Weekend in Belgium Itinerary: Brussels, Bruges + Ghent
Introduction: Why Belgium is Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
Some places are made for long, lazy holidays. Others shine brightest when experienced in quick, memorable bursts. Belgium? It’s firmly in the second category. With its compact size, well-connected cities, and irresistible mix of medieval charm, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture, Belgium is the ultimate weekend destination in Europe.
Imagine this: Friday evening, you step off the train in Brussels and are immediately welcomed by cobblestone streets glowing under golden lamplight. Saturday morning, you’re sipping hot chocolate in a medieval Bruges café, surrounded by canals and fairy-tale towers. By Sunday, you’re wandering through Ghent, where medieval castles meet buzzing student life.
Three cities, one weekend, endless memories. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of Belgian waffles, the magic of Gothic cathedrals, or the beauty of winding canals, this itinerary is designed to give you the very best of Belgium in just three days.
So pack your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and get ready for a whirlwind weekend that proves good things really do come in small packages.
Day 1 – Brussels: Europe’s Capital of Charm
Your adventure begins in Brussels, Belgium’s capital and the beating heart of the European Union. While some cities reveal their beauty slowly, Brussels greets you head-on—with dramatic architecture, lively squares, and a food scene that will leave you questioning why you ever settled for frozen waffles at home.
Exploring the Grand Place
There’s no better place to start than the Grand Place, the city’s central square and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As soon as you step into the square, you’ll understand why it’s often described as one of the most beautiful in the world. The ornate guildhalls, gilded with gold and adorned with statues, surround you like a giant, storybook illustration.
Morning is a lovely time to arrive—the sunlight glints off the golden details of the buildings, and cafés are just starting to buzz. But if you have the chance, come back in the evening. The Grand Place transforms into a glittering wonderland under its nighttime illumination, and the atmosphere feels almost magical.
Don’t rush here. Sit down at a café terrace, order a cappuccino or a hot chocolate, and take your time soaking it all in. This is Brussels at its finest.
Belgian Waffles, Chocolates & Beer Tasting
After admiring the square, it’s time to indulge in what Belgium does best: food. Forget everything you thought you knew about waffles—Belgian waffles in Brussels are a different species entirely. Crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, they come piled high with strawberries, chocolate drizzle, or just a dusting of powdered sugar. One of the most famous spots to try them is Maison Dandoy, just steps away from the Grand Place.
And then, there’s chocolate. Belgian chocolatiers like Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Pierre Marcolini aren’t just shops—they’re institutions. Strolling past the displays of pralines and truffles feels like walking through a museum of indulgence.
But Belgium’s culinary crown jewel might just be its beer. With more than a thousand varieties, Belgium is a beer lover’s paradise. You’ll find centuries-old Trappist ales brewed by monks, refreshing fruit beers, and craft brews that are both experimental and delicious. Stop by Delirium Café, which boasts one of the world’s largest beer menus, and you’ll understand why beer in Belgium isn’t just a drink—it’s a cultural treasure.
Iconic Landmarks: Manneken Pis, Atomium & Royal Palace
No trip to Brussels is complete without meeting the cheeky little bronze statue known as Manneken Pis. Though small in size, this statue of a little boy doing exactly what his name suggests has become one of the city’s most beloved symbols. Locals dress him in costumes throughout the year, and his playful irreverence captures Brussels’ quirky spirit.
Next, head to the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official residence of the Belgian monarch. Even though the king doesn’t live here full-time, the neoclassical façade and lush surroundings make it worth a visit. If you’re lucky enough to visit in summer, the palace sometimes opens its doors to the public.
Then, make your way to one of Brussels’ most unusual landmarks: the Atomium. Originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair, this futuristic structure represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. The giant silver spheres are connected by escalators, and you can actually go inside to explore exhibits or admire panoramic views of the city. It’s part science, part art, and entirely unique.
