Day Trips From Brussels

For these day trips to nearby cities from Brussels, we recommend spending the night in Brussels and taking day trips. The travel times are short, one day is enough for each visit, and hotel prices in these cities tend to be higher than in Brussels.

Brussels is a fascinating city, with its Grand Place and the irresistible smell of freshly made waffles. But one of its biggest advantages is, without a doubt, its strategic location. If you're spending several days in the Belgian capital, don't stop at just seeing the Manneken Pis. Belgium is small and extremely well-connected, making it easy to discover stunning medieval towns or even hop over to neighboring countries in no time.

Here are the best day trips from Brussels to make your trip unforgettable. From the romantic canals of Bruges to the modern vibe of Amsterdam, there's something for everyone.

1. Bruges

If you only have time for one getaway, Bruges is the top choice. For many, it’s the most beautiful city in Belgium. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walking through its streets feels like stepping back into the 13th century.

From Brussels, there are several ways to get there, but the easiest is to join an organized tour. Once you arrive, you'll find the Grote Markt, the main square, dominated by the impressive Belfry of Bruges. Climbing its 366 steps is well worth it for the views. Another must-see is the Minnewater, a postcard-perfect spot.

If you want to learn all the historical details about the city without worrying about transportation, you can book this day trip to Bruges from Brussels. It's the best way to make sure you don't miss a thing, from the Rosario Pier to the Basilica of the Holy Blood. 

2. Ghent

Often overshadowed by Bruges, Ghent is, for many, the true gem of Flanders. It has a lively university atmosphere and stunning Gothic architecture. The Graslei and Korenlei piers are the most beautiful spots in the city, especially at sunset, when the buildings reflect on the water.

Don’t miss the Gravensteen or the famous Ghent Altarpiece inside Saint Bavo's Cathedral. If you want to discover all the city's attractions with a guide, you can book this day trip to Ghent from Brussels.

If you prefer, since the two cities are close to each other, one of the most popular options is to combine both visits into a single day. Click this link to see all the details about the day trip to Bruges and Ghent—perfect if you're short on time but don’t want to miss out on anything.

3. Amsterdam

Did you know you can visit Amsterdam from Brussels in just one day? Despite being in a different country, it's perfectly doable for a packed day trip. Amsterdam welcomes you with its canals, narrow houses, and endless cultural offerings.

On this day trip to Amsterdam, you’ll have the chance to see Dam Square, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, and stroll through the picturesque Jordaan district. It's a city made for wandering on foot or by bike. Just keep in mind that the trip is a bit longer than to Belgian cities, so having everything planned out will save you a lot of stress during the trip. Here are the details of the day trip to Amsterdam from Brussels.

4. Antwerp

Antwerp is Belgium's second-largest city and the world capital of diamonds. Beyond its commercial side, it's an incredibly elegant destination. Its train station, Antwerpen-Centraal, is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

As you explore the historic center, you'll reach the Grote Markt Antwerp and the Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp, home to masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens. It's a city that blends the old and the new in a very natural way. You can discover its history and legends on this day trip to Antwerp.

5. Luxembourg & Dinant

This is one of our favorite day trips, as it takes you across another border. Dinant is one of the most photogenic towns in Belgium, nestled between a giant cliff and the Meuse River. It's also the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone.

The journey continues to Luxembourg. Its capital is a city with a unique landscape, filled with valleys, bridges, and historic fortifications like the Bock Casemates. It's a very complete day trip for those who want to make the most of their holiday. You can book your spot for the day trip to Luxembourg and Dinant here.

6. Leuven & Mechelen

If you're looking for something quieter and less crowded, Leuven is your city. It's famous for being the home of one of Europe's oldest universities, and its Town Hall is a masterpiece of Flamboyant Gothic architecture. What's more, the Stella Artois brewery is located here, so you can feel the beer culture in every corner.

Mechelen, on the other hand, is small but full of charm, known for its carillons and beguinage. These two cities are often combined into one itinerary for a deeper look into Flanders.

Tips for Your Day Trips From Brussels

To make sure your day trips from Brussels go smoothly, here are a few tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be walking on cobblestone streets in most of these cities. Your feet will thank you for wearing a good pair of sneakers. 
• Be ready for the Belgian weather: Belgian weather is unpredictable. Although it may be sunny in the morning, it's best to bring a small umbrella or rain jacket just in case.
• Dining times: People in Belgium eat dinner early. If you're on your own, keep this in mind so you don't find the kitchens closed by 9 pm.
• Book ahead: Popular day trips like Bruges and Ghent fill up quickly, especially in high season. We recommend booking in advance to ensure your spot.