Planning a trip to Brussels, Belgium, and looking to explore beyond the city? Whether you prefer the freedom of a car or the ease of train travel, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Brussels just a short ride away.
From fairytale towns and historic cities to scenic countryside escapes, I’ve asked my travel blogger friends about their favorite places, and together we collected a list of the best day trips from Brussels for you!
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Best Day Trips from Brussels at a Glance
Day Trips from Brussels Within Belgium
Bruges
Recommended by Stephanie from Bey of Travel.
If you’re planning a day trip to Bruges from Brussels, you’re going to love it! I fell in love with Bruges as soon as I stepped foot into the Old Town. Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is one of those cities in Belgium that instantly transports you back in time with its cobblestone streets, charming canals, and medieval buildings.
The train from Brussels to Bruges only takes about an hour, so it’s super easy to get there for a quick escape. Here’s what I recommend to maximize your time in Bruges. Start at the Markt, the main square. The Belfry of Bruges is the highlight here, and trust me, climbing all those steps to the top is completely worth it for the incredible views of the city.
A canal boat tour is a must-do. It’s such a peaceful way to soak in the beauty of Bruges and see the city from a whole new perspective.
Make sure to try some local food! I went for Flemish stew with fries (so good), and of course, I couldn’t leave without sampling some Belgian chocolate from one of the artisan shops. Stop by the Basilica of the Holy Blood. It’s a small but stunning church, and the relic inside adds a fascinating historical touch.
Bruges is like stepping into a fairytale. Whether you’re exploring the historic landmarks or just relaxing in a cozy café by the canal, there’s something magical about this city. Even in just a day, it’s a place that will leave you completely enchanted!
Antwerp
Recommended by Kris from Travel The World With My Kiddies.
Just a 40-minute train ride from Brussels lies Antwerp, known as the “Koekenstad” (City of Biscuits) and the largest city in the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium. If you take the intercity train from Brussels North, Central, or South station, you’ll arrive at Antwerp Central Station.
While the station’s surrounding area has undergone major revitalization in recent years, it’s not my favorite part of the city. Still, it’s worth making a quick stop at Chocolate Nation, and don’t miss the delicious ice cream just to the right. After that, it’s best to head straight down the Meir, Antwerp’s main shopping street. At the end of the Meir, you’ll find yourself in the historic heart of the city.
Looking for a lively area for a drink or a great meal? Head toward the KMSKA (Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp). If you’re an art lover, this is a must-visit. Some of my favorite restaurants are located around Marnix Square and along the Vlaamse and Waalse Kaai. Two personal recommendations: Fiskebar for top-notch seafood and Takumi Ramen for authentic Japanese flavors.
One of Antwerp’s greatest hidden treasures is its waterfront along the Scheldt River. For a different view of the city, take the pedestrian tunnel at Sint-Jansvliet to reach the opposite riverbank. A bit further north, you’ll find the MAS museum. Even if you don’t visit the exhibitions, the rooftop is free and offers a spectacular 360° view over the city.
Insider tip: If you’re looking for a special activity, book a tour of the Ruien, Antwerp’s underground historic sewers. This network of hidden waterways is now open to the public and offers a great way to learn about the city’s history. Be sure to book in advance, as spots are limited!
Dinant
Recommended by Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew.
Looking for the perfect day trip from Brussels? I found Dinant to be an absolute gem. This picture-perfect town in the Ardennes, just 95 kilometers away (about a 1.5-hour drive), blew me away with its dramatic cliffside setting along the Meuse River, rich history, and stunning scenery.
Dinant is full of surprises! Its striking landmarks, like the 13th-century Collegiate Church of Notre Dame and the Citadel towering above the town, are must-sees. I also loved learning that it’s the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone. Music is everywhere here!
And of course, I couldn’t leave without trying “couques de Dinant,” the town’s famous honey biscuit—it’s super hard but packed with flavor.
I took the train to Dinant and was able to explore at my own pace, but you could also drive from Brussels (it’s about 1.5 hours) for a stress-free and scenic ride. If you’d rather not plan, there are guided tours that make everything easy and informative.
My Tips for You
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in the summer.
