belgium road trip from uk

Try this fun 7 day Belgium road trip itinerary (+ map!)

Belgium is often overlooked on European travel itineraries and, when tourists do visit, they tend to head straight for the big cities and popular tourist spots and then leave again. Brussels, Antwerp and Bruge s might feature on a Belgian itinerary, but only for a few days before visitors skedaddle to elsewhere in Europe.

But there’s so much more to this small country than these major centres – and I’m not just talking about Belgian waffles or local beer!

Belgium is a wonderful destination for a holiday , a treasure trove of delightful destinations where old world charm blends with modern culture, where city breaks and adventure activities go hand in hand, and where you will find delicious food no matter where you look.

This European country has so much to offer but if you’re not entirely convinced then here are four reasons why you should add Belgium to your future travel planning and use this itinerary to help plan the best road trip to this fascinating country.

4 Reasons to visit Belgium

Table of Contents

1. Belgium is easy to get to! If you’re travelling from the UK then you can reach Brussels from London on the Eurostar in less than two hours. Or, if you want to have your own car, then the ferry crossing from Dover to Calais is also less than two hours.

Looking for an even speedier car journey? The Eurotunnel travels from Folkestone to Calais in just 35 minutes.

The ferry or the Eurotunnel is the best way to travel to Belgium. We have travelled by both Eurotunnel and on Irish Ferries from Dover and they are both very easy journeys. In particular, travelling by Irish Ferries was very comfortable . If doing a road trip then I like to have my own car and travelling by ferry means that I have a bit of a break from driving, sit in a comfortable lounge and have something to eat before carrying on with the journey.

Belgium is also well connected with the rest of Europe , especially with cities like Paris and Amsterdam . And because it’s a small country, you can drive easily from Belgium into the neighbouring countries of the Netherlands, Germany, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and France .

2. Belgium is not crowded. Well, that’s not entirely true. Visit Belgium’s most popular spots during the high season (July-August) or during one of the country’s many festivals and places can get crowded. Leave the main attractions, however, and you’ll find that Belgium has plenty of Nature Parks, two National Parks , plenty of beaches and myriad towns where you won’t have to jostle for space.

Plus there are the Ardennes , a lush playground ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. If you visit during the shoulder season (April-June and September – October) then the crowds will disappear (and prices will fall!). 

3. Belgium has amazing food . Don’t believe anyone who tells you that a diet of Belgian waffles , frites (chips or French fries) with mayonnaise and beer is not a balanced diet!

The good news, however, is that Belgian cuisine has much more to offer. Moules-frites (mussels with fries), is a classic Belgian dish and is one of the foods to try when in Belgium.

Waterzooi is a traditional Belgian seafood stew that includes vegetables and egg. Typically the dish is made with fish but it can also be made with chicken these days. Another traditional stew is Carbonnade , made with beef and dark beer. 

4. Belgium is not boring! Belgium has often been saddled with a reputation for being boring. Much of this stereotype is linked with bureaucracy (or, more specifically, eurocracy) but it is unjustified. For such a small country, Belgium boasts a huge number of historic cities , beautiful towns, amazing Medieval architecture , verdant countryside, the hypnotic hills and valleys of the Ardennes, and deep-rooted traditions and festivals .

So the question is not should you visit Belgium but rather where should you go in Belgium .

This Belgium road trip itinerary starts in Brussels , one of the most famous and popular destinations, and then takes in the lesser known destinations of Dinant and Durbuy in Belgium’s Wallonia region. These two small cities are not very well known to outsiders but they should be; both are beautiful and arguably two of the best places to visit in Belgium with lots to see and do, and fascinating histories to boot.

I spent a large part of my childhood living in Belgium (and was even born here) so it’s a country that is close to my heart – and perhaps explains my penchant for chocolate. Well, that’s my excuse anyway…

Over the last few years I’ve returned a couple of times as a guest of the Belgian Tourist Office Wallonia in order to produce this guide and share the best of the region for families (all opinions are my own).

Here’s all you need to know about planning your Belgium road trip – just remember, as with any trip, it’s well worth purchasing travel insurance before you travel.

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Belgium Road Trip Itinerary

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own. See my disclosure policy for more details .

To give you an overview, I have created a map using Google My Maps to show you the major stops along this Belgium road trip route.

Day 1: Brussels

Once you arrive in Calais it’s a 2 to 2.5 hour drive to the capital city of Brussels . Along the way you’ll pass alongside the port city of G hent , famous for its large public squares, marketplaces, and medieval buildings in the city center. The most famous is the Friday Market (‘Vrijdag Markt’) , one of the largest general markets with over 400 stalls. A market has been held on this square since 1199.

If you have time, stop for lunch. De Superette , a bakery and restaurant that serves wood-fired pizzas, comes recommended.

There is a lot to see in Brussels and it’s a great place to star your road trip but with only two days you’ll have to plan your days well.

Start with a tour of the Grand Place , an enormous public square in the city centre that dates back to the early 15th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful town squares in the world . Depending on when you visit, you will find different events, markets and even art installations on the square. Your an also visit the Town Hall and Brussels City Museum that stand alongside the square. 

Just around the corner from the Grand Place is another one of Brussels’ star attractions, the Mannekin Pis . The small bronze sculpture of a boy weeing (yep, you read that right, weeing!) is though to date back to the 15th century, although the current statue is a replica dating back to the 1960s – the statues keep getting stolen! 

At various times of the year, the Manneken Pis gets dressed up in all kinds of costumes – apparently he has more than 1,000 outfits, which are all key in the Brussels City Museum.

Another famous Brussels resident is Tintin , and you’ll spot murals dedicated to the boy detective across the city. One of the best ways to enjoy the many locations that inspired Hergé is to join a comic strip walk .

You should also stop by the Belgian Comic Strip Centre , a celebration of all things comic strips and books where you’ll find the Smurfs and many more characters alongside Tintin and Snowy.

Don’t miss the many excellent restaurants in Brussels and do order moules-frites . For desert you can’t go wrong with a Dame Blanche , a Belgian dessert prepared with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream and hot melted chocolate sauce. And, of course, you need to try a Belgian waffle or two while here!

Where to stay in Brussels:  Try the Brussels Welcome Hotel , which enjoys a fun theatrical decor and has a family room that can sleep four to six people. It’s also good value for money. Other hotels that come recommended are The Dominican , Hotel Made in Louise and the Train Hostel , railway carriages that sit on a rooftop. 

Day 2: Brussels and drive to Durbuy

Spend your second morning in Brussels exploring the neighbourhood of Petit Sablon , located in the historic upper part of Brussels . This neighbourhood is filled with antiques, art and plenty of Belgian chocolate. Every weekend the Grand Sablon transforms into a market with antique dealers selling all kinds of things. 

You can also catch a great view of Brussels from the Mon des Arts gardens , which are nearby. 

The Royal Palace of Brussels sits just beyond the Old Town and European Quarter and is where the Belgian Royal Family reside. During the summertime the palace is open to visitors. 

If you have time then it’s worth stopping at the Atomium , a popular attraction that was built in 1958 for the Brussels World Fair. The shiny sculpture made of nine stainless steel balls has become something of a city icon . 

History buffs might want to make a detour south of the city to the site of the Battle of Waterloo on this trip through Belgium. Located just 18km south of Brussels, it’s a short drive to get to the historic battle sit e where, in 1815, the British and Dutch forces commanded by the Duke of Wellington, defeated Napoleon bringing and end to the Napoleonic wars.

From Brussels it’s about 1hr 30mins to drive to Durbuy .

Where to stay in Durbuy: We loved staying in Chez Tante Alice , a charming B&B located 14km from the centre of town. If you want to be closer – and are up for a bit of an adventure – then the Adventure Valley Camping offers glamping tents that come with beds and bathrooms. Take a look at more family-friendly hotel options on Booking.com .

Day 3: Durbuy

The small town of Durbuy is officially “la plus petit ville du mode” (the smallest city in the world). Granted, the Vatican City is officially the world’s smallest city on paper but in 1331, John I, Count of Luxembourg and King of Bohemia, bestowed the title of smallest city on Durbuy and they locals have been running with it ever since. 

This is a really fun city (or rather, small village) to visit and despite its petit nature there is a surprising amount to do here. 

Start your visit with a walking tour along the cobblestone streets of the old city centre . The Durbuy Tourist Office has a very good walking tour map that details the rich history of the town and some of the historical buildings and old stone houses of Durbuy old town. 

Then jump on board the Petit Train Touristique that takes visitors up to the highest point of the city ; it’s a great way to see just how tiny Durbuy really is. Back in town, it’s well worth visiting the Topiary Park – the largest topiary garden in Europe.

For lunch we bought bread, ham and cheese from Boucherie Bodson , located just behind the Durbuy Tourist Office, and had a picnic by the Roche de la Falize , a dome-shaped rock on the edge of the old town that is some 360 million years old. 

In the afternoon, head to Adventure Valley Durbuy , an outdoor adventure and nature park on the outskirts of town. Home to a bike park , zip wires, tubing slides, a via ferrata course , escape rooms and much more, this is the perfect place to head with kids. You could easily spend a full day here there are so many activities on offer so take that into account when planning your trip.

There are some great restaurants in Durbuy . Try 7 by Juliette for fun, innovative tapas-style dishes or La Bru’sserie for something a little more high end. 

Day 4: Grottes de Han

It’s a short trip of less than one hour to get to the Grottes de Han (Han Caves) from Durbuy so you could visit the caves as a day trip. However, we recommend spending a day here and then overnighting in Cocoon Village , the glamping site that sits next door to the caves.

The Caves of Han-sur-Lesse sit on the outskirts of the village Han-sur-Lesse and are a natural complex of caves that were formed by the river Lesse. 

Visits to the caves, which sit nearly 110m underground , are guided and are usually in French or Flemish. Don’t worry if you don’t speak either, however, as you are not bombarded with facts and figures. Instead your guide will take you to some of the most spectacular caves . 

One of the best things is the ‘Origin’, the sound and light show . I’m not often a fan of sound and light shows but this one is truly spectacular. There’s also a very good museum on site that showcases all the many things found in the caves over the years dating back centuries.

There is also a wildlife park on site home to the European Big 5 ; the European bison, the wolf, the brown bear, the wolverine, and the lynx. Tour the park on foot or on a safari bus. 

Where to stay in Han-sur-Lesse: Cocoon Village offers glamping in bell tents on a pretty campground (open 1 April to 10 October). It’s a short walk from the Cocoon Village to the caves entrance. Tree Tents are another option, inviting visitors too spend a night up among the tres in the middle of the wildlife park (open 2 April to 5 November).

Day 5: Dinant

Sitting on the banks of the Meuse river , below a cliff face, is the picturesque town of Dinant . This beautiful city is located in the Wallonia region of Belgium , not far from the French border. It’s a great place to visit for a weekend trip or for longer . We spent three days here and had the best time exploring the city.

Start your time in Dinant with “The Ghost of Dinant” walking tour . This app has been developed by the local tourist office and can be accessed on your smartphone. It’s a fun way to explore the city streets and see some of the main sights include the Notre-Dame church and La Maison de Monsieur Sax – Dinant is the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone.

If you don’t want to try the walking tour app then pop into the tourist office and pick up the Sax in the City walking tour map , which takes you past the numerous saxophones dotted around the city. Have lunch along the waterfront and then take the cable car up to the Dinant Citadel for a birds eye view of the city and surrounding area.

Your next stop should be Dinant Nautique , where you can hire an electric boat to cruise along the Meuse river. The stop is right in front of the Notre-Dame church and next to the Charles de Gaulle bridge. You don’t need a licence to drive the boat, which means that even kids can take turns captaining the ship. It’s a fun way to see the city and offers great views of the Roche Bayard , the Bayard Rock.

Where to stay in Dinant: We stayed in  Castel de Pont-à-Lesse , a hotel housed within a former chateaux. Located on the outskirts of town in 25 hectares of gardens, it’s a good spot to stay with families, not least because it has a swimming pool. For more ideas on where to stay in Dinant, take a look at these  hotel options on Booking.com .

Day 6: Dinant

Your first stop after breakfast the next morning should be Dinant Evasion , on the outskirts of town. This adventure company offers an array of activities from a treetop adventure course and paintballing to caving, kayaking, a via ferrata trail, and mountain biking – and more.

It’s a popular place and you can easily spend an entire day here or, you can do like we did, and spend the morning climbing through the trees along various wobbly bridges. It’s a really good place and very well run.

Head into the centre of the city afterwards for lunch; we really enjoyed Le Cosma when we visited. After lunch head to Boulangerie Pâtisserie Jacob and buy a Couque de Dinant , one of the toughest biscuits in the world (according to us anyway!). Made from just flour and honey, these biscuits are so hard that you can’t bite them. Instead you’re supposed to break off a piece and let it slowly dissolve in your mouth.

If your visit coincides with the school holidays then make sure to book tickets to visit the Museum Pataphonie , a musical adventure quite unlike anything you might have experienced before. Tours must be booked in advance and are only available during school holidays Mon to Fri and on Sundays at 2pm and 4pm.

For dinner, head to the restaurant Les 7 Meuses located halfway between Dinant and Namur. Not only does it serve excellent food (and great Belgian beer!) it offers spectacular views of the area.

Day 7: Travel back to Calais and home

If you have time before your crossing back to the UK (or your next destination) then stop by the Jardins D’Eau D’Annevoie , the Annevoie Gardens. Created 250 years ago, the gardens are unique in the fact that the numerous water features (some 50 in total) function entirely without pumps or machinery. They are very pretty and you can walk around them in approximately an hour. There is a cafe on site too.

And that’s it. One week will go very quickly and have you thinking that you didn’t have enough time to see everything! But that’s all the more reason to come back another time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like driving in belgium.

They drive on the right-hand side of the road in Belgium, which is something to be aware of if you’re coming from the UK! Traffic cab be very bad in the major cities, something to keep in mind if you’re driving into Brussels. Similarly, parking can be a challenge in the big cities. In the countryside, driving is much easier! 

What language(s) do they speak in Belgium?

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flemish), French and German, with the primary language being Dutch (it’s spoken by approximately 60% of the population). Don’t worry if you don’t speak any of these, however, a good percentage of the country also speak English. 

What is the best time of year to visit Belgium?

The months between April and October are the best times of year to visit Belgium. the shoulder seasons of April – June and September – October see fewer crowds and generally mild weather. The summer months of July and August can get very busy and cities such as Brussels can get very hot.

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Katja Gaskell

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Ultimate Belgium Road Trip Itinerary: The Highlights in 7 Days (+ Map)

So, you’re planning on doing a road trip in Belgium and are looking for the perfect itinerary? You have come to the right place!

This road trip itinerary will take you to Belgium’s most beautiful places . This includes medieval cities, enchanting castles and some of the country’s best hikes.

As I am from Belgium, I travelled all over this country and I’ve gotten to know it quite well. I included the places that cannot be missed during a visit to Belgium in this itinerary as well as some hidden gems.

So, let’s dive right into this itinerary for the perfect road trip in Belgium!

Belgium Road Trip Overview and Map

• Day 1: Visit Brussels, the capital
• Day 2: Head to Bruges, the famous medieval city
• Day 3: Visit the Capital of Diamonds, Antwerp
• Day 4: Make a stop at the See-through church on the way to Malmedy
• Day 5: Explore the surroundings of Malmedy
• Day 6: Hike in Malmedy and head to Le Herou
• Day 7: Visit Dinant, the city where the saxophone was born, and admire Vêves Castle and Walzin Castle

7 Day Belgium Road Trip Itinerary

Belgium is a small country where nothing is very far away. This makes it the perfect place for a road trip! In one week, you will have enough time to visit some of the country’s highlights as well as its most beautiful hidden gems.

You can start this itinerary from any place that’s mentioned in it. As Brussels is the city where many people will enter the country and start their Belgian road trip, I chose this city for day one.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you click on them and make a purchase. This is at no extra cost to you and it allows me to keep producing free content. 💜

Day 1: Brussels

One of the best things to do during a road trip in Belgium is to spend a day in Brussels , the bustling capital. Here, you can explore the historical centre, which is home to some of Brussels’ most beautiful landmarks .

When in Brussels, the places that you cannot miss are the Grand Place, Manneken Pis and his counterparts Jeanneke Pis and Het Zinneke, the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries, the Mont des Arts and the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula.

There’s much more to do in this city, though, it all depends on your interests. If you’re a beer lover, for example, you can also head to Delirium Café, which serves over 2,000 different kinds of beer or go on one of Brussels’ amazing beer tours .

It’s good to know that Brussels is also home to plenty of interesting museums . My personal favourite is the Musée Magritte Museum, which showcases the work of Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte.

Hotel with paying parking space in Brussels: Nhow Brussels Bloom

Don’t forget to try delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles while you’re in Belgium. You will find these nearly everywhere in the country and they’re the best! This might just be the perfect souvenir to bring back home from Belgium .

Day 2: Bruges

🚙 Distance from Brussels: 98 km (61 mi)

On day two of this itinerary, it’s time to head to Bruges, one of Belgium’s most charming medieval cities. While it’s true that this city can be a bit touristy, it really is worth visiting. You will find cobblestone streets, stunning architecture and beautiful canals here.

One day in Bruges will give you just enough time to see this city’s highlights. This includes visiting the historic centre and taking a boat ride on the canals.

Some of the most beautiful places to visit in Bruges are Markt Square, Burg Square, Rosary Quay, the Boniface Bridge (which is in my favourite area in Bruges), the Church of Our Lady and the Beguinage.

Hotel with paying parking space in Bruges: Hotel Bla Bla

Check out my post featuring the best hotels with canal views for more places to stay in Bruges. Some of them have a private parking lot too.

Day 3: Antwerp

🚙 Distance from Bruges: 104 km (65 mi)

Antwerp, often dubbed the Diamond Capital of the World, is the last Flemish city on this itinerary.

Although you will arrive by car, Antwerp is home to one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world , so I would recommend starting your visit here. Don’t forget to have a look inside the station too, it’s stunning!

Next, you can explore the diamond district, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, walk through the Vlaeykensgang and visit the Grote Markt and Het Steen Castle. There are plenty of interesting things to do in Antwerp .

If you like visiting museums, you will be happy to hear that some of Belgium’s best museums are in Antwerp, the MAS Museum and Rubenshuis are just a few examples.

Hotel with paying parking space in Antwerp: Prizeotel Antwerp-City

Tip: The MAS Museum has a rooftop that is free to visit and offers a beautiful view of the city.

Day 4: See-Through Church & Malmedy

🚙 Distance from Antwerp: 96 km (60 mi) + 88 km (55 mi) from Borgloon to Malmedy

The see-through church of Borgloon, in the province of Limburg, is a unique stop on the way to Malmedy.

Also called “Reading Between the Lines” or “Doorkijkkerk” in Dutch, this church was designed by Belgian architects Pieterjan Gijs and Arnout Van Vaerenbergh. It’s part of a series of art installations that encourages visitors to see the landscape of Borgloon in a different light.

This is a pretty unique place I loved visiting. It looks completely different from every angle and I spent quite some time taking pictures here.

It’s good to know that there’s a parking lot nearby and that the church is a 10-minute walk from there.

Day 5: Malmedy

Get ready to head to the Belgian Ardennes today, my favourite part of the country! This is where you can enjoy nature and find some of Belgium’s best hikes .

I would recommend basing yourself in or around Malmedy for two nights. This town is located in the heart of the Ardennes and there are plenty of beautiful places to visit nearby.

It all depends on your interests, but some of the best things to do around Malmedy are to visit the Bayehon Waterfall, hike to Rocher du Bieley or the Ninglinspo River, explore the Tros Marets Valley or High Fens, visit the Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps and head to Reinhardstein Castle.

You get the picture – you won’t get bored easily here as there’s so much to do in the region!

Hotel with free parking space near Malmedy: Hotel Grand-Champ

Day 6: Malmedy & Le Hérou

🚙 Distance from Malmedy: 51 km (32 mi)

There’s some time left to explore the region around Malmedy before heading to Le Hérou, one of Belgium’s most beautiful viewpoints. You can head to High Fens for a morning hike, for example. I would recommend saving 2 to 3 hours to visit Le Hérou and hike in the area, though.

The 1,4 km (0.9 mi) long, 80 m (262 ft) high Hérou Rock offers a magnificent view of the surroundings and it’s very easy to reach. It takes just 5 minutes to hike to le Hérou from the parking lot. This being said it’s worth staying a little longer to explore and hike in the area.

Hotel with free parking space near le Hérou: l’Ardenne Autrement

Day 7: Dinant, Vêves Castle & Walzin Castle

🚙 Distance from Le Hérou: 70 km (43 mi)

On the last day of this road trip in Belgium, it’s time to head to Dinant, the city where the saxophone was invented.

Some of the best things to do in Dinant are visiting the Citadelle de Dinant, admiring the Church of Our Lady and crossing the Charles de Gaulle Saxophone Bridge.

If you’re looking for a unique Belgian souvenir , you will find shops selling so-called “couques de Dinant”. These are hard biscuits that can either be broken into little pieces so that you can let them melt in your mouth or… you can use them to decorate your house! Many people use these as wall hangings or Christmas tree ornaments.

Once you’ve visited Dinant, you can head to Vêves Castle , which is often dubbed “Sleeping Beauty’s Castle”. It’s good to know that you can visit it on the inside too, which is worth it. The castle has been beautifully restored and it looks like something from a fairytale (hence its nickname).

Besides Vêves, Walzin Castle is another one of my favourite castles in Belgium. Although this one cannot be visited, it’s pretty spectacular as it’s perched high on top of a rock.

Hotel with free parking space in Dinant: L’inattendu “Sur la Croisette”

Tip: If you feel like hiking some more, you can do a 15-km (0.3 mi) loop that connects Vêves and Walzin Castle. You can find this hike on Route You .

>> Read: 15 Castle Hotels in Belgium for an Enchanting Stay

🇧🇪  The Travel Resources I use for Belgium By purchasing through the following links, you can support me at no additional cost. 💜 🏨   Booking  &  Hostelworld : To find the best hotels, hostels and guesthouses 🚃 Omnio : To book trains and buses in advance 🛫  Skyscanner : To find the cheapest flights to Belgium 🚗 Discover Cars : To rent a car at the best rates 🏕  GetYourGuide  &  Viator : To book great tours and activities 💰 Heymondo : One of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies (get 5% off with this link !) 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa to visit Belgium .

Driving in Belgium

Belgians drive on the right side of the road and most of them respect traffic rules.

While driving in the countryside is pretty easy, there’s quite some traffic in cities like Brussels and Antwerp. Apart from that, it’s also difficult to find free parking spots in major cities.

When I lived in Belgium, I often parked my car outside of the city centre to avoid paying high parking fees. For this itinerary, however, I would leave my car at the hotel and use public transport to navigate within big cities.

🚗 If you want to rent a car in Belgium, I recommend using   Discover Cars .  This company compares car rental companies so that you can get the best price.

Read more about Belgium:

• Belgium Itinerary: The Best Places in 3, 4 or 5 Days
• 14 Epic Hikes in Belgium (Nature, Castles & History)
• 28 Famous Landmarks in Belgium Worth Seeing
• 23 Most Beautiful Places in Belgium to Visit
• Backpacking Belgium: A Local’s Guide for
• 19 Souvenirs From Belgium That Don’t Suck

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has been travelling solo for years. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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6 of the best road trips in Belgium

Jun 10, 2024 • 12 min read

Despite Belgium's small size, you'll find plenty to discover on a road trip © Matt Munro / Lonely Planet

Chips, chocolate and the world’s best beers are just the start in Belgium , which packs several of Europe’s most enthralling historic cities into its compact borders. 

It’s hard not to be entranced by the majestic Grand Place of Brussels, the quirky brilliance of Ghent, the fashionably reinvented Antwerp and the dreamy canals of Bruges. 

However, all of those big hitters work determinedly to keep cars out, using low emission zones ( LEZ ), limited parking and deliberately confusing one-way systems to frustrate drivers.

It’s best to visit those cities by public transport – park and ride is well-organized. Save your vehicle for the whole gamut of less prominent Belgian marvels where having wheels is, contrastingly, ideal. 

Distances are relatively short, and what makes things interesting more than the sometimes-forgettable scenery is the close-packed attractions that driving your own vehicle allows you to access.

Here’s our guide to the best road trips in Belgium.

1. Napoleon’s final defeat

Best for Napoleonic history Waterloo to Waterloo; 20km (13 miles); one long day

On June 18, 1815, the most famous battle in European history was fought on sloping, rain-soaked fields some 5km (3 miles) south of the Belgian town of Waterloo.

Brussels was “saved” from re-capture by the French, and the battle marked the final defeat of Napoleon, who until then had been seen as the greatest military leader of the era. Even today, the term “meet one’s Waterloo” means to encounter one’s ultimate obstacle and be defeated by it.

The fields on which nearly 50,000 died on that single day are now marked by numerous monuments, most famously the Lion Mound , a 43m (140ft) tall conical hill topped by a 2-tonne bronze lion. 

Beside it is a fabulous, subterranean  visitor center  that could occupy you for hours, explaining facets of the battle and its context. Having a car lets you combine this with several other battle-related sites, with Waterloo as the starting point. 

From the visitor center, it’s 1.2km (0.7 miles) to  Mont St-Jean farmhouse , a mini-museum about Napoleonic battlefield medicine. There’s a brasserie-restaurant at the farmhouse that’s far better than cafes at the main site. 

Another 3km (1.9 miles) south, past several more battle memorials, is  Le Cailou , a museum in the house where Napoleon slept before the battle. From Le Cailou return north via  Plancenoit , a small village with a memorial commemorating the heroic Prussian troops who saved the day in a lesser-known skirmish.

Finish the drive back to Waterloo. In the center of town is the former inn (now a  museum ) from which Wellington wrote home reports of his victory.

Planning tip: Parking is free at all the sites. Painfully slow buses do run from Brussels to Waterloo and continue to the battlefield visitor center. However, other sites are hard to reach without wheels and the free parking in Waterloo means it’s better to visit Brussels from Waterloo than vice versa.

Ready to plan your trip to Belgium? Choose when to go with our seasonal guide

2. The Eastern Flanders loop

Best for medieval charm and Roman resonance Leuven to Tongeren then back via Hasselt; 210km (130 miles); 3 days

Foreign visitors in Flanders tend to concentrate on the west and center: not surprising given the magnetic appeal of Bruges , Ghent , Antwerp , Mechelen and Lier, plus the fine beaches around Knokke.

However, the east has many delightful yet little visited historic cities of its own which, in any other country, would be major attractions. Start in Leuven , the great university city of Flanders, home of  Stella Artois , the " world’s longest bar " and the beautiful statue-encrusted medieval  city hall . 

Heading southeast, stop at sugar-city Tienen (Tirelemont in French) with an expansive central square and two fine churches, then divert south to Hoegaarden, famed for beer but also charming for its hilltop gardens, bandstand and fine church.

At little Zoutleeuw, east of Tienen, the town hall , cafes and especially the UNESCO-listed 13th-century Sint-Leonarduskerk are all fairy-tale structures. Stop in Wilderen for a drink at  Brouwerij Wilderen , a buzzing brew-cafe-restaurant in a beautifully repurposed historic barn, then discover cosmopolitan Sint-Truiden (St Trond in French) with a plethora of attractions around its majestic central square.

Check opening and performance times before heading out to Festraetsmuseum . Here a time-warp collection of still-working 1930s mechanical contraptions include a bell chime rung by a skeleton and an almost comically naive steamship departing for New York – all built without any advanced electronics. The museum is in Sint-Truiden’s sleepy Bejijnhof quarter. 

The next stretch of road is particularly pretty amid undulating orchards and patchworked woodlands with several castles around Borgloon.

You’ll have to park and walk around 15 minutes between the fruit trees to find a dinky “chapel” called  Reading between the Lines . It’s made from stacked metal slats with air gaps that are so arranged that it seems to half disappear when viewed from different directions, especially at sunset.

Spend the night and much of the next day in architecturally charming Tongeren, with Roman wall remnants, a superb  museum focusing on Gallo-Roman history, excellent boutique hotels and two Michelin-starred restaurants.

After lunch on the second afternoon, drive north, crossing the wide Albert Canal on the 1930s  Diepenbeek locks to reach Bokrijk. 

Here, you’ll need a couple of hours to get a taste for Belgium’s finest open-air museum and afterward, don’t miss nearby  Cycling Through Water , a playful 21st-century cycle-path construction where – from certain angles – cyclists appear to be doing just that. 

