Antwerp. Antwerp, Flemish Region, Belgium with a large christmas tree, a building, and a clock tower at night

Buy train tickets upfront . From Brussels South, book an advance trip to Antwerpen Central, which takes less than an hour.
Top activity: Look: an Antwerp day trip from Brussels is all well and good, but do you want to see everything in a new light? Consider joining a private evening tour like I did!

As far as day trips from Brussels by train are concerned, be sure you don’t leave out Belgium’s cultural and fashion capital!

Antwerp is known as the “Cultural Capital of Europe” and was named so back in 1993, and it was apparent why during my trip.

From when you arrive by train until you start walking around, there’s an old-world charm to everything, even with all the modernity!

The city is brimming with historical landmarks, and even Antwerpen Central is an architectural marvel on its own.
Home to the world’s top fashion academies, not to mention the famous Fashion Museum.
Make sure to visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its stunning architecture. It is also home to masterpieces by renowned Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens.
Speaking of Rubens: if you’re interested in his art and life, a trip to Rubenshuis is a must—it’s his former residence and studio!
Antwerp is known as the diamond district—I’ve never seen so many diamond stores in one place, specifically in Vestingstraat, Pelikaanstraat, and De Keyserlei.

Antwerp is worth adding to your weekend trips from Brussels by train, and it was simply a delight walking around and enjoying the sights.

Check out Antwerp tours now .

a view of the second floor and up of the univesity library of Leuven on a bright day

Buy train tickets here . This is one cheap day trip to Belgium and a quick one at less than forty minutes—book from Brussels to Leuven beforehand.
Top activity: What about a self-guided walking tour to learn more about Leuven that you can do at your own pace if you’re doing more than just a one day trip from Brussels?

Leuven is known as a university town thanks to the presence of the Catholic University of Leuven, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe.

What’s so interesting to me is how the university’s campus is spread across the city—this contributes a lot to the academic atmosphere!

Founded in 1425, the renowned university, also known as KU Leuven , has significantly shaped European higher education.

Day tours from Brussels are well worth it with places like M-Museum Leuven—we’re talking about another architectural gem housing other gems in visual arts.

Look, when in Leuven, here’s another must-try that I recommend is getting a taste of the beer—try them where you can: traditional pubs, breweries, and contemporary beer pubs!

Day trips from Belgium can be long and tiresome, so you’ll want to know where to stay in Brussels —there are the best ones I know!

Check out Leuven tours now .

5. Mechelen

a gray cathedral at the back of a monument on a cloudy day

Get train tickets here . You can book advance tickets from Brussels South straight to Mechelen. The trip should take at most forty minutes, sometimes not even half an hour long.
Top activity: Spice up your visit with a self-guided escape tour —a city game you can play while sightseeing to find the secret exit of Mechelen!

If you’re looking for more one day trips from Brussels to add to your itinerary, you must add Mechelen!

Though it may not seem as prevalent, there’s a lot to see in the city, and just like the rest of Belgium, it has so much history.

Walking around quaint streets surrounded by medieval architecture made me feel like I was at another time!

St. Rumbold’s Cathedral is a must-see—it has the highest Gothic tower in all of Belgium, and the climb to the skywalk was so worth it for a view of the surrounding area.

To really see and feel Mechelen’s way of life, you shouldn’t miss Grote Markt , the city’s central square: there are restaurants, bars, and shops, plus a canal boat ride won’t hurt!

Whether you’re into them or not, visiting the Toy Museum was one of my best day trips from Brussels.

It was amazing to see so many toys from around the world, both past and present.

Check out Mechelen tours now .

namur, a gold statute of a girl looking at a city with trees and a river

Get train tickets . Book an advance trip to Namur via Brussels South, lasting a little over an hour.
Top activity: Gamify your day trip from Brussels and explore popular attractions and hidden treasures through a city exploration game !

This was one of my more relaxing day trips from Brussels by train—Namur, the capital of Wallonia, isn’t crowded with tourists, unlike other towns!

It’s a great place to visit after enjoying traditional Belgian food in Brussels for a more laid-back sightseeing experience.

Don’t miss a visit to the Citadel: it has excellent picturesque viewpoints of Namur and is perfect for photos! I certainly took a lot.
If you’ve visited other cities and towns before going here, you’ll notice that St. Aubin’s Cathedral has a different architectural style—it’s the only cathedral in Belgium with a Late Baroque style.
After a long day, winding down in one of the parks that look out at the Meuse and Sambre Rivers or strolling down riverside paths right by it was relaxing.

If you’re looking for other activities that will allow you to spend more time closer to nature, here are some of the best hiking trails near Brussels .

Check out Namur tours now .

a view of a town with buildings and a high church with a mountain at the back reflected on a body of water

Buy train tickets upfront . Depending on which trip you book beforehand, you can either go straight to Dinant from Brussels-Luxembourg or take Brussels with a transfer to Namur.
Top activity: Add this to your list of day trips out of Brussels—a full day private tour so you can really enjoy this charming little town!

Did you know that the saxophone inventor, Adolphe Sax, came from Dinant? Now you do!

It’s worth visiting for the best day trip from Brussels because you enjoy historical sites while being close to nature.

You can’t skip the Citadel of Dinant: the cliff-top fortress has a panoramic view of the town, a museum featuring its military history, and an Adolphe Sax exhibit.

Dinant is home to the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame—this Gothic church is infamous for its distinct and impressive onion-shaped dome.

From the citadel to the riverside, going on a cruise on the Meuse River really made me appreciate Dinant even more from another perspective, so it’s an activity worth considering!

With the surrounding cliffs and the greenery in its way, I consider it one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium !

Check out Dinant tours now .

8. Waterloo

facing upwards, a stairs uphill with a lion monument on top

Buy tickets with Omio . From Brussels South, book an advance ticket to Waterloo via Braine-l’Alleud station, which should take less than an hour!
Top activity: For Waterloo tours from Brussels, I recommend this educational and guided private battlegrounds tour so you can learn more about the area’s rich history.

Well known for being the site of the famous Battle of Waterloo in 1815, this town should be among the items on your list of train trips from Brussels!

If you visit at the right time of the year, aside from museums commemorating the battle, you may even be part of and witness commemorative events and reenactments.

The Lion’s Mound monument is a must-see: the lion sculpture sits atop an artificial hill meant to commemorate the Prince of Orange.

The exhibits at the Hougoumont Farm recounting the battle’s events are fascinating and provide much information about the end of the Napoleonic era.

When in Waterloo, you can’t skip out on the Visitor Center—not only are there facilities for tourists, but there are even more comprehensive insights about the Battle of Waterloo and guided tours.

Speaking of places that were battle sites or have a rich history relating to events that impacted the world, consider a Brussels to Ypres day trip.

a facade view of a cathedral on a bright day with tourists walking

Check schedules here . Book a trip beforehand at Brussels Central to Tournai, either direct or with a transfer. The station is centrally located, making city exploration easy.
Top activity: The best way to get to know about the stories and legends of a city while exploring is through guided tours like this private one !

Considered an essential cultural site in Belgium and its oldest town, Tournai has a rich cultural heritage and a collection of artistic and architectural gems.

It’s the birthplace of renowned French poet, Symbolist leader, and Decadent Paul Verlaine.

Visit the uniquely shaped triangular Grand Place, a massive square that can be found in the middle of the city: it was the perfect place for me to relax, grab a bite to eat, and people-watch.

Belgium is filled with architectural marvels, and the town’s version is the Romanesque and Gothic-inspired Tournai Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Another UNESCO heritage site is the Belfry of Tournai, part of the Belfries of Belgium, with a fantastic view of the surrounding area once you reach the top!

This is another place that you’ll definitely want to include in your list of day trips from Brussels by train.

Check out Tournai tours now .

10. Luxembourg

where to stay in luxembourg, a woman in a dress overlooking an overduct and a bridge over a forest

Check train schedules here . Book an advance ticket from Brussels South to Luxembourg with a transfer to Namur.
Top activity: If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Brussels, I personally recommend this guided tour so you can see all the highlights in Luxembourg in one day!

Still looking for the best day trips from Brussels to other countries?

It’s time to expand your trip to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg capital, my home country, with its medieval charm and modern architecture!

First on your list must be Grand Ducal Palace, home of the Grand Ducal family and a Renaissance architectural gem.

If you’d like something different as far as adventures go, like me, don’t skip Bock Casemates: historical underground tunnels and fortifications carved into the city’s rocky cliffs.

For a more laid-back visit, wind down and relax at the picturesque Grund District—it has a charming riverside view of the Alzette with quaint streets, cafes, and shops.

Check out Luxembourg tours now .

a view of the eiffel tower from a river on a sunset

Check schedules here . Book a ticket beforehand from Brussels South to Paris Gare du Nord for a less than two-hour trip.
Top activity: What about a relaxing one hour River Seine cruise to add to your day trips from Brussels to Paris?

Who wouldn’t want a day trip from Paris to Brussels by train, considering it’s nearby?

I like making the most of my vacations, so a visit to the City of Lights when it’s accessible from Belgium? Big yes.

Every visit to Paris is complete with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower, symbolic to France and one of the most well-known landmarks worldwide.