- Don’t miss the cable car or the 400-step climb to the Citadel—the views are breathtaking!
- Stop by Maison Leffe for a beer-tasting session—it’s a great end to the day.
Dinant is a magical mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, and I couldn’t recommend it more for a day trip. It’s waiting for you to explore!
Forest of Hallerbos
Recommended by Kristy from Tassie Devil Abroad.
If you’re looking to do something nature-y, then the forest of Hallerbos makes for a delightful day trip from Brussels. This forest is located about a 40-minute drive from Brussels, although you can also reach it via public transport.
There are lots of hiking and biking trails through the forest, but I definitely recommend trying to time your visit for spring so that you may also be treated to one of the most special sights in Hallerbos: the blooming of the bluebells! This is when the forest floor becomes carpeted in purple flowers, looking like something out of a fairytale.
Of course, this blooming period can’t ever be predicted exactly, but if you’re in Brussels around the end of April, then you can check out the official website, which provides regular updates on when the bluebells are at their best.
The easiest way to visit Hallerbos is by car, as there are several car parks spread throughout the forest. You can also catch a train from Brussels to Halle within about 20 minutes, and then catch a bus into the forest, or hire a bike from the Halle station to cycle.
Be aware that there aren’t any shops or restaurants or anything like that in the forest, although there are picnic benches if you want to bring your own picnic.
Mons
Recommended by Natalie from Travel More With Nat.
Just 40 minutes by train from Brussels – or a 45-minute Flibco bus journey from Charleroi airport – is the vibrant Belgian city of Mons.
This former European Capital of Culture offers plenty to see and do, including an impressive street art trail. There’s creativity at every turn, but I grabbed a free map from the tourist information office to find key spots like the whale mural on Rue de la Chaussée.
Check out the grand view from Mons Belfry and the impressive interior of Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church before marvelling at the stunning ‘Lucy and the Butterflies’ sculpture. Then walk the colourful Grand’Rue for vintage shopping and lunch at Mel Oh Cake – my favourite for delicious baked goods.
Finally, explore Grand-Place de Mons. The city’s main square is lined with restaurants and bars, and outside the city hall, you’ll see people rubbing the monkey statue for good luck. Through the archway, I found Jardin du Mayeur a perfect peaceful park to relax after sightseeing.
Mons truly is a hidden gem of the day trips from Brussels that’s often overlooked, but really shouldn’t be missed.
Ostend
Recommended by Laura & Alexander from Lost Between Oceans.
One of the must-visit towns in Belgium is Ostend, just under 1.5 hours by train from Brussels Central Station. You can also drive there in about the same time, depending on traffic.
From the moment you arrive by train, you can discover the urban, trendy, and beachy energy of the seaside city on foot. Around 1.5 km from the train station, there is a wide, sandy coastline perfect for a walk or a quick dip in the summer (in the designated areas with lifeguards). Just a few hundred meters further are famous beach bars, cafés, seafood bistros, and art installations (don’t miss the open-air Crystal Ship street art trail). If you are looking for local food, then you should know that Ostend is famous for its fresh shrimp croquettes. The shrimps are caught during the night, and a few hours later, you can enjoy them in a croquette, so make sure to try one!
If you’re into culture, the Mu.ZEE is a great stop for Belgian modern art. We can also recommend walking along the Venetian Galleries near the promenade, especially at sunset.
Durbuy
Recommended by Isheeta & Shrey from Travelicious Couple.
Just a 2-hour drive from Brussels, Durbuy is the kind of place that feels plucked from a storybook. I visited on a crisp autumn day. The cobbled streets, ivy-draped stone buildings, and the gentle flow of the Ourthe River instantly made me fall in love. Though it’s famously known as the smallest city in the world, Durbuy offers plenty to explore in a half-day or more.
I recommend starting with a walk through the old town. It is compact but full of charm. For panoramic views, head up to the Belvedere viewpoint or take the tourist train that winds up the hill. Don’t miss the Topiary Park, which has over 250 sculpted bushes in whimsical shapes. It’s unexpectedly delightful.
The food scene is excellent too! We had a long lunch at a riverside bistro, where local trout and Ardennes beer made the perfect pairing.
