Looking for the best weekend trips from Brussels by train? Let’s take a look at some of the top destinations to spend a weekend near the capital.
In my trip in Belgium, I spent several weeks exploring the country, generally going for day or weekend trips by train from Brussels. In Belgium, my favourite destinations were Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Leuven and Lovain-la-Neuve.
I also went on short trips to Amsterdam and Maastricht, which I also highly recommend, as they are relatively close by as well.
Here, I have put together an itinerary of what you can do on weekend trips from Brussels in each of these destinations, that are easily accessible by train.
Bruges: A Weekend Trip by Train from Brussels
Often called the “Venice of the North.”, Bruges makes for a romantic weekend trip from Brussels.
With its fairytale-like charm, this Belgian gem is full of medieval wonders, picturesque canals, and hidden treasures. Just a short train ride from Brussels, it’s a makes one of the best weekend trips, offering the perfect blend of canals, history, culture and chocolates.
Discover what you can do over two days in Bruges, and the magic that lies within its cobbled streets.
Day 1: Exploring Bruges’ Medieval Charms
Kick off your weekend in the heart of Bruges at Markt Square, a vibrant hub surrounded by colorful facades and charming cafes. Begin your adventure with a visit to the iconic Belfry of Bruges. While the climb may be a bit steep, the panoramic views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
For a taste of Bruges’ enchanting canals, choose between a relaxing canal cruise or a self-guided stroll along the waterways, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s picturesque charm.
After lunch, delve into the city’s rich history at the Basilica of the Holy Blood. This sacred site showcases Romanesque and Gothic architecture and is home to a relic believed to contain a drop of Jesus’ blood.
Walk around the Burg Square, where landmarks like the Town Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood transport you to Bruges’ medieval past.
Day 2: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Chocolates
Discover a serene escape at the Beguinage, a tranquil courtyard surrounded by white-washed houses. Originally a home for Beguines, a community of lay religious women, this hidden gem offers peaceful gardens and a glimpse into Bruges’ historical and religious heritage.
Later, I recommend to visit a renowned chocolatier, such as The Chocolate Line or Pralinette. Stroll along Mariastraat, known as Chocolate Street, where quaint chocolate shops line the cobblestone path. Belgium is the country where I have tasted the best chocolate in the world, and the ones from Bruges were ones of my favorites.
Conclude your weekend in Bruges at Simon Stevinplein, a lively square surrounded by cafes and shops. Enjoy a leisurely evening, reflecting on the medieval wonders and hidden gems you’ve discovered.
Distance from Brussels to Bruges by Train
Bruges is conveniently accessible by train from Brussels, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Ghent: A Weekend Trip by Train from Brussels
After spending a few weeks in Belgium, Ghent was absolutely my favorite city. Its unique blend of medieval charm (including a castle!), Gothic architecture, canals, and modern culture makes one of the best destinations weekend trips from Brussels.
Ghent is an old Gothic city, once one of the most biggest and important cities in Europe. Now, it place where ancient bridges coexist with trendy cafes.
Day 1: Medieval Marvels and a Castle
Begin your Ghent adventure in the heart of the city at the iconic streets of Graslei and Korenlei, where medieval guildhalls line the canals, creating a picturesque setting. Take a leisurely stroll along these historic streets and the water’s edge to soak in the timeless beauty of this district.
Continue to St. Bavo’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece housing the renowned Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. This iconic cathedral provides a rich insight into Ghent’s cultural and artistic heritage.
No visit to Ghent is complete without exploring the historic Gravensteen Castle. This medieval fortress offers more than just history. It’s a journey through time with interactive exhibits and captivating tales of knights and royalty.
Conclude your day in the vibrant Patershol district. This area is known for its narrow alleys, charming squares, and a variety of good local restaurants.
Day 2: Modern Vibes and Artistic Flourish
Embrace the modern side of Ghent by visiting the STAM – Ghent City Museum. Housed in a modern architectural gem, the museum offers insights into the city’s history and evolution.
Wander through the lively Korenmarkt, a central square surrounded by cafes and shops. Take a moment to appreciate the striking architecture, including the medieval St. Nicholas’ Church.
Immerse yourself in the contemporary art scene at the MSK – Museum of Fine Arts Ghent. The museums has an impressive collection spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day.
As evening falls, explore the trendy district of Dok Noord, known for its industrial-chic vibe and a variety of hip eateries. It’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect on Ghent’s seamless fusion of past and present.
Distance from Brussels to Ghent by Train
Ghent is easily accessible by train from Brussels, with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes. The short travel time makes it an ideal destination for a weekend trip.