While you’re there, dropping by the Louvre Museum is also a must for the Mona Lisa painting; I also went there to see the sculpture Venus de Milo and The Raft of the Medusa by Théodore Géricault.

Don’t forget to see the French Gothic architectural masterpiece, Notre-Dame Cathedral, located on the Île de la Cité, a small island in the Seine River.

Paris has to have a place on your list of day trips from Brussels by train!

Check out Paris tours now .

12. Amsterdam

Amsterdam, city, a view of a city with colorful houses reflected on a body of water

Get train tickets here . The trip from Brussels South to Amsterdam Central can take anywhere from two to three hours, and, as always, it’s best to book in advance.
Top activity: Personally recommend and really enjoyed this interactive art experience featuring Da Vinci !

On top of the list of things Amsterdam is well known for include the picturesque canals, historic and beautiful architecture, not to mention the richness of its culture!

It was interesting to see the Secret Annex in the Anne Frank House, where she and her family hid during World War II—I learned so much during this visit than just insights into the lives of her family.
If you love art and history like me, part of your itinerary should be the Rijksmuseum, which showcases works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other renowned artists.
If you want a taste of what Amsterdam is about regarding people and way of life, Dam Square was perfect for me: I saw the Royal Palace, National Monument, and the Nieuwe Kerk but also enjoyed street performers, shops, and cafes!

Undoubtedly, for those reasons alone, you should consider an Amsterdam day trip from Brussels!

Check out Amsterdam tours now .

Check train schedules here . Book from Brussels to Liege-Guillemins in advance, which should take about an hour.
Top activity: This should be on top of the list of your things to do in Liege —a first discovery walking tour focused on the most beautiful routes!

It is one of the oldest cities in Belgium. If you’re into cultural events, festivals, and artistic exhibitions, then make sure to visit Liege!

What I love about this place is how there seems to be something happening all year round.

One of the first places to see is the Prince-Bishops’ Palace with its mix of architectural styles, including Renaissance and Gothic.

While in Liege, you also have to climb Montagne de Bueren for the city view—it was a must for me, though take note that the staircase is considered one of the steepest in the world.

Don’t forget to visit the Liege Cathedral, also known as Saint Paul’s Cathedral, with its notable Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, as well as take a look at the religious artifacts and artworks within!

From the time you arrive at the impressive Liege-Guillemins station, you’ll know this will be one of the best day trips from Brussels by train you’ve ever taken!

Check out Liege tours now .

14. Cologne

a cruise on the rhine river with buildings and a church on the background, best european christmas market cruises, german christmas market cruises, romatic rhine, christmas market cruises on the rhine, christmas market cruises on the danube, nurnberg, bruges, southampton

Buy train tickets with Omio . Take Brussels South and book a trip in advance for Cologne Central Station.
Top activity: If we’re talking about day trips from Brussels to Germany, I recommend an old town beer tour —you won’t regret it!

Of course, we can’t forget another nearby city across the border: day trips from Brussels to Germany, specifically Cologne, should be on your list!

This German city, on the banks of the Rhine River, is home to iconic landmarks, a blend of modern and medieval architecture, not to mention a vibrant arts scene!

The majestic Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom, is a Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seeing the twin spires in person was a fantastic sight, and so was the interior with its stained glass windows.

This makes for an exciting stroll: Hohenzollern Bridge provides a fantastic view of the city, the love locks on both sides are quite a sight!

Sweet tooth or otherwise, you’ll love the Chocolate Museum and learn a lot like I did: not only do they show modern production of this famous dessert, but the exhibits also go as far back as the Olmecs, Maya, and Aztecs about chocolate!

Check out Cologne tours now .

My thoughts on day trips from Brussels by train

brussels-food-belgium-real-foodie, an aerial view of the city of brussels on a foggy day

An efficient and effective railway system makes it more accessible to explore neighboring cities and regions by train in Brussels.

This has allowed me to see Belgium differently because each is just a train ride away!

My trip to Brussels and beyond allowed me to understand the people more through their culture and history—with the bonus of enjoying Belgium’s natural wonders.

What has helped me a lot when planning train journeys is checking which station is closest to me and scheduling my trips from there.

Don’t forget to book tickets in advance for convenience for smooth day trips!

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Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

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Best train travel...

Best train travel options in the Netherlands and Belgium

Hi, folks! This summer, my husband teenage daughter and I will be spending 14 days in the Netherlands and Belgium. Our home bases will be Haarlem for the first week and Brussels for the second, but we're planning to spend every second day visiting other cities: Amsterdam, Bruges, Antwerp, Ghent, and others. Rather than buy individual train tickets for each of our day trips, it would make more financial sense to invest in passes. Can anyone tell me what kind of pass I should be shopping for? I'd also be interested in suggestions for other cities we might visit.

Thanks! Greer

Rather than buy individual train tickets for each of our day trips, it would make more financial sense to invest in passes. Can anyone tell me what kind of pass I should be shopping for?

Your quoted statement is not always correct. It is true that waiting in line every day at the ticket window can be tedious, and even cause you to miss a train. But many of your trips are likely to be very short distances, that are "a waste" of a day on a pass. Also, you have two entirely different countries, with two entirely different transit systems. You also have to consider that many historic town centers are not "at" the train station, and you may need a bus or a tram to make the best use of time on a daytrip. (Sometimes, like in Antwerp, the walk can be worthwhile, as long as you have enough energy. In the case of Belgium, it's important that Brussels has its own bus/tram tickets and multi-trip cards. The other cities in the same area have a unified transit system where you can use the same bus/tram card in multiple cities.

I will say that I have bought some 10-trip tickets that can be shared at will in Belgium. But they are not always cheaper than individual trips. But if there is a line at the ticket window, they can be handy. I always write in a station farther away (before departure, as required) on the same line, in case it starts to rain or I read in my travel book about a closer worthwhile stop. You need to look into buying a physical Netherlands card that may speed tickets for both trains and transit, I'm not an expert on that one. Used to be hard for non-citizens to get, but I believe it's easy today.

Some posters here have reported success at rail ticket machines (i.e. shorter lines), others, even those with Chip and PIN cards, have had difficulties buying single, current-day journies at a machine. AFAIR, Belgium does not let you buy simple tickets for local journies on future days, to save waiting in line. The tickets are good "today only."

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Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary: The Ultimate 14-Day Trip

Colorful buildings with restaurant terraces in the historic center of Bruges, a must see on any Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

Looking for the perfect Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary? Well, you’re in the right place!

We spent a month traveling the Netherlands and Belgium by train and car . The region is packed with stunning architecture, wonderful museums, delicious food, beautiful countryside, and charming towns to discover.

This Netherlands and Belgium itinerary is one of our favorite road trips through Western Europe.

Having spent a month here, we know which places to include to make your trip unforgettable!

Getting around is super easy, too. The train system is safe, efficient, and cost-effective. The roads are well-paved and easy to navigate with great signage.

Our in-depth 14-day itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium will help you plan an unforgettable trip!

We share tips on places to visit, things to do, travel times for train and car, and suggestions on where to stay to help plan your journey.

So, grab a glass of wine, and let’s do this!

Netherlands & Belgium Itinerary Breakdown

A map of the cities are highlighted and listed on the left side that are included in the Netherlands & Belgium Itinerary.

Alright, time to dive into the day-to-day breakdown of your itinerary for the Netherlands and Belgium.

Day 1-3: Amsterdam

Classic tall Dutch houses lining a canal. There are a few boat houses resting on the edge of the canal.

As one of the most unique capital cities in the world, Amsterdam is the best place to begin your journey.

This culturally diverse city has several world-class museums, beautiful canals , and interesting neighborhoods to explore.

You will love the laid-back vibe, trendy cafes , and progressive atmosphere Amsterdam offers.

Not only does Amsterdam have excellent transportation , but it is very walkable, easy to get around, clean, and safe for tourists.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: When planning a trip , we recommend adding an extra day to your first location so you can relax after a long flight, manage your pain, and stock up for your road trip.

The beautiful red brick train station in central Amsterdam.

Getting to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the easiest cities to fly to. The Schiphol Airport has direct flights from major international cities , and the efficiency and organization of the airport can’t be beat.

Of course, you can travel by car or train from neighboring Germany . However, if you are from the USA, Canada, or Australia… flying is the only option.

From the airport, you will need to get yourself to the Central Train Station in central Amsterdam. That is where most hotels and things to do are located.

The fastest way to get to Central Train Station from the Schiphol Airport is by train, taxi, or private transfer.

For a swift and economical choice, consider the NS Dutch Railways Train. The 20-minute ride costs 6.90€.

For added comfort, Get Transfer provides private transfers for 40–60€. You can compare rates from different drivers and select the most budget-friendly choice.

🚓 Need a Transfer from Amsterdam Airport? ➡️ Book your Private Transfer here !

You can take the bus, but it is not direct and travels to Amsterdam Elandsgracht rather than Central Station. The Amsterdam Express 397 Bus costs 6.50€ and takes 30 minutes.

A group of cyclists riding along the tree lined canal in Amsterdam. Cycling is a very popular method of transportation.

Getting Around Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s charming historic center is designated for pedestrians.