Highlights of a Durbuy Day Trip:
- Explore medieval streets and riverside views
- Visit the quirky Topiary Park
- Try adventure sports like kayaking or ziplining nearby
- Enjoy local specialties like wild game or artisanal jams
Tip: Rent a car for flexibility since trains don’t go all the way to Durbuy. But nearby Barvaux is a short taxi ride away.
Day Trips from Brussels to the Netherlands
Maastricht
Recommended by Juan from Planet of Adventures.
Located in the Netherlands right by the border with Belgium, I consider Maastricht one of those underrated European destinations that have not yet been discovered by the masses.
You can go from Brussels to Maastricht by train in under two hours or by about a 90-minute drive. I’d definitely recommend going by train, both from a sustainable perspective and also because Maastricht is a beautiful, walkable city, and you will start exploring as soon as you get off the train.
The medieval old town has 1677 national heritage buildings. You will find beautiful architecture anywhere you go, and some of the main sights include the St. Servatius Bridge, the Basilica of Our Lady, and the 13th-century Helpoort Gate.
Maastricht is a cultural and gastronomic centre with year-round activities that would make your trip even more special. Don’t forget to visit the Dominicanen Book Store, which is one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world!
You can wander on your own or take a walking tour where you will also see the impressive city hall and the beautiful Jekerkwartier district with its cobbled narrow streets and plenty of places to sit for a coffee or lunch.
Rotterdam
Recommended by Emma from Emma Jane Explores.
For day trips from Brussels, it is hard to overlook the incredible city of Rotterdam in the Netherlands. The two cities are just over an hour apart by high-speed rail on the Eurostar, making the journey easy and quick. I loved visiting Rotterdam because, as a university town, there’s wonderful diversity, unique architecture, and lots of things to do that won’t break the bank.
My favourite thing to do in Rotterdam that feels quintessentially Dutch is to visit the lovely UNESCO World Heritage-listed windmills of Kinderdijk. On a day trip, I’d suggest you head out to Kinderdijk in the morning to see the more traditional side of Rotterdam and then head back into the city for lunch, where the wonderfully interesting buildings of the CBD await. I recommend stopping for lunch at the stunning Markthal, which features an incredibly designed food hall with all sorts of cuisines to sample at reasonable prices and a beautiful mural roof.
Nearby the Markthal, you will find one of the more famous examples of Rotterdam’s architecture, the yellow-hued Cube Houses, which jut out above a central square. Designed by Piet Bloom, these curious little houses are home to Hostel Rotterdam (for those wanting to stay in one) and a museum where visitors can explore the living arrangements in one of these fascinating houses. Other things to do in Rotterdam include taking a water taxi, walking the Erasmus bridge, and seeing the views from the Euromast Tower.
Amsterdam
Recommended by Lavina D’Souza from Continent Hop.
The best thing about day trips from Brussels is the easy connectivity with neighbouring countries. I loved how effortless it was to jump from one country to another, especially when I took a day trip from Brussels to Amsterdam.
Located two and a half hours away from Brussels, the fastest train reaches Amsterdam from Brussels in just 2 hours, whereas buses take close to 3 hours, depending on the traffic. Start your day early and leave Brussels around 6 am. You will reach Amsterdam in time for breakfast. What can be better than starting this trip with Dutch pancakes, right?
I had started the day with a canal cruise and loved the picturesque houses dotted around the canal. A simple 1-hour cruise in Amsterdam will give you a glimpse of what this city has to offer, and you can decide which landmarks to explore first. Head to the Jordaan Neighbourhood, stroll along the narrow lanes, stop by Noordermarkt square market for souvenir shopping, and then head to the museum of your choice.
If you want to visit the Anne Frank House, you must book tickets in advance. Other museums like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and NEMO Science Museum will keep you busy for at least a couple of hours. Spend the late afternoon in Dam Square, where the popular Royal Palace is. You can explore the 14th-century Oude Kerk after this. Do not forget to experience the iconic Amsterdam nightlife before hopping onto the late-night train back to Brussels.
Tilburg
Recommended by Cosette from KarsTravels.