Antwerp: A Blend of History, Culture, and Contemporary Charm
Situated along the picturesque River Scheldt, Antwerp is a dynamic city in Belgium that seamlessly combines its historical heritage with a modern, artistic flair.
Just a 1-hour train ride away from Brussels, Antwerp is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.
Day 1: Historic Gems and Artistic Marvels
Start your exploration at the heart of Antwerp’s historic center, Grote Markt (Grand Market Square). Admire the architecture, including the opulent City Hall and the iconic Guild Houses, which are ornate buildings traditionally used as meeting places for trade associations. Each Guild House is uniquely adorned, representing various craft guilds from Antwerp’s medieval past.
Next, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, home to masterpieces by the legendary painter Peter Paul Rubens.
Wander through the charming lanes of the Old Town, discovering boutiques, traditional Belgian chocolate shops, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss the chance to explore the St. Anna’s Tunnel (Pedestrian Tunnel), a unique underground tunnel under the river that connects the left and right banks of the Scheldt.
As evening falls, visit the trendy Het Eilandje district, known for its waterfront dining and modern architecture.
Day 2: Contemporary Art and Fashion Capital
Start your day with a visit to the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), a museum showcasing Antwerp’s maritime history and contemporary art.
Stroll along the artistic neighborhood of Zuid (South), where you’ll find a wealth of galleries, boutiques, and trendy eateries.
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp houses an extensive collection of Flemish art, including works by renowned artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, and Jacob Jordaens.
Still looking for something to explore? Like Amsterdam, Antwerp also has a Red Light District.
Distance from Brussels to Antwerp by Train
Antwerp is easily accessible by train from Brussels, with a travel time of approximately one hour. Since the train ride is relatively short, this is one of the most popular weekend trips from Brussels by train.
Leuven: A Weekend Trip by Train from Brussels
Leuven is often referred to as the “Jewel of Flanders,” due to its exceptional charm and historical significance. It’s a very well-preserved medieval city center with Gothic architecture, charming squares, and historic landmarks.
Leuven gained global recognition for its beers and continues to take pride in being called “Belgium’s beer capital”. The city is forever linked with Stella Artois, one of Belgium’s most renowned and beloved lager beer brands.
The city is an ideal weekend trip from Brussels, since it’s just a 20-minutes train ride away, leaving you enough time to explore the city.
Day 1: Longest Bar in the World
Start your day at the heart of Leuven, the iconic Grote Markt. This is the main square, surrounded by stunning Gothic architecture. The towering St. Peter’s Church and the ornate Town Hall provide a glimpse into Leuven’s medieval past.
Discover Leuven’s brewing heritage with a visit to the Stella Artois Brewery. Stella Artois, one of Belgium’s most iconic beer brands, has been brewing beer from 1366. You can take a guided tour to learn about the beer-making process and enjoy some tastings.
Later, explore the Oude Markt, known as the “longest bar in the world.” It’s a square with more than 40 bars and around 4,000 sitting places!
Day 2: Parks and Stella Artois
Day two of your weekend trip from Brussels, begins with a visit to the beautiful Kruidtuin, Leuven’s botanical garden. This serene oasis is perfect for a morning stroll, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Later you can explore the Keizersberg Abbey, perched on a hill with panoramic views, offering a peaceful retreat.
Finish your weekend with a visit to the M-Museum Leuven, showcasing contemporary art in a modern setting.
Distance from Brussels to Leuven by Train
Leuven is easily accessible by train from Brussels, with the journey taking approximately 20-25 minutes. The frequent train services make it a very convenient weekend trip from Brussels by train.
Louvain-la-Neuve: A Quaint University Town
Located in the heart of Belgium, Louvain-la-Neuve stands as a charming university town known for its vibrant student life, modern architecture, and cultural richness.
Louvain-la-Neuve is known for being home to one of the oldest universities in the world. And if you are a fan of Tintin, just a visit to the Hergé museum makes the trip to Louvain-la Neuve totally worth it.
Day 1: Campus Vibes and Tintin Museum
Begin your visit by immersing yourself in the youthful energy of Louvain-la-Neuve’s university campus. Home to the old Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), the campus has a lively atmosphere. Explore the student-friendly streets lined with cafes, bookstores, and boutiques.
Later, visit the Hergé Museum, dedicated to the creator of Tintin, one of Belgium’s most beloved comic book characters. The museum provides an engaging journey through the life and work of this iconic artist. You can see old comic books, drafts, statues, and buy some unique souvenirs at the museum shop. Personally, this was one of my favourite places in Belgium.
Day 2: Arts and Outdoors
Explore Louvain-la-Neuve’s artistic side by visiting the Museum L, the museum of the university. This is a contemporary art museum showcasing a diverse collection of works by both established and emerging artists.