Sleep in Hasselt, a city famed for its  jenever (Flemish gin) and remarkable selection of fine-dining options (two with Michelin stars) in the patchily historic old town core. Then return west via Diest, a historic town with the region’s most marvelous begijnhof (self-contained medieval village, originally for unmarried women who didn’t want to become nuns).

En route back to Leuven make a 5-minute stop in the old-fashioned Catholic pilgrimage town of Scherpenheuvel with its distinctive  star-studded basilica dome and 1960s-flashback store selling religious kitsch. Have dinner at the Wagenhuis facing the picture-perfect rural castle of Horst .

Planning tip: Both Tongeren and Hasselt have excellent boutique hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants. Be sure to book ahead to guarantee a spot.

Looking for more things to do? Here are Belgium's top experiences

3. The caves and castles route

Best for fortifications and underground adventures Namur to Liège; 225km (140 miles); 2 or 3 days

Belgium has 3000 castles, from moated medieval marvels to brooding hilltop fortresses. This route also takes you through the  Famenne-Ardenne Geopark , a UNESCO-listed area full of spectacular caves, many of which you can visit given the transport to get there. 

Drive south following the River Meuse through the town of  Wépion , passing several chateaux and lovely Yvoir villages en route to dramatic Dinant, where Citadelle de Dinant sits on a cliff above the oversized bulb-nosed Église Notre-Dame church.

Cut across the country via Lavaux Ste-Anne with its moated low-rise courtyard  castle , to Han-sur-Lesse whose caverns are Belgium’s best known subterranean attraction and a visitor experience that starts with a rickety train ride. 

Han is easy for drop-in visitors due to relatively frequent tour slots, but if you time things well (pre-booking is the best option) you might prefer to continue to the lesser-known cave systems at Lorette/Rochefort or  Hotton , where visits feel more like explorations. 

Rochefort, famed for its  eponymous Trappist beer , also makes a charming place to stay overnight. For more accommodation choices, head to  Durbuy – Belgium’s “smallest city” – a quiet place in the offseason but a little tourist-choked on summer weekends with families flooding to the nearby  Adventure Valley activities park.  

The next day, wind across the pretty wooded hills via Ocquier to Modave whose  château is one of Belgium’s grandest. In contrast the  fortress at Huy, further north, is a sombre, powerful brute but its WWII history is enthralling – PG Wodehouse was incarcerated here for a while – and the views alone are well worth the cable car ride up (open April to October). 

From Huy head northeast to  Jehay , home to one of Belgium’s loveliest if least-visited moated castles with a gingerbread checkerboard effect in its brickwork. Then take the motorway back to Namur or on to outwardly ugly but vibrantly fascinating  Liège .

Planning tip: Even if the weather is hot, bring some warm clothes to wear when visiting the cave systems. You’ll likely be underground for an hour or more and temperatures are cool year round.

4. WWI Route

Best for WWI history and beer Nieuwpoort to Diksmuide via Ypres (Ieper); 95km (60 miles); allow at least 2 days

This route takes you to key WWI sights and reconstructed medieval town centers once bombarded to rubble during the war. Start on the coast at Nieuwpoort, with its attractive center and busy  yacht harbor .

Drive through the medieval city of Veurne and drop in at St Sixtus Monastery. The monks here brew Westvleteren 12, often rated the world's best beer and certainly one of the hardest to find. Taste it (cautiously!) at the in-house cafe, In de Vrede .  

Drive on south through hop fields to the brewing town of Poperinge, where the  Talbot House retells stories of the WWI British front line. The town hall has eerie execution cells that dealt ruthlessly with shell-shocked deserters. 

East of Poperinge, in central  Ypres (Ieper) , the astounding  Lakenhalle (cloth hall) is one of the world's finest medieval buildings. Yet it was entirely rebuilt following WWI after being bombed to bits. It now hosts a fabulous  In Flanders Fields museum that covers the war through personalized storytelling. The mournful  Last Post is still sounded every evening at 8pm. The next day you’ll be glad of the car to make sorties into the Ypres Salient, a rural patchwork of war graves, preserved trenches and museums. 

There are dozens of choices but if picking just a couple, don’t miss the trench remnants at  Sanctuary Wood , the  Passchendale 1917 experience at Zonnebek and the vast  Tyne Cot cemetery commemorating thousands of fallen commonwealth soldiers. Return to the coast via Diksmuide whose 83m-tall (272ft), 22-storey  IJsertorer is both a WWI memorial and a potent symbol of Flemish identity.

Planning tip: If you are looking for a specific memorial or grave of an ancestor/relative, start by searching CWGC (British/Commonwealth), ABMC (American), Mémoire des hommes (French) or Volksbund (German).

Check out our guide for more unmissable places in Belgium

5. The Semois Valley route

Best for quiet countryside and idyllic river views Bouillon to Vresse; 45km (28 miles); 1 day

The modest mountains of the Ardennes are often visited by WWII fans, intrigued by the Battle of the Bulge around Bastogne, and by extreme cyclists drawn to the castle town of La Roche-en-Ardenne. 

Drivers seeking quaint rural charm need to select routes carefully as many of the region’s roads pass for mile upon mile through swathes of dark pine forest that can lack much in the way of interest. Choose this contrastingly scenic route to visit several of the region’s corners and viewpoints.

Begin the route in Bouillon – Belgium’s most atmospheric castle town, especially just after dusk when Château de Bouillon reflects in placid river waters. Start early with a short out-and-back drive along the Semois River past Cordemois Abbey to Moulin de l’Epine for pretty river views and some lovely woodland walks. 

Return to Bouillon and loop via Ucimont to the Botassart viewpoint to look down upon the same beautiful curl of river, known as the  Tombeau de Géant (Giants Tomb).

The next stop is  Rochehaut where the  tavern-cafe  is a fine place for lunch and serves its own beers. At Rochehaut a panoramic terrace stares down across another beautiful curl of the Semois, but this time with the village of Frahan gracing the tongue of projecting land.  

Further west, riverside Alle has more cafes and is a popular kayaking base . A winding lane leads across the hills to Vresse-sur-Semois, one of the Ardennes most  arty villages where, at the sub-hamlet of Laforêt, the  Pont des Claies is Belgium’s last example of a seasonally reconstructed braided bridge. 

Planning tip: The Ardennes is not equally pretty. Though there are other quaint corners not covered in the route above, and there’s a barren beauty to the Hautes Fagnes area, many of the region’s roads pass for mile upon mile through swathes of dark pine forest with little scenic variation.

6. The four-carnival route

Best for exuberant celebrations Malmédy to Aalst; 265km (165 miles); 3 days

All of the towns on this curious backwards N-shaped route are underrated curiosities in their own rights and worth visiting at any time. However, what makes this route special is that, once a year – if you time things perfectly – you could take part in four Belgium carnivals in the space of three days.

The weekend before Lent (generally sometime in February), start in  Malmédy and be part of the city’s Sunday  Cwarmê Carnival whose 2pm parade features a complex cast of characters, including the photogenic if ununnervingly cheeky Longs Nés with their anonymous masks and upturned Pinocchio noses.

Early the next morning, head out of a scenic drive across the bleak fenlands of the Hautes Fagnes to Eupen, Belgium’s most culturally  German city . The highlight of Eupen’s  Rosenmontag (Rose Monday) carnival is the good-humored parade, often with pointedly satirical elements. 

Once that’s over, jump in the car and dash west towards Binche, possibly saving money by sleeping in one of the inexpensive motels around nearby La Louvière. Arrive in Binche as early as you can – this town lives for carnival and is home to a superb  carnival museum with wonderful costumes and masks from all over the world. 

The famous Mardi Gras parade is mid-afternoon, but arguably the most intriguing element of the age-old celebration comes early morning as groups of the fabled Gilles de Binche (elaborately costumed celebrants) perform circle dances in the main square wearing spooky face-masks. 

In the afternoon, wind permitting, the Gilles don their long feathered headgear for a stomping march through town. However, a great alternative is to jump in the car before that and drive due north to Aalst.

You’ll have missed the Monday afternoon’s onion-throwing antics there but Aalst’s Shrove Tuesday afternoon parade is one of the world’s most comical public farces full of cross-dressing and merriment. 

Planning tip: To make the most of this itinerary, start in Malmédy on the weekend before lent, ie six weeks before Easter Sunday such that you catch the main aspects of the four carnivals (Malmédy on Sunday afternoon, Eupen Monday afternoon, Binche early Tuesday morning and Aalst Tuesday afternoon). Binche carnival is internationally known so accommodation there will be tough (stay near La Louvière) but the other carnivals are primarily local events so finding a place to stay nearby isn’t necessarily difficult. 

Traveling through Belgium on a budget? Here are our money-saving tips

This article was first published May 6, 2022 and updated Jun 10, 2024.

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The Perfect 7 Day Belgium Road Trip Itinerary

Belgium has not made it on the must-see list for many a traveler. Yet with an abundance of culture, castles and beer a-plenty Belgium has the goods to entice. Add to that well-maintained roads that are free of tolls and you have the recipe for a perfect 7-day Belgian Roadtrip.

Where is Belgium?

The Kingdom of Belgium is a little triangular-shaped country in Western Europe, flanked by the North Sea to the East, the Netherlands to the North, Germany to the West, and France to the South.

The country is split into three regions: Flanders (North), Brussels Capital Region (Center), and Wallonia (South). Each region has a different official language, meaning roadsigns will be adapted to reflect the official language of the region. Expect Flemish in Flanders, Flemish and French in Brussels, and French in Wallonia.   In general, Belgians tend to be proficient in several languages and will be more than happy to help you out in English.

Why is it worth taking a road trip through Belgium?

Untouched by over-tourism yet brimming with things to see, Belgium has plenty to offer the keen visitor. The country is home to no less than 15 UNESCO Heritage Sites , over 3000 castles, thousands of beers, and the best chocolate you will ever have the pleasure of tasting.

Though a relatively young country for European standards (Belgium was founded in 1830), the territory of Belgium has a long and rich history thanks to the strategic location by the North Sea. This becomes crystal clear when walking around the Historical Centers of the main cities: Bruges, Brussels, and Antwerp.

While the country has a very good system of public transportation, not all the locations are as easy to access often requiring multiple forms of transport (for example the castles in the province of Namur). Having a car will allow you to dive deeper into the inner folds of the country, exploring every nook and cranny at your own pace.

Belgian Roadtrip itinerary overview

• Day One –Head out to the fashionable city of Antwerpen
• Day Two – Visit the small town of Mechelen
• Day Three & Four – Explore Brussels and its surroundings
• Day Five and Six – Travel to the city and province of Namur
• Day Seven – Check out Bruges

Bonus – Weather & time permitting head out to the Belgian coastal city of De Haan

Places to see during your 7-day belgian road trip.

Belgium is a small country and most locations described in the 7-day road trip guide are an easy 2-hour drive from the capital Brussels. If you are not a fan of lugging around your luggage you could opt to use Brussels as a hub and visit the various cities on day trips .

Start by checking out the best area to stay in Brussels before delving into booking your hotel. You will want to stay on the outskirts of town to avoid the bulk of the city traffic. Saint-Gilles is a great neighborhood with plenty of bars & restaurants and ample parking.

Spend a day in Antwerpen

Where to park: Park in the centrally located Arenberg Parking

Dating back as far as the 16th century, the city of Antwerp played an important historical and economic role. The presence of the harbor meant it was a hub for merchants trading their goods. Rich merchants and guilds poured their hard-earned pennies into the now Historical Centre of Antwerp, remnants of which are clear when walking around the Grote Markt (Main Square) and the surrounding spiderweb of streets.

Visit the opulent Cathedral of our Lady Antwerp, the lesser-known Saint Andrews Church, and the beautiful Saint Charles Borromeo’s Church. Get transported back into Medieval Antwerp when visiting the Vlaaikensgang, the Rubens House, and the Plantin-Moretus Museum. And finally do not miss out on some of Belgium’s best shopping in the chance to peruse the Nationalestraat, Kammenstraat, and the Lombardenvest.

The place to be for hip eateries and artsy cocktail bars is Antwerpen Zuid. A 30-minute walk from the Grote Markt will take you through to Marnixplaats, the perfect place to grab a drink and mingle with the locals.

Visit the small town of Mechelen

Where to park: Park under the main square on the Parking Grote Markt or the Parking Hoogstraat

Wedged between the two largest cities in Belgium, Brussels and Antwerp, the little city of Mechelen often times finds itself ever so slightly forgotten. This however is its greatest charm, it means the city has remained beautifully authentic and is one of the very best places to catch a glimpse of true Flemish culture.

Thanks to a generous local policy to fund local startups implemented by the city council, new bars, eateries, and little stores pop up in the city on an almost daily basis. A favorite among the locals is the covered food market called De Vleeshalle. Inside a multitude of different food stalls offering a variety of different cuisines ranging from fish and chips to delicious Phô.

Walk up the 500-something steps of the Saint Rumboldscathedral to catch the very best views. On a clear day, you can spot the Atomium in Brussels and the Cathedral of our Lady of Antwerp. Take in the pastel-colored guild houses on the Grote Markt (main square) and the Cloth Halls, head over to the bustling fish market and join locals for a great night on the town.  

Explore Brussels and its surroundings

Where to park : Leave the car parked by your hotel when you explore Brussels City Center and opt to take the metro.

Spending one day in Brussels is a great way to get a feel for the thriving capital of Belgium. Start by exploring the Historical Center in and around the majestic Grand Place (Main Square) . Visit the city hall and the Belgian Brewers Museum on the square before heading towards Café Dandoy for a delicious Belgian Waffle. Spot Manneken Pis (the little peeing boy) and go on the hunt for his friends Jeanneken Pis and Zinneke Pis.

Take in some contemporary art at the Bozar and reward yourself with a drink on their rooftop terrace (open from June to September). Should the rooftop terrace at the Bozar be closed, try your luck on the top floor of the Museum of Instruments (MIM) which is open yearlong and serves a delicious brunch. End your day in one of the many bars & restaurants in the Ixelles or Saint-Gilles area. Place Saint Boniface is a popular hangout for locals.

On your second day, venture out of Brussels and explore some of the lesser-known landmarks around the city. Start your day with a stroll through the beautiful La Hulpe park with its ivy-covered little castle, next drive to the Gaasbeek Castle (closed for renovations until 2023 after which it will be open to the public once again). End the day at the Atomium, watching the sunset from the restaurant at the very top.

Travel to the city and province of Namur

Where to park : Park along the river in the BePark – Paring Namur Centre

The city of Namur is the capital of the Wallonia region. In recent years it has received a significant increase in funding from the regional government to promote tourism which has translated into a state-of-the-art, interactive museum in the Citadel of Namur, a revival of the historical funicular connecting downtown Namur with the Citadel and hip bars & restaurants mushrooming up across town.

Visiting Namurs is a great way to discover the southern part of Belgium and get a taste of Walloon culture. Bear in mind the main language spoken in this part of the country is French. Aside from the Citadel and the funicular, visit the UNESCO classified Belfry of Namur, finish the day by heading down to the oldest watering hole of the city dating back 400 years and try a local beer.

On day two explore the surroundings of Namur, there are a variety of different activities to choose from. Castle lovers will want to visit the Vêves Castle, adventure lovers might choose to head to Dinant to experience kayaking while hikers will want to download the Komoot or AllTrails app to get GPX coordinates to the plethora of different hikes around Namur. Last but not least, beer lovers can opt to head over to the Maredsous Abbey to try their famous beer and cheese while visiting the Abbey.

Check out Bruges

Where to park: Park in the Interparking Brugge – Parking ‘t Zand

Kick your butt out of bed a little earlier and head over the Bruges. If you are visiting in high season (June, July, and August) you will want to visit early in the morning to beat the hoards of tourists. The Historical Center is very quaint, although small making it feel cramped quickly.

Visit the Grote Markt (main square), walk up the 83-meter Belford for the best views over Brugge, and explore the Medieval Cloth Hall. Pay €10 for a guided tour on the canals of Bruges, although cliché it is an absolute must. As your guide points out the various historical buildings along the waterfront you will get a completely different perspective of the city. Rental of a private boat is sadly not possible (for locals and tourists alike).

Plan in enough time to amble around the cobblestoned little alleyways leading you to some of the main highlights of Bruges including the Beguinage, The Church of Our Lady Bruges, the Basilica of the Holy  Blood, and the Rozenhoedkaai.

Despite outward appearances, Belgium has a thriving coastal scene. One ray of sunshine in spring and summer is usually enough to send many a Belgian in a mad frenzy to rush to the coast. The most popular cities are Oostende, Knokke-Heist and De Panne. These little cities tend to fill up quickly making both the quest for parking and a spot on the beach gruesome at best.

Instead opt to drive to the much-lesser known De Haan, replete with belle-epoque villas and neverending stretches of white sandy beach. Grab an ice cream from one of the many ice cream parlors in front of the Ocean or pull on your walking shoes and walk the 9km loop walk from De Haan to Wenduinen along the beach.

Driving in Belgium

Driving in Belgium is a lot easier compared to other countries in Europe. Belgians are relatively calm drivers, who are respectful of the traffic rules. Blinkers are used, stop signs are not ignored and handicapped parking is respected, for the most part.

Driving happens on the right-hand side of the road as is common in continental Europe. When driving in cities, be mindful that traffic coming from your right-hand side has the right of way. Belgians will be relentless in exercising this right of way.

Flanders and Brussels are covered by an extensive network of speed cameras. As a general rule of thumb 30 km/h is the speed limit when in the vicinity of a school, 50 km/h is the speed limit within the confines of the city/town while motorways allow for a speed of 120 km/h. Fines for speeding apply for transgressions starting at 6km/h above the speed limit and serious offenses can result in the removal of your driver’s license for up to a couple of months.

To be allowed to drive in Belgium you must be 18+ and in possession of a valid Driver’s Licence. Please note that the legal age for renting a car is 21 years or older. Drivers between 21 and 24 years old will need to pay a young driver’s fee of €12.10/day.

How to get to Belgium

Belgium is serviced by two main airports, Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi Airport. Brussels airport is on the outskirts of Brussels and has a great connection to the major cities in Belgium. When taking the train from and to Brussels Airport a supplement of €5.7 is charged on each journey).

Brussels South Charleroi Airport is not, as the name might suggest, located in Brussels but rather on the outskirts of the city of Charleroi. A direct bus connects Brussels South Charleroi Airport with Brussels (45-minutes ride) or downtown Charleroi (10-minute ride).

Both airports have car rental services at the arrivals hall, ensuring you can start your road trip through Belgium the minute you step off the plane.

Caroline Muller is a self-proclaimed foodie with a love for writing & photography. She runs Veggie Wayfarer.

The Ultimate Belgium Road Trip

This Ultimate Belgium Road Trip will take you to some of the most picturesque and historic cities in Belgium.

You’ll get to sample hot, fresh Belgium waffles in Brussels, float along the canals of Bruges, and dip your feet in the ocean in De Haan.

I fell in love with Belgium during my own recent trip and can’t wait for you to have the same experience. I spent hours walking around the historic city centers in Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent, and ate more waffles than I care to admit.

Each of the cities on this Belgium Road Trip has something special, but I’ll leave you to figure out what that is.

I really hope you love Belgium as much as I did. Enjoy.

Table of Contents

Belgium Road Trip Itinerary

The ten stops on this Belgium road trip are intended to be enjoyed slowly over the course of about one week to two weeks. Depending on the time you have, I would try to spend one full day in each city, arriving in the morning and making your way around the city throughout the day.

Those in a hurry or just short on time could possibly complete the itinrary in as few as four or five days, spending just a few hours or half a day in each city. In addition, each of these destinations could also be visited as weekend trips from Brussels by car or train.

Each of the cities on this Belgium itinerary can be reached easily by car, or even train if you prefer train travel over driving.

Hotel recommendations for each city are also included. I’ve selected moderately priced, but nice hotels within walking distance of the various city centers and main attractions. Basically, I like to find the nicest hotel I can afford, that’s as close as possible to the city centre.

As always, make this trip your own. Stay as long as you please in any location or simply skip the ones that don’t interest you. Above all else, have fun. Belgium is awesome and I think you’re going to like it too.

Stop 1: Brussels

The first stop on your Belgium road trip will be the lively and fun city of Brussels. You’ll want to spend at least one day in Brussels , but I’d recommend two to three.

This city has tons to see and do in its city center, from historic Grand Place to the Royal Palace. For those into politics, Brussels is home to the European Union and European Parliament. You can even take a tour of the hemicycle to see European government in action.

Brussels is also home to the famous Manneken Pis statue. This tiny statue depicts a young boy peeing. Despite it’s subject matter, the tiny statue is for the city. He even has over XX number of outfits to wear depending on the time of year.

Many of these outfits were gifts from foreign dignitaries. If you venture out to find the Mannequin Pis, be sure to find the other matching statues Hennekin Pis and XX Pis, which are also located in the city center.

For those who came to Belgium for the waffles, you’re in luck. You’ll find the best waffles in Brussels just a short walk from Grand Place at a local spot called Los Churros and Waffle. They are hot, fresh, sweet, and delicious.

Belgium is also known for its superior chocolate making. You’ll find chocolate shops all over the city, with a dozen or so centered around the city center.

If you stop in to look, they will often offer samples. Be sure to buy a few chocolates to take with you. If you’re looking for a gift to bring home, a box of Belgian chocolates is the way to go.

In the evenings, head out to Delirium Cafe to sample their many craft beers. This place is huge with different rooms focusing on different types of beer.

This is a fun place to spend an evening while you’re in town. They even have live music a few nights per week. Try to arrive early if you want a seat. During the busy season, this place gets packed.

Where to stay

• The Dominican : This is the hotel I stayed at and loved how close it was to Grand Place and all the other big attractions in the city. The rooms were nice and the lounge in the lobby had a great selection of local ciders.
• Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place : Upscale hotel with polished rooms located right in the heart of the city center.

Next Stop: Antwerp

Distance: 55 kilometers

Drive Time: 45 minutes

Stop 2: Antwerp

Is Antwerp worth visiting? Absolutely.

Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium and home to the tallest church tower in Belgium and one of the most impressive train stations in Europe.

Make your first stop in the city at Grote Markt. This is Antwerp’s historic city center and is filled with buidlings dating back centuries. The Town Hall is the main attraction and dates back to the 16th century.

Elsewhere in the historic center you’ll find restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, waffle shops, and more. This is the liveliest part of the city, there’s always something going on.

After you’ve finished walking around Market Square in the city center, head over to Cathedral of Our Lady. This cathedral is beautiful from the outside, but be sure to go inside as well.

The cathedral houses a large collection of famous artworks you won’t want to miss. For those who would like to learn about the history of the cathedral and the art in the interior, guided tours are available.

For those that appreciate architecture, be sure to make a stop into the Central Antwerp train station. This station is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Don’t miss the clock in the main hall.

If you’re impressed by diamonds, you can also walk around the Antwerp Diamond District. You’ll find shops on every corner selling diamonds of all shapes and sizes.

Next Stop: Ghent

Distance: 60 kilometers

Drive Time: one hour

Stop 3: Ghent

Ghent is one of the coolest places to see when visiting Belgium. This city has both canals and Medieval architecture, so what’s not to love?

Some of the top sights to see with one day in Ghent are the Gravensteen Castle, the Belfry, Saint Michael’s Bridge, and Korenlei and Graslei,. Each of these attractions can be found within walking distance of each other right in the historic city center.

The architecture in Ghent is seriously amazing, so take the time to get some pictures as you’re walking around. You can get some great shots from Saint Michael’s Bridge when you’re in the area.

For those looking for something a little different, head to Graffiti Street. Ghent is a popular place for graffiti and street art, so you’ll find some impressive art in the streets as you’re walking around.

You can find Graffiti Street on the north side of the city center. Use Google Maps to get walking directions.

Another popular stop in Ghent is the House of Alijn . This is a local musuem where you can get information about daily life in 20th century Flanders. After you’ve made your way through all the exhibits, head to the courtyard. There’s a pub outside serving local beers.

Next Stop: Bruges

Distance: 48 kilometers

Stop 4: Bruges

Bruges was one of my favorite cities during my own recent visit to Belgium. Bruges is a small, walkable city with a colorful and lively Market Square. I couldn’t enough of these colorful buildings.

Besides Market Square, visitors to Bruges should not miss the Belfry of Bruges, a canal cruise, the Basillica of the Holy Blood, the Historium, and the Salvador Dali Museum. All of these places are within a short walk of the Market Square and can easily be visited with just one day Bruges .

If you’re looking to try some traditional Belgian cuisine, there are restarants all around the city center, include several in Market Square. Many of them are catering to tourists, but I found the food to be quite good anyway.

Though to be honest, I don’t really know what good Belgian cuisine is supposed to taste like.

After lunch, consider trying some of the local Belgian waffle spots. You’ll find several as you’re walking around. I recommend getting the strawberry, banana and Nutella with whipped cream.

You’ll also find a few Belgium chocolate shops here, including The Chocolate Line. This is a great place to pick up a few boxes of chocolates to bring home with you. Or, if you’re like me, you can eat them back in your hotel room.

Next Stop: De Haan

Distance: 18 kilometers

Drive Time: 25 minutes

Stop 5: De Haan

De Haan is a seaside resort town along the North Sea known for its huge sandy beach and its many restuarants.

Some of the most popular destinations are the De Haan beach for sunbathing and swimming and La Potiniere, a large outdoor urban park.

The charming city center is home to local boutiques, souvenir shops and cute Bed and Breakfasts. The town is easily explored on foot and is the perfect break from all the other city stops on your Belgium road trip. Use your time here to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beach.

For those looking for cocktails, you’re in luck. There are several beachside bars and restaurants. Some of these spots will even serve you drinks in the sand.

De Haan was also a former home of Albert Einstein, though he only lived there for a couple of months in 1933. Despite his short residency, you can view his house or sit next to his statue on a bench near his former home. You can find his statue just a short two blocks from the beach.

Next Stop: Ypres

Distance: 83 kilometers

Drive Time: 60 minutes

Stop 6: Ypres

Ypres is located in West Flanders and is surrounded by former World War I battlefields. Today, the area is home to many cemeteries, war memorials, and war museums. Ypres in an important stop on your Belgium road trip itinerary due to its historical significance.

While the original town of Ypres was mostly destroyed during the war, the former buildings were reconstructed in their original Gothic architecture.

One of the most popular destinations in Ypres is the Flanders Fields Musuem. This museum tells the history of WWI through various immersive exhibits. This musuem does an incredible job retelling this history, and a visit here is highly encouraged.

Other important stops in Ypres are the Menin Gate Memorial, Belle Almshouse, Lakenhalle, and the Last Post Ceremony. The Last Post Ceremony takes place at Menin Gate daily at 8:00 p.m. and is a ceremony in remembrance of the soldiers that lost their lives in WWI.

While a visit here may seem a bit somber, this area was one of the front lines of the war. You’ll likely have no better opportunity to learn as much as you can about this war and the impact it had on Europe and the rest of the world.

Next Stop: Tournai

Drive Time: 40 minutes

Stop 7: Tournai

Tournai is located along the French border in western Belgium. The city is best known for its Notre Dame Cathedral with 5 towers. This is an incredibly beautiful cathedral, make this your first stop so you don’t miss it.

Tournai is also home to a lively Grand Place, or town square, lined with bars and restaurants, and plenty of historic buildings.

Other popular attractions in Tournai are the Belfry of Tournai, St. Quentin’s Church, the Musuem of Natural History, the Museum of Fine Arts, Pont des Trous (Bridge of Holes) and the Medieval Red Fort Tower.

For impressive views of the city, make your way to the top of the Belfry in the evening before sunset. The lighting is perfect and you can see for miles.

Next Stop: Mons

Distance: 49 kilometers

Stop 8: Mons

Mons is located in Belgium’s Walloon Region about an hour south of Brussels. The city is best known for its Grand Place, lined with centuries old buildings.

Located a short walk from Grand Place you’ll also want to visit the elegant Mons Belfry (pictured above), the only Baroque belfry in Belgium.

Other popular attractions in Mons are the Mons City Hall, Church of Sainte-Waudru, Mons Memorial Museum, Château de Beloeil, and Beloeil Park.

If you happen to be in town in May, try to catch the Festival of Le Lumeçon. This lively and fun festival dates back to the 14th century. It includes a procession that begins at 12:30 p.m. at the Church of Saint-Waudru and ends at Grand Place. The procession carries a 9 meter long dragon known as Doudou.

One the procession arrives in Grand Place with the dragon, they act out a fight between St. George (a former Roman soldier turned Christian martyr) and the Dragon. Spoiler… The dragon always loses.

Next Stop: Liege

Distance: 132 kilometers

Drive Time: 90 minutes

Stop 9: Liege

This Belgium travel guide and road trip itinerary would not be complete without a visit to Liege, one of the most beautiful places in Belgium.