Taxis will drop you off as close as possible to your accommodations. Just note that you will be required to briefly drag your luggage along cobbled streets.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: If you plan on visiting the small towns in this itinerary by train, then I recommend staying close to Central Station.

Over the next 3 days, your feet will be your primary mode of transport.

However, Amsterdam does have an excellent transportation system with access to many historic sights and museums.

Even when it snows in the Netherlands , their public transportation is amazing.

🗺️ Maps to Plan Your Journey Amsterdam Tram Map Amsterdam Bus Map

Whether you struggle with chronic pain or not, remember to wear comfortable shoes or sandals. You will be doing a lot of walking!

Robyn smiling and grabbing a pamphlet in the Rijksmuseum, sitting in her wheelchair.

Have difficulty walking? Struggle with chronic pain or fatigue? 🧑‍🦽Why not rent a wheelchair? Yes, you can rent a wheelchair for your visit to Amsterdam or your entire two weeks in the Netherlands. 👉 Amsterdam Wheelchair Rental 👉 Netherlands Wheelchair Rental

Amsterdam City Pass

Consider the Amsterdam City Pass for entrance to more than 70+ museums and attractions around the city, plus unlimited access to public transportation.

Since I travel with chronic pain and fatigue , we chose not to purchase the pass. Sometimes I just can’t visit everything we had planned.

However, if you love to see as much as possible in each city you visit, then the Amsterdam City Pass is an excellent choice!

Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is full of must-see attractions and amazing things to do.

This is our recommendation for how to spend your 3 days , but feel free to let your wanderlust get the best of you!

Not included on this list is renting a bicycle and eating a ton of cheese. If you can, do both.

Our daily itineraries consider the location of each activity and walking times between sights to help plan your visit.

I travel with hidden disabilities that limit my mobility, so I wanted to ensure this itinerary works for slow travelers.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Although Amsterdam is a wheelchair-friendly city, you should still be prepared for cobblestone streets and possible stairs, depending on where you visit.

Robyn standing in an empty street in the historic center of Amsterdam lines with bicycles. Beautiful Dutch buildings tower above.

Day 1: Historic Center & Red Light District

✔️ Historic Centrum: picturesque streets with Flemish architecture ✔️ Oude de Kerk: Old Church is the oldest building in Amsterdam ✔️ Rembrandt House Museum: Learn the painter’s creative process ✔️ Red Light District: a definite must-see attraction for any visitor

👉Buy your Rembrandt House Museum ticket here!

Robyn standing in front of a Heineken store ready to sample world famous beer in Amsterdam.

Day 2: Museums & Beer

✔️ Van Gogh Museum: Van Gogh lovers can view “Starry Night” ✔️ Rijksmuseum: houses the largest collection of Dutch masterpieces ✔️ De Pijp: an iconic neighborhood with trendy cafes and bohemian vibe ✔️ Heineken Experience: sample some world-famous beer

👉Book your Heineken Experience here!

A beautiful canal in the center of Amsterdam lined with boat houses, trees and Dutch buildings.

Day 3: History & Canals

✔️ Anne Frank House: learn about her life during WWII Nazi occupation ✔️ Royal Palace: Tour the opulent interiors of this Dutch family residence ✔️ Canal Cruise: No better way to experience Amsterdam’s beauty

👉Book your Amsterdam Boat Cruise here!

Cute row houses in the classic Dutch design sitting along a quiet canal in Amsterdam.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

📍 Budget – Hotel Heye 130 : Near Vondelpark, this hotel is close to restaurants, cafes shops, and the tram. Rooms are clean and quiet with city views. The staff are friendly and helpful. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Heye 13 0 now!

📍 Mid-Range – Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam : Inspired by Monet, this boutique hotel is centrally located, with an on-site gym and bar. Rooms are modern, comfortable rooms with artistic flair. ➡️ Book your stay at Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam now!

📍 Luxury – Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel : A 5-star luxury hotel in the historic center with stunning city views, tasteful décor, and comfy beds. It has an onsite bar and delicious breakfast is available. ➡️ Book your stay at Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel now!

A detailed Google map showing the towns you will visit on Day 4-6 of this 2 week Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

Day 4-6: Rotterdam and Area

Over the next 3 days, you will explore Rotterdam, Leiden, Delft, the Hague, Dordrecht, and the Kinderdijk windmills.

It sounds like a lot, but all these towns are within 45 minutes of one another.

I recommend you choose Rotterdam or Delft as your base . Both have excellent accommodation and dining options.

Rotterdam will have a wider selection as it is a large, vibrant city . However, if you want to stay in an adorable small canal town, then Delft is the better choice.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Staying in one location for an extended period is one of the best ways to spend less money while traveling .

Gavin standing in front of Central Train Station in Rotterdam. Taking the train is an efficient and safe way to get around the Netherlands.

Getting to Rotterdam

TRAIN TIME: Amsterdam–Leiden: 35 min ║ Leiden–Rotterdam: 33 min DRIVE TIME: Amsterdam–Leiden–Rotterdam: 1 hour (80 km/50 miles)

Taking the train is an excellent and efficient choice for your Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

We took the train while in the Netherlands and then drove around Belgium with our rental car.

👉 Check availability & prices 🚅Reserve your train ticket to Rotterdam now!

This itinerary is designed for travel by train or car. Choose whatever transportation option suits your travel style best.

Check out the Netherlands Train website to help plan your journey.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Consider all aspects of your train journey and how it may impact your pain & fatigue — walking with luggage to/from the train station & hotel, waiting on platforms, etc. so you can prepare.

If you prefer to rent a car, driving is straightforward and enjoyable . And we found the drivers to be very courteous.

Just remember to stay to the right when driving to allow drivers to pass on the left. This was a customary practice in Holland.

🚗 Need a rental car? Check availability & prices: ➡️ Reserve your rental car here !

A photo of quaint buildings and restaurants with terraces and umbrellas in the adorable town of Leiden, a must see on any Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

Rotterdam & Area

Rotterdam is your base for the next 3 days of your itinerary for the Netherlands and Belgium.

You will visit a couple of towns each day that are close in proximity . This minimizes travel time and maximizes your time in each location.

You can arrange them however you wish since they are all within 45 minutes of Rotterdam!

A picture of the interior of a cube houses with a very retro design using bright red, purple, and green on the wall and ceiling, with blue accent chairs.

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

📍 Budget – Hotel Breitner : This quiet 3-star hotel is an affordable, comfortable option in the city center, only 1 km from Central Station. A delicious breakfast and parking are available for a fee. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Breitner now!

📍 Mid-Range – The James Hotel Rotterdam : This chic hotel is close to amenities with tastefully decorated rooms, large comfortable beds, and rainfall showers. There is a gym, private parking, and an elevator. ➡️ Book your stay at The James Hotel Rotterdam now!

📍 Luxury – Suite Hotel Pincoffs Rotterdam : A small luxury hotel, full of character, right on a canal. The rooms are elegant, very spacious, and quiet. Breakfast and parking are available for a fee. ➡️ Book your stay at Suite Hotel Pincoffs Rotterdam now!

An iconic boat restaurant on a quiet canal in Leiden. The street is lined with trees and cute Dutch brick buildings.

Day 4: Leiden & Rotterdam

As you depart Amsterdam, you should visit the town of Leiden before making your way to Rotterdam.

Leiden is one of the best small towns to visit in the Netherlands . It is a vibrant university town with colorful streets, quaint shops, and scenic waterways.

Enjoying lunch at one of the traditional boat restaurants was one of my favorite things to do in Leiden!

Things to Do in Leiden

✔️De Valk Windmill: learn about the role windmills played in Dutch history ✔️ Hooglandse Kerk: medieval church known for stained glass & tower ✔️Pieterskerk: the oldest Gothic church in the Netherlands ✔️ Rapenburg Canal: the most beautiful canal in all of Leiden

A close up of the yellow cube houses in Rotterdam. They are definitely worth checking out!

As the second largest city in Holland, Rotterdam is known for its unique skyline of beautifully historic buildings and innovative, modern structures.

The city has a diverse cultural scene and amazing restaurants , making it well worth a visit. So, get ready to indulge in Dutch cuisine.

Things to Do in Rotterdam

✔️St. Lawrence Church: a rare landmark that predates WWII ✔️Cube Houses: tour this peculiar & unique residential complex ✔️ Delfshaven: beautiful canals and 17th-century architecture ✔️Euromast Tower: dine 185 meters with amazing city views

👉Buy your Euromast Tower ticket here!

Robyn standing beside a bicycle on a small white bridge over a tree-lined canal in Delft, a must on any itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Day 5: Delft & the Hague

TRAIN TIME: Rotterdam–Delft: 13 min ║ Delft–The Hague: 11 min DRIVE TIME: Rotterdam–Delft–The Hague: 53 min (27 km/17 miles)

Today you visit one of my favorite towns of all time… Delft!

It’s one of the most beautiful towns in Holland , and just the right size for a morning visit.

Then you will head over to the Hague, the political capital of the Netherlands and home to the International Court of Justice.

With a mix of history and charm, the Hague has wonderful attractions, a beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, and a fantastic waterfront promenade.

Besides wandering this picture-perfect town with a coffee in hand, here are a couple of the best things to do in Delft .