Tilburg is a city in the south of the Netherlands, in the province of Noord-Brabant. I recommend visiting Tilburg as a day trip from Brussels, it’s 1,5 hours driving one way.
In the 19th century, Tilburg was a textile city. At the end of the 19th century, the city reached its peak in the textile industry. To this day, Tilburg is still known as a textile city, and a lot of industrial buildings from that era are still standing tall, although with a different function. One such building has been converted into a textile museum. I found it interesting to learn about the history of the textile industry and how textile is produced.
Other noteworthy museums are the Natural History Museum Brabant and Museum De Pont. The latter is a museum of modern art. I liked both of these museums.
As a foodie, I love Tilburg, there are plenty of excellent places to eat in Tilburg. In a couple of old industrial buildings, restaurants are now housed.
You can get to Tilburg on your own by car or train from Brussels. By car, follow the E19, and for the last part, the A58.
The Hague
Recommended by Steff from JustTravelous.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy day trip from Brussels, I highly recommend heading to The Hague. It’s just under 2.5 hours by car or about 2 hours by train, making it a very doable escape for a change of pace and scenery. I went on my own using the high-speed train to Rotterdam and connected from there—smooth and scenic the whole way.
What makes The Hague special is its unique mix of beachy charm and regal sophistication. You can spend your morning exploring the Mauritshuis, home to Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, then stroll past the Peace Palace and feel the international spirit of the city. In the afternoon, grab a tram to Scheveningen Beach—it’s breezy, laid-back, and the perfect spot for fresh seafood by the sea.
One thing I loved was how compact the city is. You can easily walk or bike to most sights, and there’s a really relaxed vibe compared to Amsterdam or Brussels. For lunch, try a broodje haring (raw herring sandwich—it’s better than it sounds!) or sit at one of the cozy cafés near Noordeinde Palace.
Insider Tip: If you go in spring or summer, pack a swimsuit—yes, even on day trips from Brussels. Scheveningen is surprisingly lovely for a quick dip or beach walk.
Day Trips from Brussels to France
Reims
Recommended by Audra from The Nerd Traveler.
Reims is a city known for its role in French history and for its world-renowned Champagne houses. Located due south of Brussels and in the northeast part of France, Reims is 2 ½ hours by train or by car and makes for one of the best day trips from Brussels.
At the heart of Reims lies the breathtaking Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I loved seeing this masterpiece of Gothic architecture, where the kings of France traveled to be crowned, starting in 816 and continuing until 1825.
Not far from the Notre-Dame Cathedral are the underground cellars and tasting rooms of legendary Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Pommery. I loved taking a guided tour that included a tasting and learning about the history and science of this bubbly delight! It is a good idea to reserve tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer travel and fall harvest season.
Beyond its iconic landmarks, Reims offers charming squares, bustling markets, and vibrant cafes perfect for people-watching. With its trams and buses and compact tourist area, I found Reims to be an amazing city in which to explore and experience the elegance of France!
Paris
Recommended by Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones.
Paris is one of the best day trips from Brussels. It’s just a 1.5-hour journey by high-speed train, giving you plenty of time to explore the City of Light. The city is a bucket list travel destination, and while you can’t see all the major attractions in Paris in just a day, you can see quite a few!
I recommend starting with a Seine River sightseeing cruise to get your bearings. You’ll see iconic sights like Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower from the river. Climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe and stroll down the famous Champs-Élysées, lined with trees and high-end shops.
If world-class museums like the Louvre or the Musée d’Orsay are on your must-see list, be sure to get your tickets in advance to avoid long wait times.
I love exploring Paris on foot to soak in the ambiance. Be sure to wander through the Luxembourg Gardens or the Tuileries– these Parisian parks are the perfect place to enjoy a picnic.
Don’t forget to stop by Angelina, one of the cutest cafés in Paris, for the famous hot chocolate. Or pick up some mouthwatering macarons from Pierre Hermé or Ladurée. They make the perfect gift – if you can avoid eating them on the trip back to Brussels!
Lille
Recommended by Chris from Spritzience.
I recommend visiting Lille, France, because it offers a completely different cultural experience from Brussels, with divine French food, an architecturally interesting old town, plus lots of great shopping.