Liege is found in the French speaking Wallonia region of Belgium and is situated along the Meuse River. The town is known for its historic center and Medieval landmarks.

Some of the biggest attractions in Liege are the Grand Curtius museum, Liege-Guillemins Station, Musee Des Beaux Arts de Liege, St Paul Cathedral, Church of St Bartholomew, and the Palace of the Prince-Bishops.

If you’re looking to get in a little exercise and see the city from a different angle, head to the Stairs of Mount Bueren. The Stairs of Mount Bueren take you high above the city via 374 steps for some impressive views of the surrounding area.

You’ll also want to wander around the various passages alongside the staircase. There are beautiful private gardens that you don’t want to miss.

Next Stop: Leuven

Distance: 82 kilometers

Drive Time: 55 minutes

Stop 10: Leuven

Located just a short distance east of Brussels, Leuven is best known for its historic city center, centuries old architecture, and for its breweries. This is also a fun choice for those looking to spend just a weekend in Belgium.

Other major attractions in Leuven are Stadhuis Leuven (City Hall), Treasury of Saint Peter’s, Cloth Hall, Universiteitsbibliotheek (University Library), Museum M, Groot Begijnhof (Grand Beguinage).

Since you’re in a brewery town, you should also spend some time sampling the local beers. Start your brewery tour at Oude Markt , the self proclaimed “longest bar in the world.”

Oude Markt is a full street of outdoor breweries and restaurants serving local cuisine and regional beers. It’s a lively environment and an incredibly fun place to spend an evening.

Next Stop: Back to Brussels

Distance: 29 kilometers

Drive Time: 30 minutes

This completes the Ultimate Belgium Road Trip itinerary. From here you can either return to Brussels before heading home or moving on to your next destination. Or, even better, you could plan to continue your adventure.

Might I suggest a road trip from Belgium to Italy, a road trip from Belgium to France, or even a Belgium Netherlands road trip? Each of these countries would be awesome to visit on a road trip. I’ll be honest, I haven’t done it, but I’d sure as heck love to.

Tips for Driving in Belgium

After you’ve picked up your rental car, be sure to adhere to the below driving in Belgium tips during your Belgium road trip. Most of the tips below are common sense and just friendly reminders. Others may be a bit unique depending on where you’re traveling from.

• The minimum age for driving in Belgium is 18.
• Vehicles in Belgium drive on the right hand side of the road.
• Vehicle insurance is mandatory. Be sure to request insurance coverage when picking up your rental car. You will need to keep proof of insurance inside your vehicle at all times while driving in Belgium.
• Like most places, drinking and driving is illegal. Do not, under any circumstances, drive while intoxicated.
• Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory. All passengers need to be wearing a seatbelt when the car is moving. Small children should be in a car seat.
• Using your cellphone while driving is against the law unless you have a hands-free option. If you need to make a call and do not have a hands-free option, you should pull over to make or receive the call.
• All vehicles must carry a reflective jacket, warning triangle, first aid kit, and fire extinguisher. These items are not optional. Esnure your rental car has these items stowed in the trunk prior to driving away.
• You must obey all traffic signs and signals.
• You must obey the speed limit at all times. On motorways the speed limit is usually 120 km/h. There is also a minimum speed of 70 km/h on most motorways. Look for speed limit signs while in cities or rural areas.
• You may only park in designated areas. Tickets and fines will be handed out for vehicles that are illegally parked. Vehicles may also be towed, so don’t make this mistake.

I recommend making your Brussels car rental reservation in advance so you have options for the type of vehichle you’ll be driving around. Last minute reservations usually leave you with the least desirable cars.

Best time to visit Belgium

I think the best time to visit most popular destinations in Europe is anytime but summer. The summer months bring with it higher prices, crowds of tourists, and long lines.

I personally love Autumn in Belgium . You’ll get to avoid the summer crowds and the fall colors are amazing.

Winter in Belgium comes with holiday festivities and festive Christmas markets.

Spring in Belgium is perfect for getting a jump on your travels before the crowds arrive. You’ll also have lighter crowds, reasonable prices, and beautiful weather.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this Ultimate Belgium Road Trip itinerary and that I’ve inspired you to take a trip of your own. If you’d like to support this blog, please consider sharing this post. Thanks for reading.

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The Very Best Belgium Road Trip to 15 Destinations

• Post author By thebumpercrew
• Post date April 10, 2024
• Categories In Get Aways , Road Trips , Travel , Van Life
• 1 Comment on The Very Best Belgium Road Trip to 15 Destinations

We went on the ultimate Belgium road trip in our trust camper, Bumper . Belgium is the perfect place for a camper van or motorhome road trip. Why? Because it’s small enough to get around in a short time and full of beautiful towns, cities and things to do and has a positive attitude towards camper vans and motorhomes with parking and services available all over the country.

If you haven’t read it already, check out our guide to the best places to visit in Belgium , which was also the basis of our road trip.

In this post, we’ve included all the towns and cities in Belgium that we visited, the locations for each overnight stop, and some other helpful information for driving on the continent, including how to get there!

• The Ultimate Belgium Road Trip
• Belgium Road Trip Route and Itinerary

Below is the route we took for our Belgium road trip. It includes all the places we mention in our post about Belgium’s best places to visit. Check it out for more information, the top things to do, and pictures of each location.

In chronological order, below are the locations we visited. To find out more about each place, click the name, and you’ll be taken to a bit more detail about it in our other post.

• Durbuy Vieille Ville (RSI Durbuy)

How to Get to Belgium By Car

The best two options to get to Belgium by camper van or motorhome are Le Shuttle and the ferry. We chose the ferry because it’s cheaper. The trade-off is the time it takes. The train terminal is closer to London, and the train only takes an hour or so. So, if time is your concern, opt for the train. If money is your concern, opt for the ferry.

• Dover to Dunkirk Ferry

The most popular route onto the continent by ferry is from Dover to Calais. We’ve taken this route before but decided Dover to Dunkirk was a better option this time. Although Dunkirk is slightly further away from Dover and therefore takes about 30 minutes longer than the Dover to Calais route, you make up some of that time by not having to drive as far once you’re in France.

Other benefits include the cost and what’s included in the ticket price. You will pay roughly the same fee for both routes, but with DFDS from Dover to Dunkirk, you get the bonus of a four-hour window on either side of your crossing time to catch an earlier or later ferry, all included in the price. And because the route is quieter, you will likely avoid the queues at Calais.

How to Find Places to Stay in Belgium in a Camper Van

If you’re planning to visit Belgium by camper van, you’ll likely need places to stay. Thankfully, Belgium is very welcoming for motorhomes and camper vans, and Belgium is a cost-effective place to visit if you’re on a budget. We spent less than 25 Euros for overnight parking, electric hook-up and showers. We spent so little because many places were free, and we didn’t need power or a shower every day. Even if you need more resources than we did, Belgium is still a cheap place to visit in a camper van or motorhome.

• Search for Sites

Most towns and cities in Belgium feature dedicated parking for camper vans and motorhomes, and parking at motorway services are available.

We recommend using the Search for Sites app to find places to stay in Belgium in a camper van or motorhome. There is a free trial where the search criteria and the number of searches you can conduct are limited. Thankfully, the Search for Sites app is cheap (£5.99 for the year) and makes it worth buying, even if it’s for just one trip. We used Search for Sites almost exclusively to find overnight stops on our Belgium road trip, and not once did we have a problem with access, services or being disturbed.

Below are all the places we stayed for each stop along our route. Some stops didn’t have any facilities, some had showers, water and electric hook-up and even a bar where you could get yourself a Belgian beer! Each one was peaceful at night, and there was always another camper van or motorhome at the same location. The most we paid for one night was 14 Euros, which included parking, water, electric hook-up and showers. We spent 23 Euros for overnight parking in Belgium because we didn’t need many resources each night, such as electric hook-up or water.

You will find machines like the ones below at some of the locations. They offer you the option to pay for parking, water, waste disposal, and to buy tokens for the electric hook-up. They are fantastic and straightforward to use.

When is the Best Time to Road Trip Belgium?

Belgium is great for a road trip any time of the year, but we recommend a summer visit for milder weather. Belgium isn’t renowned for its climate, but it can get cold in the winter. However, there are some great Christmas markets, so a winter visit wouldn’t be such a bad idea if you like the colder weather and warm welcomes of Christmas markets.

What Are the Legal Requirements to Drive in Belgium?

• You are required to place a ‘UK’ sticker (or magnet) on your vehicle. The old ‘GB’ stickers are no longer valid.
• Drivers must be aged 18 or over and hold a full, valid driving licence to drive in Belgium legally. UK driving licences are valid in Belgium.
• Reflective jackets must be worn if you’re involved in a breakdown or accident.
• Warning triangles are compulsory in every vehicle with four or more wheels.
• Headlamp beam deflectors to avoid dazzling on-coming vehicles.

For more information on driving in Belgium, consult the RAC website.

Belgium Road Trip:

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The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Belgium Itinerary

Last Updated on February 13, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Besides Brussels , Bruges and Ghent , it can be hard to know just what to include as part a 5 to 7 days in Belgium itinerary. Often said to be where the north and south of the continent meet, the ‘Heart of Europe’ is incredibly diverse with so many different sides.

As it is quite a small country, Belgium is usually very quick and convenient to get around. This means you can see and experience a lot in just a short space of time when you visit Belgium. Everywhere you go, you’ll find hidden gems, gorgeous architecture and some great food to fuel all your exciting adventures!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Belgium?

Most tourists unfortunately only spend a couple of days in Brussels or Bruges before heading onto either Paris , London or Amsterdam . This obviously isn’t enough time to get a good feel for the country’s complex communities, their different languages, landscapes and identities.

5 days in Belgium is a great start as you can already fit in its vibrant capital and several of the major Flemish cities. As the distances and times involved aren’t too long, you won’t feel rushed despite seeing so many new places.

If you have 7 days in Belgium, that’s even better as you can also explore the country’s coastline and more of its bustling cities. This is a good amount of time to be able to get a really good feel for Belgium without feeling too rushed.

Getting To & Around Belgium

Due to its location at the crossroads of Western Europe , Belgium is very well connected to the neighbouring countries around it. The small nation’s efficient public transport system also makes travelling very easy and affordable.

One of the main places visitors arrive from abroad is Brussels Airport. Also known as Zaventem, it lies on the outskirts of the capital with flights departing to Africa, Asia and the USA all the time.

Located just outside of Charleroi in Wallonia is ‘Brussels South’; the country’s main cheap flight hub. Cunningly named to entice tourists, it is actually about an hour’s bus or taxi ride from BXL. You can organise airport transfers here.

Otherwise, most travellers arrive in Antwerp, Brussels, Bruges and Ghent by bus or train at one of their numerous stations. There are connections to these stations from neighbouring countries such as Lille in France, Amsterdam in the Netherlands or Luxembourg . You can view schedules here .

As the major Flemish cities lie roughly along the same line and are quite compact cities, taking the train and walking are the best ways to get around both Flanders and Brussels.

You definitely don’t need a car for your one week in Belgium as all of the stops are well-connected by the extensive public transit network.

If you have more than 7 days, you may find a hire car necessary to visit some of the smaller villages and forests in Wallonia. There is more information in the “Have More Time” section below.

5 to 7-Day Belgium Itinerary

This itinerary covers some of the country’s must-see sights in its three main regions of Brussels and Flanders. Whether you have 5 days or a full week, you’re going to see much more than most visitors do.

Day 1 – Brussels

After arriving in Brussels, most people head straight to the Grand Place to see the spectacular square and all its grand guild houses. One of the capital’s most iconic attractions, it lies right next to Manneken Pis – the city’s famous statue of a small peeing boy. You can also  organise a walking tour to learn more about the city when you arrive.

Afterwards, you can stroll about cute neighbourhoods like Les Marolles or the chic Sablon. Both are home to interesting antique shops and some amazing old churches. Expensive chocolatiers such as Pierre Marcolini and Neuhaus can also be found here.

Not all too far away is the impressive Royal Palace of Brussels and several top-class museums focusing on music, Magritte and the fine arts. After taking some pics or perusing their extensive collections, head to Mont des Arts for one of the best views over Brussels.

Back down next to the Grand Place is the world-famous Delirium which has over 2,000 different beers for you to try. The busy bar is also conveniently located near happening nightlife spots like Saint-Gery and Place Sainte-Catherine.

On the way back to your hotel or hostel, grab a packet of andalouse sauce-coated frites and eat them in the Grand Place gloriously illuminated at night – a quintessential Brussels experience.

Where to Stay in Brussels

Motel One Brussels -This centrally-located hotel is perfect for mid-range travellers to Brussels. There are a range of rooms to choose from, an excellent location for exploring the Belgian capital, a great buffet breakfast on offer each morning and an on-site bar to enjoy.

Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre – This is an excellent hotel for luxury visitors looking for a plush stay while visiting Brussels. They have a range of modern and comfortable rooms on offer, a fabulous breakfast available and plenty of amenities to ensure you have an amazing stay.

Appart’City Confort – Those who’d like to have their own flat while basing themselves in the Belgian capital will love this aparthotel. Offering a range of different apartments, they combine the comfort and amenities of a hotel with the convenience of a furnished flat.

MEININGER Bruxelles City Center – This hostel is a good option for those looking to save a bit of cash when visiting Brussels. Offering both dorms and private rooms, they have a great location and good self-catering facilities, as well.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Brussels hotels!

Day 2 – Brussels

On the second day, take the time to dig a bit deeper in Brussels and enjoy more of the sites of this vibrant and diverse European city.

Spend your morning exploring the Atomium which lies a bit north of the city centre. This structure was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and it is a top attraction when visiting the Belgian capital. It takes about 40 minutes to reach her via metro from the city centre, so make sure to factor that into your daily plans. You can pre-book tickets here.

In the afternoon, spend some time strolling through the lovely Parc du Cinquantenaire and enjoy the vibes in this central green space. And then, as the day is beginning to draw to a close, spend some time exploring the diverse European Quarter where there are a number of interesting sites to see.

You also could take some time to enjoy some of the city’s vibrant street art and just simply enjoy the vibes of this bustling capital.

Day 3 – Ghent

Located very close to Brussels along the same train line as the town of Bruges further afield is the absolutely gorgeous Ghent. Although it is often overlooked in favour of Bruges, its small but scenic centre is certainly a must-visit if you have five days in Belgium.

Dominating its historic heart are three centuries-old towers that make for some fantastic photos and viewing from St. Michael’s Bridge.

Aside from entering St. Nicholas’ Church and seeing all its artworks, you can venture up to the top of the Belfry of Ghent and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Both offer phenomenal panoramas of the city below and other towers beside them.

Strolling along the Graslei and Korenlei quays next to its winding canals is also lovely, especially when all their old buildings are majestically lit up at night. Here you can sit on their steps or at a cafe’s patio for a drink and take relaxing boat trips along the river.

After checking out the gigantic Gravensteen Castle nearby, make your way to the Dulle Griet for more strong Belgian beers in a traditional setting. You can also organise a bike tour to learn more about the city.

As Ghent is a larger, livelier university city, you could always stay a night here if you fancy experiencing more of its vibrant ambience or alternatively head back to Brussels or onwards to Bruges.

Day 4 – Bruges

If you have 5 days in which to explore Belgium, then you’re definitely going to visit the beautiful city of Bruges at some point. Very walkable, the fairytale Flemish town lies only an hour’s train journey northwest of Brussels. The historic centre of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is absolutely charming.

Once you arrive, just slowly meander your way to the tall spire you see rising in the distance. One of its main landmarks, the Belfry of Bruges towers 83 metres in height and boasts sublime views from up high. You can also organise a walking tour and canal cruise of the historic centre to learn more about the history of the city.

At the foot of the thirteenth-century bell tower is the Grote Markt. Lined by attractive townhouses and lively restaurants, the ‘Venice of the North’s’ main square is always packed with people. The nearby Basilica of the Holy Blood in Burg Square also rightfully attracts lots of attention.

Of course, you can’t miss the Gothic Church of Our Lady and the imposing and beautiful town hall in Beuge, as well.

Other than visiting the Groenige Museum, most visitors spend their time ambling about its pretty cobbled streets and picture-perfect canals.

As Bruges empties at night, it is nice to stay if you want to see the atmospheric city in a different light. You can also take a dark side of Bruges tour in the evening.

Where to Stay in Bruges

Hotel Fevery – If you’re travelling on a mid-range budget, then this 3-star hotel located in city centre is a great choice. Situated in the heart of Bruges, they have a range of lovely rooms on offer and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Boutique Hotel Die Swaene – This luxury hotel is a great choice for those who’d like a sophisticated and opulent stay while visiting beautiful Bruges. There are a number of fantastic rooms to choose from along with plenty of great amenities. They also have an unbeatable location for exploring the city.

Snuffel Hostel – Those travelling solo or on a tight budget (or looking for a great social atmosphere) will love this central hostel. There are a number of both dorm beds and private rooms to choose from, they have a fantastic location for exploring the best of Bruges and great common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bruges hotels!

Day 5 – Bruges

Though Bruges is a relatively small town, it can be worth spending more than a day here to really get a good feel for this lovely little city. There is a surprising amount to do in Bruges so it’s an excellent place to spend your final day in Belgium (if you only have five days to spare).

You have the option of either spending this day seeing some of the sites in Bruges that you didn’t before or you could opt to go on a day trip – the town of Ostend on the coast is a great option.

The latter choice is a good idea for those who only are planning a 5-day itinerary as it allows you to see more of the country in your limited time. If you’re spending 7 days, then spending this entire day in Bruges is the best choice for you.

If you opt to stay in Bruges, then you can spend your day doing activities such as visiting the Choco-Story Museum or the Frietmuseum or even wandering around trying to source the best Belgian waffle in the city (not a bad task, if you ask me!).

Or, if you fancy something with a bit more punch, then consider heading out on a beer tour to sample some famous Belgian beers! If you’re not a beer drinker, then  this food tour with a local is a good alternative.

Day 6 – Ostend & Belgium’s Coast

Travellers with a bit more time may want to visit the coast which is where Belgians go to relax, unwind and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. As Ostend, its largest city, is located not far from Bruges, you can always combine the two rather than take a ninety-minute train from Brussels.

Rather ugly to look at, its wall of huge high-rises overlooks a long, wide beach that stretches the entirety of the country’s coastline. Aside from lounging on its sands in summer, you can walk or cycle along its broad boardwalk before stopping off for some superb seafood.

Ostend’s bustling centre is also packed with plenty of local shops, several museums and the stupendous St. Peter and St. Paul Church which dates to 1907. If you fancy your luck, there is a large casino that also puts on some top-class shows and entertainment acts.

A wonderful way to actually see all the country’s North Sea coastline is to hop on the Kusstram. Stretching 67 kilometres in total, it is remarkably the longest tram line in all the world. Along the way, you can always get off and explore the beautiful dunes around Bredene or enjoy some fine dining at the chic seaside resort of Knokke.

At the end of the day, you can take the train to Antwerp to give you a full day to explore there or either stay in Ostend or Bruges if you want to spend longer in the area.

Where to Stay in Antwerp

Citybox Antwerp – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Antwerp is perfect for those looking for a mid-range place to stay in this Belgian city. They have a great, central location along with several twin, double and family rooms on offer.

Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt – Luxury travellers will love this sophisticated hotel located in the centre of Antwerp. There’s a fab breakfast each morning, several clean and modern rooms available, a lovely terrace and private parking.

Yust Antwerp – If you’re looking for a social and budget-friendly place to stay in Antwerp, you’re sure to love this highly-rated hostel. Offering plenty of dorms and private options, there is also an on-site bar and cafe for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Antwerp hotels!

Day 7 – Antwerp

Yet another popular place in Flanders that most people head to is the bustling port city of Antwerp. The undisputed diamond capital of the world, Belgium’s second-largest metropolis has loads of trendy bars, shops and restaurants for you to try out. You can book a walking tour to learn more about the city.

As with Bruges and Ghent, its historic main square is presided over by an enormous Gothic-style spire that towers over 120 metres in total. The tallest church in the Low Countries, the Cathedral of Our Lady displays some exquisite architecture while elaborate altars, artworks and effigies lie within.

If you want to delve more into the country’s rich artistic heritage then the nearby Rubenshuis is the best place to go. The former home and workshop of Peter Paul Rubens contains numerous paintings by the renowned Flemish master.

Also worth a visit is the Red Star Line Museum which presents another side of the city’s history. It instead looks at the lives of the shipping company’s two million or so passengers who passed through Antwerp on their way to the USA.

As it is known for its pounding nightclubs like Ampere and cool, classic bars such as Den Engel, Antwerp certainly has a lot to do once night falls. If you want to wake up early to catch a plane, however, it’s probably easier to head back to Brussels by train.

Have More Time?

If you have even more time left to explore the country (woohoo!), then there are countless other cool towns, cities and historic sites you can add to your Belgium itinerary.

While most travellers tend to stick to Flanders and Brussels, Wallonia also has some awesome cities to stop by. The most popular are Namur, its scenic capital, and Liege, its largest city, which boasts an absolutely incredible modern train station.

The WWI battlefields and cemeteries at Ypres are also interesting to check out as is Waterloo – the site of Napoleon’s final defeat in 1815.

Another option is to take a beautiful tram ride to Tervuren from Brussels and visit the fascinating Royal Museum for Central Africa. After seeing the lush, green park and woods outside, you can then head to the nearby Leuven – a lively university town home to lots of lovely architecture.

While the French-speaking region does have some interesting cities such as Namur, Liege and Mons, you can also visit small towns in the Ardennes like Dinant and Durbuy. As they are harder to reach by public transport, it’s best to rent a car so you can make the most of your time in Belgium.

From Brussels, it is only an hour’s drive to Dinant which lies along the banks of the Meuse River backed by dramatic rocky cliffs. Its stunning setting, soaring church and the colourful houses of its old town all make for some fabulous photos and viewing.

What a way to spend one week in Belgium or even longer! There is so much to see and do in this beautiful country that a week may well not seem long enough.

Are you planning to a trip to Belgium? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Antwerp Itinerary

Amsterdam vs Brussels: Which City to Visit?

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bruges Itinerary

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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Travel Vixta

Our 8 day Europe road trip plan from UK – Amsterdam, Soltau, Bruges

I have exciting news – we are going on a mini 8 day family road trip to Europe!  It’s all been very last minute as we weren’t sure if we’d be going away this summer, but we’ve decided to go for it!  In this blog post I will share our European road trip travel itinerary and tips on how to plan a driving holiday in Europe.  There are lots of things you need to plan in advance and I’ll share exactly what we’ve been planning and booking before we go on our last minute family road trip.

This year we have been saving like maniacs as Ben is leaving his employed job mid-July to go self-employed as a handyman so we were unsure at first if we would be able to go away for a week before his full-time self-employment commences.

Well, we decided to go for it.  We are *just* going to meet our 10k emergency fund savings target before he finishes work and I think a well-deserved week off is a great idea before he gets immersed in self-employment.  Our savings have been our main focus this year as he’s leaving work several months earlier than we first planned so we’ve not gone on any week long family holidays for over one year, even though we were so tempted!

We also want to see Ben’s Gran.  I don’t think we’ve been for two years now.  Ben’s Gran lives in Germany and is 94!  She’s now in a care home and we haven’t visited since she’s moved into the care home.  I definitely think we should go now and not wait another year.

As we have the Mazda Bongo which we purchased last June and have only ever spent a maximum of two nights in a row camping in it, we thought it would be fun to do a mini European road trip (and perhaps crazy as we’ve never been away more than one night in the van with the kids!)

The flights for us to go to Germany are always around £150-£200 each !  So we were also hoping it would be a cheaper way of travelling to Ben’s Gran and we can stop in European cities on the way there and the way back to make it more of a holiday and adventure rather than just a family visit.

Our budget idea was around £1000 for the whole trip including food and activities, but I think we might go a little over this.  I think we were being a bit adventurous trying to do it for £1000 especially as we needed breakdown cover, travel insurance and a car travel kit so we can legally drive in France and other European countries.  Of course if we already had all these items then it would have been much cheaper and our next road trip will be cheaper because we have them!  If we can do this trip for less than £1500 then I think that’s pretty impressive and we’ll be trying to keep costs as low as possible!

So far we have spent £600 on accommodation, European breakdown cover, a travel car kit, travel insurance, ferry crossings, campsites and an Airbnb!  We have three more nights to book accommodation and then food, fuel and activities.  The breakdown cover (£142) can be used for one year so it’s not just for this trip and we already hope to do a few European trips over the next year including visiting Ben’s brother who lives in Portugal!

We were originally hoping to do a 7 day road trip to Europe, but we’ve no added one extra day as we were trying to cram too much into a week.  So we’ll be doing an 8 day Europe road trip.

Our 8 day Europe road trip itinerary

Here’s a look at our road trip travel itinerary for 8 days from the UK to Europe:

Day 1 – Travel to Dover from Gloucestershire.  Ferry from Dover to Dunkirk.  Travel from Dunkirk to Amsterdam, Netherlands.  Camp for two nights at Camping Vliegenbos .

Day 2 – Explore Amsterdam: hoping to do an Amsterdam boat tour that’s child friendly and visit Vondelpark .

Day 3 – Travel from Amsterdam to Soltau, Germany.  This is where Ben’s Gran lives. We haven’t arranged accommodation yet, but we will stay for three nights.  We wanted to camp in the camper carpark at South Sea Camp as we’ve been there for a day before and it’s an amazing place, but the car park pitches are not available to book.  You simply turn up and we have no idea if there will be a space.  If it were just Ben and I then we’d risk it, but I think with two young kids in tow it would be better to have something booked.  Holiday Paradise also looks good.  Ben’s uncle is away on holiday so we may stay at his house.  We do need to arrange what we’re doing ASAP.

Day 4 – Day in Soltau.  Visit Ben’s Gran.  I’m unsure what times we can see Ben’s Gran, so we need to call and find out.  Once we know then we can plan what we want to do around the visiting times.  This is also Ben’s birthday!  Happy birthday Ben!

Day 5 – Day in Soltau.  Visit Ben’s Gran and some local attractions in Soltau.

Day 6 – Travel from Soltau, Germany to Bruges in Belgium.  This is the longest drive we have at around 6 hours 10 minutes.  Stay for two nights in Bruges. We have booked an Airbnb that’s only a few kilometres from the city centre at only £60 per night!

Day 7 – Explore Bruges and maybe go to the beach!

Day 8 – Travel from Bruges to Dunkirk to get the ferry back to Dover.  Travel home.

European towns and cities we will visit on our 8 day road trip

Countries we will drive through on our european road trip.

• Netherlands

To do list for planning a family European road trip

Organising this trip has meant we’ve had a lot of outgoings before we even get going.  There are also outgoings that are not transport or accommodation.

Here’s a list of everything we’ve planned before our European road trip:

I checked our passports are in date and they are all fine.  The first to run out is one of the kid’s passport’s in 2021 so we have a couple of years before we need to buy a new passport.

EHIC (European Health Insurance Card)

The EHIC is still valid until 31 st October 2019.

“A valid EHIC gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in another European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland.”

We have ours and you can order them here if you need one: https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/apply-for-a-free-ehic-european-health-insurance-card/

Travel insurance

We got our travel insurance through Travel Supermarket on TopCashback .  We got an annual policy for £55 with insurefor.com and will get almost £15 cashback.

It’s for four of us for a year and includes a pre-existing medical condition, so you can probably find something much cheaper if you have no medical conditions to declare.  One Sure Insurance have a cheapest travel insurance price guarantee so check them out.

European breakdown cover

We really struggled to find European breakdown cover as our Mazda Bongo is 24 years old!  Most policies will only cover cars up to 10 or 15 years old!

After some internet research we finally found that LV= would offer cover for older vehicles.  Phew!

They also have a cashback offer so we’ll get around £10 cashback as we booked from here: https://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/victoriasully/lv-britannia-rescue

Car travel kit for France

We’ve never driven in Europe before, well Ben might have years ago for work, but we haven’t since being together.

There are lots of rules and regulations, especially in France.  There are some items you legally must have in the car.  Failure to present these items if stopped by the police will result in an immediate on-the-spot fine.

The items you need to pack for the car travel kit are:

• Headlamp converters
• Warning triangle
• Spare bulbs
• Hi-Viz vests for each passenger
• Breathalysers
• You must have a GB sticker on the vehicle

There’s a great website and checklist here that explains everything: https://www.drive-france.com/checklist/

I managed to order a France car travel kit from eBay that comes in a bag for £23.50.  I also ordered two extra Hi-Viz vests for the children for £4.50.

