In this travel blog, let’s explore the top day trips from Brussels, including all the practical information and hidden gems. Brussels is more than just the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union. With its cobbled alleys, grand guildhalls of the Grand Place, and mouthwatering waffles, Brussels is an absolute delight—but beyond the city limits, Belgium unfolds into a stunning collage of medieval towns, storybook villages, and verdant countryside.
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Best Day Trips from Brussels by Train – Things To Do near Brussels, Belgium – Places to Visit near Brussels
If you’ve ticked off the iconic Atomium and sampled your fair share of beer and chocolate, it’s time to explore the beautiful places near Brussels. Whether you’re looking for day trips from Brussels by train, by car, or as part of a guided tour, there are plenty of options to make your Belgium itinerary unforgettable.
Bruges – The Venice of the North
Bruges is arguably Belgium’s most enchanting city. With winding canals, gingerbread-style houses, horse-drawn carriages, and cobbled lanes, Bruges feels like a painting come to life. This UNESCO World Heritage city is known as the Venice of the North, and rightfully so—it’s one of the best Brussels day trips for lovers of fairytale architecture and slow travel.
Things to Do in Bruges, Belgium
- Start with the Markt, the city’s bustling heart flanked by medieval guildhalls and the towering Belfry of Bruges.
- Climb the 366 steps for sweeping views of the city.
- Then, stroll through the canals, visit the serene Beguinage, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride through the waterways.
- Don’t miss the Groeningemuseum for Flemish art or a visit to De Halve Maan Brewery for some authentic Brugse Zot beer.
- And, of course, indulge in some world-class Belgian chocolate from The Chocolate Line.
How to Reach & Distance – Bruges is only 100 km from Brussels and easily reachable by train. Direct trains depart from Brussels Central Station every 30 minutes; the journey takes about 1 hour.
Overnight Stay – If you decide to stay the night, book a cozy room at Hotel Jan Brito, a charming mid-budget hotel in a 16th-century mansion steps from the city center.
Tours to Book
- Bruges Day Trip from Brussels with Guided Walking Tour
- Boat Tour through the Canals of Bruges
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Ghent – Where Medieval Meets Modern
Ghent is one of Belgium’s most fascinating cities, yet it still flies under the radar for many tourists. It blends medieval architecture with vibrant contemporary culture, offering a little bit of everything—castles, cathedrals, canals, art, and nightlife. Unlike Bruges, which is touristy and quaint, Ghent feels more lived-in, youthful, and authentic. It’s one of the most rewarding Brussels day trips, especially if you love cities that surprise you around every corner.
Things to Do
- Start at Gravensteen Castle, a real-life fortress in the city.
- Walk along Korenlei and Graslei, two picturesque streets lining the canal.
- Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral to admire the world-famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” painting.
- Grab a coffee in Patershol, the city’s oldest and trendiest neighborhood.
- For a modern twist, admire the graffiti-filled Werregarenstraat alley.
How to Reach & Distance – Ghent is just 55 km away. Trains from Brussels to Ghent take 30–40 minutes and run frequently throughout the day.
Overnight Stay – Book a stay at Hotel Gravensteen, located right next to the castle, with canal views and a historic flair at mid-budget prices.
Tours to Book
- Combo Day Trip: Ghent and Bruges from Brussels
- Gravensteen Castle Audio Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry
Leuven – Belgium’s University Gem
Leuven is one of the most underrated places to visit near Brussels. Home to KU Leuven, one of the oldest universities in the world, this youthful city overflows with energy, beer culture, and architectural beauty. It’s less touristy than Bruges and Ghent but equally fascinating.
Things to Do
- Explore the Old Market Square (Oude Markt), known as the “longest bar in the world” for its rows of pubs.
- Admire the ornate Leuven Town Hall, a Gothic masterpiece.
- Visit the M-Museum Leuven and the University Library.
- And don’t leave without touring the Stella Artois Brewery, where Belgium’s most famous beer is brewed.
How to Reach & Distance – Leuven is only 25 km from Brussels. Trains take about 20 minutes, making this a perfect half-day or full-day excursion.
