Belgium-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Belgium

Day 1: Arrival in Brussels

Arrive in Brussels

  • Arrive at Brussels Airport (BRU)
  • Take a taxi or train (around €10-15) to your accommodation in the city center
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up

Explore Grand Place

  • Visit the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the town hall and guildhalls
  • Grab a waffle or chocolate at one of the many cafes in the area

Things to Know:

  • Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, so no visa required for most nationalities (check with your embassy if unsure)
  • Euro is the local currency; credit cards are widely accepted
  • Try some Belgian beer and fries - a classic combo!

Day 2: Brussels

Visit Atomium and Mini-Europe

  • Take a funicular ride to the top of the Atomium, offering panoramic views of the city
  • Explore Mini-Europe, a miniature model park featuring iconic landmarks from around Europe

Visit Magritte Museum

  • Discover the quirky world of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte at his eponymous museum
  • Learn about the life and work of this fascinating artist

Transportation:

  • Buy a Brussels Card for free public transportation, discounts on attractions, and more (around €24 per person)
  • Use the efficient metro or bus network to get around the city

Day 3: Bruges

Travel to Bruges

  • Take a train from Brussels South station to Bruges Central station (around €20-30 return)
  • Walk through the picturesque streets of Bruges, admiring its well-preserved medieval architecture

Visit Belfry Tower and Market Square

  • Climb the Belfry Tower for breathtaking views of the city
  • Explore the lively Market Square, featuring the iconic Belfry, Basilica of the Holy Blood, and more

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and touristy areas in Bruges; consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October)
  • Try some Belgian waffles or chocolate again - you won’t regret it!

Day 4: Ghent

Travel to Ghent

  • Take a train from Brussels South station to Ghent Saint-Pierre station (around €20-30 return)
  • Discover the charming city of Ghent, known for its medieval architecture and scenic canals

Visit Gravensteen Castle and Patershol District

  • Explore the impressive Gravensteen Castle, featuring stunning gardens and a museum
  • Wander through the picturesque Patershol district, with its cobblestone streets and quaint shops

Transportation:

  • Use the efficient tram network to get around Ghent (around €2 per ride)
  • Consider renting a bike for a fun and scenic ride along the canals

Day 5: Return to Brussels

Visit Manneken Pis and surrounding areas

  • Visit the famous statue of Manneken Pis, a iconic symbol of Brussels
  • Explore the charming streets and shops around the statue, featuring local artisans and boutiques

Departure from Brussels

  • Spend some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or chocolates (you know you want to!)
  • Head back to the airport or your onward destination

Transportation:

  • Use public transportation (metro or bus) to get to the airport or your accommodation
  • Consider purchasing a Belgium-wide train ticket for easy travel between cities (around €50-100 per person)

Additional Tips and Recommendations:

  • Try some delicious Belgian cuisine, such as moules-frites (mussels with fries), waterzooi (a thick fish stew), or waffles with whipped cream
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife in Brussels, featuring bars, clubs, and live music venues
  • Visit the beautiful countryside of Belgium, featuring rolling hills, scenic valleys, and picturesque villages

Budget Breakdown:

  • Accommodation: around €60-100 per night (€300-500 for 5 nights)
  • Food and drink: around €30-50 per meal; budget around €150-250 for snacks and meals
  • Transportation: around €20-30 return for train tickets between cities; €2 per ride for public transportation

Total Budget: Around €800-1,200 per person (depending on accommodation choices and personal spending habits)