We’ll be keeping the car travel kit bag in the passenger foot well so we can present it easily if we are stopped.

Car documents

It’s also important to carry pretty much all car documents when driving in France and abroad.  You may need to present them if pulled over by the police.

Here’s what’s needed:

• Driving licence
• V5 log book
• MOT certificate

Ferry crossings UK to France

I expect lots of the ferry crossings will get really booked up in the summer holidays so we have booked both our outward and return ferry tickets.  We chose to go with DFDS and have a flexible ticket so we can go on the ferry before or after our ticket time if we need to.

It was cheaper for us to go to Dunkirk rather than Calais and saves us around 37 minutes road travel time each way.

There is a cashback offer for DFDS Seaways, but at the time we booked there wasn’t an offer for Dunkirk, only Calais.  Here’s their page if you want to check for cashback offers: https://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/victoriasully/dfds-seaways

Accommodation

One of my favourite things to do when I travelled to California for five weeks with an ex-boyfriend was just to find accommodation as we travelled.  I loved the sense of freedom and adventure with no set plans and just choosing where we stayed as we went along.  If it were just Ben and I going then we could be more flexible like this, but as we have a four year old and a seven year old and it’s the school summer holidays, it’s sensible for us to book places to stay in advance!

Luckily campsites are nice and cheap and so we have booked one campsite so far in Amsterdam at 50 Euros per night.  We have also booked an Airbnb which gives us two nights in Bruges in our own private flat with two double bedrooms for only £60 per night!

We will also arrange our Soltau accommodation before we go.

Again, we usually just make things up as we go, but it’s going to be the school summer holidays so we don’t want to be disappointed.  We know where we’re travelling to and when and we will be looking into booking some city tours before we leave just to make sure we get to do the ones we like the look of.

Documents folders

I will take see-through documents folders in my day backpack so we have everything to hand should we need it or if we get stopped by the police on the road.

I always pack these and make sure I have everything well in advance of travelling.

Here are the document folders I pack:

• Travel documents folder – Passports, travel insurance certificate, accommodation details and booking references, ferry booking documents
• Car documents folder – Driving licences, v5 log book, insurance certificates, MOT certificate, breakdown cover

That’s everything we have checked and planned in advance of our road trip to Europe.  Once we have arranged accommodation for Soltau in Germany then all we need to buy plenty of snacks and food that does not need refrigerating for the journey.  The night before we go we will pack our clothes, towels, toiletries and electronics and we are good to go!  We’ll be packing as minimally as possible.

Find some great packing advice and road trip advice in these blog posts:

Best vegan road trip food ideas (with no fridge)

Packing a suitcase tips

How to pack minimally for your summer holiday

How to pack light for a family road trip

How to make a road trip with the whole family stress free

Your ultimate guide of how to survive a long car journey with kids

How to save money on family travel

How to get the cheapest train tickets

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One thought on “ Our 8 day Europe road trip plan from UK – Amsterdam, Soltau, Bruges ”

This is a really nice idea for a trip! Lots to see and do.

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Europe Road Trip from The UK – A Magical 10 Day Motorhome Itinerary!

Last Updated on 7 November 2022

*This post may contain affiliate links , which means that if you decide to make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you! This allows me to continue bringing you valuable content for free and any purchases you make via these links are gratefully appreciated. Please refer to my Disclosures for more information.*

Fancy an enchanting road trip to some magical towns and cities.

Motorhome, RV, Campervan… call them what you will, but jumping in one and hitting the autobahns for a road trip through Europe is one of the best ways to explore the continent! They are literally homes on wheels that allow you the freedom to go (nearly) anywhere your heart desires. And what better contenders for a 10 day driving holiday to Europe than Germany and Belgium? On this Europe road trip from the UK, you will visit 2 of Belgium’s most charming cities and 6 of Germany’s most beautiful small towns (including a real hidden gem) which make for some of the most unique places to visit in Europe! So you can expect a complete overdose of storybook charm, but who could ever get bored of these uniquely enchanting settings, ay?

Tip: There are various opportunities for cycling on this Europe road trip itinerary. So be sure to strap your bicycles to the back of your motorhome otherwise you’re going to miss out on some real good stuff!

Note: Just because this is a motorhome itinerary, there’s nothing stopping you from using this if you’re looking for car road trip ideas for Europe. Instead of staying in the campsites, just book yourself into a hotel for each of the overnight stops.

Road trip to Europe itinerary overview

Tip: When you’re road tripping in Europe, to avoid unexpected charges set your satnav to avoid toll roads if this option is available to you. Or do your research beforehand so you know where they are!

Spanning ~1,650km (~1025 miles), beginning and ending in the French port of Calais (which is very accessible from the UK) and broken down into manageable chunks for daily driving, this campervan route around Europe will take you to some stunning cities in Belgium and beautiful medieval towns in Germany near the Rhine, Moselle and beyond across 10 days. And to avoid backtracking and effectively utilise your time on the continent, it’s a fairly circular route (just like this 7 day motorhome itinerary for Scotland )!

Note: This European road trip route includes both on and off site options for overnight parking. On site means on a campsite where there are facilities. Always check which months these are open as some campsites close off peak, and pre-book if possible. Off site means not on a campsite, so there may be no facilities, and availability cannot be guaranteed. Do your own research prior to departing for up to date information.

Know before you go

Always  check the entry requirements  for the country you are visiting to see if you will need a Visa to enter, and that you have enough validity left on your passport.

Always have a  good level of travel insurance  for every international trip. This is a non-negotiable part of any trip abroad, as the unexpected can happen.

When is the best time to visit Western Europe?

Western Europe is a year-round destination. But dependent on your personal preferences, there may be some times that are better to visit than others. For example, during the European summer holidays which span from around late June-August, prices may be inflated and roads can be busier. During this time, it is advisable to book everything you need to in advance, and give yourself extra time to get from A to B. If you don’t want to find yourself stuck in traffic on a hot summers day, perhaps avoid these months. May-early June and September can be good options for a road trip of Europe.

Tip : Visiting Europe off peak is one of the top tips on how to travel cheaper in Europe !

Can you drive from the UK to Europe?

Yes, absolutely. Although not across the channel unless you’ve got a super villain car-boat hovercraft type vehicle. The best way to reach Europe from the UK by road is to get the ferry from Dover or the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais in France. There are other ports that you can use to reach various countries in Europe (e.g. France, Belgium or The Netherlands) which may be easier if you live in other parts of the UK, like Poole, Portsmouth, Hull, or Newhaven.

Tip: Research ferry prices and don’t assume that the port closest to you has the cheapest fares. Sometimes it works out cheaper to drive to a UK port that’s a little bit further from you (like Dover, because of the frequency of crossings available)!

What currencies do I need?

The currency in United Kingdom is the  Great British Pound (£) – you will probably inevitably have this already as this is a road trip itinerary for Europe from the UK, unless you are using this as an add on for a United Kingdom itinerary!

The currency in France (where you will arrive), Belgium and Germany is the Euro (€) .

Day 1 of Europe road trip from UK

Get outbound ferry from the port of dover, uk, to calais, france, and then drive to antwerp in belgium, useful information for day 1.

Total distance: Calais to Antwerp is ~204km (~127 miles) Overnight stop: Camperpark Vogelzang , Antwerp (kind of like a grassy parking area for motorhomes that’s well located to explore Antwerp)

Morning itinerary for Day 1

Arrive at the Port of Dover, UK, and embark on the 1.5 hour journey across the English Channel to Calais, France. Once you reach solid continental ground, drive ~204km (~127 miles) to Antwerp, Belgium. Antwerp is the capital of the diamond trade and is much more than just an industrial port side city – it’s a cosmopolitan place boasting a maze of medieval architectural delights! Park up at Camperpark Vogelzang which will be your first overnight stop on this road trip through Europe from the UK.

Tip: As a general rule, early morning ferry crossings (I’m talking before 7.00am) are usually cheaper than one’s that depart at a more humane time. So if you want this trip to be kinder to your wallet, rise and shine early! I always book with P&O Ferries from Dover to Calais (and vice versa), but DFDS operate this route too.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 1

After lunch, jump on your bicycle and use the extensive network of cycle paths to navigate your way into the city centre. Spend your afternoon sightseeing in Antwerp – trundle the pretty cobbled streets of the Old Quarter, see the 16th century guild houses which line the Great Market Square (Grote Markt), and wander the renowned Antwerp docks! Once you’re all tired out from exploring, head back to camp and settle in for an early evening (it’s likely to have been a long day)!

Tip: If you don’t have any bicycles with you (which I highly recommend you do because there’s some fantastic cycling opportunities on this motorhome itinerary for Europe), you can use public transport to get from Camperpark Vogelzang into the city centre.

Day 2 of Europe road trip from UK

Antwerp, belgium to linz am rhein, germany, useful information for day 2.

Total distance: ~261km (~162 miles) Overnight stop: Wohnmobilstellplatz am Rhein , Linz am Rhein (GPS coordinates are 50° 33′ 44″ N 7° 16′ 48″ E or search the name on Google Maps) – off site parking on the side of the River Rhine a stone’s throw from the Old Town, limited parking spaces, train nearby so can be noisy

Morning itinerary for Day 2

Today you will travel from Belgium across to German soil – the land famous for beer, Bratwurst, cuckoo clocks and lederhosen’s! Rise and shine early this morning and hit the road bound for Linz am Rhein, Germany. Linz am Rhein is a charming town located on the banks of the roaring River Rhine, and is the first of the most beautiful small towns in Germany you will visit on this road trip through Europe! Aim to reach Wohnmobilstellplatz am Rhein by lunchtime, so you have the whole afternoon for exploration!

Tip : There are only a small number of campervan spaces at Wohnmobilstellplatz am Rhein, so you might want to have a plan B just in case you can’t park. Each time I’ve visited there’s been vacant spaces, but failing to plan is planning to fail as they say.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 2

After you’ve refueled with food, spend some time wandering the cobbled streets of Linz am Rhein. The Old Town is full of half-timbered wonky buildings that are adorned with striped shutters, and has its own pretty little market square decorated with fountains. You’ll also find some unique shops and quaint cafes here too. And don’t miss The Neutor – a preserved tower of the old city wall fortifications which rises high above the town. After an afternoon strolling, retire back to your motorhome for dinner with a view over the busy River Rhine!

Tip: There’s a Linz in Austria too, so make sure you include the ‘am Rhein’ bit. Otherwise your journey from Antwerp is going to be hundreds of miles longer!

Day 3 of Europe road trip from UK

Linz am rhein to bacharach, germany, useful information for day 3.

Total distance: ~87 km (~54 miles) (follow the River Rhine) Overnight stop : The motorhome parking area adjacent to and managed by Sonnenstrand Campsite in Bacharach (just set your satnav for Sonnenstrand Campsite)

Morning itinerary for Day 3

Today, you will continue your journey down the mighty River Rhine and visit another of Germany’s magical towns. And there’s no need to get up at the crack of dawn today (unless you want too, of course) because the distance you’ll cover is much less compared to yesterday’s mammoth drive! After breakfast, enjoy the scenic route alongside the River Rhine, passing many vineyards and towns on the way (if you take the route through Koblenz and via Boppard you’ll pretty much follow the river the whole way). When you arrive in Bacharach, park up at the hard standing motorhome parking area adjacent to Sonnenstrand Campsite.

Tip : Many of the campsites in this itinerary were found using the Camperstop book , which is like the bible of European campsites and off-site parking spots and a trip planning tool I can’t plan travel without.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 3

This afternoon, spend some time wandering the quaint town of Bacharach. As you enter via the walls that conceal Bacharach, a medieval Old Town will unravel before your eyes. Full of half-timbered wonky buildings, cobbled streets, and crafty shops, Bacharach is a charming place to spend your afternoon. Wander up through the vineyards to Postenturm Tower for spectacular views over the town and Rhine valley. And afterwards, jump on your bicycles and head north alongside the river, following the flat paths to the nearby town of Oberwesel and then Sankt Goar (if you’re feeling energetic).

Day 4 of Europe road trip from UK

Bacharach to rothenburg ob der tauber, germany, useful information for day 4.

Total distance : ~255 km (~159 miles) Overnight stop : Any of the allocated motorhome parking areas surrounding Rothenburg ob der Tauber (P2 or P3) – these are equipped with toilets and electric hook up

Morning itinerary for Day 4

Today calls for another early start, so after breakfast hit the road bound for Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is perhaps one of the most famous stops on the renowned Romantic Road – (one of the most well loved and best road trips in Europe)! This fairytale settlement has one of Germany’s best preserved medieval Old Towns, so it will come as no surprise that it’s a busy little place! It’s the most southerly point of Germany you’ll reach on this road trip around Europe, before you head west tomorrow and after start making your way back north. Park up at P2 or P3 (Rothenburg’s allocated parking areas for motorhomes) and get yourself settled in.

Tip: It can be good to try and get an early start on your daily driving, so you can maximise your time exploring each place of an afternoon. Plus, the roads are usually quieter in the mornings (aside from the work rush hour). But if you get tired, be sure to pull over for a rest.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 4

This afternoon is your chance to step into a real life children’s storybook and enjoy some sightseeing in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The Old Town is purely enchanting and is bound to captivate your imagination, and visiting is definitely one of Europe’s bucket list experiences! Go wherever your curiosity takes you but be sure not to miss walking around the city walls for picturesque vistas across the terracotta roofs that fill the Old Town! Take another wander after sunset once the many tour groups have departed and calm prevails, before heading back to your van!

Tip: Rothenburg ob der Tauber has some year-round Christmas shops which sell some of the most beautiful festive decorations you’ll ever see, like Kathe Wohlfahrt . If you’re a Christmas fanatic (like me) you’ll definitely want to visit one of these!

Day 5 of Europe road trip from UK

Rothenburg ob der tauber to ladenburg, germany, useful information for day 5.

Total distance : ~176 km (~109 miles) Overnight stop: Wohnmobilstellplatz Ladenburg

Morning itinerary for Day 5

Today it’s time to head off the beaten path, and drive west across to a little settlement called Ladenburg. It might not be one of Germany’s most well known historic towns, and you may have never heard of it before. But sometimes places like these turn out to be real hidden gems, and Ladenburg is no exception to the rule. So on morning 5 of your Europe road trip from the UK, head from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Wohnmobilstellplatz Ladenburg. Wohnmobilstellplatz Ladenburg is a quiet spot beautifully situated just outside the quaint town of Ladenburg in amongst the fields, with easy access to an abundance of flat cycle paths.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 5

After lunch, spend your afternoon enjoying the peace and quiet of Ladenburg. Wander the through the medieval Old Town, where the streets are lined with half-timbered wonky houses, cobble stones, statues, fountains, and little independent shops. Be sure not to miss the market square, with St Gallus Church in the backdrop. After you’ve strolled through Ladenburg, jump on your bicycle and enjoy the flat cycle paths that crisscross the fields (it’s a cyclers paradise). Navigate your way south by following the Neckar River to the University famed town of Heidelberg. Then, after you’ve enjoyed a bit of Heidelberg and seen the The Karl Theodor Bridge, cycle back to camp!

Day 6 of Europe road trip from UK

Ladenburg to cochem, germany, useful information for day 6.

Total distance: ~174 km (~108 miles) Overnight stop: Moselle riverside parking (GPS coordinates: 50° 9′ 10″ N 7° 10′ 6″ E)

Morning itinerary for Day 6

After breakfast, depart from Ladenburg north through Germany to Cochem. Cochem is a beautiful town located alongside the Moselle River, and is surrounded by rolling vineyards. One of Germany’s best loved medieval towns, Cochem is overlooked by Cochem Castle and has a perfectly preserved and pedestrianized Old Town, hidden away behind fortified walls and gates. It’s a stunning place to stop on any European road trip given its indisputably picturesque location.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 6

Once you’ve found your overnight stop, enjoy some lunch with a view. Then, wander into Cochem to explore the Old Town, and be sure to head up to the castle for spectacular views down through the Moselle too. Cochem is another prime location for some cycling, given the abundance of flat paths which span the Moselle River, so dedicate some time to this before settling in for the evening!

Tip: There are various spots that allow overnight parking for motorhomes in Cochem should you not be able to get into the one listed above, as the town is another well loved stop on motorhome routes through Europe.

Day 7 of Europe road trip from UK

Cochem to monschau, germany, useful information for day 7.

Total distance: ~111 km (~69 miles) Overnight stop: Campsite Perlenau , Monschau

Morning itinerary for Day 7

Today, continue north up through Germany to the tiddly town of Monschau which lies very close to the border with Belgium (and a short drive to The Netherlands too). As the distance from Cochem to Monschau is a bit shorter at than some of the other distances you have driven, you can afford to leave a little later if you wish to enjoy the serenity of the Moselle River a bit longer. Head towards Campsite Perlenau in Monschau which will be your overnight stop tonight.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 7

Once you’re parked up and settled in, wander or cycle into Monschau. Monschau is crammed full of traditional half-timbered houses, little shops, and cobbled streets, and is a sociable town with many quaint cafes. Immerse yourself in the magical aura of the town for the afternoon, as this is the last German town you will visit on this road trip to Europe from the UK! Perhaps sit for a while and soak up the medieval atmosphere which permeates the narrow streets, whilst enjoying a cold German beer!

Day 8 of Europe road trip from UK

Monschau to bruges, belgium, useful information for day 8.

Total distance : ~249 km (~155 miles) Overnight stop: Parking Kanaaleiland , Bruges (GPS coordinates: 51° 11′ 44″ N 3° 13′ 35″ E)

Morning itinerary for Day 8

On Day 8, it’s time to wave goodbye to Germany and hop over the border back into Belgium. As you are nearing the end of your Europe road trip from the UK, it’s time to work your way back towards the Port of Calais in France. But before it all comes to a sad end, visit the the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bruges. Bruges is a city in Belgium that is world renowned for it’s beauty – think canals, horse and carts, cobbled-streets, Gothic architecture, museums, red bricked medieval step roofed houses, Belgian waffles, and an overload of chocolate shops!

Tip: Slow and steady wins the race when you’re driving a motorhome through Europe, especially if it’s a larger one. Keeping a steady speed on the autobahns can be more economical on your fuel tank and therefore should save you some money!

Afternoon itinerary for Day 8

Park up at Parking Kanaaleiland – a designated parking area in Bruges for motorhomes, with electric hook up. Parking Kanaaleiland is a stone’s throw from Bruges, so it’s only a short walk before you can spend some time uncovering the magic of the city. Grab a map from one of the tourist information centres and spend this afternoon wandering the many canals, lakes and squares of the city. Enjoy a Belgian waffle before heading back to your campervan for the evening, when you can figure out the things you want to see in Bruges tomorrow!

Day 9 of Europe road trip from UK

Spend the whole day in bruges, useful information for day 9.

Total distance: N/A – spend today in Bruges Overnight stop : Parking Kanaaleiland, Bruges (the same as overnight on Day 8)

Itinerary for Day 9

As Bruges is such a stunning place and a fairly large city, Day 9 of this 10 day road trip through Europe from the UK is designated to spending the whole day there. If you need to shorten this itinerary to a 9 day one, you could cut this day and head back to Calais for your ferry this morning. But I would strongly recommend you allocate yourself one whole day to explore the city, and stay overnight again at Parking Kanaaleiland. After all, Bruges makes for one of the best city breaks in Europe in it’s own right! Here are some suggestions for things to do in Bruges on Day 9:

• Unleash the bicycles from the back of the van and head off across the cobbles, exploring both the inner and outer canals
• Take a boat ride around the canals
• Visit a museum or a chocolate shop
• Find one of the windmills of Bruges
• Stroll Minnewater Lake
• Explore the historic centre of Bruges and lose yourself in the many narrow lanes that join onto the main streets

Tip: Make sure you have a bicycle lock with you. There are an abundance of places you can lock your bike up in Bruges, if you wish to stop and take a wander.

Day 10 of Europe road trip from UK

Drive from bruges to the port of calais, france, for return ferry to dover, uk, useful information for day 10.

Total distance : ~113 km (~70 miles) Overnight stop : N/A – you have reached the end of your 10 day Europe road trip from the UK

Itinerary for Day 10

You have reached Day 10 of your 10 day motorhome itinerary for Europe and it’s time to return back to the UK. As with your outbound trip, it’s usually cheaper to get an early morning ferry from Calais to Dover. Bruges is very accessible to Calais, making it a good place to stay the night before your return journey home. You can stay in Calais overnight on Day 9 if you wish to be even closer to the Port of Calais. This is down to your personal preference, and Bruges makes for a lovely place to end your trip!

Tip: If you decide to follow this road trip itinerary for Europe and stay overnight in Bruges on Day 9, make sure you give yourself ample time to get to Calais for your return ferry home the next morning. The journey time usually takes less than 2 hours if traffic is light!

Europe road trip itinerary summary

There are many great campervan routes around Europe you can take, but this one is perfect if you are departing from the UK and only have 10 days to spare. You will visit some enchanting towns and cities, in all of their half-timbered glory (you might have guessed by now that this is a key component of any quintessential German town)! The continent is really well equipped for the road trip lifestyle, and it’s great transport links make it a fantastic destination for a Europe road trip from the UK!

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Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary for Belgium

Need inspiration for a new adventure or are you planning a road trip through Belgium? Find our suggestion for the best road trip through Belgium: route, transport and accommodation included. All that is left for you is just to get out and do it!

Before you go 

Before starting your road trip you will need to consider how you want to get around the country and what type of accommodation you want to stay at. There are of course several different options all of which you can check out here and then choose your favourite way. 

How to get around 

If you have a car, a camper or motorhome then you might choose to go with your own car or home on wheels. If you don’t have access to your own transportation then there is no reason to give up on the road trip dream because you can easily rent a car or a house on wheels. If you choose to rent a vehicle you can even choose to opt for an electric one, in this way you can do an extra good deed for the environment. There are many camper rental companies out there, you can for instance choose one like Goboony . You can also choose to go by train which will allow you to unwind and relax during the drive while enjoying the view of the beautiful landscapes passing by. 

Choose where to stay 

There are many different types of accommodation to choose between. If you bring your own camper or motorhome or choose to rent one then you are probably looking to stay at camping spots which is a great way to experience more of the country. Here you can also support the local economy by choosing small campsites or a spot with a local on their piece of land. This way you can meet the locals and get great tips from them for your trip! If you are going by car or train you can also easily stay at these small places if you bring a tent or at spots where they have accommodation you can stay in. This is also by far the most sustainable way to stay. 

The route 

1. Antwerp 

Starting your trip in the province of Antwerp just across the border from The Netherlands you can get a great mixture of culture in a number of historical cities and beautiful nature in the Campine and several nature reserves. You can start by charging yourself with energy by parking your camper or pitching your tent on this beautiful piece of nature . If you don’t have your own accommodation to pitch then you can try some peaceful glamping . No matter what you opt for you will be close to the Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide Cross-Border Park where you can enjoy the vast bare nature, but you will also be close to the historic city of Antwerp. From these spots you can also easily visit other historic cities like Mechelen, Turnhout, and Lier as well as other nature spots like moors, Liereman, and Prinsenpark. Or you can choose to visit some of them on your way to the next stop. 

2. Limburg 

Next stop is the province of Limburg where you can park your camper off the grid close to the Meuse river , pitch your tent in privacy , or stay in a tipi close to nature . Going straight from Antwerp it’s about 100 km, and can be done in an hour's time. But what fun is that? Set your GPS to avoid highways so you get to see more of the country and get the most out of your road trip through Belgium! Visit some great spots on the way like Lommel Sahara, a desert-like nature reserve and Beringen, one of the cultural cities that still stands as a witness of the mine-heritage of the north of Limburg. You can also visit Genk on your way and walk (or bike) through the water in the open air museum Bokrijk. If you can’t make it all on your way, then don’t worry, you can easily visit it from the campspace of your choice. We also highly recommend visiting the Hoge Kempen National Park and the Rivierpark Maasvallei which is the surrounding area of the Meuse river. Both parks offer beautiful and unique nature so it’s a good spot to really get back down to earth. Whether you are into art or not, make a stop at the transparent church in Borgloon when continuing your trip. 

Tempted to spend more time in Limburg? Find out more about what there is to do in Limburg .

3. Liège 

On the road again towards Büllingen in Liège where you can park your camper or pitch your tent at camping Manderfeld . A drive of about 100 km. which will take a bit less than 2 hours when skipping the highway ;). On the way you can stop and take a walk around the historic city of Liège. If you would like a boost of minerals you can stop in the city of Spa and visit their thermal baths, this will definitely leave you relaxed, you can also easily go back from the campspace and have a relaxed day here. Other places to visit close by on your way or from the campspace is the Eifel Nature Park with very distinct and rough nature and some wild animal species you will not find elsewhere in Belgium. More beautiful nature can be experienced in Vallee du Ninglinspo, where you can explore one of the most beautiful walks in the Ardennes. An endless amount of trails through wild beautiful nature with waterfalls, natural pools and rocky landscapes. 

4. Luxemburg 

Next stop on our road trip through Belgium is Durbuy which is located in the Ardennes. The Ardennes is a special low mountain range area with wild forest vegetation that stretches across Belgium, a bit of France, Luxembourg and Germany. Most of the Ardennes in Belgium is found in the provinces of Luxemburg, Namur, and Liège. From Büllingen to Durbuy it’s about 80 km. and it will only take you around an hour and a half. In Durbuy you can try some glamorous camping or pitch your own tent and relax in this feng shui garden . If you are doing the road trip of Belgium with a camper then you can park it a bit further south in this big beautiful nature garden . On your way or from the campspace you can visit a bit more of The Ardennes and La Roche-en-Ardenne, which is a region with extremely rich history and culture surrounded by the most wonderful landscapes of the Ardennes. So take a walk through this region and be amazed. 

Moving on from The Ardennes the route leads us into the province of Namur. Here you should take your time to take a walk through the city of Dinant, it is a really beautiful and charming city on the edge of the Meuse river in front of a bare cliff with a great deal of historic buildings. You can even park your camper or pitch your tent in a lovely garden in Dinant . If you don’t want to stay in the city then you can try farm camping at Les Bois Blanc . Depending on which campspace you prefer it's a 50 to 60 km. drive, so it will take less than an hour if you go straight there. Therefore you can easily take time to drive to one of Belgium’s beautiful caves, more specifically the cave and National Park of Grottes de Han in Han-Sur-Lesse. 

6. Walloon and Flemish Brabant (and Brussels) 

The next streak on our road trip through Belgium takes you from Dinant and Wallonie back to Flanders and Flemish Brabant where you can park your camper, pitch your own tent or stay in a glamping tent at this idyllic ecological camping . This drive is about 100 km. and will take around two hours if you avoid the highways. We advise that you take a break on the language border between Walloon and Flemish Brabant and stretch your legs on a walk through the beautiful Hallerbos. If you visit this forest at the right moment you will be greeted with the most amazing purple flower carpet. From the campspace you can visit some of the other great spots in Flemish Brabant like Leuven with its extensive botanical garden and historic buildings including the Great Beguinage which is a UNESCO World Heritage. The Sonian Forest which is found just on the outskirts of Brussels is yet another UNESCO world heritage site. You can also spend a day in Brussels and visit the Gaasbeek castle. 

Want to know more about what you can do in Flemish Brabant or Flanders in general? 

7. East Flanders

Moving on from Flemish Brabant the route takes you to Schorisse in the Flemish Ardennes in the province of East Flanders, an area that takes its name from the Ardennes you would have visited in Wallonia. You can either park your camper or pitch your tent in the heart of the Flemish Ardennes or get another glamping experience at this special place in nature . This will be another short driving day of only about 40 km., which is why it’s a great day to visit more of the Flemish Ardennes or take a detour up to Ghent and visit this historic and cultural city. You can also take a bike ride on parts of the official Tour of Flanders bike route, which end in the historic city of Oudenaarde. You can pick a route that suits your level, either a flatter part of the route or try to climb the steep slopes to challenge yourself. Either way you can reward yourself afterwards or on your way by visiting a cycling café and feel the unique ambience here. 

8. West Flanders

Now we have come to the last stop on our road trip in Belgium: in the fields of Aartrijke in West Flanders. If you take the direct route it’s only a 70 km. drive which will take a bit more than an hour. But again what fun is that? We suggest a detour to see some of the greatest spots this province has to offer. From Schorisse we suggest driving to Ypres, a city name you might recognise as many big battles of the First World War were fought here. Today you can follow the footsteps of history and visit the Flanders Fields Museum or just wander through some of the many monuments, memorials and cemeteries that commemorate the soldiers that fought here. From here you can drive to the coast through Veurne, and spend some time at the beach. From the campspace you can visit the historic city centre of Bruges.