✔️Market Square (Markt): Home to City Hall, cute shops and restaurants ✔️ Nieuwe Kerk (New Church): a Gothic church with beautiful stained glass ✔️Oude Kerk: this church houses the tomb of Johannes Vermeer ✔️Royal Delft Museum: learn about this traditional blue porcelain art

👉Buy your Royal Delft Factory Museum ticket here!

Close up of colorful flowers decorating the edge of a waterway, with the Hague in the background.

Whether you’re into history and museums or prefer to spend an afternoon at the beach, the Hague has you covered.

✔️Mauritshuis Museum: full of Dutch masterpieces, like Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” ✔️ Peace Palace: join a tour of the International Court of Justice ✔️ The Binnenhof: visit a 13th-century castle & Dutch Parliament ✔️Beach & Promenade: sandy shores and seaside charm

👉Buy your Mauritshuis Museum ticket here!

A quiet canal in Dordrecht with a small sailboat to the left and a row of cute Dutch houses to the right of the canal.

Day 6: Kinderjik & Dordrecht

DRIVE TIME: Rotterdam–Dordrecht–Kinderjik: 47 min (37 km/23 miles)

Time to visit the towns of Dordrecht and Kinderjik, the land of windmills.

There is no train to Kinderjik . Instead, you can either rent a car for the day or take the waterbus from Rotterdam.

The Waterbus is an excellent way to see the town and countryside. Plus, it’s very convenient with frequent departures. They offer direct routes from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk and Dordrecht.

Of course, you can join a tour for a relaxed day of sightseeing in both towns.

👉Check availability and prices. 🛥️ Reserve your Waterbus ticket today!

Robyn & Gavin in Kinderjik, standing in front of the tall green grass with several windmills in the background. The wind is blowing, creating movement in the grass.

Kinderjik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with windmills and a must-see on any itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Viewing the windmills is free of charge. However, if you want to visit the onsite museum, there is a small fee.

If you choose to drive, you can visit the windmills on the way to Dordrecht or on the way back.

✔️Kinderjik Windmills: an iconic symbol of Dutch ingenuity and beauty

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Visit the windmills in the morning to beat the afternoon crowds, and enjoy the windmills and canals in peace.

Nicknamed the “Venice” of Holland , Dordrecht is a charming medieval city with art, history, and a scenic waterfront.

Spend the day wandering the quaint streets, canals, and historic sights.

✔️Groothoofdspoort: this historic gate is now a prominent symbol ✔️Dordrecht Museum: great collection of Dutch art masterpieces ✔️ Dordrecht Grote Kerk: an impressive 14th-century medieval church

Gavin crouching down beside a row of huge cheese wheels in the town of Gouda with city Hall in the background. Gouda is a wonderful addition to a 14 day itinerary of the Netherlands & Gouda.

Extra Time? Visit Gouda

Consider a day trip to Gouda from Rotterdam. We visited Gouda on our 2-week trip in the Netherlands and fell in love with the town!

Gouda has a lively town square with beautiful Dutch architecture , quiet canals, great cafes, and a few museums worth checking out.

If you’re there between April to September , make sure to check out the Gouda Cheese Market on Thursday mornings.

✔️Town Square: visit City Hall & the Staduis Museum ✔️St. John’s Church: the longest church in Holland built in 1820 ✔️Gouda Cheese Experience: time to sample delicious cheese

👉Buy your Gouda Cheese Experience ticket here!

A blue square with light blue circles on the edges. Inside is sayd, Custom Travel Itineraries. Let us create the perfect itinerary for your travel style.

Day 7-13: Belgium

Over the next week, you will explore Belgium. This map shows all the places you will visit during this part of your itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

You can take the train around Belgium; however, renting a car will be easier. That’s what we did, and it was perfect for visiting the WWI sites around Ypres.

Robyn standing near the harbor in Antwerp full of sailboats. The unique brick and glass Maritime Museum is in the background.

Day 7: Antwerp

Your first stop in Belgium is Antwerp, Europe’s second largest port , thanks to its position along the Scheldt River.

You will spend one full day here. It’s enough time to give you a taste of the local culture and see the highlights.

If you want more time, it’s easy to rearrange the itinerary, since cities are so close to one another.

This relaxed itinerary is perfect for slow travelers and those planning a trip with chronic pain.

Gavin standing in the gorgeous Antwerp train station. There are two staircases arching down at either end and beautiful stained glass above.

Getting to Antwerp

TRAIN TIME: Rotterdam– Antwerp: ranges 32 min to 1 hour 49 min DRIVE TIME: Rotterdam– Antwerp: 1 hour 26 min (101 km/63 miles)

I recommend taking the direct train from Rotterdam to Antwerp . It is efficient, safe, and budget-friendly . The seats are comfy and spacious, so you can just sit back and enjoy the views.

👉 Check availability & prices 🚅Reserve your train ticket to Antwerp now!

Of course, the drive is easy too. But I recommend renting a car after you leave Antwerp.

At the end of the week, you can drop your rental car off at the Brussels train station. Then train it back to Amsterdam to catch your flight.

Just note that there may be an additional drop-off fee.

👉Check availability & prices 🚗 Reserve your rental car here !

Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world . So, if you’re shopping for beautiful diamond jewelry, this is the place to do it.

The Diamond District is located next to the train station . Just remember to negotiate if you plan on making a purchase.

If shopping for diamonds is not your thing, don’t worry… Antwerp has plenty of other things to do.

Things to Do in Antwerp

✔️Museum aan de Stroom: Antwerp’s maritime history with city views ✔️Antwerpen-Centraal: one of the most beautiful train stations ✔️Cathedral of Our Lady: this church houses several art masterpieces ✔️Grote Markt: lively square with beautifully preserved guild houses

👉Join this award-winning Guided Bike Tour of Antwerp!

The beautiful city of Antwerp with a mix of modern and historic buildings on the water.

Where to Stay in Antwerp

📍 Budget – B&B Hotel Antwerp : A clean, modern hotel in the city center close to restaurants and attractions. Soundproof rooms with comfortable beds, and modern bathrooms. Breakfast is available. ➡️ Book your stay at B&B Hotel Antwerp now!

📍 Mid-Range – NH Collection Antwerp : 2023 Traveller’s Choice. A chic hotel next to the train station & tram. Rooms are comfortable, modern, and quiet. There is an onsite restaurant, but no elevator. ➡️ Book your stay at NH Collection Antwerp now!

📍 Luxury – Hotel Rubens : Highly rated 4-star hotel next to Grote Markt. Comfortable, stylish rooms with a walk-in shower, city view, and breakfast buffet included. Has an onsite bar, and helpful staff. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Rubens now!

A close up of white, purple and red flowers with beautiful, historic buildings of Ghent along the water. Ghent is a highlight on a tour through Belgium and the Netherlands.

Day 8–10: Bruges, Ghent & Ypres

Next up on your itinerary for the Netherlands and Belgium are the fairytale towns of Ghent and Bruges.

Located in the Flanders region, they are full of cobble-stoned streets, picturesque canals, and impressive medieval architecture.

Bruges and Ghent are true highlights of any trip to Belgium!

I recommend you spend at least 3 days in the area to explore the towns and visit the WWI sites around Ypres.

It can be tough to decide whether to stay in Bruges or Ghent. But we stayed in Bruges and recommend you do too! Its relaxed atmosphere offers a more romantic and intimate experience .

Accommodation choices are provided further down in the post. 😊

Gavin standing beside our bright red rental car on a residential street in Antwerp.

Getting to Bruges

TRAIN TIME: Antwerp–Bruges: 1 hour 24 min DRIVE TIME: Antwerp–Ghent–Bruges: 1 hour 33 min (110 km/68miles)

The trains are safe and efficient, and the roads are well-maintained. It just depends on how you prefer to travel.

🚂Travel by Train : get off at Ghent and leave your luggage in a train station locker while you tour the sights.

🚗Travel by Car : you will hop onto E17 west towards Ghent. As you near the city center, you will want to look for parking.

We rented a car for this portion of our itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Renting a car makes visiting Ypres and the WWI sites easier. You can stop where and when you want.

A row of colored buildings lining the canal in Ghent under a blue sky. There is a red houseboat in the water and a small boat full of tourists with rainbow umbrellas.

Day 8: Ghent

I recommend you spend the day in Ghent on your way to Bruges.

Or, you can explore Ghent on your way to Brussels later in the itinerary.

The picturesque town of Ghent has beautiful canals and medieval architecture. There are several beautifully preserved buildings, including the imposing Gravensteen Castle.

The city has a lively atmosphere, waterfront views, and delicious cuisine that makes for a perfect day trip.

Things to Do in Ghent

✔️Gravensteen Castle: Tour the dungeons of this medieval fortress ✔️Saint Bavo’s Cathedral : houses the Ghent Altarpiece by Jan van Eyck ✔️Museum of Fine Arts: art from the Middle Ages to contemporary times ✔️Canal Cruise: take a canal cruise around Graslei & Korenlei waterfront

👉Book your Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour here!

The historic brick buildings of Bruges along the canal. The sky is bright blue and there is one white boat in the water.

