Itinerary for 3 day trip to Brussels

Brussels is a fantastic city with so much to offer, and with day trips to Ghent and Antwerp, you’re in for a treat! Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that balances exploration, culture, and a bit of relaxation. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Explore Brussels

Morning:

Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious Belgian breakfast. Try a croissant or a pain au chocolat paired with a rich coffee at a local café like .
: After breakfast, head to the stunning , the heart of Brussels. Marvel at the ornate guildhalls and the Town Hall. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Midday:

: Just a short walk away, visit the famous statue. It’s quirky and a must-see!
Lunch: Grab some traditional Belgian fare at a nearby restaurant. Try some moules-frites (mussels and fries) or a hearty stoofvlees (beef stew).

Afternoon:

: Stroll over to the Royal Palace and take a leisurely walk in the surrounding park. If the palace is open, you can explore its opulent rooms.
: If you’re into art, the is a fantastic stop to see the works of the surrealist artist René Magritte.

Evening:

Dinner in the Sablon District: Head to the Sablon area for dinner. There are plenty of cozy restaurants. Try some Belgian waffles for dessert!
Evening Stroll: Take a leisurely evening stroll through the illuminated streets of Brussels, perhaps stopping by the beautiful .

Day 2: Day Trip to Ghent

Morning:

Train to Ghent: After breakfast, catch a train from Brussels to Ghent (about 30 minutes). The trains are frequent and comfortable.
: Start your Ghent adventure at the . Explore the medieval architecture and enjoy the views from the top.

Midday:

Lunch at a Local Eatery: Try some local specialties at a café near the castle. You can’t go wrong with a hearty Flemish stew or a fresh salad.

Afternoon:

: Visit this stunning cathedral to see the famous altarpiece, "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb." The artwork is breathtaking!
Walk Along the : Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque canals. The views are postcard-perfect!

Evening:

Dinner in Ghent: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along the canals. Try some local beer to wash it down!
Return to Brussels: After dinner, take the train back to Brussels and relax at your accommodation.

Day 3: Day Trip to Antwerp

Morning:

Train to Antwerp: After breakfast, hop on a train to Antwerp (about 45 minutes). The journey is quick and easy!
: Start your day in Antwerp by visiting this magnificent cathedral, home to several works by the artist Rubens.

Midday:

Lunch in the Old Town: Explore the Old Town and grab lunch at a local bistro. Try a delicious Antwerp hand-cut fries with a variety of sauces!

Afternoon:

or : Depending on your interests, you can either visit the (one of the oldest zoos in the world) or head to the MAS for a mix of history, culture, and stunning views from the rooftop.
: If you’re interested in diamonds, take a stroll through the and learn about Antwerp’s rich history in the diamond trade.

Evening:

Dinner in Antwerp: Enjoy your last dinner in Belgium at a trendy restaurant in the city. Don’t forget to try some local beers or a Belgian chocolate dessert!
Return to Brussels: After dinner, take the train back to Brussels. If you have time, you might want to enjoy a nightcap at a local bar.

Tips:

Transportation: The train system in Belgium is efficient, so make sure to check the schedules in advance.
Walking: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
Local Delicacies: Don’t miss out on trying Belgian chocolates and beers throughout your trip!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 3 days in Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp! Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✨