Book the campspaces for your road trip or find other spots that fit your route

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Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary: The Ultimate 14-Day Trip

Looking for the perfect Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary? Well, you’re in the right place!

We spent a month traveling the Netherlands and Belgium by train and car . The region is packed with stunning architecture, wonderful museums, delicious food, beautiful countryside, and charming towns to discover.

This Netherlands and Belgium itinerary is one of our favorite road trips through Western Europe.

Having spent a month here, we know which places to include to make your trip unforgettable!

Getting around is super easy, too. The train system is safe, efficient, and cost-effective. The roads are well-paved and easy to navigate with great signage.

Our in-depth 14-day itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium will help you plan an unforgettable trip!

We share tips on places to visit, things to do, travel times for train and car, and suggestions on where to stay to help plan your journey.

So, grab a glass of wine, and let’s do this!

Netherlands & Belgium Itinerary Breakdown

Alright, time to dive into the day-to-day breakdown of your itinerary for the Netherlands and Belgium.

Day 1-3: Amsterdam

As one of the most unique capital cities in the world, Amsterdam is the best place to begin your journey.

This culturally diverse city has several world-class museums, beautiful canals , and interesting neighborhoods to explore.

You will love the laid-back vibe, trendy cafes , and progressive atmosphere Amsterdam offers.

Not only does Amsterdam have excellent transportation , but it is very walkable, easy to get around, clean, and safe for tourists.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: When planning a trip , we recommend adding an extra day to your first location so you can relax after a long flight, manage your pain, and stock up for your road trip.  

Getting to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the easiest cities to fly to. The Schiphol Airport has direct flights from major international cities , and the efficiency and organization of the airport can’t be beat.

Of course, you can travel by car or train from neighboring Germany . However, if you are from the USA, Canada, or Australia… flying is the only option.

From the airport, you will need to get yourself to the Central Train Station in central Amsterdam. That is where most hotels and things to do are located.

The fastest way to get to Central Train Station from the Schiphol Airport is by train, taxi, or private transfer.

For a swift and economical choice, consider the NS Dutch Railways Train. The 20-minute ride costs 6.90€.

For added comfort, Get Transfer provides private transfers for 40–60€. You can compare rates from different drivers and select the most budget-friendly choice.

🚓 Need a Transfer from Amsterdam Airport? ➡️ Book your Private Transfer here !

You can take the bus, but it is not direct and travels to Amsterdam Elandsgracht rather than Central Station. The Amsterdam Express 397 Bus costs 6.50€ and takes 30 minutes.

Getting Around Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s charming historic center is designated for pedestrians.

Taxis will drop you off as close as possible to your accommodations. Just note that you will be required to briefly drag your luggage along cobbled streets.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: If you plan on visiting the small towns in this itinerary by train, then I recommend staying close to Central Station.

Over the next 3 days, your feet will be your primary mode of transport.

However, Amsterdam does have an excellent transportation system with access to many historic sights and museums.

Even when it snows in the Netherlands , their public transportation is amazing.

🗺️ Maps to Plan Your Journey Amsterdam Tram Map Amsterdam Bus Map

Whether you struggle with chronic pain or not, remember to wear comfortable shoes or sandals. You will be doing a lot of walking!

Have difficulty walking? Struggle with chronic pain or fatigue? 🧑‍🦽Why not rent a wheelchair? Yes, you can rent a wheelchair for your visit to Amsterdam or your entire two weeks in the Netherlands. 👉 Amsterdam Wheelchair Rental 👉 Netherlands Wheelchair Rental

Amsterdam City Pass

Consider the Amsterdam City Pass for entrance to more than 70+ museums and attractions around the city, plus unlimited access to public transportation.

Since I travel with chronic pain and fatigue , we chose not to purchase the pass. Sometimes I just can’t visit everything we had planned.

However, if you love to see as much as possible in each city you visit, then the Amsterdam City Pass is an excellent choice!

Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is full of must-see attractions and amazing things to do.

This is our recommendation for how to spend your 3 days , but feel free to let your wanderlust get the best of you!

Not included on this list is renting a bicycle and eating a ton of cheese. If you can, do both.

Our daily itineraries consider the location of each activity and walking times between sights to help plan your visit.

I travel with hidden disabilities that limit my mobility, so I wanted to ensure this itinerary works for slow travelers.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Although Amsterdam is a wheelchair-friendly city, you should still be prepared for cobblestone streets and possible stairs, depending on where you visit.

Day 1: Historic Center & Red Light District

✔️ Historic Centrum: picturesque streets with Flemish architecture ✔️ Oude de Kerk: Old Church is the oldest building in Amsterdam ✔️ Rembrandt House Museum: Learn the painter’s creative process ✔️ Red Light District: a definite must-see attraction for any visitor

👉Buy your Rembrandt House Museum ticket here!

Day 2: Museums & Beer

✔️ Van Gogh Museum: Van Gogh lovers can view “Starry Night” ✔️ Rijksmuseum: houses the largest collection of Dutch masterpieces ✔️ De Pijp: an iconic neighborhood with trendy cafes and bohemian vibe ✔️ Heineken Experience: sample some world-famous beer

👉Book your Heineken Experience here!

Day 3: History & Canals

✔️ Anne Frank House: learn about her life during WWII Nazi occupation ✔️ Royal Palace: Tour the opulent interiors of this Dutch family residence ✔️ Canal Cruise: No better way to experience Amsterdam’s beauty

👉Book your Amsterdam Boat Cruise here!

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

📍 Budget – Hotel Heye 130 : Near Vondelpark, this hotel is close to restaurants, cafes shops, and the tram. Rooms are clean and quiet with city views. The staff are friendly and helpful. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Heye 13 0 now!

📍 Mid-Range – Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam : Inspired by Monet, this boutique hotel is centrally located, with an on-site gym and bar. Rooms are modern, comfortable rooms with artistic flair. ➡️ Book your stay at Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam now!

📍 Luxury – Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel : A 5-star luxury hotel in the historic center with stunning city views, tasteful décor, and comfy beds. It has an onsite bar and delicious breakfast is available. ➡️ Book your stay at Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel now!

Day 4-6: Rotterdam and Area

Over the next 3 days, you will explore Rotterdam, Leiden, Delft, the Hague, Dordrecht, and the Kinderdijk windmills.

It sounds like a lot, but all these towns are within 45 minutes of one another.

I recommend you choose Rotterdam or Delft as your base . Both have excellent accommodation and dining options.

Rotterdam will have a wider selection of hotels as it is a large, vibrant city . However, if you want to stay in an adorable small canal town, then Delft is the better choice.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Staying in one location for an extended period is one of the best ways to spend less money while traveling .

Getting to Rotterdam

TRAIN TIME: Amsterdam–Leiden: 35 min ║ Leiden–Rotterdam: 33 min DRIVE TIME: Amsterdam–Leiden–Rotterdam: 1 hour (80 km/50 miles)

Taking the train is an excellent and efficient choice for your Netherlands and Belgium itinerary.

We took the train while in the Netherlands and then drove around Belgium with our rental car.

👉 Check availability & prices 🚅Reserve your train ticket to Rotterdam now!

This itinerary is designed for travel by train or car. Choose whatever transportation option suits your travel style best.

Check out the Netherlands Train website to help plan your journey.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Consider all aspects of your train journey and how it may impact your pain & fatigue — walking with luggage to/from the train station & hotel, waiting on platforms, etc. so you can prepare.

If you prefer to rent a car, driving is straightforward and enjoyable . And we found the drivers to be very courteous.

Just remember to stay to the right when driving to allow drivers to pass on the left. This was a customary practice in Holland.

🚗 Need a rental car? Check availability & prices: ➡️ Reserve your rental car here !

Rotterdam & Area

Rotterdam is your base for the next 3 days of your itinerary for the Netherlands and Belgium. They have fantastic hotels with balconies over the city!

You will visit a couple of towns each day that are close in proximity . This minimizes travel time and maximizes your time in each location.

You can arrange them however you wish since they are all within 45 minutes of Rotterdam!

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

📍 Budget – Hotel Breitner :  This quiet 3-star hotel is an affordable, comfortable option in the city center, only 1 km from Central Station. A delicious breakfast and parking are available for a fee. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Breitner now!

📍 Mid-Range – The James Hotel Rotterdam :  This chic hotel is close to amenities with tastefully decorated rooms, large comfortable beds, and rainfall showers. There is a gym, private parking, and an elevator. ➡️ Book your stay at The James Hotel Rotterdam now!

📍 Luxury – Suite Hotel Pincoffs Rotterdam :  A small luxury hotel, full of character, right on a canal. The rooms are elegant, very spacious, and quiet. Breakfast and parking are available for a fee. ➡️ Book your stay at Suite Hotel Pincoffs Rotterdam now!

Day 4: Leiden & Rotterdam

As you depart Amsterdam, you should visit the town of Leiden before making your way to Rotterdam.

Leiden is one of the best small towns to visit in the Netherlands . It is a vibrant university town with colorful streets, quaint shops, and scenic waterways.

Enjoying lunch at one of the traditional boat restaurants was one of my favorite things to do in Leiden!

Things to Do in Leiden

✔️De Valk Windmill: learn about the role windmills played in Dutch history ✔️ Hooglandse Kerk: medieval church known for stained glass & tower ✔️Pieterskerk: the oldest Gothic church in the Netherlands ✔️ Rapenburg Canal: the most beautiful canal in all of Leiden

As the second largest city in Holland, Rotterdam is known for its unique skyline of beautifully historic buildings and innovative, modern structures.

The city has a diverse cultural scene and amazing restaurants , making it well worth a visit. So, get ready to indulge in Dutch cuisine.

Things to Do in Rotterdam

✔️St. Lawrence Church: a rare landmark that predates WWII ✔️Cube Houses: tour this peculiar & unique residential complex ✔️ Delfshaven: beautiful canals and 17th-century architecture ✔️Euromast Tower: dine 185 meters with amazing city views

👉Buy your Euromast Tower ticket here!

Day 5: Delft & the Hague

TRAIN TIME: Rotterdam–Delft: 13 min ║ Delft–The Hague: 11 min DRIVE TIME: Rotterdam–Delft–The Hague: 53 min (27 km/17 miles)

Today you visit one of my favorite towns of all time… Delft!

It’s one of the most beautiful towns in Holland , and just the right size for a morning visit.

Then you will head over to the Hague, the political capital of the Netherlands and home to the International Court of Justice.

With a mix of history and charm, the Hague has wonderful attractions, a beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, and a fantastic waterfront promenade.

Besides wandering this picture-perfect town with a coffee in hand, here are a couple of the best things to do in Delft .

✔️Market Square (Markt): Home to City Hall, cute shops and restaurants ✔️ Nieuwe Kerk (New Church): a Gothic church with beautiful stained glass ✔️Oude Kerk: this church houses the tomb of Johannes Vermeer ✔️Royal Delft Museum: learn about this traditional blue porcelain art

👉Buy your Royal Delft Factory Museum ticket here!

Whether you’re into history and museums or prefer to spend an afternoon at the beach, the Hague has you covered.

✔️Mauritshuis Museum: full of Dutch masterpieces, like Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” ✔️ Peace Palace: join a tour of the International Court of Justice ✔️ The Binnenhof: visit a 13th-century castle & Dutch Parliament ✔️Beach & Promenade: sandy shores and seaside charm

👉Buy your Mauritshuis Museum ticket here!

Day 6: Kinderjik & Dordrecht

DRIVE TIME: Rotterdam–Dordrecht–Kinderjik: 47 min (37 km/23 miles)

Time to visit the towns of Dordrecht and Kinderjik, the land of windmills.

There is no train to Kinderjik . Instead, you can either rent a car for the day or take the waterbus from Rotterdam.

The Waterbus is an excellent way to see the town and countryside. Plus, it’s very convenient with frequent departures. They offer direct routes from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk and Dordrecht.

Of course, you can join a tour for a relaxed day of sightseeing in both towns.

👉Check availability and prices. 🛥️ Reserve your Waterbus ticket today!

Kinderjik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with windmills and a must-see on any itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Viewing the windmills is free of charge. However, if you want to visit the onsite museum, there is a small fee.

If you choose to drive, you can visit the windmills on the way to Dordrecht or on the way back.

✔️Kinderjik Windmills: an iconic symbol of Dutch ingenuity and beauty

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Visit the windmills in the morning to beat the afternoon crowds, and enjoy the windmills and canals in peace.

Nicknamed the “Venice” of Holland , Dordrecht is a charming medieval city with art, history, and a scenic waterfront.

Spend the day wandering the quaint streets, canals, and historic sights.

✔️Groothoofdspoort: this historic gate is now a prominent symbol ✔️Dordrecht Museum: great collection of Dutch art masterpieces ✔️ Dordrecht Grote Kerk: an impressive 14th-century medieval church

Extra Time? Visit Gouda

Consider a day trip to Gouda from Rotterdam. We visited Gouda on our 2-week trip in the Netherlands and fell in love with the town!

Gouda has a lively town square with beautiful Dutch architecture , quiet canals, great cafes, and a few museums worth checking out.

If you’re there between April to September , make sure to check out the Gouda Cheese Market on Thursday mornings.

✔️Town Square: visit City Hall & the Staduis Museum ✔️St. John’s Church: the longest church in Holland built in 1820 ✔️Gouda Cheese Experience: time to sample delicious cheese

👉Buy your Gouda Cheese Experience ticket here!

Day 7-13: Belgium

Over the next week, you will explore Belgium. This map shows all the places you will visit during this part of your itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

You can take the train around Belgium; however, renting a car will be easier. That’s what we did, and it was perfect for visiting the WWI sites around Ypres.

Day 7: Antwerp

Your first stop in Belgium is Antwerp, Europe’s second largest port , thanks to its position along the Scheldt River.

You will spend one full day here. It’s enough time to give you a taste of the local culture and see the highlights.

If you want more time, it’s easy to rearrange the itinerary, since cities are so close to one another.

This relaxed itinerary is perfect for slow travelers and those planning a trip with chronic pain.

Getting to Antwerp

TRAIN TIME: Rotterdam– Antwerp: ranges 32 min to 1 hour 49 min DRIVE TIME: Rotterdam– Antwerp: 1 hour 26 min (101 km/63 miles)

I recommend taking the direct train from Rotterdam to Antwerp . It is efficient, safe, and budget-friendly . The seats are comfy and spacious, so you can just sit back and enjoy the views.

👉 Check availability & prices 🚅Reserve your train ticket to Antwerp now!

Of course, the drive is easy too. But I recommend renting a car after you leave Antwerp.

At the end of the week, you can drop your rental car off at the Brussels train station. Then train it back to Amsterdam to catch your flight.

Just note that there may be an additional drop-off fee.

👉Check availability & prices 🚗 Reserve your rental car here !

Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world . So, if you’re shopping for beautiful diamond jewelry, this is the place to do it.

The Diamond District is located next to the train station . Just remember to negotiate if you plan on making a purchase.

If shopping for diamonds is not your thing, don’t worry… Antwerp has plenty of other things to do.

Things to Do in Antwerp

✔️Museum aan de Stroom: Antwerp’s maritime history with city views ✔️Antwerpen-Centraal: one of the most beautiful train stations ✔️Cathedral of Our Lady: this church houses several art masterpieces ✔️Grote Markt: lively square with beautifully preserved guild houses

👉Join this award-winning Guided Bike Tour of Antwerp!

Where to Stay in Antwerp

📍 Budget – B&B Hotel Antwerp : A clean, modern hotel in the city center close to restaurants and attractions. Soundproof rooms with comfortable beds, and modern bathrooms. Breakfast is available. ➡️ Book your stay at B&B Hotel Antwerp now!

📍 Mid-Range – NH Collection Antwerp :  2023 Traveller’s Choice. A chic hotel next to the train station & tram. Rooms are comfortable, modern, and quiet. There is an onsite restaurant, but no elevator. ➡️ Book your stay at NH Collection Antwerp now!

📍 Luxury – Hotel Rubens :  Highly rated 4-star hotel next to Grote Markt. Comfortable, stylish rooms with a walk-in shower, city view, and breakfast buffet included. Has an onsite bar, and helpful staff. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Rubens now!

Day 8–10: Bruges, Ghent & Ypres

Next up on your itinerary for the Netherlands and Belgium are the fairytale towns of Ghent and Bruges.

Located in the Flanders region, they are full of cobble-stoned streets, picturesque canals, and impressive medieval architecture.

Bruges and Ghent are true highlights of any trip to Belgium!

I recommend you spend at least 3 days in the area to explore the towns and visit the WWI sites around Ypres.

It can be tough to decide whether to stay in Bruges or Ghent. But we stayed in Bruges and recommend you do too! Its relaxed atmosphere offers a more romantic and intimate experience .

Accommodation choices are provided further down in the post. 😊

Getting to Bruges

TRAIN TIME: Antwerp–Bruges: 1 hour 24 min DRIVE TIME: Antwerp–Ghent–Bruges: 1 hour 33 min (110 km/68miles)

The trains are safe and efficient, and the roads are well-maintained. It just depends on how you prefer to travel.

🚂Travel by Train : get off at Ghent and leave your luggage in a train station locker while you tour the sights.

🚗Travel by Car : you will hop onto E17 west towards Ghent. As you near the city center, you will want to look for parking.

We rented a car for this portion of our itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Renting a car makes visiting Ypres and the WWI sites easier. You can stop where and when you want.

Day 8: Ghent

I recommend you spend the day in Ghent on your way to Bruges.

Or, you can explore Ghent on your way to Brussels later in the itinerary.

The picturesque town of Ghent has beautiful canals and medieval architecture. There are several beautifully preserved buildings, including the imposing Gravensteen Castle.

The city has a lively atmosphere, waterfront views, and delicious cuisine that makes for a perfect day trip.

Things to Do in Ghent

✔️Gravensteen Castle: Tour the dungeons of this medieval fortress ✔️Saint Bavo’s Cathedral : houses the Ghent Altarpiece by Jan van Eyck ✔️Museum of Fine Arts: art from the Middle Ages to contemporary times ✔️Canal Cruise: take a canal cruise around Graslei & Korenlei waterfront

👉Book your Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour here!

Day 9: Bruges

Bruges is your base for this portion of your itinerary in the Netherlands and Belgium.

That means extra time to discover hidden gems , indulge in Belgian waffles, and appreciate the town at night .

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Parking in Bruges – Biekorf is the closest parking lot below the old town in an underground area for 16€/day. There are cheaper options outside the historic center that offer a park & ride. 

Bruges is the most beautiful (and my favorite) town in Belgium.

It’s romantic and full of character with cobblestone streets lining canals, stunning medieval architecture, and romantic squares.

Its timeless beauty and historic landmarks are why Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to Do in Bruges

✔️Belfry of Bruges: panoramic city views from this medieval tower ✔️Basilica of the Holy Blood: houses a relic with Christ’s blood ✔️Markt: busy square with colorful, gable-roofed buildings ✔️Groeninge Museum: a great collection of Flemish & Belgian art ✔️Canal Tour: explore the beauty & magic of Bruges

👉Book your Boat Cruise & Walking Tour here!

Where to Stay in Bruges

📍 Budget Friendly – Hotel Bla Bla : A quiet hotel close to the train station and restaurants. Rooms are clean and comfortable, and there is a sun terrace, breakfast, and parking for a fee, but no elevator. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Bla Bla now!

📍 Mid-Range – Hotel Navarra Brugge : This 17th-century mansion is an upscale 4-star hotel with tasteful decor. There is a pool, sauna, gym, bar, and elevator, with a buffet breakfast, and onsite parking. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Navarra Brugge now!

📍 Luxury – Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce : This stunning 16th-century hotel combines elegance and charm with modern comforts, all on Bruges’ most picturesque canal. Voted Best of the Best in 2023. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce now!

Day 10 – Ypres & World War I Sites

Belgium played a significant and pivotal role in WWI that helped shape our world as we know it. It also served as a crucial battleground during Allied liberation in 1944-1945.

Today is about reflecting on those who fought for our freedom . Gavin and I underestimated the lasting impact visiting these sites would have on us.

Ypres Salient Route

This map follows the same route we took and highlights the WWI sites we visited.

You can drive the route yourself, rent a bicycle, or join a day tour.

✔️Tyne Cot Cemetery: the world’s largest Commonwealth War cemetery remembering the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives in WWI & WWII ✔️Memorial Museum Passchendaele: offers an immersive experience into the battles of WWI with artifacts, exhibits, and reconstructed trenches

✔️Flanders Field: this symbolic poppy field, marked by cemeteries and memorials, tributes to fallen soldiers

✔️Last Post Ceremony at Menin Gate: a nightly ritual in Ypres that honors soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I

Day 11 – Flex Day (Beaches or Brussels)

Today is a flex day. You can t our the quiet towns and beaches in Ostend and Da Haan then enjoy a cocktail at a beach bar in Knokke-Heist.

Or head to Brussels early for an extra day in the capital city. We provide info for extra time in Brussels further down in the post.

Ostend, De Haan, & Damme

✔️Ostend: local markets, Mu.ZEE Art Museum, and lively promenade ✔️Da Haan Beach: relax on the long stretch of golden sand ✔️Pura Vida Knokke Beach Bar: cocktail and tapas at this chic beach bar ✔️Damme: canal town with several bookstores and antique shops

Day 12-13: Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union is known for its global influence as a political hub. The city offers a mix of historic charm with art nouveau architecture , and world-class cuisine.

Despite its contemporary vibe, the city is historic, beautiful, and insanely elegant. I fell in love with Brussels and can’t wait to visit again!

You will spend 2 days here , wandering through perfectly manicured parks and stuffing your face with rich Belgian chocolate.

Getting to Brussels

TRAIN TIME: Bruges–Brussels: 1 hour 3 min DRIVE TIME: Bruges–Brussels: 1 hour 20 min (97.3 km/60.5 miles)

Driving to Brussels is easy. Just hop on the E40 out of Bruges and take in the scenery.

Roads are well-marked with good signage . Just remember to stay to the right unless you want to pass other drivers.

Taking the train is convenient too , as they are frequent and fast.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: If you have not visited Ghent yet… today is the day. Leave your luggage at the train station or hidden in the trunk of your rental car and take a few hours to explore Ghent.

Getting Around Brussels

It is very easy to get around Brussels . People are helpful and most signs are in English.

Brussels has excellent public transportation with buses, trams, and metro lines connecting all parts of the city. Plus, tickets are generally interchangeable between the different types of transport.

Brussels is a bicycle-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes. If you’re interested in this, check out the bike-sharing program Villo here .

Still, be prepared to walk in Brussels. If you travel with chronic fatigue or struggle with mobility, you may want to consider renting a wheelchair for your visit.

Check out this website for more info on renting a wheelchair in Brussels.

Day 11: Flex Day in Brussels

If you decide to spend an extra day in Brussels instead of the beach, here is what you should see.

✔️Mini Europe: an exhibit of famous European landmarks replicas ✔️ Musée Magritte Museum: explore Magritte’s Surrealism masterpieces ✔️Marollen Market: eclectic flea market with vintage & antique items ✔️The Atomium: represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times

👉Book your Atomium entrance ticket here!

Things to Do in Brussels

Feel free to mix and match the following sight and activity recommendations to match your interests and travel style. Enjoy!

Day 12: Grand Place & Royal Palace

Get ready for stunning architecture and tasty treats as you visit the most famous square in Brussels.

✔️Grand Place: UNESCO Heritage Site with Gothic & Baroque buildings ✔️Chocolate & Waffles: join a food tour or find a waffle stand… it’s a must ✔️St Michael & St Gudula Cathedral: 11 th century stained glass windows ✔️Royal Palace of Brussels: experience true opulence and grandeur

👉Book your Chocolate Museum & Workshop ticket here!

Day 13: European Union Day

Our visit to the Parlamentarium was fascinating! The exhibit is well-organized, informative, and very interesting. It is unlike any other museum we have visited!

✔️ Parc du Cinquantenaire: houses museums & gardens with city views ✔️House of European History: interactive exhibits and displays ✔️Parlamentarium: multimedia exhibits about the role of the EU ✔️Museum of Natural Sciences: engaging exploration of the natural world

👉See the sights with a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour!

Where to Stay in Brussels

📍 Budget Friendly – Urban Yard : A short train ride to the center, this 3-star Art Deco hotel has clean, spacious rooms with a nature-inspired design. There is an elevator and breakfast available. ➡️ Book your stay at Urban Yard now!

📍 Mid-Range – Hotel Hubert Grand Palace : Centrally located, this 4-star upscale eco-hotel has a retro vibe with colorful, clean rooms. There is a gym, breakfast area, elevator, and off-site parking available. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Hubert Grand Palace now!

📍 Luxury – Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie : Located on lively Louise Ave, this 4-star trendy accessible hotel offers spacious, well-designed rooms, and has a restaurant, fitness center, and onsite parking. ➡️ Book your stay at Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie now!

Day 14: Utrecht & Amsterdam

Today you head back to Amsterdam. Flying in and out of the same airport will save you money when booking your trip!

If you are renting a car, returning it to the same spot is a huge money saver.

On the way back to Amsterdam, you will stop in Utrecht. This adorable town is worth visiting even during winter in the Netherlands.

TRAIN TIME: Brussels–Utrecht: 2 hr 57 min ║ Utrecht–Amsterdam: 37 min ║ Brussels–Amsterdam: 2 hr 45 min DRIVE TIME: Brussels–Utrecht–Amsterdam: 2 hours 57 min (227 km/141 miles)

There is no direct train from Brussels to Utrecht. You will have to make 2 changes along your route if you want to add Utrecht to your itinerary.

There is a direct train from Brussels to Amsterdam Centraal and from Brussels to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Choose what works best for your itinerary and when your flight is scheduled.

👉 Check availability & prices 🚅Reserve your train ticket to Amsterdam now!

Utrecht has a relaxing vibe as a university town with traditional Dutch architecture, beautiful canals, and a lively café culture.

Spend the afternoon wandering the sights, or just stop for lunch at one of the fantastic restaurants.

✔️Dom Tower: climb 465 steps for amazing panoramic city views ✔️Utrecht Cathedral: a Gothic church with a magnificent nave ✔️Canals of Utrecht: float through the city with a relaxing canal cruise

👉Book your City Canal Cruise here!

After Utrecht, make your way back to Amsterdam to catch your flight back home.

And that wraps up your Netherlands and Belgium itinerary for 14 days! Now onto logistics…

Why Visit the Netherlands & Belgium?

The Netherlands and Belgium are located side by side in Western Europe, making it ideal for a 2-week road trip.

Distances between locations are small and travel times are short. This is important if you travel with chronic pain, fatigue, or have mobility issues like I do. 

And with unique cultural experiences , their combination creates a well-rounded European experience, especially for first-timers to Europe.

The Netherlands has Flemish art, beautiful countryside , delicious cheese, and iconic windmills. Belgium has stunning architecture, vibrant cities, incredible chocolate, and World War II history.

That’s not everything… but you get the idea. 😊

Weather and climates are also similar , which means you won’t need to pack an extra large suitcase for 2 different climates.

How to Get to the Netherlands and Belgium

Most travelers arrive by international flight to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). This is also my recommendation.

As the third largest airport in Europe, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) connects Amsterdam with numerous global destinations.

Non-stop flights from Canada, the US, and Australia run throughout the year.

Alternatively, you can start and end your trip in Brussels , but the Brussels Airport (BRU) has fewer options for direct flights from international destinations compared to AMS.

I recommend checking both AMS and BRU to see which airport offers direct flights from your home country.

We use WayAway for the best deals on international flights.

This platform simplifies your search by comparing dates, destinations, and prices . This allows you to find the best flight available.

Once you decide on a flight, WayAway directs you to the actual provider’s website so you can view the info, read the fine print, and make an informed decision on your travel plans.

➡️ Find your flight to Amsterdam today! ✔️compares airlines ✔️offers the best rates ✔️plus 10% cashback ✔️no service fees Book Now with WayAway

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Schiphol Airport is huge! I recommend requesting a wheelchair if you have chronic pain, fatigue, or struggle with mobility. Check out more tips for surviving air travel here!

How to Get Around the Netherlands and Belgium

Getting around is easy on your 14-day itinerary of the Netherlands and Belgium. Both countries have fantastic transportation options.

The trains in the Netherlands and Belgium are efficient and reliable . They connect cities and smaller towns and offer comfortable, spacious seats .

It is ideal for longer trips , or if you prefer to relax and enjoy the countryside. Just keep in mind that trains are always not cheap .

When planning your trip , always research the costs of train tickets to every destination you plan to visit.

We always compare the cost of train tickets to the cost of a rental car to see if a car is worth it.