For a nature escape, head to the Bois de Lauzelle, a serene forested area surrounding a lake. Enjoy a leisurely walk or a picnic amid the tranquil surroundings.
Finish your weekend by engaging with the local community at Place de l’Université. This central square often hosts events, markets, and outdoor activities.
Distance from Brussels to Louvain-la-Neuve by Train:
Louvain-la-Neuve is easily accessible by train from Brussels, with a travel time of approximately one hour, making it an ideal weekend trip.
Amsterdam: A Weekend Trip from Brussels by Train
The lively capital of the Netherlands is a very lively city full of culture, just a short two-hour train journey from Brussels, promising a lively weekend trip.
Amsterdam is renowned as the “City of Bikes,” with cyclists filling its streets. You might want to rent a bike for a fun way to explore the city, biking along its canals and visiting its squares, some of its top museums (such as the Van Gogh Museum), and the historic Anne Frank’s House.
There are so many things to do in the city, that visiting Amsterdam on a solo trip or traveling with other people are equally fun options.
Day 1: Canal Cruises and a Top Museum
Start your Amsterdam exploration by immersing yourself in the iconic canal-lined streets. Begin at Dam Square, the heart of the city, just a 5-minute walk from the train station. Walk around historic landmarks like the Royal Palace and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church).
Later, you can take a canal cruise to witness Amsterdam’s architectural wonders from a different perspective.
A visit to the Rijksmuseum is a must if you like art. It includes works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, among other famous Dutch artists.
Conclude your day with a walk through the streets of the Jordaan, lined with boutiques and cozy cafes.
Day 2: Red Light District, Art and History
Start day two with a visit to the historic district of De Wallen, the Red Light District area, which provides a glimpse into Amsterdam’s liberal culture.
Continue your artistic journey at the Van Gogh Museum, one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam. You can admire the Sunflowers, the Blossom and the Bedroom, some of his most iconic paintings.
In the afternoon, visit Anne Frank’s House. Discover the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II and learn more about her powerful legacy.
Distance from Brussels to Amsterdam by Train:
Amsterdam is conveniently accessible by train from Brussels, with a travel time of approximately two hours. Being relatively close by, this is one of the most popular international destinations for students or expats in Brussels looking to go on weekend trips by train.
Maastrich: A Weekend Trip from Brussels by Train
Maastricht, often considered the crown jewel of the Netherlands, is just an hour and a half train ride away from Brussels, making it an ideal weekend trip abroad.
In Maastricht you can wander through it’s cobbled streets, savor local treats like Limburgse vlaai, and discovering unique spots like the St. Pietersberg Caves.
Day 1: Historic Treasures and Riverside Strolls
Embark on your Maastricht adventure by stepping into the heart of the city at Vrijthof Square. This square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the impressive St. Servatius Basilica and St. John’s Church.
Wander through the charming streets of Wyck, known for its boutique shops and quaint cafes. Cross the iconic Hoge Brug (High Bridge) for panoramic views of the Maas River.
Explore the Basilica of Our Lady, a medieval church with a rich history and impressive architecture. Afterward, take a stroll along the picturesque Maas River.
Conclude your day by enjoying the lively atmosphere of Vrijthof, and area with plenty of cafes and restaurants.
Day 2: Artistic Discoveries and Underground Caves
Begin your second day with a visit to the Bonnefanten Museum, an architectural gem housing an impressive collection of fine art. Marvel at works ranging from medieval sculptures to contemporary masterpieces.
Delve into Maastricht’s underground history with a tour of the St. Pietersberg Caves. The caves served various purposes over the centuries, including shelter during wars and storage for valuable goods. They have been carved out over centuries, reveal a captivating world beneath the surface made out of labyrinthine passages.
For a tranquil escape, unwind in the city’s oldest park, Stadspark. Enjoy the greenery and peaceful surroundings before continuing your exploration.
Distance from Brussels to Maastricht by Train:
Maastricht is easily accessible by train from Brussels, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The scenic train ride through the Belgian and Dutch countryside adds to the charm of this weekend trip from Brussels.
Other Suggested Weekend Trips from Brussels by Train
While there are many things to do in Brussels, you will love exploring the country beyond the capital.
if you are still looking for more weekend trips from Brussels by train, consider visiting Dinant, a charming town among steep cliffs and ancient passageways, or Michelen, Belgium’s hidden gem with a great food scene.
And if you are looking for other international weekened trip destinations that are easily accesible by train, considering visiting Rotterdam, in The Netherlands, ust a 1-hour train ride away.