Day 9: Bruges

Bruges is your base for this portion of your itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

That means extra time to discover hidden gems , indulge in Belgian waffles, and appreciate the town at night .

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Parking in Bruges – Biekorf is the closest parking lot below the old town in an underground area for 16€/day. There are cheaper options outside the historic center that offer a park & ride.

Robyn wearing a bright red tank top standing in front of a quiet canal in Bruges, one of the best towns to visit on your Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

Bruges is the most beautiful (and my favorite) town in Belgium.

It’s romantic and full of character with cobblestone streets lining canals, stunning medieval architecture, and romantic squares.

Its timeless beauty and historic landmarks are why Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to Do in Bruges

✔️Belfry of Bruges: panoramic city views from this medieval tower ✔️Basilica of the Holy Blood: houses a relic with Christ’s blood ✔️Markt: busy square with colorful, gable-roofed buildings ✔️Groeninge Museum: a great collection of Flemish & Belgian art ✔️Canal Tour: explore the beauty & magic of Bruges

👉Book your Boat Cruise & Walking Tour here!

Gavin standing beside a bright red door and window sill in Bruges. The facade has intricate, romantic details adding to the charm of the city.

Where to Stay in Bruges

📍 Budget Friendly – Hotel Bla Bla : A quiet hotel close to the train station and restaurants. Rooms are clean and comfortable, and there is a sun terrace, breakfast, and parking for a fee, but no elevator. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Bla Bla now!

📍 Mid-Range – Hotel Navarra Brugge : This 17th-century mansion is an upscale 4-star hotel with tasteful decor. There is a pool, sauna, gym, bar, and elevator, with a buffet breakfast, and onsite parking. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Navarra Brugge now!

📍 Luxury – Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce : This stunning 16th-century hotel combines elegance and charm with modern comforts, all on Bruges’ most picturesque canal. Voted Best of the Best in 2023. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce now!

Close-up of a brown and white sign indicating the Ypres Salient Route stands in the foreground with wheat fields and a large single house in the background.

Day 10 – Ypres & World War I Sites

Belgium played a significant and pivotal role in WWI that helped shape our world as we know it. It also served as a crucial battleground during Allied liberation in 1944-1945.

Today is about reflecting on those who fought for our freedom . Gavin and I underestimated the lasting impact visiting these sites would have on us.

A Google map showing the driving route and WWI sites that you will see today on your Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

Ypres Salient Route

This map follows the same route we took and highlights the WWI sites we visited.

You can drive the route yourself, rent a bicycle, or join a day tour.

✔️Tyne Cot Cemetery: the world’s largest Commonwealth War cemetery remembering the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives in WWI & WWII ✔️Memorial Museum Passchendaele: offers an immersive experience into the battles of WWI with artifacts, exhibits, and reconstructed trenches

A picture of Tyne Cot Cemetery in Ypres, Belgium, one of the WWI sites worth visiting. There are arched rows of white tombstones and bright red poppies and green shurbs.

✔️Flanders Field: this symbolic poppy field, marked by cemeteries and memorials, tributes to fallen soldiers

✔️Last Post Ceremony at Menin Gate: a nightly ritual in Ypres that honors soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I

A detailed Google map showing the beaches and towns in Belgium you will visit on Day 11 this 2 week itinerary.

Day 11 – Flex Day (Beaches or Brussels)

Today is a flex day. You can t our the quiet towns and beaches in Ostend and Da Haan then enjoy a cocktail at a beach bar in Knokke-Heist.

Or head to Brussels early for an extra day in the capital city. We provide info for extra time in Brussels further down in the post.

The quiet beach of Ostend, Belgium. The sky is grey and the beach is empty with a pier in the distance. Grass is swaying in the foreground.

Ostend, De Haan, & Damme

✔️Ostend: local markets, Mu.ZEE Art Museum, and lively promenade ✔️Da Haan Beach: relax on the long stretch of golden sand ✔️Pura Vida Knokke Beach Bar: cocktail and tapas at this chic beach bar ✔️Damme: canal town with several bookstores and antique shops

A beautiful tree-lined park in Brussels with manicured green and pink hedges. The city of Brussels is the background with detailed architecture.

Day 12-13: Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union is known for its global influence as a political hub. The city offers a mix of historic charm with art nouveau architecture , and world-class cuisine.

Despite its contemporary vibe, the city is historic, beautiful, and insanely elegant. I fell in love with Brussels and can’t wait to visit again!

You will spend 2 days here , wandering through perfectly manicured parks and stuffing your face with rich Belgian chocolate.

The divided highway leading into the city of Brussels, lined with green grass and trees.

Getting to Brussels

TRAIN TIME: Bruges–Brussels: 1 hour 3 min DRIVE TIME: Bruges–Brussels: 1 hour 20 min (97.3 km/60.5 miles)

Driving to Brussels is easy. Just hop on the E40 out of Bruges and take in the scenery.

Roads are well-marked with good signage . Just remember to stay to the right unless you want to pass other drivers.

Taking the train is convenient too , as they are frequent and fast.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: If you have not visited Ghent yet… today is the day. Leave your luggage at the train station or hidden in the trunk of your rental car and take a few hours to explore Ghent.

Gavin sitting on a bright yellow empty tram in Brussels. This is a great way to get around the city.

Getting Around Brussels

It is very easy to get around Brussels . People are helpful and most signs are in English.

Brussels has excellent public transportation with buses, trams, and metro lines connecting all parts of the city. Plus, tickets are generally interchangeable between the different types of transport.

Brussels is a bicycle-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes. If you’re interested in this, check out the bike-sharing program Villo here .

Still, be prepared to walk in Brussels. If you travel with chronic fatigue or struggle with mobility, you may want to consider renting a wheelchair for your visit.

Check out this website for more info on renting a wheelchair in Brussels.

A close up of the Atomium in Brussels, Belgium, with seven big metallic balls representing atoms.

Day 11: Flex Day in Brussels

If you decide to spend an extra day in Brussels instead of the beach, here is what you should see.

✔️Mini Europe: an exhibit of famous European landmarks replicas ✔️ Musée Magritte Museum: explore Magritte’s Surrealism masterpieces ✔️Marollen Market: eclectic flea market with vintage & antique items ✔️The Atomium: represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times

👉Book your Atomium entrance ticket here!

Things to Do in Brussels

Feel free to mix and match the following sight and activity recommendations to match your interests and travel style. Enjoy!

The stunning detail and architecture of buildings in Grand Place, Brussels, a must visit on any Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

Day 12: Grand Place & Royal Palace

Get ready for stunning architecture and tasty treats as you visit the most famous square in Brussels.

✔️Grand Place: UNESCO Heritage Site with Gothic & Baroque buildings ✔️Chocolate & Waffles: join a food tour or find a waffle stand… it’s a must ✔️St Michael & St Gudula Cathedral: 11 th century stained glass windows ✔️Royal Palace of Brussels: experience true opulence and grandeur

👉Book your Chocolate Museum & Workshop ticket here!

Gavin standing with his arms raised in front of the glass Parlamentarium building in Brussels, a definite highlight of any visit.

Day 13: European Union Day

Our visit to the Parlamentarium was fascinating! The exhibit is well-organized, informative, and very interesting. It is unlike any other museum we have visited!

✔️ Parc du Cinquantenaire: houses museums & gardens with city views ✔️House of European History: interactive exhibits and displays ✔️Parlamentarium: multimedia exhibits about the role of the EU ✔️Museum of Natural Sciences: engaging exploration of the natural world

👉See the sights with a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour!

Robyn wearing a bright red tank top standing in front of the opulent Grand Palace, with manicured bushes in front.

Where to Stay in Brussels

📍 Budget Friendly – Urban Yard : A short train ride to the center, this 3-star Art Deco hotel has clean, spacious rooms with a nature-inspired design. There is an elevator and breakfast available. ➡️ Book your stay at Urban Yard now!

📍 Mid-Range – Hotel Hubert Grand Palace : Centrally located, this 4-star upscale eco-hotel has a retro vibe with colorful, clean rooms. There is a gym, breakfast area, elevator, and off-site parking available. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Hubert Grand Palace now!

📍 Luxury – Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie : Located on lively Louise Ave, this 4-star trendy accessible hotel offers spacious, well-designed rooms, and has a restaurant, fitness center, and onsite parking. ➡️ Book your stay at Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie now!

A small square in Utrecht with tall, colorful Dutch buildings. There are souvenir shops, a white & pink 70s style van and people waling about.

Day 14: Utrecht & Amsterdam

Today you head back to Amsterdam. Flying in and out of the same airport will save you money when booking your trip!

If you are renting a car, returning it to the same spot is a huge money saver.

On the way back to Amsterdam, you will stop in Utrecht. This adorable town is worth visiting even during winter in the Netherlands.

TRAIN TIME: Brussels–Utrecht: 2 hr 57 min ║ Utrecht–Amsterdam: 37 min ║ Brussels–Amsterdam: 2 hr 45 min DRIVE TIME: Brussels–Utrecht–Amsterdam: 2 hours 57 min (227 km/141 miles)

There is no direct train from Brussels to Utrecht. You will have to make 2 changes along your route if you want to add Utrecht to your itinerary.