Evening in Brussels: Dining & Nightlife
As evening falls, Brussels reveals another of its talents: incredible dining. A Belgian dinner often starts with mussels (moules) served in steaming pots, paired with crispy golden fries that Belgians proudly claim as their invention. For dessert, order a classic Belgian tart or crème brûlée.
If you’re in the mood for fine dining, Brussels has Michelin-starred restaurants that rival Paris. But equally rewarding is settling into a cozy brasserie with friendly staff, hearty meals, and local beer flowing freely.
After dinner, wander through the illuminated streets of the city center. You could stop at one of the many bars tucked into historic buildings, or simply stroll along Rue des Bouchers with its glowing restaurant signs. The city’s nightlife is as diverse as its food—lively, welcoming, and always with a glass of beer within reach.
Day 2 – Bruges: Fairytale Canals and Cobblestone Streets
If Brussels is Europe’s beating heart, Bruges is its fairytale soul. Just an hour by train from Brussels, Bruges feels like stepping straight into a storybook—complete with medieval towers, winding canals, horse-drawn carriages, and the smell of freshly baked waffles in the air.
Morning Train from Brussels to Bruges
Belgian trains are efficient and comfortable, making it easy to hop between cities. As you arrive in Bruges, the city greets you with quiet cobbled streets and charming buildings that look untouched by time. Drop your bags at your hotel or Airbnb, and get ready to explore a place that feels almost too perfect to be real.
Market Square & Belfry Tower Views
Your first stop should be Market Square (Markt), Bruges’ beating heart. Lined with colorful medieval guildhouses, it’s a photographer’s dream. Cafés spill out onto the square, offering a perfect spot to sip coffee while people-watching.
Dominating the square is the Belfry of Bruges, a 13th-century tower that offers panoramic views of the city. Climbing its 366 steps is no small feat, but the reward—sweeping views of red rooftops, church spires, and winding canals—is more than worth it.
Canal Cruise Through Medieval Bruges
Bruges is often called the Venice of the North, and once you step onto a boat, you’ll understand why. Canal cruises here are magical. As you glide past ivy-covered houses and stone bridges, you’ll see the city from a perspective that’s pure romance.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this is one of Bruges’ must-do experiences. The reflections in the water, the ducks paddling by, and the sound of the boat gently cutting through the canal—it all feels like a moving painting.
Belgian Fries, Mussels & Local Beers
By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite, and Bruges knows how to satisfy. Head to a friterie for authentic Belgian fries—crispy golden perfection, served in a paper cone with your choice of sauce. Try the classic mayo or go adventurous with curry ketchup.
Pair them with mussels (moules), another Belgian specialty, often steamed in white wine, garlic, and herbs. And of course, there’s no leaving Bruges without sampling a Belgian beer in a traditional tavern. Bruges’ own breweries, like De Halve Maan, serve local favorites you won’t find anywhere else.
Sunset at Minnewater (Lake of Love)
End your Bruges day at Minnewater Lake, often called the Lake of Love. Legend says couples who walk across its bridge will experience eternal love. Whether or not you believe it, the setting is undeniably romantic. With swans gliding across the water and the sky painted in sunset hues, it’s the perfect farewell to a city that feels like a dream.
Day 3 – Ghent: Vibrant University City with Medieval Charm
Just 30 minutes from Bruges lies Ghent, a city that doesn’t get as much international fame but often steals the show for those who visit. Ghent combines the medieval beauty of Bruges with the lively energy of a modern university city. It’s authentic, vibrant, and wonderfully atmospheric.
St. Bavo’s Cathedral & The Mystic Lamb
Begin your day at St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the Ghent Altarpiece (also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb). This 15th-century masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers is considered one of the most important works of art in history. Even if you’re not an art buff, its detail and grandeur will leave you awestruck.