🚗Rental Car

Driving is perfect if you want the flexibility to travel at your own pace . Between your GPS, road signs, and well-maintained highways … you won’t get lost.

And, if you travel with a chronic illness like me… you won’t have to worry about dragging your luggage around town. Yay!

There is no official paperwork to present when crossing the border either. The Netherlands and Belgium work together and expect tourists to visit both.

Just let your car agency know when you pick up your rental car.

We like to use Discover Cars whenever we rent a car in Europe. They have competitive rates and great customer service.

Having a GPS comes in handy. We bring our own because renting one from the car agency is expensive.

And don’t forget to download the map of Western Europe into your GPS before you depart for your trip. That way, all maps are ready to go!

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Do not rent a car while in Amsterdam or Brussels. Both cities are flat, walkable, and have excellent public transportation. Plus, parking is a nightmare.

🚴‍♂️Bicycle

The Netherlands and Belgium are famous for their cycling culture, and bicycling is a very common mode of transportation .

Bike paths are well-maintained , convenient, and an environmentally friendly way to explore.

Visa Requirements

The European Union includes the Netherlands and Belgium. Individuals from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, or Australia do not require a visa for entry.

If you are a non-EU citizen, you must provide the following information to the customs upon arrival:

PASSPORT:  Must remain valid for a minimum of three months beyond your scheduled departure date.

VISA:  The Netherlands and Belgium are part of the Schengen Agreement. Americans and Canadians can enter and stay for 90 days.

This applies to tourism and business purposes. For more information, refer to this link .

HEALTH INSURANCE:  If you are not arriving from EU, UK, USA, Canada, or Australia, it is essential to have travel insurance to enter the Netherlands or Belgium .

You must obtain it before embarking on your journey.

➡️ We recommend SafetyWing for Travel Insurance . Check Rates & Book Insurance Now

Booking a Tour in the Netherlands and Belgium

Whenever you travel, joining a tour is always possible.

👉 Benefits of Joining a Tour: ✔️Meet other travelers ✔️Removes the stress of planning ✔️Insider’s look into a destination ✔️Tour guide shares history & facts ✔️Hotels & transport booked for you

For local day tours, I recommend Viator or GetYourGuide .

Of course, traveling with a large tour has its challenges . This is especially true for those with chronic pain, fatigue, or limited mobility.

I find it difficult to keep pace with the group or participate in every activity planned.

FAQ: Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary

How long is it from belgium to the netherlands.

The Netherlands and Belgium are located side by side in Western Europe. It takes 2 hours and 25 min to drive from Amsterdam to Brussels, and 1 hour 53 min by train.

Is Belgium or the Netherlands better to visit?

Choosing between the two can be challenging. The Netherlands has quaint towns, a unique capital with amazing nightlife, tasty cheese, and world-class museums. Belgium has stunning architecture, WWI history, delicious chocolate, and several art masterpieces.

How many days in enough in Belgium?

You want to spend a minimum of 5 days in Belgium to appreciate all the highlights.

How many days should I spend in the Netherlands?

Spending 7 days in the Netherlands will give you a taste of the culture and highlights. However, spending 10-14 days will allow you to travel at a more relaxed pace and discover some hidden gems.

Can you travel to Belgium from the Netherlands by train?

Yes, both Belgium and the Netherlands have an efficient, reliable, and comfortable train system that connects all major cities.

Final Thoughts: Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary

From historical sights and WWI landmarks to stunning architecture and amazing museums, this 14-day Netherlands and Belgium itinerary has everything you need for a magical European vacation .

Combine that with Gouda cheese, Belgian beer, and the best chocolate in the world… sweet perfection!

Whether you prefer to travel slow or not, two weeks in the Netherlands and Belgium is the perfect amount of time . And with efficient transportation options, it’s super easy to explore both on one trip.

Hopefully, our detailed two-week itinerary provided you with must-visit destinations, a range of activities, transport options, and accommodation suggestions.

We want to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in the Netherlands and Belgium too!

Read More on the Netherlands

2 Weeks in the Netherlands: A Complete 14 Day Itinerary 11 Beautiful Small Towns in the Netherlands to Visit The 9 BEST Rotterdam Hotels with Balcony Is the Netherlands in Germany? But Seriously… Does it Snow in the Netherlands? & 13 Things to Do in Winter 2024

Robyn & Gavin are Slow Travel Experts and the authors of Two Empty Passports. They create detailed travel itineraries that focus on slow-minded travel, cultural experiences, and less-visited destinations. As expert travel planners, they know how to adjust your travel style to get the most out of any destination. Robyn lives & travels with several chronic illnesses, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, IST, and POTS. Together, they are determined to help other chronic warriors achieve their dreams of travel. Join their journey!

Itinerary for the Best Belgium Road Trip in a Motorhome

Nestled between France, Germany and The Netherlands, Belgium is an incredibly welcoming country, particularly accessible to UK visitors and best explored by in a motorhome. It has designated motorhome and RV parking in most towns and cities. The diesel price is usually 10-15p cheaper per litre than the UK, and although tolls are required for all commercial vehicles over 3,500kg, this doesn’t apply to motorhomes so you can enjoy the road system free of charge.

But there are also many reasons to take off on a road trip through Belgium. If you’re a history buff, this country is for you - it has more castles per m2 than anywhere else in the world (a figure somewhere in the region of 3,000!) and a turbulent history of military occupation and resistance. Many people will know of this  small country’s culinary gifts  to the world: sugary waffles, crisp fries, well-crafted beers and fine chocolates, to name just a few. 

Will this be your first motorhome trip ? Then you may want to check out our extensive motorhome packing list !

Belgian Waffles

The Belgian Coast and Bruges 

The ideal road trip through Belgium begins in the West Flanders province, which is close to France’s northern ferry ports Calais and Dunkirk. On your first day, en route to the first iconic destination, Bruges, make a stop in De Haan for a dip in the North Sea. De Haan is a coastal village with a low skyline and many buildings in the beautiful Belle Epoque style. Tracks run through expansive coastal dunes to a long, sandy beach, which is a great place to stretch your legs or sit and enjoy some quintessential frites from the highly esteemed Frituur Picasso.  

Bruges cannot be missed from you Belgium road trip itinerary. It’s one of the few cities in Belgium that have never been destroyed, and you will notice that the minute you step foot into this fairy tale city. It’s a maze of canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. Visit the  Markt square and just admire the magical architecture around you while you enjoy a Belgian waffle (the first of many)!

On the outskirts of the city is Kalmthoutse Heide , a beautiful nature reserve with enormous ecological and cultural value. It’s very popular for long walks or bike rides. You’ll spot a lot of bird species, find some beautiful views, wildflowers, and more natural dunes and sandy tracks. Enjoy this area on day two, after strolling around Bruges. Whilst enjoying the West Flanders region, stay at the Camping Memling . This site has a quiet woodland location despite its proximity to the Bruges, as well as modern, clean facilities and an indoor swimming pool. There’s a heated wash block with baby changing areas and access for people with reduced mobility, as well as widely accessible WiFi. Caravans and motorhomes pitch up on roomy hardstanding pitches. 

Hardstanding motorhome pitches range from €16 to €28,00 depending on the season. 

Veltemweg 109 – 8310 Brugge

On day three, the next leg of your Belgium road trip takes you into Ghent, a cultural hub where historic architecture and the modern vibe of a university town collide. Its pedestrianised centre is also known for medieval architecture,  such as the 12th-century Gravensteen castle , moated, mysterious, and right in the middle of the city. It was once used as a courthouse, then a prison, and eventually was left in ruins. It has now been restored and you can take a self-guided tour. Other icons in Ghent include, the Graslei , a row of guildhalls beside the Leie river harbour, and the ‘graffiti street.’ It’s popular for big groups to do a bike tour , but you can just hire them and go at your own pace. If you’re visiting in the summer, the Jazz festival puts Ghent on the global music map, with big names like Herbie Hancock, Van Morrison and Sting set to play at the rescheduled 2021 event.  

After a day in Ghent, stay at the Blaameersen campsite nearby. This is a perfect stopping place to discover the city for a day, with a short bus departing from the site that goes directly to the city. It has a municipal leisure area adjacent to it, with a swimming lake, waterslide and beach, and fishing area. There’s an adventure park, multisport courts, outdoor fitness area and bike hire, too. The site also offers clean, accessible washroom facilities with plenty of hot water (despite the site’s popularity in peak seasons, especially during the jazz festival). The pitches are in paddocks of ten, so the campsite feels small and convivial for its size. They are shaded and part-shaded and some are hardstanding, mostly within reach of 10A electricity (note that a cable up to 50m may be needed). The site is also dog-friendly with designated walks, has WiFi, allows barbeques, and offers motorhome servicing and ice pack freezing. 

A hardstanding pitch for 2 adults with electricity in the high season is €30.90.

Campinglaan 16, 9000 Gent

On day four, head to Antwerp. This is Belgium’s capital of cool, and you ought to spend at least one full day and evening exploring it. Antwerp has the largest storage of coffee beans in the world, and that’s no surprise looking at the sheer volume of high-quality coffee in this port city or awesome cafes to get it from. There’s also an abundance of record stores , independent cinemas and flea markets . To get into the history of the city and of the country, there are plenty of immersive museums as well as monuments and architectural feats, such as medieval Flemish Renaissance of the Grote Markt, and the ultra-modern MAS museum and Port House , an incredible glass structure that sails over a previously disused fire station towards the Scheldt, the river upon which Antwerp was founded. 

Whilst iconic cities are unmissable points for your road trip through Belgium, it’s nice to enjoy the open space, fresh air and freedom that road tripping in a motorhome brings. The Camping Houtum   is the perfect place to do this. Run by a brother duo, this spot has a wild feel as it is in the Hoge Kempen Nationaal Park , a riverine area of healthland and pine forest which is a popular tourist getaway for nature lovers. Day 5 should be spent exploring the ‘ De Kempense Heuvelrug ’ hiking network or various junctions of its cycling network. You can also go canoeing on the Nete, a watercourse where no motorized transport is allowed. It is not a wild rippling stream, but a calm river, ideal for a relaxed trip. You can book craft nearby at Kempen Kayaks , or rent a boat for an hour from their neighbour, Netherust. Founded in 1975 and run by a duo of brothers, this is a homely-feeling site with boundless opportunities to stretch your legs, cosy up quietly with a book, or get to know the Kasterlee region of Flanders and its culture. 

The site has friendly staff, clean bathroom facilities including baby changing, a double shower and plenty of hot water, WiFi, an onsite shop and bar restaurant, which is well-stocked with plenty of Belgian beers. There are big pitches with electric hook up for campervans, and there’s lots and lots of room to relax.

Standard campervan pitches for up to 6 people are €22 in the low season and €27 in the high season. 

Houtum 39, Kasterlee, Antwerp, Belgium 2460

The port city of Antwerp and the Camping Houtum are just a short drive away from Brussels, another one of Belgium’s points of interest. Spend day 6 here, easily the most gorgeous city in Belgium. The Grand Place is a good starting point. There, you’ll be struck by the grandeur of the Brussels City Museum and Town Hall, and just around the corner from Manneken Pis , a beloved statue who is the city’s cheeky little mascot. Another Brussels icon is the Atomium . Built in the 1950’s, it’s a little outside the city centre but is 100m tall, so it’s a great place to see some views of the city. Be sure to head to Mont des Arts for sunset for a mesmerising view of the Town Hall and downtown, and to wander around the historical monuments and buildings of this district. 

You’ll find delicious waffles all over the city, with many places offering them via street stalls or independent little coffee houses. For some seriously tasty waffles, head to Maison Dandoy tearoom (who also make the creamiest ice cream and crunchy speculoos), the Waffle Factory (and get overwhelmed by choice of s toppings) and Mokafe (for the best banana and chocolate waffles). For some of the best chocolatiers in Brussels, pop over to  Maison Pierre Marcolini ,  Godiva or Wittamer . And, for all its historical charm, this city has flowing in its veins. You’d do well to stock up on some traditional, tasty brews for the rest of your road trip from Brussels. Or, discover these breweries and much more through the medium of your appetite for either world-famous beer or chocolate on a themed walking tour !

On day 7, head to one of the most amazing sites to see on near Brussels: the enchanting Hallerbos Forest . Also known as the Blue Forest, every year in the spring, from about mid-March to early May, it blooms with a magical carpet of bluebells. Don’t miss Gasbeek either, easily accessible on your road trip from the outer Brussels ring road. It’s a romantic 13th century castle and museum to a huge art collection, a real time capsule!

The best campsite on the city’s green outskirts is the Camping Grimbergen . It’s small and equally charming, offering 80m2 worth of pitches with some hardstanding and 10A electric hook up available. They have WiFi, chemical waste disposal areas and a spacious, modern, heated sanitary facilities with baby changing and accessible washrooms. Whilst hot water is included in the day tariff, their washing machine and dryer are used at an extra fee. You can bus to Brussels from a stop just 200m from the campsite, and buses are every half an hour. If you need a pause from the city, the village is within walking distance and has its own choice of good restaurants. There’s a spa centre about 1km away, called the Thermae Grimbergen and in the campsite reception you’ll find lots of tourist information about walking and biking in the region. 

Daily prices are €6.50 per adult, €6.00 for campervans and €9.00 for motorhomes, plus €4 for electricity. 

Veldkanstraat 64, 1850 Grimbergen. 

Liège and Dinant

After Liège, prepare yourself to be blown away by the city of Dinant, easily one of the most beautiful towns in Belgium. The city centre and the Meuse river running through it is observed proudly by the Citadelle de Dinant, which offers great views if you hike up but looks equally gorgeous from the riverside. Whilst in Dinant, enjoy Furfooz , a nature reserve filled with forests, meadows, and the ruins of Roman fortresses. Within Furfooz is also Château de Walzin , a neo-gothic castle also built atop a cliff, just above the Lesse river. It’s known for its hiking paths, mountain bike trails and kayak trips, so you can turn a visit to Walzin into a day’s adventure. Kayak down the river through the nature park, passing the Aiguilles de Chaleux cliffs. An intermediate mountain bike route that passes the castle, or there’s a hiking route that runs to the nearby Château de V ê ves . There’s also an outdoor adventure park located a few kilometres from the castle, and you can swing along a high-ropes course above the Meuse Valley. 

Dinant is also the birthplace of Adolphe Sax , who invented the saxophone. His home is now an interactive exhibit on the instrument’s development. It’s the perfect way to break up your road trip from Brussels to the Ardennes, and a must-see. 

When you arrive in the Ardennes on day 9, under 40 minutes’ drive from Dinant, pull up at the Campsite Relaxi . Aptly named aside a sleepy river, under a shady wooded bower, this site is a haven for travellers, adventurous or weary as they may be. Various cycle routes start at the site and you can hire mountain bikes there. You can swim or fish in the river, and you don’t always have to cook thanks to the camp’s snack bar, pizzeria and restaurant. It supplies fresh bread, and groceries at the site shop, too, or the village’s amenities are just 1.5km away. WiFi is widely accessible. The washrooms are clean, heated and there are hot water washing up sinks, a communal microwave and barbeque areas. Washers and dryers are available for extra. 

Daily prices for motorhomes start at  €23.50 in the low season and  €29.50 in the high season. 

116 Rue de Jemelle, 6953 Forrieres, Belgium.

Mountainbiking in the Ardennes

The Ardennes is a hilly, densely wooded region in the east of Belgium on the German and Luxembourgish border. It’s famed for its authentic villages and as a mountain biking mecca, though there are endless other options for outdoor recreation, for example, the caves like Han Sur Lesse within the wildlife haven Domain Grottes de Han . Don’t miss the spectacular Tombeau du Geant in the Southern Ardennes, right on the French border, too. You can easily continue into the heart of Europe from here in Belgian Luxembourg, or head into France and back to the northern ferry ports via more awesome cultural hubs, like Riems or Paris . 

Final tips for your trip 

You will require a green card to prove you have motorhome insurance cover when travelling in Europe. Check out the AA’s information about what you need to carry when driving your motorhome or campervan in Belgium specifically. Note that if you want to drive through Antwerp, Brussels or Ghent, there are Low Emissions Zones (LEZ) in certain areas, and you must register for access prior to entering them. Also check out  more information about the LEZ. Also, make sure you know the spelling of your destination in both French and Flemish, or you may miss a sign! For example, Antwerp is Anvers in French. Finally, when you are stationary, do not start and leave your engine running, as you can be fined. 

Now you have all the information you need to take off on your Belgium road trip at the next possible opportunity! Unless, of course, you want to stay longer in this gorgeous country and get to know it even better. In which case, take a look at the best campsites in Belgium for some more inspiration. Happy travels!

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Germany, Netherlands & Belgium Road Trip: A Tri-State Route

Recom. Days

Ice coffee-addicted, pun-loving, Oxford comma-embracing writer. Currently based in beautiful Bali after too many winters in Boston and London. Specializes in crafting content for hotels and travel.

Belgium to London drive

Belgium to london road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Belgium to London. If you're planning a road trip to London, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start at Belgium drive for about 37 minutes

11:37 am   Mons stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:37 pm drive for about 33 minutes

1:10 pm   Tournai stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:10 pm drive for about 1 hour

day 1 driving ≈ 2.5 hours

10:00 am  leave from Veurne drive for about 50 minutes

10:50 am   Calais (France) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:50 am drive for about 1.5 hours

1:14 pm   Dover stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:14 pm drive for about 54 minutes

3:09 pm   Rochester (England) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:09 pm drive for about 1 hour

5:16 pm  arrive in London eat at Tayyabs stay at Kensington Rooms Hotel London

day 2 driving ≈ 4.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Mons   (4 answers) Tournai   (2 answers) Veurne Calais (France)   (8 answers) Dover   (3 answers)     White Cliffs Of Dover   (3 mentions) Rochester (England)   (2 answers)

Where's the best place to stay in London?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in London .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Kensington Rooms Hotel London , which was mentioned 6 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in London? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in London?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Tayyabs , which was mentioned 19 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in London? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in London?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about London. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to London.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a London to Belgium drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of Belgium? Try searching for places within 4.5 hours of Belgium .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Belgium to London . Or get a full Belgium to London flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Belgium well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Belgium!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Belgium to London

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Europe Road Trip – 24 Incredible Routes

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The Best Road Trips in Europe

Europe is perfect for an epic road trip! From the rolling fields of Tuscany and the soaring mountains of the Sierra Nevada to the beaches of the South of France and the mighty Alps, you can find a European road trip route to suit your taste and travel style.

Whether you’re road tripping in Europe for a week, a month, or a year, our top Europe road trip itinerary ideas will give you plenty of inspiration to get on the road.

We have lived on the road in Europe for over five years, and in our Europe trip planner, we share our top routes and itineraries, ideas about what do to and see, and accommodation recommendations. If you’ve got wheels there’s a European road trip here for you!

Europe Road Trip Planner

We have traveled every single one of these European roads in and on a variety of vehicles! Whether you ride a motorbike, drive Europe by car or you’re traveling in a motorhome or RV, you’ll find some of the best Europe road trip ideas here.

If you’re on a flying visit and or want a 3 month Europe road trip , we have the best Europe road trip itineraries for you. Our road trip planner Europe includes specific road trip routes, amazing hotel recommendations, and insider travel tips to help you plan a driving holiday in Europe.

RELATED POST: Why We Think These Are the Best Driving Roads in Europe

Are you planning to rent a car in Europe? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip through Europe.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in France. We recommend Auto Europe for their large range of fully equipped vehicles, competitive pricing, and great customer service. Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Europe Road Trip Map

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Europe . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Austria
• Fodor’s Vienna and the Best of Austria
• DK Eyewitness Austria
• Read Related Posts
• Austria Travel Guide
• Austria Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes
• How to Visit Innsbruck in Summer

Vienna to Innsbruck Road Trip

Vienna – graz – hallstatt – salzburg – zell am see – mayrhofen – innsbruck.

• May-October

We recommend starting your two week Austrian road trip in Vienna and concluding the itinerary in Innsbruck.

As you leave Vienna, beautiful and quaint Austrian towns and villages will greet you as you travel south toward the foodie city of Graz, the next major stop on your Austrian itinerary. From here, it’s north to Hallstatt, a small, alpine village situated on the western shores of Hallstätter See, also known as Hallstatt Lake, that offers iconic views and outdoor experiences. 

Next up is Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We recommend leaving enough time in your itinerary to explore the Baroque architecture of the city and visit the Salzburg Fortress for stunning panoramic views. From Salzburg, head to Zell am See, a charming mountain town surrounded by the unforgettable mountain peaks of the Alps. 

Zell am See is the perfect spot from which to drive the spectacular Glossglockner high alpine pass, a mountain road that twists and bends itself along the Alps mountains, providing panoramic scenery and an unforgettable experience.

Your journey will continue on to Mayrhofen, a popular skiing destination known for its vibrant nightlife, unrivaled winter sports, and stunning alpine scenery. 

Finally, finish your Austria road trip in Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region. This Austrian city is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and is home to several impressive landmarks. Innsbruck is the perfect place to end your road trip and reflect on the stunning beauty of Austria.

• Driving the gorgeous mountain roads, when you feel like you’re on top of the world!
• Listening to Mozart in Salzburg, his birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Walking out 1,48 feet onto the Hallstatt World Heritage Skywalk for breathtaking views of the Hallstätter See.

Where to Stay

Vienna ⇒ Jaz in the City Vienna for its city center location, modern interior, and funky bar.

Salzburg ⇒   Altstadthotel Wolf-Dietrich  for its old town setting, luxury spa, and fantastic breakfast.

Innsbruck ⇒ Hotel Grauer Bär for its perfect downtown location, light and stylish rooms, and excellent customer service.

• Lonely Planet France
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips France
• Fodor’s Essential France
• France Travel Guide
• France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries
• South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips
• Route Napoleon: A Historic French Road Trip
• Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary
• Motorhoming in France: Your Complete Touring Guide
• Driving to France from UK: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know
• Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

Loire Valley Road Trip

Orleans – Blois – Tours – Angers – Nantes

Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire. Just four to five hours from Calais to the capital of Orleans, and three from Paris, this region is a popular holiday region and makes an ideal destination for a road trip.

This is a real France bucket list trip. Fine historical cities and towns, many of which stand on the banks of the Loire, offer superb Renaissance religious buildings and architecture and of course, the fabulous and extravagant chateaux the region is best known for.

Follow this Loire Valley road trip between famous cities and marvel at the natural wonders, opulent architecture, charming towns, and breathtaking castles of one of France’s best-loved regions.

You’ll visit the many chateaux on the route, including the famous Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Villandry, and explore the Loire’s historic towns, learning about French history, architecture, and culture and you go.

Discover Joan of Arc’s legacy in Orleans and take a ride on a giant machine elephant in Nantes as you take in the beautiful Loire landscape.

• Taking a vineyard tour to taste the delicious white wines, like Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume, and Sancerre, which are produced here.
• Visiting the world-famous Chateau Chenonceau, the only castle on the Loire built by women.
• Watching the iconic steampunk elephant strutt its stuff at Machines de L’Ile on the Ile de Nantes, an urban island in the Loire river.

Orléans ⇒   Empreinte Hotel & Spa for its riverbank location, beautiful bathrooms, and private spa.

Tours ⇒ Château Belmont  for its wonderful grounds, stylish bedrooms, and excellent restaurant.

Nantes ⇒ Okko Hotels Nantes Château   for its city center location, cool decor, and private parking.

Pyrenees Road Trip

Lourdes – cauterets – gavarnie – arreau – bagnares-de-luchon.

• May-September

This is a Pyrenees road trip and hiking tour all in one. With four easy-to-moderate classic Hautes-Pyrenees hikes en route plus an extra in Spain just over the border and some of the most spectacular mountains on the map of Europe at your feet, this is an amazing route. 

One of our go-to happy places, get our detailed seven day Pyrenees hiking tour guide, including an interactive map of hikes and the suggested route.

• Taking a dip in the crystal clear waters of the beautiful Lac de Gaube on a hot summer’s day.
• Braving the nail-biting drive up the Pic du Midi and the incredible views from the Col du Tourmalet.
• Standing at the top of Pic de la Pahule with the entire Pyrenees mountain range at your feet.

Lourdes ⇒ Villa L’Orante  for its commanding views, beautiful bathrooms, and delicious homemade breakfasts.

Gavarnie ⇒ Hotel Le Taillon  for its location, views, and hearty mountain food.

Bagnares-de-Luchon ⇒ Le Castel d’Alti   for its elegant decor, heated jacuzzi and pool, and live music in the bar.

South of France Road Trip

Lyon – st croix du verdon – aups – cassis – aix-en-provence – bezier – carcassonne – toulouse.

• avoid July & August

A road trip in France is one of the best ways to see this beautiful country, and because France is so accessible, this is an easy 2 week Europe road trip from UK and the rest of Europe

Start in the foodie city of Lyon, a five hour drive south of Paris , before using the historic Route Napoleon to travel south. It’s one of the  best drives in Europe , free and incredibly scenic.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a gorgeous little town and worth a stop before you take a jaunt around the stunning Gorge du Verdon.

Try some  wild swimming in the Lac de Sainte-Croix here before making your way to Aups for their authentic farmers market and Provencal vibe.

Stop at Cassis to explore the Calanques, huge gashes in the coastal cliffs, often only accessible by boat. Take a day trip out for a picnic and an idyllic afternoon of soaking up the sun and snorkeling.

Head north to the vibrant and pretty French city of Aix-en-Provence and spend an evening strolling through the charming squares and winding alleys of this elegant and cultured city.

Next up is the drive east across the hauntingly beautiful and off-the-beaten-track Camargue, before arriving at Bezier, famous for the nine locks of the Midi Canal.

Move on to Carcassonne, dipping into the Pyrenees en route to see the incredible Peyrepertuse Castle, before spending a few days marveling at La Cite, the Disneyesque medieval citadel of Carcassonne. 

The pink city of Toulouse is your last stop and what a road trip destination it is! Head into the old town for great food, live music, and a typically Occitan atmosphere of noise, heat, and fun. 

• Walking through the fragrant iconic lavender fields of Valensole in Provence (June is the best month).
• Kayaking to hiffen beaches in the stunning Calanques National Park from Cassis.
• Discovering the atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage site of the medieval citadel in Carcassonne.

Lyon ⇒ Mob Hotel Lyon for stylish design, contemporary dining, and live DJ sets.

Aix-en-Provence ⇒   Le Pigonnet  for its beautiful location and luxury with a touch of glamour.

Carcassonne ⇒ Hotel de la Cite   for the Citadel location, traditional character, and spa.

• Lonely Planet Germany
• The Rough Guide to Germany
• DK Eyewitness Germany
• Germany Travel Guide
• Six Unmissable Germany Road Trip Routes
• Deutsche Märchenstraße: Germany’s Fairy Tale Road
• Romantic Road Germany: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Deutsche Alpenstrasse: Route, Map & Highlights
• Motorhome Germany: Complete Touring Guide
• Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

The Fairy Tale Road

Frankfurt – steinau – marburg – kassel – gottingen – hamelin – bremen.

This central to north Germany road trip from Frankfurt does not technically start in the city, but Frankfurt is the perfect place to fly into and pick up a rental car. If you’re spending the night, make sure you visit the South Bank, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

The Fairy Tale route, or Deutsche Märchenstraße , offers travelers a series of charming towns, half-timbered buildings, castles, beautiful parks, and museums, most of which reference one fairy tale or another from the story collection of the Brothers Grimm .   

The starting town of Steinau an der Strasse is straight out of their fairy tales, complete with typical half-timbered houses, twisting cobbled alleys, and the turreted Schloss Steinau which overlooks the whole town. Visit the Brüder Grimm Haus and Museum Steinau, both of which showcase the works of the brothers.

Take the back roads to Marburg and enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and slower pace for a few hours. Marburg’s altstadt is full of medieval houses and the hilltop Landgrafenschloss, a dramatic castle holding exhibits on sacred art and local history.

From Marburg, head to Kassel, where the Brothers Grimm spent their teenage years whilst working as librarians for the King of Westphalia, Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of the infamous Napoléon. Make sure to visit the Brüder Grimm Museum, and the Schloss und Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a tranquil green space and the largest hill park in all of Europe.

Gottingen is home to the University of Gottingen, where the Grimm Brothers once served as professors. Make for the traditional and atmospheric central market square, where the statue of Ganseliesel, the little goose girl of German lore, is one of the most kissed statues anywhere in the world. It is said that the kisser is rewarded with good luck, but maybe post-virus this practice will change!

Hameln (or Hamelin) is next up and one of the most famous fairy tale destinations in Europe. Hameln is the home of the Pied Piper, or Rattenfänger, who rid the town of rats in 1284, only to be cheated out of his payment.