There is a direct train from Brussels to Amsterdam Centraal and from Brussels to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Choose what works best for your itinerary and when your flight is scheduled.

👉 Check availability & prices 🚅Reserve your train ticket to Amsterdam now!

Gavin standing on a lively street in Utrecht with traditional brick buildings and restaurant terraces behind him.

Utrecht has a relaxing vibe as a university town with traditional Dutch architecture, beautiful canals, and a lively café culture.

Spend the afternoon wandering the sights, or just stop for lunch at one of the fantastic restaurants.

✔️Dom Tower: climb 465 steps for amazing panoramic city views ✔️Utrecht Cathedral: a Gothic church with a magnificent nave ✔️Canals of Utrecht: float through the city with a relaxing canal cruise

👉Book your City Canal Cruise here!

After Utrecht, make your way back to Amsterdam to catch your flight back home.

And that wraps up your Netherlands and Belgium itinerary for 14 days! Now onto logistics…

Map of Europe with a text box and arrow highlighting the Netherlands in green and Belgium in turquoise.

Why Visit the Netherlands & Belgium?

The Netherlands and Belgium are located side by side in Western Europe, making it ideal for a 2-week road trip.

Distances between locations are small and travel times are short. This is important if you travel with chronic pain, fatigue, or have mobility issues like I do.

Robyn under an umbrella in the historic center of Antwerp surrounding by beautiful brick buildings in the rain.

And with unique cultural experiences , their combination creates a well-rounded European experience, especially for first-timers to Europe.

The Netherlands has Flemish art, beautiful countryside , delicious cheese, and iconic windmills. Belgium has stunning architecture, vibrant cities, incredible chocolate, and World War II history.

That’s not everything… but you get the idea. 😊

Weather and climates are also similar , which means you won’t need to pack an extra large suitcase for 2 different climates.

A close up of the entrance of the Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam at dusk. The lights are on and there are a row of carts leading to the door.

How to Get to the Netherlands and Belgium

Most travelers arrive by international flight to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). This is also my recommendation.

As the third largest airport in Europe, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) connects Amsterdam with numerous global destinations.

Non-stop flights from Canada, the US, and Australia run throughout the year.

Alternatively, you can start and end your trip in Brussels , but the Brussels Airport (BRU) has fewer options for direct flights from international destinations compared to AMS.

I recommend checking both AMS and BRU to see which airport offers direct flights from your home country.

A plane landing at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport at dusk. There is green grass and red direction lights lit up on the runway.

We use WayAway for the best deals on international flights.

This platform simplifies your search by comparing dates, destinations, and prices . This allows you to find the best flight available.

Once you decide on a flight, WayAway directs you to the actual provider’s website so you can view the info, read the fine print, and make an informed decision on your travel plans.

➡️ Find your flight to Amsterdam today! ✔️compares airlines ✔️offers the best rates ✔️plus 10% cashback ✔️no service fees Book Now with WayAway

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Schiphol Airport is huge! I recommend requesting a wheelchair if you have chronic pain, fatigue, or struggle with mobility. Check out more tips for surviving air travel here!

A bright yellow & blue train leaving Amsterdam Centraal Station. Taking the train is a great way to get around during your Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

How to Get Around the Netherlands and Belgium

Getting around is easy on your 14-day itinerary of the Netherlands and Belgium. Both countries have fantastic transportation options.

The trains in the Netherlands and Belgium are efficient and reliable . They connect cities and smaller towns and offer comfortable, spacious seats .

It is ideal for longer trips , or if you prefer to relax and enjoy the countryside. Just keep in mind that trains are always not cheap .

When planning your trip , always research the costs of train tickets to every destination you plan to visit.

We always compare the cost of train tickets to the cost of a rental car to see if a car is worth it.

🚗Rental Car

Driving is perfect if you want the flexibility to travel at your own pace . Between your GPS, road signs, and well-maintained highways … you won’t get lost.

And, if you travel with a chronic illness like me… you won’t have to worry about dragging your luggage around town. Yay!

There is no official paperwork to present when crossing the border either. The Netherlands and Belgium work together and expect tourists to visit both.

Just let your car agency know when you pick up your rental car.

We like to use Discover Cars whenever we rent a car in Europe. They have competitive rates and great customer service.

Having a GPS comes in handy. We bring our own because renting one from the car agency is expensive.

And don’t forget to download the map of Western Europe into your GPS before you depart for your trip. That way, all maps are ready to go!

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Do not rent a car while in Amsterdam or Brussels. Both cities are flat, walkable, and have excellent public transportation. Plus, parking is a nightmare.

🚴‍♂️Bicycle

The Netherlands and Belgium are famous for their cycling culture, and bicycling is a very common mode of transportation .

Bike paths are well-maintained , convenient, and an environmentally friendly way to explore.

A close up picture of a blue USA passport, visa and airline ticket.

Visa Requirements

The European Union includes the Netherlands and Belgium. Individuals from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, or Australia do not require a visa for entry.

If you are a non-EU citizen, you must provide the following information to the customs upon arrival:

PASSPORT: Must remain valid for a minimum of three months beyond your scheduled departure date.

VISA: The Netherlands and Belgium are part of the Schengen Agreement. Americans and Canadians can enter and stay for 90 days.

This applies to tourism and business purposes. For more information, refer to this link .

HEALTH INSURANCE: If you are not arriving from EU, UK, USA, Canada, or Australia, it is essential to have travel insurance to enter the Netherlands or Belgium .

You must obtain it before embarking on your journey.

➡️ We recommend SafetyWing for Travel Insurance . Check Rates & Book Insurance Now

A lively square with traditional buildings and restaurant terraces. A bicycle tour group having lunch under green umbrellas.

Booking a Tour in the Netherlands and Belgium

Whenever you travel, joining a tour is always possible.

👉 Benefits of Joining a Tour: ✔️Meet other travelers ✔️Removes the stress of planning ✔️Insider’s look into a destination ✔️Tour guide shares history & facts ✔️Hotels & transport booked for you

For local day tours, I recommend Viator or GetYourGuide .

Of course, traveling with a large tour has its challenges . This is especially true for those with chronic pain, fatigue, or limited mobility.

I find it difficult to keep pace with the group or participate in every activity planned.

Travel Planning Services button. Let us create the perfect itinerary for your travel style.

FAQ: Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary

How long is it from belgium to the netherlands.

The Netherlands and Belgium are located side by side in Western Europe. It takes 2 hours and 25 min to drive from Amsterdam to Brussels, and 1 hour 53 min by train.

Is Belgium or the Netherlands better to visit?

Choosing between the two can be challenging. The Netherlands has quaint towns, a unique capital with amazing nightlife, tasty cheese, and world-class museums. Belgium has stunning architecture, WWI history, delicious chocolate, and several art masterpieces.

How many days in enough in Belgium?

You want to spend a minimum of 5 days in Belgium to appreciate all the highlights.

How many days should I spend in the Netherlands?

Spending 7 days in the Netherlands will give you a taste of the culture and highlights. However, spending 10-14 days will allow you to travel at a more relaxed pace and discover some hidden gems.

Can you travel to Belgium from the Netherlands by train?

Yes, both Belgium and the Netherlands have an efficient, reliable, and comfortable train system that connects all major cities.

The stunning Grand Place square in Brussels with its opulently decorated buildings with gold accents.

Final Thoughts: Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary

From historical sights and WWI landmarks to stunning architecture and amazing museums, this 14-day Netherlands and Belgium itinerary has everything you need for a magical European vacation .

Combine that with Gouda cheese, Belgian beer, and the best chocolate in the world… sweet perfection!

Whether you prefer to travel slow or not, two weeks in the Netherlands and Belgium is the perfect amount of time . And with efficient transportation options, it’s super easy to explore both on one trip.

Hopefully, our detailed two-week itinerary provided you with must-visit destinations, a range of activities, transport options, and accommodation suggestions.

We want to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in the Netherlands and Belgium too!

The world map in blue with the words "Time to add another passport stamp!" on top in black.

10 Scenic Train Trips Across Canada

Train trips have become popular among travelers in Canada as a more sustainable and enjoyable way to explore the country's natural wonders.
From coast to coast, Canada offers scenic train journeys that allow passengers to experience breathtaking landscapes, French culture, and stunning architecture.
Whether it's admiring polar bears in Churchill, witnessing fall foliage in Nova Scotia, or cycling through the Niagara region, there are many unique train trips in Canada for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

The world is slowly adopting the green economy as a way of saving the planet from destruction. Even travelers haven’t been left behind. Most of them have recognized that airplanes and vehicles are not sustainable ways of traveling and are exploring other options. For this reason, train trips have become more common and appealing.

Canada is a large country with many beautiful natural wonders and top destinations to visit . And seeing them through a window is the best way to experience the country. Besides phenomenal views, train passengers enjoy comfortable, stress-free, and relaxing trips. They only need to occupy their seat and enjoy the ride. Here are 10 scenic train trips across Canada.

16 Thrilling Sleeper Train Journeys In Europe To Add To Your Bucket List

Canada coast to coast by train, see niagara falls, lake louise, and peggy's cove.