Gravensteen Castle: Step Back in Time
Next, step into the Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress in the city center. With its stone walls, towers, and even a moat, it looks like something out of a knight’s tale. Inside, you’ll find displays of medieval armor and weapons, plus views across the city from the battlements.
Exploring the Graslei and Korenlei Along the River
The heart of Ghent is along the Graslei and Korenlei, two picturesque streets lining the Leie River. Here, medieval guildhouses reflect in the water, creating postcard-perfect scenes. Cafés line the riverbanks, making it the perfect place to pause for lunch or a drink. On a sunny day, locals and students gather by the water, giving Ghent a youthful, buzzing energy.
Street Art & Local Cafés
Unlike Bruges, Ghent doesn’t freeze itself in the past—it embraces the present. Wander off the main streets, and you’ll discover vibrant street art, trendy coffee shops, and quirky boutiques. Ghent is a city where Gothic cathedrals and modern murals coexist effortlessly.
Evening Return to Brussels
As your weekend winds down, take a late-afternoon train back to Brussels for your departure. On the way, you’ll be reflecting on three days that felt like a journey through different worlds: Brussels’ grandeur, Bruges’ fairytale charm, and Ghent’s vibrant mix of old and new.
What to Eat & Drink in Belgium: Local Specialties Not to Miss
A Belgian weekend isn’t complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Beyond waffles and beer, here are a few specialties to try:
- Stoofvlees – A rich Flemish beef stew made with beer.
- Waterzooi – A creamy stew of chicken or fish, originally from Ghent.
- Speculoos cookies – Spiced biscuits often enjoyed with coffee.
- Belgian chocolate – From pralines to truffles, it’s some of the best in the world.
And don’t forget to sample at least a few types of Belgian beer—Trappist, Abbey, lambic, fruit-flavored, and more. Each tells a different story of Belgium’s brewing heritage.
Getting Around Belgium: Trains, Buses & Walking Tours
Belgium’s compact size and efficient rail network make traveling between cities a breeze. Trains run frequently between Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent, making it easy to follow this itinerary without needing a car.
Within each city, walking is the best way to explore. Cobblestone streets and pedestrian-friendly centers mean you’ll experience the beauty of the cities up close. For longer distances, trams and buses are available.
If you enjoy guided experiences, consider joining a walking or food tour. Local guides bring history, culture, and traditions to life in ways you won’t get from guidebooks.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels & Guesthouses in Each City
- Brussels: Stay near the Grand Place for easy access to main attractions. Mid-range hotels and boutique stays are plentiful here.
- Bruges: Choose a guesthouse or B&B near the canals for maximum charm. Some historic buildings have been transformed into cozy hotels.
- Ghent: Opt for accommodations near the Graslei for picturesque views and lively surroundings. Budget options are also available thanks to the student population.
Travel Tips for a Perfect Weekend in Belgium
- Book trains in advance: Belgian trains are affordable, but peak times can be crowded.
- Pack for the weather: Belgium’s weather can be unpredictable—bring a light jacket and umbrella.
- Learn a few phrases: Dutch and French are widely spoken. A simple “Dank u” (thank you in Dutch) or “Merci” (thank you in French) goes a long way.
- Try both the touristy and local spots: The famous attractions are worth it, but venturing into quieter neighborhoods will give you a richer experience.
Conclusion: Making the Most of 3 Days in Brussels, Bruges & Ghent
A weekend in Belgium is short, but it doesn’t feel rushed—it feels perfectly balanced. In three days, you’ll marvel at Brussels’ grand architecture, drift through Bruges’ dreamy canals, and soak up the vibrant spirit of Ghent.
Belgium is a country where every cobblestone seems to whisper history, every café tempts you with warmth and flavor, and every city reveals a new side of its charm. By the end of your weekend, you won’t just have seen Belgium—you’ll have felt it.
And as the train pulls out of Brussels on your final evening, one thought will linger: this was only a weekend, but it felt like a lifetime of beauty, flavor, and discovery packed into three unforgettable days.
