The BEST 1 Week In Belgium Itinerary (By Train!)

Overview: 1-week 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: Optional Day trip to Namur and Dinant
• DAY 3: Day trip to Leuven
• DAY 4: Visit 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. 

DAY 1: DISCOVER 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.

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.

🍺🪅 Hungry Mary’s Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour is the most popular tour in Brussels and it regularly sells out, so do NOT wait!

Where to stay in Brussels

You’ll stay in Brussels for 3 days, and I suggest staying in the city center. Most attractions are located in the city center, as is the train station from where you will go on day trips. 

• TOP Pick: Pillows City Hotel
• Best Mid-Range Option: Urban Yard
• Best Hostel: Latroupe Grand Place

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. 

As you have a week in Belgium, you have enough time to go off the beaten track and visit the south of the country!

This day trip idea is optional, and you could also spend 2 days in Brussels exploring at a slower pace.

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 Namur combined.

Don’t feel like figuring out trains on your own? This Dinant and Cave of Han Guided Full-Day Tour is a fantastic way to explore this underrated places in the south of the country!

DAY 3: DAY TRIP TO LEUVEN

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

A day trip to Leuven is a fantastic idea as 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: EXPLORE ANTWERP

Next on our itinerary is one day in 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!

1. Go on a free walking tour

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.

🌤️ 🚲 Discover Antwerp like a local on this TOP rated Antwer guided bike tour. Cycling in Belgium is truly one of the most iconic ways to explore the city.

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?

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.

• TOP Pick: Hotel ‘T Sandt
• Best Mid-Range Option: Motel One Antwerp
• Best Hostel: Yust Antwerp

DAY 5: DAY IN 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.

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

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.

You can get a ticket and explore the interior or just 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 one of your shoes to prove that you will return the unique beer glass. Enjoy!

Good to know: 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?

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

• TOP Pick: Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel
• Best Mid-Range Option: B&B HOTEL Gent Centrum
• Best Hostel: Hostel Uppelink

DAY 6: WANDER 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!

🛶 Experience Bruges away from the crowds on the iconic Bruges canal boat tour!

Where to stay in Bruges?

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

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

• TOP Pick: Dukes’ Academie Brugge
• Best Mid-Range Hostel: The White Queen B&B
• Best Hostel: St. Christophers Inn – Bauhaus Hostel

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 least-visited of the two Belgian regions. None of the places in the south is as popular as Ghent or Antwerp, so it is the perfect opportunity to escape the crowds.

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

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

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. 

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.

Durbuy

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. 

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 trains in Liege. That makes for a perfect stopover in Liege to discover this eastern Belgian city. 

Best time to visit Belgium

The best time to visit Belgium is during the warmer months, when the weather is the most predictable.

Late spring and early autumn are my favorite times to explore the country.

Summer in Belgium is also a great time to visit, but like the rest of the continent, it can get very busy.

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

How to get to Belgium

Belgium is easy to reach from all over the world.

There are two airports, one about 15 minutes from Brussels and the other about an hour from Brussels in Charleroi.

Getting around Belgium

The best way to get around Belgium is by train, but there’s also a bus.

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.  

How Much Does A Week In Belgium Cost

You should budget anywhere from 70-120€ per day for visiting Belgium on a budget. 

The price will depend on whether you’re traveling solo or sharing accommodation costs, as that would be your highest expense.

Restaurants and meals outside will be around €15, while coffee and cakes are around €5 to €7 each.

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

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

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 theft 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.