6 Day Trips From Brussels: A Solo Female Traveler’s Guide to Belgium & Beyond
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As a solo female traveler who has traveled to 50 countries, across 6 continents, I can honestly say that one of my favorite things to do when visiting a city, especially in Europe, is take a day trip. And Brussels was no exception. As I was planning my trip to Brussels, I knew that I needed to add some buffer days so that I could take some day trips from Brussels and explore the city beyond the city.
The best thing about day trips is that you don’t need to move your home base; you can get outside of the city and explore, and if you book a tour, like I normally do, you don’t have to worry about the logistics.
We all know that there are lots of things to see and do in Brussels, but what you may not know is that Brussels also has some of the best day trips that you can take. In this guide, I will be diving into all of my favorite day trips from Brussels, so that as you are planning your Brussels trip, you can make sure to add a few of the amazing spots to your itinerary.
Introduction: Day Trips From Brussels
When it comes to visiting new cities, having a homebase and exploring cities beyond the main city is one of the best things you can do and add to your travel itinerary. And Brussels is no different. As somone who has traveled to 50 countries, having a home base, and taking day trips is one of my favorite things to do, and in this blog, I will be diving into all of my favorite day trips from Brussels that I think you need to add to your next Brussels itinerary.
As I have helped my clients plan their trips, many people don’t think about day trips, and my recommendation is to always plan 1-2 days as “extra” days so that they can add a day trip to their itinerary.
In this blog, I will be diving into all of the best day trips from Brussels that I’ve done and loved, so that you can find a day trip or 3 to add to your next Brussels itinerary.
1. Brussels to Burges Day Trip
If you only have room in your itinerary for one day trip from Brussels, then you must visit that picture-perfect, storybook town of Bruges. Between the quaint canals (highly recommend a canal tour), the cobblestone streets, and the architecture and colors, there is something about visiting Bruges that makes you feel like you are in a medieval fairy tale.
Bruges was my very first day trip, and I have to say it did not disappoint. I loved walking around, soaking in the town, and the canal ride that I did. Seeing the town from the canal offered a very different perspective, and allowed you to see the town, buildings, and enjoy the views.
Visiting Bruges was also a nice change of pace and was not rushed. It was the perfect place to slowly stroll the cobblestone streets, enjoy the views, and capture the most stunning pictures around every corner.
As a solo female traveler, I found it very safe and easy to navigate, and I opted for a Brussels to Bruges tour, so I didn’t have to worry about the logistics of traveling to and from Brussels.
In my opinion, visiting Bruges is one of the best day trips from Brussels, and I would highly recommend ensuring this storybook destination is 100% added to your Brussels itinerary.
2. Dinant Belgium
Another one of my favorite day trips from Brussels was the very charming and picturesque town of Dinant Belgium. This quaint town is situated right along the Meuse River, and it’s surrounded by cliffs. Between the colorful architecture, the landscapes, and the quaint calmness of the town as you explore, this was by far one of the most peaceful and relaxing day trips that I have taken.
While on my trip to Dinant, I was able to sit by the river, enjoy my coffee, and just take in the calmness and be in the moment. This is a great day trip from Brussels for those who enjoy extremely scenic locations, love capturing landscape photos, and if you are just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
3. Antwerp Day Trip
If you are looking for a modern and energetic day trip from Brussels, that isn’t the typical fairytale/storybook kind of vibe, then I would highly recommend adding an Antwerp day trip to your Brussels itinerary.
This city is otherwise known as the diamond capital of the world, and it is surprisingly known for its fashion and design. The mix of the modern vibe, creative energy, and historic architecture makes it a great day trip from Brussels for those looking to do some shopping, enjoy a cafe or two, and enjoy a market or museum.
If you’ve already been to Bruges and Ghent, this day trip is the exact opposite of those two stops, but still equally amazing, and is really more of a chic European city.
I opted for a walking tour while I was here. There is something about exploring a city on foot (especially in the spring) that allows me to see more, hear about the history and culture, and allows me to appreciate my trip even more. Another great way to explore Antwerp is a bike tour, or another one of my favorites, via tuk-tuk.
As a solo female traveler, I found this day trip to be walkable, plenty to do, and it was a perfect day trip from Brussels to get out and explore beyond Belgium’s capital city.
4. Ghent: My Favorite Alternative to Crowded Bruges
Ah Ghent. This was another favorite day trip from Brussels of mine. I actually did Bruges and Ghent in the same day, and honestly, it couldn’t have worked out better. I know sometimes Ghent can be overshadowed by Bruges, but I loved every moment I spent in Ghent. And it honestly reminded me of a smaller version of Amsterdam in a way.
To me, it felt like a hidden gem, where, even though I loved Bruges, it was definitely a lot more touristy than my visit to Ghent was. I felt like my visit to Ghent was more about soaking in the local culture and felt less touristy compared to Bruges.
I explored Ghent on foot, walking along the waterfront, visiting the castle, and had a delicious coffee and pastry in one of the local coffee shops. Another great way to explore Ghent is via a canal tour.
So, if you are like me and want a day trip that is vibrant, full of amazing energy, and not super touristy, then make sure to pencil in a day trip to Ghent. Or do what I did, and visit both on the same day. You won’t regret it!
5. Brussels to Luxembourg Day Trip
If you are looking for a longer day trip and are looking to add another country to your list, then a day trip to Luxembourg is a great option. While it’s further away compared to some of the other day trips, it’s a great option if you are looking for a beautiful destination with scenic views around every corner.
To me, Luxembourg feels like old money. It’s elegant, historic, full of culture, and quaint neighborhods that are just perfect for exploring. This city is extremely safe and walkable, and perfect for exploring.
Since this day trip is further, my recommendation is to start your trip off early in the morning to ensure you have ample travel time and exploring time. You’ll for sure be exhausted after this long day, but honestly, it’s absolutely worth the day trip in my opinion!
6. Leuven Day Trip
If you are looking for an easy and relaxing day trip, then I would highly recommend a day trip from Brussels to Leuven. This is a quick and easy 30-minute train ride from Brussels and is full of history, architecture, and is energetic and lively, due to being home to its iconic university.
This day trip felt more like a visit with locals and was much less touristy compared to some of the other day trips. It was great for exploring and immersing myself in the local culture. If this isn’t your first trip to Brussels, and you are looking for something a little different and off the beaten path, then I would absolutely recommend adding a day trip to Leuven to your next Brussels itinerary.
Conclusion: Day Trips From Brussels
I will have to admit, I am so glad I didn’t listen to the “there is nothing to do in Brussels” feedback I received as I was planning my trip. I feel like not only is Brussels a hidden gem, but the day trips from Brussels can be too.
Whether you are looking for storybook villages, something more elegant and vibrant, or incredible scenery with dramatic cliffs, there is a day trip from Brussels to meet your needs.
So, if you are planning a trip to Brussels, and you need some amazing day trips to add to your itinerary, which you absolutely should, then I hope this blog has helped inspire you to choose a day trip or 3 to add to your next Brussels itinerary.