Overnight Stay – Book your Stay at Martin’s Klooster, a beautifully restored former monastery offering mid-range prices and a peaceful setting.
Tours to Book
- Stella Artois Brewery Guided Tour
- Leuven Private Walking Tour with Local Guide
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Dinant – The Cliffside Beauty of the Meuse Valley
Nestled along the Meuse River with dramatic cliffs rising behind it, Dinant is one of the most scenic things to do near Brussels for nature lovers and history buffs alike. It’s the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the saxophone inventor, and offers a postcard-perfect blend of nature, history, and charm.
Things to Do
- Take the cable car to the Citadel of Dinant to enjoy sweeping river views.
- Visit the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, with its unique onion-shaped dome.
- Explore the Maison de Monsieur Sax and enjoy a peaceful river cruise.
- For adventure seekers, kayaking on the Lesse River or hiking in the Ardennes forest is a must.
How to Reach & Distance – Dinant is around 95 km from Brussels. A train ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours with a transfer at Namur.
Overnight Stay – Try to book at La Merveilleuse by Infiniti Resorts, which is a cliffside hotel with panoramic Meuse River views.
Tours to Book
- Dinant & Citadel Guided Day Trip from Brussels
- Lesse River Kayaking Adventure Package
Antwerp – Art, Diamonds, and Culture
Antwerp is a lively port city packed with fashion, history, art, and a dash of cool. It’s known for being the world’s diamond capital and home to the famous Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. As one of the top day trips from Brussels, it offers an urban alternative to Belgium’s medieval towns.
Things to Do
- Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, which houses Rubens’ famous paintings.
- Discover the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) for panoramic views and exhibitions on Antwerp’s maritime history.
- Stroll the diamond district, shop in the Meir, and enjoy lunch at a riverside café.
- Don’t forget to pop into Rubenshuis, the artist’s former residence and studio.
How to Reach & Distance – About 45 km north of Brussels, Antwerp is just 40 minutes by train. Trains are frequent and direct from Brussels Central Station.
Overnight Stay – Book your stay at Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt, a comfortable and well-located hotel near the city’s cathedral.
Tours to Book
- Antwerp Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Diamond District and Museum Tour
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Mechelen – Hidden Gem Between Brussels and Antwerp
Mechelen is a small yet stunning city, often skipped by tourists, making it one of the best off-the-beaten-path day trips from Brussels. The city boasts a rich history, towering cathedrals, and family-friendly attractions like the Technopolis Science Center.
Things to Do
- Climb St. Rumbold’s Tower for sweeping views of the city.
- Visit the Kazerne Dossin Museum, which offers insight into WWII and the Holocaust.
- Stroll through the car-free historic center and enjoy a Belgian beer at Het Anker Brewery.
How to Reach & Distance – Only 25 km from Brussels, Mechelen is just 20–25 minutes away by train, making it a super easy trip.
Overnight Stay – Check in at Martin’s Patershof, a converted church-turned-hotel that offers a magical stay in the mid-budget range.
Tours to Book
- Private Mechelen History Tour
- Het Anker Brewery Tasting Tour
Valuable Tips – Brussels Day Trips
- Train is King: Belgium’s fast and reliable rail network makes most cities easily reachable. Use the SNCB/NMBS website or app to check train schedules and buy tickets.
- Use a Rail Pass: If you plan multiple trips, consider the Belgian Rail Pass for unlimited travel within a set period.
- Start Early: Many cities are best enjoyed in daylight, especially towns like Dinant or Bruges. Aim to take the first train out for a fuller experience.
- Weather Consideration: Always carry a light rain jacket. Belgian weather can change quickly, even in summer.
- Language: In northern destinations like Bruges and Ghent, Dutch (Flemish) is spoken, while in southern places like Dinant, French is dominant. Most people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Whether you’re captivated by medieval towers or riverside castles, beer tastings, or art galleries, there’s no shortage of things to do near Brussels. These beautiful and enriching Brussels day trips will give you unique glimpses into the soul of Belgium and are perfect for those wanting to go beyond the tourist trail.
Pack your camera, grab a train schedule, and get ready to fall in love with the Belgian countryside and culture—one day trip at a time.
Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro
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