It’s easy to get to Lille, with the fastest route of 35 minutes by TGV train from Brussels Midi Train Station to Lille Europe. Some trains may also arrive at Lille Flandres. As they’re right across from each other, a 5-minute walk between them, it doesn’t make a difference which one you arrive at.
The old town of Lille is an easy 10 to 15 minute walk from the train station, making this a great trip to do on your own. I suggest starting your morning with a visit to the Palais des Beaux Arts. It includes a mix of old masters like Rubens and Van Dyck, plus impressionists like Manet, with the basement filled with medieval statues.
Then, wander the streets of the old town to pick from an amazing array of restaurants and cute sidewalk cafes to enjoy a leisurely lunch. After lunch, make sure to stop at the Place du Theatre to see the famous clock atop a 76-meter-high tower flanking the Chamber of Commerce Building.
And if you have room still in your suitcase, this is the town to go shopping in. I love the array of French high street clothing labels, small boutiques offering French fashion, and quirky home décor and design stores.
Day Trips from Brussels to Germany
Cologne
Recommended by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels.
For a great day trip from Brussels, head over to beautiful Cologne in Germany. With its mix of the old and the new, history, culture, museums, and overall charm, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Cologne.
Start by visiting the old town. Walk down the cobblestone streets and appreciate the bright colors and quintessential European architecture in this charming part of the city. Just a 10-minute walk away from here is the famous Cologne Cathedral. Known for its gothic architecture and for (mostly) still standing after WWII, this cathedral was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. Take a look inside this gorgeous church and be sure to go to the top of the bell tower for views of the city below.
As for museums to see in Cologne, there are multiple to choose from. Two unique options that may be of interest to you are the Farina Fragrance Museum and the Chocolate Museum. Kölntriangle is a modern building in the city that has an observation deck on top. Stop by to check out panoramic views of the entire city.
And as a fun seasonal bonus, if you happen to visit Cologne during the holiday season, be sure to check out the city’s festive Christmas markets.
Aachen
Recommended by Jenn from Sick Girl Travels.
Aachen, Germany, is located in the far western part of the country, near the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands. It’s in the state of North Rhine–Westphalia, about a two-hour drive from Brussels.
Aachen is a gorgeous city where history and modernity mix. Renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Aachen Cathedral, built around 800 AD, the city was the coronation site for German kings and the resting place of Charlemagne. Beyond its rich history, Aachen offers rejuvenating thermal spas like Carolus Thermen, a cool student atmosphere due to its highly respected university, and a strategic location at the crossroads of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. This unique blend makes Aachen a must-visit destination.
You have a few options for getting to Aachen from Brussels. First, take the bus from the Brussels North Train Station. This takes about 2 hours and costs about 10 euros. Alternatively, you can take the train from Brussels North Station, which takes about 1 hour and costs between 14 and 40 euros, depending on booking time and rail class. You can also choose to drive on the E40 Motorway heading east from Brussels to Aachen.
Day Trips from Brussels to Luxembourg
Luxembourg
Recommended by Lynn from VanderlustJourney.
Luxembourg is Belgium’s small but interesting neighbor. Despite having a population of less than 700,000 people, it is home to around 180 different nationalities! About 47% of its residents are foreigners, making Luxembourg one of the most multicultural countries in Europe.
Luxembourg City is easily reachable on day trips from Brussels. It takes about 2.5 hours by car or a little over 3 hours by direct train. What makes this day trip truly special, in my opinion, is the unique blend of old-world charm and modern European spirit. The capital, sharing the same name as the country, has a rich history and lots of character. One of my favorite things to do is to stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Quarters, with their historic fortifications built into steep cliffs. Small cobblestone streets, lively squares, and cozy cafés create a charming, small-town feel, while museums like the National Museum of History and Art offer deeper insights into Luxembourg’s fascinating past.
In striking contrast, the Kirchberg district showcases a sleek, modern side of the city, hosting European institutions like the Court of Justice and featuring impressive contemporary architecture.
A little bonus? Public transport is free throughout Luxembourg, making the visit effortless and budget-friendly!
Don’t forget to save this post for your next day trips from Brussels!
