Belgium in 5 Days: 4 Recommended 5-day Itineraries to Belgium

A 5-day Belgium itinerary is ideal for travelers looking to explore the unmissable sights such as the Art Nouveau masterpieces and Ardennes whilst also indulging in their keen interest to taste regional specialties beyond the famous chocolates and beers. Below are our top Belgium 5-day itinerary options.

This culture-focused 5-day Belgium itinerary takes you on a journey through Belgium's artistic and historical treasures. Commence in Brussels, where the innovative Musical Instruments Museum offers a melodious introduction to the country's cultural heritage. Wander through the antique-filled Sablon district, perhaps stopping for a hot chocolate at the renowned Wittamer. During your Antwerp trip, delve into the city's fashion revolution at MoMu and explore Belgium's immigration history at the Red Star Line Museum. Ghent's vibrant street art and the cutting-edge SMAK museum showcase Belgium's contemporary cultural scene. In Bruges, medieval architecture is contrasted with the timeless masterpieces of the Groeningemuseum. Conclude your cultural odyssey in Brussels with a comics tour, celebrating Belgium's contribution to the "ninth art" and leaving you with a multifaceted view of the country's rich cultural landscape.

If you are looking for an itinerary that combines Belgium's renowned Trappist beer tradition with the natural beauty of the Ardennes region, then this is for you. Begin in picturesque Dinant, the birthplace of the saxophone, where you'll explore the Leffe Museum before an afternoon kayaking on the Meuse River. The next day, embark on a scenic hike in the Ardennes forest, culminating at the serene Orval Abbey, famous for its Trappist beer and cheese. In Bastogne, delve into World War II history at the War Museum, then lighten the mood with a visit to the whimsical La Chouffe Brewery. Experience the charm of Durbuy, "the smallest city in the world," and gain a new perspective with a dawn hot air balloon ride over the Ardennes. Conclude your journey in vibrant Liège, where the Curtius Museum offers insights into Wallonian culture and history, leaving you with a rich tapestry of experiences from Belgium's less-traveled south.

This 5 days in Belgium itinerary offers the serene beauty of the country's coast with poignant World War I history. Start in Ostend, where the Mu.ZEE showcases Belgian art from the 1830s to the present day, followed by a rejuvenating walk along the North Sea promenade. Journey to the Zwin Nature Park near Bruges, a unique coastal bird sanctuary, before indulging in a tour of one of the city's historic breweries. In Ypres, immerse yourself in World War I history at the In Flanders Fields Museum and attend the moving Last Post Ceremony at Menin Gate. A trip to Ghent offers a change of pace with its imposing Gravensteen Castle and charming canal-side architecture. Conclude your trip in Brussels, where the Royal Museums of Fine Arts provide a fitting finale to your journey through Belgian history and culture.

This forward-looking itinerary showcases Belgium's architectural innovations from Art Nouveau to contemporary design. Begin in Brussels at the exquisite Horta Museum, followed by a guided walk exploring the city's Art Nouveau gems. The next day, contrast this with a visit to the futuristic Atomium and the adjacent ADAM Brussels Design Museum, celebrating 20th-century design. In Antwerp, marvel at Zaha Hadid's Port House, a striking example of contemporary architecture, before delving into migration history at the Red Star Line Museum. Ghent's innovative urban renewal projects, such as the Oude Dokken, offer insights into sustainable city development, complemented by a visit to the city's Design Museum. Conclude your architectural odyssey in Liège.

Five days in Belgium with one of our top four itineraries promises a deep dive into the country's diverse offerings. However, if you wish to create a bespoke experience, we invite you to fill out our customized Belgium trip form. Additionally, be sure to consult our comprehensive Belgium travel guide, including our article on the best time to visit Belgium, to align your trip perfectly with your preferences and desired experiences.

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