Located in the heart of Belgium, Brussels is the ideal starting point for exploring the country by train. In less than two hours, the Belgian railway network allows you to discover the medieval treasures of Flanders in the north, as cities such as Bruges and Antwerp immerse you in their iconic landmarks. In the south, Wallonia will seduce you with its natural beauty and hilltop citadels. Here are a few day trips from Brussels that will give you a great overview of what Belgium has to offer, and perhaps, a deeper understanding of this often underrated country.
Brugge — where can I go on a day trip from Brussels by train?
Nicknamed the Venice of the North, Bruges is a true medieval gem and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This romantic city in Flemish Belgium enchants visitors with its picturesque canals, cobbled streets and characteristic gabled houses. Its remarkably well-preserved historic centre bears witness to its commercial heyday from the 13th to the 15th centuries, and is now an open-air museum where Gothic architecture rubs shoulders with a gastronomic culture renowned for its chocolates, craft beers and culinary delights.
- Start with a guided tour of the Grand Place and climb the 366 steps of the famous Belfry for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
- Take a canal cruise to discover the city from a unique perspective and admire the most beautiful views.
- Explore the Beguinage, an oasis of white cottages, before strolling through the romantic Minnewater Park.
- Visit the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo’s Madonna, then take time to wander the medieval streets and shop in the Steenstraat.
- End your day on the Quai du Rosaire (Rozenhoedkaai), Bruges’ most famous photo spot, before enjoying an authentic Belgian waffle or handmade pralines in one of the many chocolate shops.
Travel time from Brussels: 1 hour
Antwerp
Europe’s second largest port, Antwerp is a dynamic metropolis where history and modernity meet in perfect harmony. The diamond capital of the world boasts remarkable Art nouveau architecture, its dramatic train station and its bold contemporary buildings. Combining a rich cultural heritage, avant-garde fashion and innovative gastronomy, Antwerp offers a unique urban experience.
- Start at the majestic Central Station, nicknamed the Railway Cathedral, then stroll along the De Meir shopping street to the Grand Place.
- Visit the Cathedral of Notre-Dame and admire the Rubens masterpieces on display.
- Take some time to explore the diamond district and its glittering shops.
- Climb to the top of the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and harbour.
- End the day in the trendy South (Het Zuid) district with its contemporary art galleries and restaurants.
Travel time from Brussels: 50 minutes
Rotterdam — day tours from Brussels to the Netherlands
Netherlands Europe’s largest port city, Rotterdam is a laboratory of modern architecture and urban innovation. Almost completely rebuilt after the Second World War, it stands out from Amsterdam for its architectural audacity and avant-garde spirit. Between its futuristic skyscrapers, now-iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural scene, Rotterdam offers a unique urban experience that makes it a must-see destination.
- Visit the Markthal, an impressive indoor market with a vaulted ceiling adorned with the largest work of art in the Netherlands.
- Explore the famous Kijk-Kubus, an architectural masterpiece where you can visit a model apartment.
- Climb the Euromast, a 185-metre observation tower with a spectacular panoramic view of the city and its harbour.
- Take a cruise around the port, the largest in Europe, to admire the monumental port facilities.
- Finish this excursion to Rotterdam with a visit to the historic district of Delfshaven, miraculously preserved from bombing, with its charming traditional houses and typical cafés.
Travel time from Brussels: 1 hour 10 minutes
Dinant — what is the best day trip from Brussels?
Situated on the banks of the Meuse River, Dinant is a medieval jewel of Wallonia, with a spectacular natural setting. This historic town, dominated by its majestic citadel and limestone cliffs, offers a unique blend of history, culture and gastronomy.
- Visit the Citadel by taking the historic cable car, the oldest in Belgium, for a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley
- Explore the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, a Gothic masterpiece with its characteristic bulbous bell tower
- Find a restaurant to taste moule-frites and indulge in people watching
- Take a boat trip on the Meuse to admire the steep cliffs and the famous Rocher Bayard
- Discover the home of Monsieur Sax and the giant saxophones on the Charles de Gaulle Bridge
- Finish with a tasting of the local beer at Leffe Abbey, followed by a gourmet break to sample the traditional Dinant cakes.
Travel time from Brussels: 1 hour 50 minutes
Oostkerke
Nestled in the heart of the Flemish countryside, Oostkerke is a true jewel of Belgian heritage. This picturesque village of 600 inhabitants, crowned the most beautiful village in West Flanders, enchants visitors with its whitewashed houses, peaceful canals and unspoilt atmosphere. With its medieval architecture and bucolic landscapes, Oostkerke offers a timeless escape.
- Start with a visit to the majestic Oostkerke Castle, which bears witness to the village’s medieval history with its moat and remarkable architecture
- Explore the historic wheat mill perched on its ramparts, an emblematic symbol of local heritage
- Stroll through the village centre to admire the traditional houses and the Church of Saint Quentin
- Take a peaceful stroll along the canals that border the village
- End your day with a gourmet break at one of the local farms to sample regional specialities
Travel time from Brussels: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ostend
Ostend, Belgium’s leading seaside resort, combines the charm of a historic coastal city with the modern pleasures of a dynamic maritime destination. Located on the shores of the North Sea, this iconic port city offers a unique blend of Belle Epoque architectural heritage, vibrant maritime culture and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Easily accessible from Brussels, Ostend is the perfect getaway for a day that alternates between sea and city.
- Start with an invigorating stroll along the Albert I Promenade, lined with beautiful Belle Epoque villas, and enjoy the fine sandy beach for a moment of relaxation by the sea
- Visit the museum ship Mercator, a former Belgian naval training ship, to discover the city’s fascinating maritime history
- Take a boat trip in the harbour to admire the coast from a different angle and watch the ballet of the fishing boats
- End your day in the Japanese Garden Park before enjoying a seafood meal in one of the famous restaurants on the seafront
Travel time from Brussels: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lille, France
Located in northern France near the Belgian border, Lille is a charming city that perfectly blends French sophistication with Flemish influence. As France’s fourth-largest urban area, this cultural hub boasts impressive Baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects its rich trading history.
- Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, France’s second-largest art museum after the Louvre and Lille’s most iconic landmark, housing an impressive collection of European masterpieces
- Explore the historic Vieux-Lille’s main sights (Old Town) and the iconic Grand Place, featuring stunning Flemish architecture
- Sample local delicacies at Meert, a historic patisserie famous for its vanilla-filled waffles, or try the local specialty “Le Merveilleux”
- End your day at the Citadelle, a star-shaped 17th-century fortress designed by Vauban, surrounded by a peaceful park
Travel time from Brussels: 35 minutes