The Pied Piper returned to Hameln a year later and lured away all the children. The story is re-enacted in the town center every Sunday between May and October and is a fantastic spectacle. The Weser Renaissance architecture of the Rattenfängerhaus and the Hochzeitshaus makes a fitting historic backdrop for the streets which are thronged with locals dressed the part, stalls selling food, and live music playing. 

Finally, on to the Hanseatic city of Bremen, your final stop. Good places to visit in Bremen include the traditional Marktplatz, which is located in the city’s charming altstadt, the 600-year-old Rathaus or town hall, the Roselius-Haus Museum, and the stunning St. Petri Dom, the 11th century gothic cathedral.

Another landmark can be found in the city’s central town square – a statue of the Bremen musicians and heroes of the Brothers Grimm story, ‘The Town Musicians of Bremen’.

• Watching the lively re-enactment of Hameln’s Pied Piper luring away visiting children.
• Exploring the altstads of towns en-route, where half-timbered houses and cobbled streets are common.
• Indulging in northern Germany’s hearty and tasty cuisine, like wurst , Germany’s delicious sausages, Bremer klaben , a yeasty cake of candied fruit and nuts, and kluten , a delicious dumpling.

Frankfurt ⇒ Kempinski Hotel Frankfurt Gravenbruch  for its proximity to the airport and city center, fantastic spa, and beautiful surroundings.

Marburg ⇒ The Vila Vita Rosenpark  for its central location, excellent regional restaurant, and stylish bedrooms.

Bremen ⇒ Atlantic Grand Hotel   for its perfect riverside location, bike rental from reception, and ultra-stylish bathrooms.

Southern Germany Road Trip

Wurzburg – rothenburg – ludwigsburg – burg hohenzollern – fussen – oberammergau – linderhof – munich – chiemsee.

This route follows parts of southern Germany’s famous Romantic Road and the Deutsche Alpenstrasse and has a good mix of Alpine views, historic schloss and castles, and typical Bavarian towns and villages.

As you head south, enjoy the views of the magnificent Alps ahead.

You could rush around in a week but we think ten to fourteen days gives you enough time to visit a few other places of interest when you’re all castled out!

Visiting in the summer will provide you with sunshine and clear skies but if you can do this route in winter, then you’ll be rewarded with some of the best Christmas markets in the world, fairytale snowy landscapes, and schloss decorated for the festive season.

More of a palace than a castle, the  Wurzburg Residence  is a huge Baroque palace. Beautiful inside, the real draw here is the gardens, laid out in a typically formal French style.

From here, head to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a fairytale Bavaria town packed with medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets.

Next up is  Ludwigsburg Residential Palace  one of the largest Baroque palaces in Germany. Its sumptuous interiors, with gold leaf and painted ceilings, are on a similar scale to Versaille, and the Palace Theatre is pretty impressive. 

Schloss Lichtenstein  is a pretty little Neo-Gothic castle built in the romantic style. It may not have the scale of other castles but it’s charming and quirky, with amazing views.

Hohenzollern Castle  does have the scale, along with grandeur, Rapunzel towers, and a long royal history. It’s one of the most magical castles to visit in Germany . 

Hohenzollern Palace (also known as Sigmaringen Castle) sits 50km to the southeast, can be seen on the horizon for miles around, and is a real  hidden gem in Germany .

Our next stop is the daddy of German castles, Neuschwanstein. Just outside Fussen, in the village of Schwangau, Neuschwanstein is a truly stunning Cinderella-esque schloss built by the fascinating historical figure of King Ludwig II, who ruled Bavaria in the 19th century.

If you have time when  visiting Neuschwanstein Castle , take a walk out to Marienbrucke bridge where you can take the perfect images of the castle, the earlier the better! This castle gets very busy every day through the year, so make sure you  book tickets online  before arriving.

Next up, take in Oberammergau, home of the famous once-in-a-decade Passion Play. There is also a fantastic  public spa  here, which may be just the thing after a few days of driving. The Germans know how to do a spa and this is one of the best we’ve visited.  

If you’ve time to spare,  visit the Zugspitze , you’re only an hour away from Germany’s highest mountain in the northern Alps . This natural wonder is easy to summit, with the help of the cogwheel train and cable car; it is absolutely worth the detour, and the views are stunning. 

The next stop is  Linderhof Palace , our favorite of the German schloss. This beautifully symmetrical and elegant palace is arguably King Ludwig’s finest creation. Check out the grottos in the landscaped grounds; they’re pretty special!

Finally, drive on to Munich for the Nymphenburg Palace, one of the premier royal palaces in Europe with magnificent interiors and gardens. Spend a day discovering Munich  and if you’re  road tripping in autumn , you could also take in Oktoberfest, Munich’s famous beer festival. 

Herrenchiemsee Palace  is the last stop on this Bavaria road trip. Known as the ‘Bavarian Versaille’, this palace is in a beautiful location on Herreninsel, the largest island on the Chiemsee lake.

• Discovering the pretty medieval houses and architecture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
• Admiring King Ludwig’s before-their-time building innovations at his fairytale castles .
• Taking fantastic images of Neuschwanstein from Marienbruck at dawn, when the light is perfect and you’ll have the bridge to yourself. 

Rothenburg ob der Tauber ⇒ Hotel Reichs-Kuchenmeister  for its altstadt location, traditional Bavarian decor, and fabulous breakfast!

Oberammergau ⇒   Mammhofer Suites  for their family-run hospitality, central location, and kitchen access for self-catering.

Munich ⇒ Roomers Munich  for stylish design, superb customer service, and an excellent restaurant.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

• Lonely Planet Greece
• The Rough Guide to Greece
• DK Eyewitness Greece: Athens and the Mainland
• Motorhome & Campervan Greece – Complete Guide

Mainland Greece Road Trip

Athens – delphi – galaxidi – nafpaktos – parga – meteora – mount olympus – thessaloniki.

The beautiful landscape of mainland Greece is dotted with ancient Greek monuments and temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, hot springs, roadside churches, lemon trees overhanging the roads, and traditional tavernas where you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

This trip hits all the big highlights of Greece, taking you from the modern yet historic capital city to the most charming coastal towns before exploring the mountainous interior, all on one road trip.

You’ll visit the most important archaeological site in Greece, Ancient Delphi, and be in awe of the gravity-defying monasteries in Meteora, before making your pilgrimage to the most mythical of all sites in Greece, Mount Olympus.

• Looking across the magnificent landscape of Meteora, to capture that once-in-a-lifetime iconic image.
• Sipping a carafe of chilled Greek rose on the harbourside in Parga.
• Taking the hike up to the Acropolis in Athens in the early morning, before the crowds arrive.

Ancient Delphi ⇒ Fedriades Delphi Hotel , for its perfect location and fantastic Greek breakfast.

Parga ⇒ Villa Coralli apartments for its perfect location overlooking Krioneri Beach and 200m from the center of town.

Thessaloniki ⇒ Plaza Hotel in Ladadika, for its beachside location close to all the major attractions.

Peloponnese Road Trip

Athens – corinth – kalavryta – olympia – kalamata – the mani – sparta – nafplio – mycenae – athens.

This two week Peloponnese itinerary and road trip starts in the capital city of Athens. Spend a day or two in this incredible city, which is both ancient and edgy.

As you head west from Athens towards Ancient Corinth, you’ll cross the Corinth Canal, which splits the Corinth Isthmus, the narrow strip of land between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, and joins the Aegean and Ionian Seas, it’s worth making a stop to see what was a major feat of engineering back in the day.

Home to the legendary Jason of the Argonauts, of Golden Fleece fame, Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BCE. The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 BCE before building a new city in its place in 44 BCE, which became the provincial capital of Greece.

Next up, head to Kalavryta, known officially as the place where the Greek War of Independence started when Greece revolted against the Turks in 1821, and where 500 souls were massacred by the Nazis in World War Two. The latter event is depicted in the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust, a moving tribute to those residents and the story of the struggle between Greek partisans and the occupying forces.

The Diakofto-Kalavryta Railway is a vintage rack and pinion railway between the two towns. The route is incredibly scenic, passes through seven tunnels, and twists along the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge, clinging to its narrow ledge over the churning rapids below – make sure to fit this into your visit before moving on to Ancient Olympia.

The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Ancient Olympia is where the Games took place every four years, for over 1100 years! The Olympic Flame is still lit here for the modern Games. This beautiful, shady archaeological site is incredibly evocative – wandering through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine the ripped athletes and excited spectators of its heyday, amongst the magnificent temples and athletic facilities.

Our route has two options at this point – head inland for spectacular scenery and mountain passes, or take the coastal route around the middle peninsula of the Peloponnese through the wild and rugged Messinian Mani, with picture-perfect Kardamyli and the colorful harbor of pretty Gythio awaiting.

Your final stop is Nafplio , often called the most romantic city in Greece, and blessed with pretty streets, elegant neoclassical architecture, and interesting independent shops, bars, and tavernas.

• Hiking the incredible Vouraikos Gorge from Kalavryta to Diakofto, and admiring the limestone formations along the route.
• Driving the 59km Langada Pass across the Taygetos Mountains from Kalamata to gory Sparta and the Byzantine capital of Mystras.
• Walking along the Cave of the Lakes boardwalk to view the incredible rock formations and thirteen crystal clear subterranean pools formed by millennia of mineral deposits.

Athens ⇒ The Athens Gate Hotel for its central location, Acropolis view, and stylish decor.

Kalamata ⇒ Messinian Icon Hotel & Suites for its spa and pools, sea views, and large, bright rooms.

Nafplio ⇒ Amymone and Adiandi for its perfect location, gorgeous decor, and homemade Greek breakfast.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

• Lonely Planet Iceland
• The Rough Guide to Iceland
• DK Eyewitness Top 10 Iceland
• Iceland Road Trip – 26 Epic Things to See & Do
• One Day Reykjavik Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide
• South Coast Iceland: 18 of the Best Things to Do & See

The Golden Circle Road Trip

Reykjavik – thingvellir national park – geysers of haukadalur valley – gullfoss waterfall – reykjavik.

• June-September

Close to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik , the Golden Circle is easily the most touristy thing to do in the land of fire and ice, and traditionally the first stop on Iceland’s Ring Road, so it can get very busy, especially in peak season.

Start early if you can, and hop onto the Iceland ring road (route 1), which takes you first past the Reykjavik waterfront, and then out to the three stops on the Golden Circle. It’s a short drive away from Reykjavik, and should only take about 40 minutes to get to the first stop, Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located right in Þingvellir (or Thingvellir) National Park , you can walk through the middle of the large area where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates have been splitting apart over the course of the centuries. This is one of the coolest things to do while you’re visiting the Golden Circle.

Don’t miss the other attractions in the national park where the Continental Divide is located. It’s home to Iceland’s first Parliament, where chieftains formed the first laws and court proceedings at what is known as the Lögberg, and has lots of trails and beautiful nature to explore if you have the time. You can even go snorkeling at Silfra, and see the divide in the tectonic plates underwater!

The next stop, about 60 kilometers from Þingvellir, is the two geysers at Haukadalur . These geysers are easy to visit because they erupt very regularly, so you’ll definitely see at least one eruption while you’re there. Strokkur is the larger of the two, but don’t get too close as the water really is boiling hot!

The last stop on the Golden Circle is the Gullfoss waterfall, just one of Iceland’s incredible waterfalls, of which there are 10,000!  The waterfall, located at the end of the Hvítá River, is absolutely gigantic and produces beautiful rainbows and light prisms from every angle.

There are viewing places galore here. A concrete path makes it easy to see the waterfall at various points, though there are clearly marked signs and ropes warning you where you should stop, as it can be very windy and slippery the closer you get to the edge.

After you’ve finished seeing Gullfoss, it’s about an hour and a half drive back to Reykjavik to complete the circle. There are add on’s which aren’t traditional Golden Circle stops, but you may want to take a lovely warm bath at the Blue Lagoon just outside the city, enjoy a slightly more natural thermal experience at the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, or head to the Kerid Crater if you’re in an off-road vehicle.

♥  Spending an hour lounging in the Reykjadalur Hot Springs whilst taking in the incredible scenery. ♥ Standing at the continental divide where Europe becomes North America, and being in awe of Iceland’s geology. ♥  Doing the Golden Circle in reverse and getting to Gullfoss before the crowds arrive.

Reykjavik ⇒ Sand Hotel for its city center location and Icelandic character and design.

• Lonely Planet Ireland
• DK Eyewitness Ireland
• The Rough Guide to Ireland
• Wild Atlantic Way: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• One Day in Dublin – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Motorhoming in Ireland – A Complete Guide

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip

Co. donegal – co. sligo – co. mayo – co. galway – co. clare – co. limerick – co. kerry – co. cork.

From Co. Donegal to Co. Cork and passing through counties Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, and Kerry, the Wild Atlantic Way winds down the intricate coast of western Ireland and the edge of Europe.

Taking in the must-sees of Malin Head, the Killarney National Park, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula, this is a truly epic Ireland road trip covering many of the Emerald Isle’s most beautiful spots .

This huge trip from the north to the south of Ireland is best done with time on your side. Three weeks is just about enough, four weeks or longer will give you time to explore more and perhaps participate in some activities along the way.  

If this is too long for you, then pick out one of the six regions that appeal the most and take a couple of weeks to cover that specific area. You can find out more about these from the official  Wild Atlantic Way  website.  

The Bay Coast stretches south from Erris to Galway Bay and takes in the wild beauty of Connemara, the incredible 365 islets of Clew Bay, pretty Georgian Westport, dramatic Downpatrick Head, and medieval Galway, our favorite city in Ireland .

There’s plenty of things to see and do in Ireland if you love wide open spaces, wilderness, and raw nature, one of the reasons we adore this bit of the Wild Atlantic Way.

A great alternative is to  road trip from Dublin to Galway , traveling the southern half of the Wild Atlantic Way in a huge circle, and visiting Waterford, Dingle, and Cork on the way.

Dublin is a great place to start your road trip with an easily accessible international airport and lots of car rental choices.  

• Watching the rollers crashing from the savage beauty of Malin Head in Co. Donegal.
• Tapping your foot, sipping a pint of Guinness, and enjoying a hooley (live traditional Irish folk music) in Galway.
• Taking the steep and winding road to Dunquin Pier on the Dingle Peninsula for a memorable photo opportunity.

Westport Co. Mayo ⇒ Knockeranny House Hotel and Spa  for sublime Clew Bay views, Irish hospitality, and elegant dining.

Rossnowlagh Co. Donegal ⇒ The Sandhouse Hotel and Marina Spa  for its stunning beachfront location, contemporary decor, and excellent spa.

Glengarriff Co. Cork ⇒ Eccles Hotel and Spa  for its snug and traditional decor, a superb restaurant specializing in local seafood, and proximity to the pretty village and harbor.

• Lonely Planet Italy
• Fodor’s Essential Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice & the Top Spots in Between
• T he Rough Guide to Italy
• Italy Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip
• Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!
• Tuscan Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip
• Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map
• Beautiful Puglia – A Road Trip Itinerary
• Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy
• Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete Guide
• Driving to Italy from UK – Routes & Tips

Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Sorrento – positano – amalfi – ravello – salerno.

• avoid July-August

The Amalfi Coast road, the SS163, is a 50km spectacular stretch of tarmac, hugging the cliffs and coves of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and is a bucket list Italy road trip experience. 

Like the roads around Portofino and the Cinque Terre, this is a car route only and the road is permanently closed to motorhomes and RVs.

In a car or on a bike, it is best driven early in the morning in the months of April, May, October, and November due to the monstrously high amount of traffic in the peak months.

You can do the entire road in a day and stop in Ravello for lunch, but two or three days will give you longer to enjoy the glorious views and pretty towns en route.

Start from easily accessible Sorrento and head south across the peninsula until you get to the coast at San Pietro. Your first view of the glistening sea and this epic road are pretty special, prepare to be wowed.

Stop at Positano, the quintessential coast road town and the image on a thousand travel magazine covers. Take a wander through the maze of steep streets, pastel-painted stacked houses, and steps to find charming hotels and restaurants alongside chic independent boutiques. 

Next up is Amalfi itself. This hugely popular holiday resort is the largest town along the coast road. The pretty seafront, with its cafes and glamorous boutiques, gives this town a great vibe.

Head west on foot to Spiaggia del Fornillo from Amalfi, a long stretch of soft sandy beach perfect for an afternoon’s relaxing.

Ravello has to be one of the most romantic villages in Italy and is right up there on our list of favorite places in Europe. Perched high above the sea and overlooking immaculate terraced slopes full of vines, Ravello is home to lush Mediterranean planting and charming sun-dappled squares, and has to be one of the best spots in Southern Italy .

The 20km round-trip detour to Ravello from the main coast road is so worth taking. Visit Villa Rufolo, host to beautifully landscaped and dramatic gardens with superb sea views.

On to Salerno and the end of the Amalfi Coast road, surely one of the best driving roads in Europe .

• The glorious coastal views from the gardens of Villa Rufolo in Ravello.
• Taking a Limoncello tour and tasting this delicious local liquor where it’s made.
• Watching the fiery sun sink into the Tyrrhenian Sea at the end of a perfect day.

Positano ⇒ Hotel Marincanto  for its stunning cliff-hugging position, beautifully decorated rooms, and hands-on owners.

Ravello ⇒ Hotel Villa Maria  for its romantic dining terrace, old-world Italian charm, and fabulous breakfasts.

Vietri sul Mare ⇒ Palazzo Suriano  for its fragrance-filled terraced gardens, excellent homemade breakfasts on the terrace, and gorgeous decor.

Puglia Road Trip

Taranto – gallipoli – santa maria di leuca – lecce – ostuni – alberobello – bari.

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a beautiful place for a 7 day road trip in Europe. With Trulli houses, a fabulous sandy coastline, and whitewashed villages, there is a lot to see and do here.

The abundance of fresh, local produce means you will eat and drink well on this road trip! We spent an  amazing seven days exploring beautiful Puglia  and fell in love with the region.

• Visiting the UNESCO Trulli houses at Alberobello for an other-world experience.
• Discovering Gallipoli’s atmospheric, oh-so-Italian old town and castle.
• Finding a salumeria (deli) and enjoy the local specialties over a lazy lunch.

Gallipoli ⇒ Palazzo Presta for its fabulous old town location, eclectic design, and excellent service.

Lecce ⇒ La Fiermontina Urban Resort for its contemporary art and sculpture, outdoor pool set in an olive grove and gorgeous rooms.

Alberobello ⇒ Tipico Resort for its superb location, fabulous breakfast and for being a Trulli!

Sicily Road Trip

Catania – syracuse – ragusa – agrigento – marsala – palermo – cefalu – taormina.

A coastal road trip around Sicily can take a few weeks or a few months, there is so much to see. From ancient, immaculately preserved temples to modern and vibrant cities like Palermo , via jaw-dropping natural wonders, this rich and diverse island is a world away from anywhere you’ve ever been before. 

Read our detailed guide to  road-tripping eclectic Sicily , which includes an itinerary along the island’s coastal ring road, and start planning your trip!

• Taking a hike above the clouds to the summit of Mount Etna and look deep into the rumbling magma below. 
• Being awed by the ancient Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
• Wandering the charming historic back streets of Ortigia, the old town of Syracuse.

Syracuse ⇒ Hotel Gutkowski for lovingly crafted and unique interiors, beachcomber chic, and a cool roof terrace.

Palermo ⇒ BB22  for its perfect piazza location, a cozy home-from-home feel, and palazzo style.

Taormina ⇒ Hotel Villa Ducale  for spectacular views, a relaxed vibe, and legendary cocktails!

Tuscany & Umbria Road Trip

Pisa – lucca – florence – san gimignano – siena – arezzo – cortona – pienza – montepulciano – assisi – spoleto.

• avoid August

Italy is a gorgeous country for a road trip , no area more so than Tuscany and Umbria, which are easily accessible by car from the UK and Europe. The rolling fields of vines and golden wheat, studded with tall cypress trees and creamy stone villas are iconic.

This is a truly epic journey packed full of culture, great food, wine, and fantastic roads. There is much to see and lots of interesting places to stop between the main route destinations, make sure to do your research before leaving home!

Pisa in northern Italy is a great place to start this road trip. The leaning tower is a bit cliched but has to be seen. Lucca is perfect to explore on foot, with narrow lanes opening onto charming piazzas lined with historic buildings.

Florence is the jewel in Tuscany’s crown. A surprisingly compact city with the imposing Duomo at the center, a must-see. Book well in advance for anything to do with the Duomo, it’s strictly ticketed and you won’t be able to buy a ticket on the day.

You’ll probably want at least two days in Florence to see everything at a manageable pace, although you can see Florence in a day if you plan well. Leaving Florence is the time to set your sat nav to ‘no autostrada’ and get off the beaten track in the Tuscan countryside …yes, it may take a little longer but it will be worth it!

San Gimignano, famous for its thirteen towers, sits high on a hill south of Florence. Between April and September, this thriving hill village is busy with tourists visiting the churches, palazzos, independent shops, and restaurants.

Onwards to Arezzo and then Cortona, one of the oldest and most scenic hill towns in Tuscany. Pienza is a delightful village and has perfect, interesting streets for wandering and admiring the 15th century architecture.

The drive through the  Val d’Orcia  from Pienza to Montepulciano on the SP146 is like driving through a film set! Sweeping curves, rolling vineyards, and photo opportunities at every bend; this is quintessential Tuscany.

From Montepulciano , follow the road around the tranquil Lake Trasimeno to Assisi, our favorite Umbrian destination. The imposing Basilica of St Francis can be seen hugging the hillside for miles around. Your last stop is the gorgeous hill town of Spoleto, stuffed with monuments, churches, and other historic buildings.

For us, this has got to be one of the best European road trips we have taken; for the fabulous ride (we did it on a motorbike, highly recommended!), the stunning landscapes, and the beautiful Italian hospitality.

• Taking the breathtaking drive through the Val d’Orcia to Montepulciano with photo opportunities galore and a glass of local red waiting for you!
• Discovering Siena’s perfectly laid out, beautiful fan-shaped Piazza del Campo.
• Climbing the dome of the Duomo in Florence for spectacular views, inside and out!

Florence ⇒ AdAstra Suites  for their stunning location, classy and interesting decor, and magnificent terrace.

Montepulciano ⇒ Palazzo Carletti  for attention to detail, gorgeous frescoed interiors, and central location.

Assisi ⇒   Nun Assisi Relais and Spa  – for its lavender-filled gardens, incredible Roman spa, and fabulous restaurant.

• Lonely Planet Norway
• Fodor’s Essential Norway
• The Rough Guide to Norway
• Norway Road Trip – Three Unmissable Routes
• Atlantic Road Norway: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!
• Driving to Norway from UK – Routes & Tips
• One Day Oslo Itinerary – Map, Guide & Tips
• Campervanning in Norway – Tips, Routes & Destinations
• Flåm Norway: Visitor Guide & Tips

West Coast of Norway Road Trip

Bergen – loen – geiranger – trollstigen – kristiansund – trondheim – jektvik – bodo – tromso.

Taking in the iconic sights of Norway ‘s west coast, this route will take you through tunnels, over fjords, along the Atlantic Ocean Road, and the infamous Trollstigen Mountain Road.

This is a route for those that love the journey more than the destination; it’s all about the road – even getting to Norway is a road trip in itself!

Start in  beautiful Bergen , the city surrounded by seven fjords and seven hills. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the lively Vagen harbor in Bergen’s old quarter, Bryggen.

From Bergen, take the E39 motorway north to Loen where you’ll find the awesome new  Loen Skylift  which takes you to the top of Mount Hoven for spectacular views of the white-blue Jostedalsbreen glacier.

If you prefer to get to the top under your own steam, then take the via Ferrata up and the zip-line down! Is sea-level activity more your thing? Then head for glacial Lake Lovatnet where you can swim and kayak.

At Hellesylt, you’ll take the ferry through Geirangerfjorden to Geiranger itself before picking up the RV63, the Trollstigen Mountain Road. Incredibly beautiful, this road was opened in 1936 and includes eleven hairpin bends and a 9% incline. Stop at the Ornesvingen viewing point for incredible vistas and again at the top to admire the Stigfossen waterfall.

Once you reach Andalsnes, head west and then drive north on the E39 to Vevang, and the start of the Atlantic Ocean Road, which runs across seven bridges and follows the islands between them like a silver ribbon. If you want to visit picture-perfect  Alesund  on the way, take a slight detour and head south on the E39 instead of north – if you have a few extra days, you won’t regret it!

Next up is Trondheim, Norway’s original capital city before you head to Jektvik. You can either take the E6 Arctic Highway all the way or around 80km north of Trondheim, and just after Steinkjer, pick up the FV17 and take in the glorious landscape and coastal views from the magnificent Kystriksveien Coastal Route.

This Atlantic road route will add a fair few kilometers, two days, and six fjord ferries to your journey, but the detour will be worth it if you have the time. You’ll cross into the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees, on the ferry between Kilborghavn and Jektvik.

At Bodo, you can get a ferry out to the  Lofoten Islands  if you are making this a longer trip. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, Lofoten has become Norway’s go-to place for adventure – you can even  swim with Orca whales  here! 

Mount Romvik, outside Bodo and with minimal light pollution, is a good place to see the Northern Lights.

Otherwise, keep on trucking to  Tromso , Norway’s party city. From here, you can head on to Nordkapp where the sun never drops below the horizon from mid-May to the end of July.

Hauntingly beautiful but incredibly busy, you may prefer the true northernmost point of continental Europe at Knivskjelodden, an 18km hike away and inaccessible to vehicles.

You could also take a ferry to Svalbard and visit the polar bears, catch the  Hurtigruten ferry  back to Bergen or Oslo , or get on a flight to pretty much anywhere in the world. Wherever you end up, it will take you a while to forget what is surely one of the best road trips in Europe.

• Driving the thrilling and impressive Trollstigen Road from Geiranger to Andalasnes
• Crossing the Arctic Circle into the land of the midnight sun and Northern Lights.
• Following the Kystriksveien Coastal Route and see the real coastal Norway of fishing villages and subsistence agriculture.

Bergen ⇒ Det Hanseatiske Hotel  for its harbourside location, dining options, and cozy decor.

Narvik ⇒ Narvik Mountain Lodge  for its truly spectacular location, traditional log cabin style, and amazing coastal views.

Tromso ⇒ Scandic Ishavshotel  for its harbor location, fabulous breakfasts, and excellent customer service.

Western Fjords Road Trip

Stavanger – preikestolen – kjeragbolten – trolltunga – flam – bergen.

This is an outdoor enthusiasts’ adventurous road trip ! If you’ve ever looked at those amazing images of people perched on tongues of rock, sheer cliffs, or precipitously balanced boulders whilst gazing out over stunning blue fjords, then this is the road trip for you. We did this Norway route by campervan , and it’s got to be one of our favorite travel experiences!

You’ll start in the pretty and typically Norwegian city of Stavanger before heading off to  hike to Preikestolen  (Pulpit Rock) which is 4km and can be done in half a day with an early start.

Next up is the  Kjeragbolten  hike, the site of a giant boulder wedged in a crevasse 1084m above Lysefjorden, where you can also base jump. This is a longer hike at 10km and you will need a full day to complete it.

Both hikes can get busy and you may have to wait if you want the obligatory photo, so allow plenty of time. If you’re not a confident hiker, consider taking a guided hike, you’ll learn lots on the way.

Everywhere you drive in Norway, you are surrounded by mountains, fjords, and waterfalls. The scenery is simply spectacular, with new thrills around each bend in the road. Route 13 from Stavanger to Odda is known as the Ryfylke National Scenic Route, one of Norway’s eighteen official touring routes designated for their stunning scenery and tourist-friendly infrastructure.

As you drive through Norway you will motor through tunnels and need to get a ferry to cross a fjord. Allow several hours drive time longer than Google Maps suggests; this is a full day drive and you should start early.

Your next stop is Odda, for the infamous Trolltunga (literally Troll’s Tongue) one of the best hikes in the world. The most challenging of the three, this hike is 20km distance across mainly flat terrain but can be tricky underfoot with changeable weather.  Hiking Trolltunga  is not for the faint-hearted or unprepared but is an absolute must-do on your Norway road trip.

Take a few day’s downtime in Flam, a small village right at the top of the beautiful Aurlandsfjord. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and water this is a playground for hikers, water sports enthusiasts, and mountain bikers.

From Flam, you can drive to Bergen or take the spectacular Flamsbana railway there, considered one of the most spectacular train rides in the world.

