Belgium is a small country that is packed with interesting cities and attractions that are easy to reach by car or train. The capital of Belgium, Brussels, is a great starting point for exploring the rest of the country. In this article, we will cover the 9 best day trips from Brussels that are worth visiting.
1. Introduction
Brussels is a beautiful city with many things to see and do, but it is also an excellent base for exploring other parts of Belgium. The country is relatively small, so many of its cities and attractions are within easy reach of Brussels, making it the perfect place for day trips. In this article, we will explore some of the best day trips you can take from Brussels.
2. Bruges
Bruges is a picturesque city that is often called the Venice of the North. It is famous for its canals, beautiful medieval buildings, and delicious chocolate. Bruges is located just a short train ride away from Brussels and is a popular day trip destination. When in Bruges, make sure to take a boat tour on the canals, visit the famous chocolate shops, and climb the Belfry tower for a beautiful view of the city.
3. Ghent
Ghent is another beautiful city that is located just a short train ride away from Brussels. It is a charming city with beautiful canals, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere. When in Ghent, make sure to visit the Gravensteen castle, stroll along the canals, and explore the local markets.
4. Antwerp
Antwerp is a bustling city that is famous for its fashion, diamonds, and art. It is located about an hour away from Brussels by train and is a great place to visit for a day trip. When in Antwerp, make sure to visit the Rubens House, the Cathedral of Our Lady, and the fashion district.
5. Mechelen
Mechelen is a historic city that is located between Brussels and Antwerp. It is often overlooked by tourists, but it is a great place to visit for a day trip. Mechelen has a beautiful old town, a vibrant cultural scene, and many interesting museums. When in Mechelen, make sure to visit the St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, the Toy Museum, and the Hof van Busleyden museum.
6. Leuven
Leuven is a lively university town that is located just a short train ride away from Brussels. It is famous for its beautiful Gothic town hall, its beer culture, and its vibrant nightlife. When in Leuven, make sure to visit the Stella Artois brewery, the Gothic town hall, and the M-Museum.
7. Waterloo
Waterloo is a small town that is located just south of Brussels. It is famous for the Battle of Waterloo, which took place there in 1815. When in Waterloo, make sure to visit the Waterloo battlefield, the Wellington Museum, and the Lion’s Mound.
8. Ypres
Ypres is a historic city that is located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is famous for its role in World War I and has many interesting museums and monuments that commemorate the war. When in Ypres, make sure to visit the In Flanders Fields Museum, the Menin Gate Memorial, and the Cloth Hall.
9. Mons
Mons is a city in the French-speaking region of Belgium that is steeped in history and culture. It is located about an hour away from Brussels by train and is a great place to visit for a day trip. Mons is famous for its UNESCO-listed belfry, its Gothic St. Waltrude’s Church, and its lively pedestrian streets. When in Mons, make sure to visit the Grand Place, the Belfry, and the Mons Memorial Museum.
10. Dinant
Dinant is a charming city that is located in the French-speaking region of Belgium, about an hour and a half away from Brussels by train. It is situated on the banks of the Meuse River and is famous for its imposing Citadel, its Gothic Collegiate Church, and its beautiful riverside scenery. When in Dinant, make sure to visit the Citadel, the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, and take a boat tour on the Meuse River.
Conclusion
Belgium is a small country that is packed with interesting cities and attractions that are easy to reach from Brussels. In this article, we covered the 9 best day trips from Brussels that are worth visiting, including Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Mechelen, Leuven, Waterloo, Ypres, Mons, and Dinant. Each of these cities has its own unique charm and attractions, so make sure to add them to your itinerary the next time you visit Brussels.
FAQs
- How long does it take to travel from Brussels to Bruges by train?
- It takes about an hour by train to travel from Brussels to Bruges.
- Are there any guided day tours from Brussels to these cities?
- Yes, there are many guided day tours available from Brussels to these cities.
- Which city is the best for shopping?
- Antwerp is famous for its fashion and is the best city for shopping.
- Which city is best for beer lovers?
- Leuven is a university town and is famous for its beer culture.
- Can I visit more than one city in a day trip from Brussels?
- It is possible to visit more than one city in a day trip from Brussels, but it is recommended to focus on one city to fully experience its attractions.