Coast-to-coast by train is one of the best train trips in Canada. It is a chance to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, including Niagara Falls, Lake Louise, and Peggy’s Cove. Travelers are offered time on VIA Rail and travel in a sleeper company. The journey starts in Halifax and ends in Vancouver. Taking this ride lets one enjoy the French culture in Canada, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes.

Trip distance from Halifax to Vancouver: 4,466 kilometers
Trip length: 4 days and 4 nights
Cost : Around $11,380

Vancouver To Toronto On The Canadian

Traveling through forests, mountain peaks, and waterfalls.

The Canadian is a flagship train that offers three classes: economy, sleeper plus, and prestige. Unlike planes, it has large reclining seats with plenty of legroom. The trip includes presenters, musicians, and wine-tasting sessions. The train leaves Vancouver for Toronto, and visitors can see forests, mountain peaks, waterfalls, valleys, and wildlife along the way. It passes through Jasper National Park, stops for some time, and continues to Toronto.

Trip distance from Vancouver to Toronto: 4,466 kilometers
Trip length: Almost 4 days
Cost: Varies between routes and towns, but around CAD 2,500 per person during winter (Approximately $1,850 USD)

Lord Of The Wilderness Bear Viewing In The Canadian

See grizzlies in a wilderness lodge and polar bears up north.

Here is something for wildlife lovers. The train drives passengers across Canada, from Vancouver to Winnipeg. The adventure begins on the West Coast, where passengers go to a wilderness lodge to see grizzly bears. Then, they board The Canadian train in Vancouver, which takes them across the Canadian Rockies before arriving in Winnipeg. After the journey ends, passengers are recommended to fly to Northern Manitoba, the Polar Bear Capital of the world, to explore the arctic tundra and look for polar bears before returning to Winnipeg.

Trip distance from Vancouver to Winnipeg: Approximately 1,866 kilometers
Trip length: 3 days and 2 nights
Cost: $13,430

Winnipeg To Churchill VIA Rail

Admire lush prairie land, huge boreal forests, & hudson bay's polar bears.

Regardless of the time of the year someone is traveling, they are guaranteed things to wow about every step of this trip. From Winnipeg, passengers can admire the lush land at Rivière Rouge and Rivière Assiniboine confluence. As they travel, they can see the waters of Lake near The Pas, the huge boreal forest encompassing the Thompson, and finally, the rocky shores of Hudson Bay in Churchill, where they can see polar bears and belugas in their habitat. For those who’ve never seen the Prairies, this VIA Rail trip will bring them up close.

Trip distance from Winnipeg to Churchill: 1,710 kilometers
Trip length : 44 hours 55 minutes
Cost: From $199

Montreal To Halifax On The Ocean

See whales in the gulf, clear miramichi river, and sugarloaf mountain.

The Ocean journey runs on the Gulf of St Lawrence and passes through New Brunswick before the train heads to Nova Scotia. This is the oldest route in North America and has been operating since 1904. Passengers are rewarded with phenomenal views of the Gulf of Lawrence, where they can spot whales. From there, they can see clear waters as the train crosses the Miramichi River, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Acadian communities. Fall is the perfect time for this trip as travelers see the leaves turn into shades of yellow, red, and gold.

Trip distance from Montreal to Halifax: 1,346 kilometers
Trip length: 21+ hours
Cost: $210 on Economy

Jasper To Prince George On The Rupert Rocket

Tour glassy lakes and charming agricultural towns in central british columbia.

This trip across central British Columbia isn’t popular, especially among the international community. But, it is a very scenic journey to consider. The Rupert Rocket goes over several days to allow travelers to check out daylight vistas. But, passengers organize their accommodation. Along the way, they see glassy lakes and charming and historic towns filled with agricultural produce and wildlife. Some drives include meals and drinks. Others don’t. But regardless of the ride, guests are assured of phenomenal views.

Trip distance from Jasper to Prince: 1,160 kilometers
Trip length : 2 days
Cost: Around $260

Getting From New York City To Niagara Falls: 16 Things To Know

White pass & yukon route railway, see trestles, gorges, and glaciers on a historic railway climbing 3,000 feet with views of skagway harbor.

The White Pass and Yukon Route is a great ride for those who want to learn about the history of Alaska. It leaves Skagway and offers scenic views while allowing ample time to enjoy the area’s other charms. The train goes through Shyster and climbs almost 3,000 feet above sea level. Passengers pass through an inspiration point that looks down on the Skagway Harbor. Dead Horse Gulch with bleached bones of perished animals can be seen. Before reaching the White Pass Summit, travelers have a chance to see the headwaters of the Yukon River.

Trip distance from Skagway to Whitehorse is: 172 kilometers
Trip length: 2-2.75 hours
Cost: $140 for adults, $70 for children

Banff To Calgary On Royal Canadian Experience

Fine dining and canadian rockies views through the alberta prairies.

Fine dining and luxurious accommodations are why people book this trip. On top of that, passengers are rewarded with exceptional views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The Royal Canadian Experience is a charming and delightful trip, starting in Calgary and traversing through the Alberta Prairies. There is an off-train experience that allows travelers to visit historical attractions such as Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump. They can also see Banff and Lake Louise’s cinematic views along the way.

Trip distance from Banff to Calgary : Around 127 kilometers
Trip length : 4 nights, 5 days
Cost: From $14,000 CAD per person ( Approximately $10,360 USD)

16 Beautiful Towns In Alberta That Give Banff A Run For Its Money

Quebec city to la malbaie on the train de charlevoix, stop at beaches, cliffs, and charming villages.

The Train de Charlevoix travels from the old Quebec City to La Malbaie while making several stops. It is a fun journey with opportunities to hike, cycle, and admire picturesque villages. Passengers can enjoy the beach at Saint-Irenee and later get history lessons at Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive, or soak up the beauty of the charming towns and cliffs from the comfort of the train. There are different packages, allowing travelers to choose one they like.

Trip distance from Quebec City to La Malbaie: 125 kilometers
Trip length: Under 4 miles
Cost: From $248

Toronto To Niagara Falls On The Greenbelt Express

Perfect for cyclists to stop at waterfalls and wineries.

Nature lovers and cyclists should take this trip on the Greenbelt Express . It is a seasonal train operating around the Niagara region, designed for those who want to experience nature on a two-wheeler. The train is designed with special bike cars that come with in-built racks. From waterfalls to wineries, there are many sights to visit, and the good thing is that the train makes several stops throughout the entire route, allowing passengers to enjoy many cycling trails.

Trip distance from Toronto to Niagara Falls: 50 kilometers
Cost: Around $399 for two cyclists

All about Ashland Train Day: Virginia town's street festival and railroad extravaganza

ASHLAND, Va. -- Ashland Train Day, a free street festival and railroad extravaganza that celebrates the charming Virginia town's love of all things trains, is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"We want to make the tracks the center of the center of the universe. So we're surrounding the tracks with all of our railroad fun," Louise Keaton, the marketing director for Downtown Ashland Association, said.

For two decades, Ashland has celebrated its love for trains with the festival.

"Our entire downtown was built around these tracks in the 1800s," Keaton said. "We want to celebrate that history by sharing our history, by creating events like Ashland Day, and here at Downtown Ashland Association we're working towards the vitality of our downtown every day."

Downtown Ashland Association Marketing Director Louise Keaton

For the 20th anniversary of Ashland Train Day, visitors can expect to see more vendors, food trucks as well as some special attractions.

"We have railroad history thanks to the National Museum, the Hanover Black Heritage Society and the Haunted History Tours of Ashland," Keaton said. "We of course have Touch a Truck thanks to RCI Builders, so you can get a hands-on experience with your favorite vehicles."

There is a scavenger hunt, model trains for the kids, and new this year, a beer garden for the adults at the Hanover Arts and Activity Center.

"Our 20th anniversary is being celebrated by Amtrak with the Amtrak raffle to two tickets anywhere along the East Coast," Keaton said. "As well as by Sports Page Bar and Grill and Trackside Kitchen and Wine. They are the reason that today is entirely free."

Registration for the Amtrak raffle is now open online. The winner will be announced on Train Day.

"One of the things we're most excited about is Children's Day, thanks to Los Regios. They are bringing the Mexican Children's Day traditions right here to Ashland just like they do every day through their store," Keaton said.

Teresa Lopez de Ocanas, who owns Los Regios said the store just celebrated its second anniversary.

I've been living here since 2010 and I love Train Day," Lopez de Ocanas said. "I love my town and I love to see all the trains. At first, believe me, when I moved here, I was like, 'Oh my God, trains!' You know all the sounds, but you [end up] loving your town that you know is full of trains during the day."

And now her store, in partnership with the YMCA, is hosting the Children's Day Celebration with performances, entertainment and giveaways.

"We have more than 300 toys that we're gonna give away to all the kids that show up that day," she said. "We have a special bag full of candy and some of the information from you know, different stuff here in Ashland."

Street parking is available for Train Day, but there is also parking at three designated areas with free shuttle rides sponsored by Randolph Macon College.

"We also suggest that you go ahead and take the train into Ashland," Keaton encouraged. "So that way you can be dropped off right in the middle of all of the action without having to worry about parking at all."

More than 200 volunteers and first responders help make the free event such a success.

