DAY 1
Arrival in Brussels
- Arrive in Brussels, the capital city of Belgium.
- Check into your accommodations and take some time to rest after your journey.
- In the afternoon, explore the historic center of Brussels, including the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture.
- Visit the Manneken Pis, a famous bronze statue, and stroll through the charming streets of the Marolles neighborhood.
- Enjoy dinner at a traditional Belgian brasserie, sampling dishes such as moules frites (mussels and fries) and Belgian waffles.
DAY 2
Brussels Exploration
- Start your day with a visit to the Atomium, a unique structure built for the 1958 World Expo, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the Royal Palace of Brussels and the surrounding Parc de Bruxelles.
- Visit the Magritte Museum to admire the works of the famous Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte.
- In the evening, explore Brussels’ vibrant nightlife, perhaps sampling some Belgian beers at a local brewery or beer bar.
DAY 3
Day Trip to Bruges
- Take a day trip to Bruges, often called the “Venice of the North” for its picturesque canals and medieval architecture.
- Explore the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its beautiful Markt square and iconic Belfry tower.
- Take a boat tour along the canals to admire Bruges from a different perspective.
- Visit the Groeningemuseum to see its impressive collection of Flemish and Dutch art.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Minnewaterpark and visit the Beguinage, a tranquil convent complex.
- Return to Brussels in the evening.
DAY 4
Ghent
- Travel to Ghent, a vibrant city known for its rich history and lively cultural scene.
- Explore the historic center of Ghent, including Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Graslei and Korenlei quaysides.
- Visit the Ghent Altarpiece, one of the most important works of art in European history, at St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Ghent’s famous specialty, waterzooi (a creamy fish or chicken stew).
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Lys River and explore the trendy Patershol district.
- Overnight in Ghent.
DAY 5
Antwerp
- Travel to Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city and a hub of art, fashion, and commerce.
- Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady to see masterpieces by artists such as Rubens and Van Dyck.
- Explore the historic Diamond District and learn about Antwerp’s diamond industry.
- Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the history of printing and publishing.
- Take a stroll along the Meir, Antwerp’s main shopping street, and explore the fashion boutiques and designer stores.
- Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in Antwerp’s hip Het Zuid district.
- Overnight in Antwerp.
DAY 6
Leuven
- Travel to Leuven, a charming university city known for its historic architecture and lively student atmosphere.
- Visit the University Library and the stunning Gothic-style Leuven Town Hall in the Grand Place.
- Explore the beautiful botanical gardens of the Kruidtuin and relax by the tranquil ponds.
- Visit the Stella Artois Brewery for a guided tour and beer tasting.
- Enjoy dinner at a traditional Flemish restaurant, sampling local specialties such as stoofvlees (beef stew) and frites (Belgian fries).
- Overnight in Leuven.
DAY 7
Departure
- Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or additional sightseeing.
- Depart from Brussels, and proceed to the airport for your next journey.