• Taking the incredible Flam Railway to Myrdal and cycle the Rallar Road.
• Standing on the edge of the Troll’s Tongue with the world at your feet.
• Discovering the imposing and dramatic Lysefjorden by boat.

Stavanger ⇒   Sola Strand Hotel  for the breathtaking beachfront location and a modern spa.

Odda ⇒   Vikinghaug Apartments for their amazing fjord views and the post-Trolltunga bath!

Flam ⇒ Flåmsbrygga Hotel   for its superb central position, cozy traditional decor, and micro-brewery.

• Lonely Planet Portugal
• DK Eyewitness Portugal
• The Rough Guide to Portugal
• Road Trip Portugal – Two Incredible Itineraries
• Driving from Lisbon to Porto: Itinerary, Route & Tips
• Driving to Portugal from UK – Routes & Tips
• Campervanning in Portugal: Complete Guide

Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Porto – coimbra – nazare – sintra – lisbon.

Portugal is a tiny country but it packs one hell of a punch. This Portugal road trip itinerary can be managed in five days, but seven gives you the opportunity to revel in the cities of Porto and Lisbon and enjoy a beach stop en route.  

You could easily drive from Lisbon to Porto as a 7 day road trip in Europe from UK if you fly into Porto and out of Lisbon, or vice versa. One-way car rental is possible from either airport.

Porto is a lively and fun city, intimate and friendly. There’s a lot to do in  Porto  but walking over the mighty Douro river on the iconic Luis I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and the historic port lodges, has to be top of the list.

Head south from here to the  less-traveled city of Coimbra , Portugal’s ancient capital. Stacked on the banks of the river Mondego, the Moorish old town is dramatic and atmospheric. This is a great place to stop at a bar for authentic live fado or Portuguese guitar music.

Halfway between Coimbra and Lisbon, take a short detour to Nazare on Portugal’s Silver Coast. Known for its monster waves and daredevil surfers, this is a great place if you like huge beaches and dramatic landscapes.

Heading south, Sintra, in the mountains of the same name, is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of place. Home to Portuguese royalty for centuries, the lush landscape is dotted with pastel-colored palaces, villas, and houses.

You can also take a  day trip to Sintra from Lisbon  if you’d prefer to base yourself in the city. Visit and decide for yourself!

Finally to wonderful Lisbon for picture-postcard panoramas and fabulous food!  This most Portuguese of cities serves up fantastic bacalhau, pastel de nana, and port from the Douro Valley. Head for the exotic Tropical Botanical Gardens and stroll amongst giant banana plants before visiting the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a haven of peace amongst the bustling city.

If you want to stretch your week in Portugal, you’ll find the beautiful Algarve region just three hours south of Lisbon. This stunning part of Portugal is famous for its incredible beaches and perfect climate. Make for the charming town of Lagos and stay at  Vivenda Miranda , a beautifully restored boutique hotel.

• Taking a port wine tour and tasting in one of Porto’s historic port wine lodges.
• Heading to a fado bar to hear the traditional and haunting music of Portugal played live.
• Tasting hundreds of delicious foods at the Mercado de Ribeira, Lisbon’s buzzy food hall.

Porto ⇒ Flores Village Hotel and Spa for its central location, roof-top bar views, and stylish design.

Coimbra ⇒ Sapientia Boutique Hotel  for the perfect location, stylish design, and warm hospitality.

Lisbon ⇒ Valverde Hotel for its gorgeous interiors, walkable location, and courtyard pool.

• Lonely Planet Spain
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips Spain
• The Rough Guide to Spain
• Spain Travel Guide
• Six of the Best Road Trips in Spain
• The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips
• Madrid in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• One Day in Barcelona – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Driving from UK to Spain – Routes & Tips
• Motorhoming in Spain: Your Complete Guide

Andalucia Road Trip

Marbella – ronda – cadiz – jerez de la frontera – seville – cordoba – granada.

Andalucia epitomizes Spain for most visitors; vibrant, colorful, and passionate. This itinerary will take you to the major cities of Andalucia, bringing Spain alive.

If you’re looking for a longer holiday, it’s perfect for a 3 week European road trip itinerary with a bit of beach time thrown in,  even if you visit in winter .

This is a perfect road trip to start and finish in Malaga. Fly in, hire a car, and within a few hours, you can be on the beaches of the Costa del Sol, enjoying year-round sunshine.

In Marbella, spend a day soaking up the sun and visiting the charming old town. Make for  Taberna Casa Curro Marbella  where you’ll find great tapas and fruity Spanish wine.

Head north to Ronda and the stunning mountains of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. If you have a few extra days, now is the time to visit the atmospheric cities of Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera, two of our favorite places in Spain .

Your next stop is  Seville , a city almost too good to be true, and everything you ever through Seville would be.

Cordoba  is home to the breathtaking Mezquita, or mosque-cathedral, started by the Moors and finished by the Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century. Seeing this alone would make a visit to Cordoba worthwhile.

Pass through Antequera and learn the local legend of the  Lovers Rock  before making your way high into the Sierra Nevada to Granada and the famous Alhambra. Make sure you book your  priority tickets online  at least three months in advance, this ancient palace of kings sells out quickly.

• Visiting the beautiful  La Casa del Rey Moro  in Ronda for unrivaled views of the Puenta Nuevo.
• Watching steamy live flamenco in Seville’s atmospheric Barrio Santa Cruz.
• Being wowed by the incredible Moorish architecture of the Mezquita in Cordoba.

Marbella ⇒ Amare Beach Hotel  for its fun adults-only vibe and glamorous beach club. 

Seville ⇒ Casa del Poeta  for the beautifully renovated interiors, Barrio Santa Cruz location, and roof-top views to die for.

Granada ⇒ Hotel Santa Isabel la Real  for cozy rooms, spectacular Alhambra views, and a really special cooked breakfast.

Northern Spain Road Trip

San sabastian – bilbao – comillas – oviedo – ribadeo – a coruna – santiago de compostela.

• April-October

This Spanish road trip will take you through the beautiful and lush, aptly named Green Spain, hugging the north coast along the Bay of Biscay.

From the border with France and through the regions of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia, you’ll see some of the most picturesque landscapes in Spain, enjoy amazing food, and crisscross the famous  Camino de Santiago .

Start in San Sabastian, a sophisticated city with a renowned restaurant scene, famous for seafood and pintxos (pronounced pinchos), which are similar to tapas.

Take a  gastronomic tour  for the best experience. Eat your fill and head west to Bilbao, home of the incredible  Guggenheim museum . The building itself is a work of art, with beautifully curved and sweeping architecture.

Head west, making sure to stop at the  cave of El Castillo  to see the 35,000-year-old drawings there.

Continue along the coast to the stunning Santillana del Mar, known as the town of the three lies; not holy (santi), flat (llana) or by the sea (del mar) .

This medieval town is beautifully preserved and worth a wander before you make your way to Comillas, further along the coast. Traditionally low-rise, you’ll find a pretty beach, a tiny fishing port, and a charming cobbled old center here.

Don’t miss El Caprichio, a Gaudi-designed villa.  If you have a few extra days, head into the  Picos de Europa , the small but perfectly formed mountain range.

Oviedo is the next stop and the starting point of the lesser-known Camino Primitivo (the oldest Camino). This compact and elegant city is another foodie delight, with a lively gastronomic scene.

Home to Spanish cider (who knew?), you’ll find traditional sidrerias along Calle Gascona, known as cider boulevard.   Visit in September for  Fiestas de San Mateo , a live theatre and music spectacular. If you go in October, you’ll be in the middle of the Asturias apple harvest.

A Coruna is up next, passing by the spectacular Playa de Las Catedrales en route. There is so much to do in A Coruna, a dynamic city that is home to a busy modern port, a relaxed beachfront resort, and an atmospheric old town.

The seafood here is some of the freshest and finest in Spain, with seafood tapas being a specialty. Take a walk out to the Tower of Hercules, the least-looking lighthouse we have ever seen!

Finally, you’ll reach  Santiago de Compostela , the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago, and your last stop. As you enter the town, you’ll see pilgrims covering the final few miles into one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, proudly displaying their vieira, the scallop shell badge that you’ll have seen along your route .  

Twisting alleys, dramatic squares, and historic religious buildings make up this labyrinth of a city, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are too many must-sees to list so consider a  walking tour with a local  to make the most of the time you have in this gorgeous city.

• Eating delicious  pintxos straight from the bar in the Basque Country. 
• Walking along the boardwalks at Playa de Las Catedrales and marvel at the extraordinary natural arches.
• Exploring the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and make the climb to Las Cubiertas , the cathedral roof, for incredible views of the city and landscape beyond.

San Sebastian ⇒ Lasala Plaza Hotel  for a big dose of glamour, sea views, and a cool rooftop pool.

Oviedo ⇒ Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes  for its laid-back vibe, modern decor, and smooth service.

Santiago de Compostela ⇒ Parador De Santiago de Compostela  for its history, traditional decor, and HUGE breakfast buffet.

Switzerland

• Fodor’s Essential Switzerland
• Rough Guide to Switzerland
• DK Eyewitness Switzerland  
• Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips
• One Day in Zurich – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Grand Tour of Switzerland: The Best Road Trip in Europe?

Road trip to the alps, zurich – bern – lausanne – geneva – montreux – nendaz – zermatt – interlaken – lauterbrunnen – grindelwald – furka pass – lucerne – zurich.

This two week Switzerland summer road trip will take you on a spectacular, circular drive through Switzerland’s iconic landscapes covering roughly 1000km south across western Switzerland to Geneva before heading east towards Zermatt and eventually back north to Zurich.

Starting in Zurich, your first stop will be Bern, found within the curves of the Aare river. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is known for its 12th century architecture that forms the old town or Alstadt . Your visit to Bern would be incomplete without exploring Lake Brienz, just north of the Alps, which offers breathtaking mountain views and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland .

After your trip to Bern, begin traveling south to Lausanne, Geneva, and Montreux, visiting Lac Léman en route. 

The following stretch of your trip will provide unrivaled views of Les Diablerets as you head towards Zermatt where you will be met with the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain in the Swiss Alps.

At this point, your road trip starts the route east taking you to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald where hiking, mountain views, waterfalls and plenty of exciting adventures await.

As you leave Grindelwald, make sure you save time for the Furka Pass as you head to Lucerne. Our Swiss road trip itinerary will continue north to our initial starting point, the city of Zurich.

• Driving the incredible Alps passes of Furka and Susten, high in the picturesque Bernese Highlands.
• Taking one of the many cog-wheeled trains or cable cars into the big mountains that Switzerland is famous for.
• Exploring the incredible Jungfraujoch from Lauterbrunnen, an absolutely epic day trip!

Zurich ⇒ Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle for its very cool interiors, accessible location, and free bikes to help you explore the city.

Geneva ⇒ Hotel Mon Repos  for its excellent location, beautifully decorated rooms, and comfy beds.

Lauterbrunnen ⇒ Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen for its Swiss chalet style, cozy restaurant and terrace, and friendly service.

United Kingdom

• Lonely Planet Great Britain
• DK Eyewitness Great Britain
• Rough Guides Make the Most of Your Time in Britain
• United Kingdom Travel Guide
• UK Road Trip – 18 Unmissable Routes
• Eight Incredible Scotland Road Trips
• North Coast 500 Route Planner + Highlights, Map & Tips
• Road Trip England – 10 of the Best Routes
• Wales Road Trip – A Stunning Route & Itinerary
• A South England Road Trip to Dorset & The New Forest
• Cornwall Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Causeway Coastal Route: The Best Road Trip In Ireland?
• Belfast in A Day: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Atlantic Highway: An Epic Devon & Cornwall Road Trip

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Derry-londonderry – port rush – bushmills – cushendun – carrickfergus – belfast.

The wild and unspoiled  Antrim Coast  in Northern Ireland is made for a road trip. Peppered with fascinating places to see and exciting things to do, this route will appeal to outdoor adventurers.

If you are a  Game of Thrones fan , there are lots of  places along this route  which featured in the show or book a tour to find them all.

Start in the walled city of Derry-Londonderry, one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe and the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland. The walls, which are around 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town.

From here head north on the coast road, past the magnificent and unmistakable mountain of Binevenagh, and stop at Benone beach for a bracing walk along the sands. Don’t miss the Mussenden Temple perched on the cliff edge at the easternmost point of the beach.

Make your way to the pretty seaside town of Port Rush for a local ice cream and local craft shopping before meandering along the coast to Bushmills, home of the whiskey distillery. This is the perfect starting point for the gloriously breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO site.

As you head west, make sure to stop at the picture-perfect harbor of Ballintoy and test yourself at the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge.

Take in the conservation village of Cushendun, steeped in character and folklore before heading on to Carrickfergus Castle. This imposing Norman castle stands on the northern shore of Belfast Lough and is one of the best-preserved medieval structures on the island of Ireland.

Belfast is your final stop; don’t miss the fantastic Titanic Quarter, historic Crumlin Road Gaol, and the buzzing nightlife of the Cathedral Quarter. Check out this detailed post for more  things to do in Belfast .

If you have longer, start in Belfast and head in the opposite direction. From Derry-Londonderry head across the border into raw and wild Co. Donegal and pick up the Wild Atlantic Way. This makes for a great island of Ireland 2 week road trip in Europe.

• Discovering the Giant’s Causeway, a truly spectacular natural wonder.
• Crossing the iconic Peace Bridge in Derry-Londonderry and then walking the ancient city walls.
• Taking a black cab mural tour in Belfast for a unique cabbie’s take on local politics and the troubles.

Londonderry ⇒ Bishop’s Gate Hotel for its perfect location, fascinating history, and tasteful decor.

Bushmills ⇒ The Bushmills Inn Hotel  for its homely peat fires, great Irish breakfast, and proximity to the Giant’s Causeway.

Belfast ⇒ Ten Square Hotel  for its superb central location, fantastic grill restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Norfolk Road Trip, England

Norwich – wroxham – winterton – cromer – hunstanton – sandringham – king’s lynn.

• Distance 175km
• Duration 5-7 days
• Drive Time 3 hours

This delightful coastal road trip will take you through the county of Norfolk to the Norfolk Broads, old-fashioned English seaside resorts, and onto the beautiful and unspoiled North Norfolk coast .

Summer road trips in the UK are best if you want sunshine, but visit the UK in winter for more cost-effective travel and you’ll enjoy incredible beaches, big skies, and perfect solitude, especially when you road trip in Norfolk, England.

From the historic and pretty city of Norwich , head east towards Wroxham, the self-styled capital of the Broads. The dramatic landscapes and raw natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads were created when peat digs flooded in the 14th century.

This area is now a national park and a haven for wildlife and birds. Take a Broads cruise, hire a boat, or head off for a long walk along towpaths and through fields, where seeing flapping sails in the river is an everyday occurrence.

Nearby is the loud and bright town of Great Yarmouth , a traditional bucket and spade destination, with great nearby beaches and lots to do – you certainly won’t get bored here!

From the Broads, head east to explore the pretty towns and incredible beaches of the Norfolk coast. Winterton-on-Sea is a perfect place to see seal pups in the winter. Further north is the popular seaside town of Cromer , renowned for its lively pier.

From Cromer make a short detour south to the stunning Jacobean  Blickling Hall , home of Anne Boleyn.

Continue along the coast road to Blakeney and practice your crabbing skills from the harbor. Make a stop at the beautiful and huge Holkham Beach, where the ending of ‘Shakespeare in Love’ was filmed.

Onwards from here to Hunstanton , another bucket and spade destination, which is close to the medieval and Hanseatic port town of King’s Lynn . 

From here it’s a short drive to  Sandringham , home of the Queen. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the house, gardens and country park.

If you have time, head to 12th century  Castle Rising  before making your way to the Hanseatic town of Kings Lynn. The town’s heritage is reflected in the fine merchants’ houses which stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House that overlooks the harbor.

• Walking on Holkham Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
• Traditional, delicious and fresh fish and chips from No 1 Cromer .
• Discover the stunning historic estates of Blickling Hall and Holkham Hall.

Norwich ⇒ The Georgian Townhouse   for its informal vibe, lively bar and restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Thornham ⇒  The Lifeboat Inn  for its romantic retreat-style location, open fires, and really seriously good pub grub.

King’s Lynn ⇒ Bank House  for its prime location, Grade II exterior, and go-to, lively brasserie.

North Coast 500 Road Trip, Scotland

Inverness – wick – john o’groats – durness – lochinver – ullapool – applecross.

• Distance 830km
• Duration 2-3 weeks
• Drive Time 12 hours

A favorite of motorhomers and campervanners, this iconic Scottish road trip is a 516 mile route that wends its way around the spectacular north coast of Scotland, starting and ending in Inverness. 

Passing through the remote and wild landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the spectacular west coast, the North Coast 500 route delivers dramatic roads with spectacular views and is one of the must-do road trips in the United Kingdom .

• Hiking to beautiful  Sandwood Bay Beach , for the incredible sight of the Am Buachaille sea stack, a remnant of when the Highlands and North America were connected, millions of years ago.
• Whale watching from Gairloch, where you might also see porpoise, dolphins, and sharks, as well as seals, otters, puffins, and maybe white-tailed eagles. 
• Driving Bealach na Ba, the legendary Applecross Pass, and one of the best (but also most dangerous) roads in the UK.

Inverness ⇒ Kingsmills Hotel  for its traditional Scottish decor, lively bar, and spa.

Wick ⇒   Mackays Hotel for its award-winning service, great restaurant, and ideal location.

Gairloch ⇒   Shieldaig Lodge Hotel  for its wonderful lochside location, traditional hunting lodge style, and seriously good breakfast.

Snowdonia to the Brecon Beacons, Wales

Snowdonia – portmeirion – barmouth – new quay – pembrokeshire – gower peninsula – mumbles – brecon beacons.

• Distance 256km
• Drive Time 7 hours

Small but perfectly formed, the glorious country of Wales is a road tripper’s dream. With soaring mountains and valleys, miles of golden sands, craggy headlands, and some incredible roads, head to Wales for an adventurous and eclectic road trip.

Start your road trip itinerary in the spectacular Snowdonia National Park, or Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri in Welsh, in north Wales for drama, huge skies, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Perfect as a base for a few days, Betws-y-Coed is a typical mountain town in a beautiful valley, full of companies offering outdoor adventures, shops selling outdoor gear, and pubs and restaurants full of hikers talking about the day’s activities.

Your next stop is Portmeirion, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places in Wales. Portmeirion is best known for Portmeirion Pottery (now made in Stoke-on-Trent) and its role in the 1960’s cult TV show The Prisoner . Look beyond the obvious though and enjoy local walks, tropical gardens, and interesting architecture.

Families with love Barmouth and its location on the west coast has to be one of the most beautiful in Wales. Steeped in a history rich with connections to the shipping and slate industries, this is a good old-fashioned seaside resort with a west facing beach ideal for sea swimming and watersports. 

Head south through coastal mid-wales to the vibrant seaside town of New Quay, following the Coastal Way along the length of Ceredigion Bay. Popular with tourists for its picturesque harbor and sandy beach, New Quay is an ideal base for water sports like sailing, stand-up paddle, kayaking, and canoeing – you’ll find lots to pack in for a couple of days.

Next up is Pembrokeshire, famous for its rough cliffs, huge beaches, and remote islands. The coast of Pembrokeshire offers limitless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and is one of the most stunning places in the UK. 

Pembrokeshire boasts that it invented coasteering, and it’s an activity you must try. The sport of jumping from land to sea, cliff scrambling, and swimming between rocks will stretch you mentally and physically but give you hours of fun. There is also lots of opportunity for swimming, paddling and generally messing about on the water.

Your next stop is the spectacular Gower Peninsula in south Wales, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty famous for its breathtaking coastline, 30 or so unspoiled beaches and coves, and coastal walking, including the gorgeous Rhossili Beach and the dramatic Worm’s Head, whose long ridged back rises straight from the sea.

Stop at Mumbles, a traditional seaside town, and walk along the bustling prom, where rollerbladers weave between pedestrians, and ice-cream parlors tempt.

Make a detour to the infamous Top Gear road, the Black Mountain Pass, as you head into the Brecon Beacons, or Bannau Brycheiniog in Welsh, for more fantastic hiking, especially if you tackle Pen y Fan, and incredible views.

• Driving the Black Mountain Pass and the Gospel Pass through the Brecon Beacons.
• Paddleboarding at the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy in Pembrokeshire.
• Visiting the puffins and wildlife of Skomer Island.

Snowdonia ⇒ Ty Gwyn Hotel in Betws-y-Coed for its great location, friendly welcome, and traditional decor.

New Quay ⇒  Rooms @ The Dolau Inn for its location close to the beach, cozy rooms, and Welsh hospitality.

Pembrokeshire ⇒   Heywood Spa Hotel in Tenby for its luxury facilities, comfortable rooms, and great location.

European Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for planning a European road trip.

• Search for affordable flights to Europe with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Europe with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Europe with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Europe with Rentalcars.com
• Best for ferries around Europe are Direct Ferries
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in Europe

• Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know
• How to Plan a Road Trip – Your Complete Guide
• 19 Helpful Long Distance Driving Tips
• Road Trip on a Budget: 36 Tips to Save Money in Europe
• The Best Printable Road Trip Checklists
• 150+ Road Trip Songs: Your Ultimate Driving Playlist
• Podcasts for Road Trips: 26 to Keep You Entertained
• Road Trip Snacks: 32 Ideas for Your Next Trip
• 113 Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Trip
• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Europe. If you’re traveling to Ireland , your passport must remain valid for the duration of your stay (UK citizens do not need a passport to visit Ireland, which is in the Common Travel Area).
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
• Most of Europe drives on the right, except the United Kingdom which drives on the left.
• Most European countries, especially those with mountains, have rules about snow tires and snow chains. Make sure you check these rules if you’re taking a road trip to Europe in colder weather.
• You may want to consider carrying an  electronic toll pass  for the duration of your European road trip itinerary. These devices deduct the toll fees from a credit card automatically, meaning you don’t have to stop at a booth or barrier.
• Many cities across Europe have low emissions zones, which can be easy to stray into accidentally.  The Urban Access Regulation in Europe  website has information on a country and city-by-city basis, to help you plan your trip. They also share links for purchasing LEZ and ULEZ stickers online.
• Make sure you’re aware of the specific rules for each European country that you intend to visit. Some have obscure rules about driving in flip-flops or eating road trip snacks at the wheel! You can find more information about the rules of the road and what to carry in your vehicle  here .
• Although it is strongly advised, you are not required to have breakdown cover. UK registered vehicles may be able to add this to an existing policy or take out a policy for the duration of the trip. If you’re hiring a car to road trip around Europe, make sure to check breakdown arrangements with the car rental company.

Looking for more Europe itinerary ideas? Check out these top posts…

Road Trips from London: The 6 Best Routes to Explore

Road Trip Belgium: Fall In Love With Europe’s Hidden Gem

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

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About The Author

Izzy Nicholls

6 thoughts on “europe road trip – 24 incredible routes”.

Hi Jim Your plans sound really exciting! I’ve emailed you regarding UK and European motorhome routes, hope you have a great summer!

My wife and I are planning to do just what you to have done this summer. Is it possible to get a map of where you went (routing). This is so we can coordinate it with your blogs. Be blessed in everything you do.

Hey Harve great to hear from you, sounds like your plans are coming on nicely. Good luck and maybe we’ll see each other on the road some day!

Thanks for providing this great planning resource guide! A great way to spend a cold February afternoon with a glass of wine in hand… dreaming of trips to come. Fingers crossed for early Fall 2021 or sooner. We have purchased a new camping car and what great inspiration you have provided. Harve in the USA.

Hi Kanika Thanks for your comment. Give a road trip a go, you might be surprised by how much you enjoy it, let us know how you get on! Izzy

I personally don’t like road trips but will surely try this adventure as well, after reading your blog I got quiet motivated about it and would love to try, will share this with my friends and family as well

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Leicestershire traffic updates as collision forces road closure - as it happened

Drivers were urged to avoid the area

• Updated 15:46, 31 AUG 2024

A warning was issued to drivers on Saturday (August 31) following a reported collision near Lutterworth. Police issued instructions to motorists in the area.

The collision happened on the A426 Lutterworth Road in Dunton Bassett, close to Lutterworth. The extent of the collision was initially unclear and remained that way for several hours as our live coverage took place.

The road was closed off for several hours. Drivers were urged to avoid the area and find alternate routes

We were covering this incident live. All updates to follow below.

• Road closure extended 12:17
• Follow the very latest on Whatsapp 11:49

Live coverage coming to an end

LeicestershireLive's coverage of events in Dunton Bassett is coming to an end. As things stand, the road is still closed.

We've not heard more from police about the situation in the wake of the earlier crash. We have asked officers for and if more information is provided, it will be posted here and on our website.

Thank you for following developments as they've been reported here.

Road is still closed

We've had no new update from Leicestershire Police about the earlier collision in Dunton Bassett. As things stand, the road remains closed and has been that way for several hours since the collision was first reported.

A426 is still closed

There is no sign of the A426 Lutterworth Road having reopened. According to latest traffic data and maps, the road is still shut between the from the junction of Coopers Lane/Station Road to the junction of Cottage Lane.

Drivers are urged to find alternate routes.

Road remains closed

Drivers should still avoid the A426 according to latest traffic information as the road remains closed between the junction of Coopers Lane/Station Road to the junction of Cottage Lane.

In its latest message, traffic data supplier Inrix said: "A426 Lutterworth Road closed in both directions after accident. Road is closed."

Traffic around closure coping

Latest traffic data tells us that traffic in and around the A426 Lutterworth Road is coping reasonably well this afternoon following the earlier collision.

Earlier on, traffic was said to be "slow moving" in the area. Warnings are still in place following the earlier collision. We have received no further updates from police on the severity of the incident and if any injuries have been reported.

Latest traffic maps

For now, the A426 remains shut after today's earlier collision which has closed off the road in both directions. We've had no further update from police on the incident at this stage.

Latest traffic maps do show that the road is fully closed off between two junctions. A timeframe on the closure itself is unclear at this stage.

Closure still in force

The situation in Dunton Bassett is unchanged this afternoon. The A426 Lutterworth Road remains shut following an earlier collision - the extent of which is unclear.

The closure is in force from the junction of Coopers Lane/Station Road to the junction of Cottage Lane.

The closure is in place in both directions. Police have called on drivers to find alternate routes.

As things stand this afternoon, the A426 Lutterworth Road remains closed following the collision earlier this morning. We have no further details on how severe it is. Drivers are urged to keep away.

Unclear how long closure will be in place

While the severity of the closure is unknown, what is also unclear is how long the A426 will be closed too.

Police have issued no update on how long the road is set to be closed for. According to latest traffic maps, it is claiming the road will remain shut until 3pm. This is not confirmed though.

Drivers should still avoid the area.

Severity of collision unclear

At this stage, we have yet to hear from Leicestershire Police about the severity of the collision along the A426. Officers have been contacted, but have not provided an update as of yet.

We will bring any further updates from them to you as soon as we get them.

Road closure extended

Leicestershire Police have extended the road closure in the wake of the earlier collision along the A426 today.

In an update, the force said the A426 Lutterworth Road was now closed from the junction of Coopers Lane/Station Road to the junction of Cottage Lane.

It had previously just been closed to the Coopers Lane/Station Road junction.

Traffic remains slow

Latest reports from traffic data supplier Inrix have revealed that the situation is unchanged on the A426 this afternoon following the earlier collision.

In its latest update, it said traffic is "slow moving" in the area. The road reportedly remains blocked.

Police contacted

We have contacted Leicestershire Police for more information about this ongoing incident. We will provide updates as soon as we get them.

Map of the affected area

Latest traffic maps show that traffic is being affected along the A426 on Saturday in the wake of the earlier collision. The severity of the incident is unclear at this stage, but maps do confirm that a section of the road is currently closed off.

Follow the very latest on Whatsapp

You can keep up to date with the latest news and updates by joining us on WhatsApp.

We have a WhatsApp Community that provides the latest breaking news and top stories from across the county.

We now also have a WhatsApp Channel to give you the chance to get our stories, pictures, videos and headlines on your phone.

Just click the links above to join.

Road is reportedly blocked

According to traffic data supplier Inrix, the A426 is reportedly blocked following this morning's collision in Dunton Bassett. We are looking to see what information we can confirm about the incident.

Road closure in place

Welcome to our live coverage. Leicestershire Police have issued a road closure warning for the A426 this morning. Drivers should avoid the area.

**Traffic Update** | (1120hours) | Lutterworth Road (A426) Dunton Bassett is currently closed at the junction of Coopers Lane due to an RTC. Please find alternative routes and updates will follow. Many Thanks. — Leicestershire Police (@leicspolice) August 31, 2024

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