Click here for more information about Ashland Train Day.

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Belgium's Heritage Steam Trains
Belgium by Train
Belgium Cities and Rail Map
A Guide to Traveling Belgium by Train
Ultimate Guide To Taking The Train In Belgium. It's not the biggest of
Belgium's Heritage Steam Trains

VIDEO

Belgium Train Guide

COMMENTS

Adult price 10 train journeys: Standard Multi| SNCB
Home > Standard Multi. Are you over 26 years of age and do you travel often, alone or with others? Take advantage of 10 journeys at a fixed rate all over Belgium. valid throughout the Belgian rail network. money-saving pass: € 102 for 10 single, 2nd class journeys (€ 99 in the app) fancy an upgrade? Available 1st class for € 157 (€154 ...
Several same train journeys: 10 same journey card
Buy a 10 same journey card and pay for 10 single journeys in one transaction*. Save time: no more 10 stops at the ticket office. Determine your route: 10 one-way trips on 1 fixed route that you have chosen. Sharing is allowed (card not nominative): 1 or more travellers with the same card. Enjoy more comfort: buy a 1st class card or choose a ...
SNCB official website
Travel to the South of France in less than 5 hours. Book your tickets for the Summer now! Find your tickets for rail travel in Belgium with our planning tool. Book it online and avoid queueing in stations. It's easy, fast and secure!
The best tips for travelling in Belgium by train
Hello! Welcome to Belgium, Explore our beautiful little country, which has all the benefits of a modern and comfortable rail network. Be sure not to miss out on visiting the cities of Antwerp , Brussels , Liège, Ghent or Maasmechelen Village, all of which are serviced by several trains per hour. Whether you are a tourist for a day or a week ...
Buying and using train tickets & rail passes in Belgium
If you will be making a RETURN trip in Belgium by train between 19:00 on Fridays and midnight on Sundays, you can purchase Weekend Tickets, which give a 50% discount.. Or if you will be in Belgium for an extended period of time and want to explore the country by train, which is highly recommended, then this rail pass can be the best option. For only €83 it provides for 10 train journeys ...
Train card price for under 26 years old: Youth Multi
Buy on the SNCB app. Home > Youth Multi. Whether you are travelling alone or with others, with the Youth Multi, young people under 26 can enjoy 10 train journeys really inexpensively to any destination in Belgium! low-cost, 10-journey pass for € 62 (at the counter or ATM) or € 60 (on the app) valid for 1 year. only in 2nd class (but you can ...
Belgium Train Guide
Don't worry if you don't see your train because they typically only display trains departing within the next 10-20 minutes. Train Delays: Belgium doesn't have the best record of trains being on time so it's common for trains to be 10-15 minutes late. Train Schedule: There are two trains every hour that connect Bruges, Ghent, and Brussels.
Belgium: The right train ticket for your trip
Weekend Ticket. From 7 pm Friday to Sunday evening, a half-price return ticket. The price of this ticket is calculated based on the distance travelled. It is available in 1st and 2nd class for a single and return journey between two Belgian stations in a standard train. Buy now.
Trains in Belgium
Deutsche Bahn. International routes between Belgium and Germany. High speed: up to 186 mph (300 km/h) Deutsche Bahn's high-speed ICE trains (InterCity Express) run between Brussels, Liege, Aachen, Cologne and Frankfurt several times a day. Find out more about Deutsche Bahn trains.
Discover Belgium By Train: All The Info You Need
Bruges, just like all other cities in Belgium, is quite easy to reach by train with lots of direct trains, also from Brussels Airport. From the train station, it's only a 10-minute walk to the city centre where you can see everything on foot. Thus, this is the ideal day trip destination by train!
Belgium Train Tours & Packages
Belgium has more than its fair share of beautiful, historic cities—all within easy reach of London by train. Spend a few nights discovering the many things to do in Brussels, explore the Battlefields in Ypres, or savor delicious Belgian chocolates in Bruges.
Prices of season tickets, passes and train tickets
Be inspired! *Discount only applied to the non-fixed part of the Standard fare. In 2nd class, the fixed amount is € 1,3709, per single journey. In 1st class, it is € 1,7822 (less than 37km) or € 1,9193 (37km - 51km) or € 2,1112 (52km and more) per single journey. The minimum price per single journey is € 2,50 in 2nd and € 3,30 in ...
Belgium By Train
Locally at the train station in Belgium. International trains can be reserved at the train station, the following booking costs are applied: ICE to Germany: € 7. European Sleeper, Eurostar and TGV: € 12. Eurostar trains are popular and therefore, usually sell out quickly. Make sure to get your seat reservation in time.
Your 10 Ride Belgium Rail Pass: Where are the ...
The 10 journey rail pass is good for one year in case you don't use the entire allotment of travel on a single trip to Belgium. Buy the 10 journey train pass upon arrival in Brussels airport. The ticket kiosks should give you the option to purchase a 10 journey ticket but if not, the rail ticket office can complete the transaction.
How to travel by train in Belgium
For only €83 it provides for 10 train journeys anywhere in Belgium in 2nd class, or for an additional €45 you can travel 1st class. So this pass can be used to travel around Belgium on an itinerary, or an individual can use it for five day trips, or it covers five train journeys when two people travel together. 8.
Belgium Train Vacations & Rail Tours
Six all-inclusive expeditions artfully combine travel on local rail lines with small boat cruising experiences to create a vacation to remember. Our various river cruise options in Europe, the famous waterways and 5-star river ships. Introduce our new Spring cruise-only departures and customize for your tastes and budget.
The Best 1 Week In Belgium Itinerary By Train (2024)
If you plan to travel within Belgium by train more than 3 times during your trip, look into Go pass 10 or a Standard Multi-ticket. If you travel during the weekend, check out the weekend train ticket offer. For shorter trips within the region, you can also use regional buses DeLijn in Flanders and TEC in Wallonia.
Travel Europe by train: 10 best week-end trips from Brussels by train
The beauty of Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace, will not disappoint you. With its unique cathedral and the beautiful district of La petite France, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Strasbourg is a great week-end destination. There is a direct train that links Brussels to Strasbourg in 3 hours and 35 minutes. 10. Aachen.
Belgium Rail Passes and Train Tips from Rick Steves
For the most part, you can hop on nearly any Belgian train with just your rail pass in hand. But the fast Eurostar trains that run between Brussels and Amsterdam, Cologne/Dortmund, and Paris do require paid reservations, which cost $25-35 if traveling with a Global Pass. (Point-to-point tickets also cost more on Eurostar trains than other ...
NMBS/SNCB
The Go Pass 10 is the solution for you and your friends under 26. Travel anywhere you want in the country all year round for € 5.20. Discount pass: 10 journeys for young people under 26 for € 52. To any destination in Belgium. Up to 10 people on one Go Pass 10. No restrictions for a year. Attention!
A Perfect 1-Week Belgium Itinerary By Train
DAY 4: BRUSSELS. DAY 5: LEUVEN. DAY 6: HASSELT. DAY 7: MECHELEN. This is a fast-paced week in Belgium, designed to showcase some of its best cities and UNESCO sites. But if you prefer slower travel, simply omit a few of these cities from your itinerary.
14 Fun Day Trips from Brussels by Train
Best Day Trips from Brussels by Train - My top picks. Ghent. Luxembourg and Dinant from Brussels. Antwerp Tour. 1. Ghent. Saint-Nicholas Church and Belfry during Christmas in Ghent. Buy train tickets with Omio. Take the train from Brussels South to Ghent St. Pieters and, for convenience, book tickets in advance.
Best train travel options in the Netherlands and Belgium
You also have to consider that many historic town centers are not "at" the train station, and you may need a bus or a tram to make the best use of time on a daytrip. (Sometimes, like in Antwerp, the walk can be worthwhile, as long as you have enough energy. In the case of Belgium, it's important that Brussels has its own bus/tram tickets and ...
Belgium Rail Map 2024
If you're travelling around Belgium by train, you'll most likely take one of SNCB's Intercity services (IC), which connect the major cities in Belgium. For example, you can get from Brussels to Bruges in 54m, Brussels to Ghent in 28m, Antwerp to Ghent in 56m and Antwerp to Bruges in 1h 25m.. Cross-border routes are served by international high-speed trains such as the Eurostar, DB's Intercity ...
Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary: The Ultimate 14-Day Trip
TRAIN TIME: Amsterdam-Leiden: 35 min ║ Leiden-Rotterdam: 33 min. DRIVE TIME: Amsterdam-Leiden-Rotterdam: 1 hour (80 km/50 miles) Taking the train is an excellent and efficient choice for your Netherlands and Belgium itinerary. We took the train while in the Netherlands and then drove around Belgium with our rental car.
10 Scenic Train Trips Across Canada
Here are 10 scenic train trips across Canada. Related 16 Thrilling Sleeper Train Journeys In Europe To Add To Your Bucket List Sleeper train journeys are the ultimate luxury. Here are 16 thrilling ...
All about Ashland Train Day: Virginia town's street festival and
ASHLAND, Va. -- Ashland Train Day, a free street festival and railroad extravaganza that celebrates the charming Virginia town's love of all things trains, is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. "We ...