20 not-to-be-missed excursions around Brussels

Activities
Architecture
Heritage
History

Marie

Published on 13/08/2025

Are you staying in the Belgian capital and want to explore the region’s hidden treasures? Brussels offers privileged access to a number of excursions around the city that will help you discover the cultural, historical and natural wealth of Belgium. From picturesque Flemish towns to romantic castles and unspoilt nature parks, this region is full of fascinating destinations less than an hour’s drive or train ride away.

Whether you’re an art and history lover, a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a day out, these 20 excursions around Brussels promise unforgettable experiences. From majestic Bruges to authentic Ghent, each destination reveals its unique character and architectural wonders.

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1. Bruges, the Venice of the North

Just 98 kilometres from Brussels, Bruges is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful excursions around Brussels. This perfectly preserved medieval town will transport you into a fairytale with its romantic canals, colourful gabled houses and majestic belfry. The historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals architectural marvels around every corner.

Download the audio-guided tour to discover Bruges on foot and on your own

Explore the pearl of West Flanders with our audio tour of Bruges, which guides you through 22 must-see points of interest. From the Grand Place to the Beguinage, via the Minnewater Lake of Love, discover the secrets of this exceptional Flemish city. The Navaway itinerary allows you to visit Bruges in complete freedom while enjoying enriching historical commentaries.

Access: 1h02 by train from Brussels-Central or 1h15 by car
Attractions Grand-Place, Belfry, canals, beguinage, Halve Maan brewery

2. Ghent, Flanders’ best-kept secret

Just 58 kilometres from Brussels, Ghent is the perfect base for discovering authentic Flemish culture away from the tourist crowds. This dynamic, cultural city has a harmonious blend of medieval heritage and creative modernity. The Castle of the Counts, the Korenlei and Graslei quays and the Patershol district form an enchanting backdrop.

Download the audio-guided tour to discover Ghent on foot and on your own

Let us guide you on your discovery of Ghent with our Navaway audio tour, which reveals 20 key places of interest. From St Bavo’s Cathedral to the street art of Graffiti Street, explore this fascinating city that combines tradition and the avant-garde. Our itinerary allows you to visit Ghent at your own pace, while capturing the authentic soul of this Flemish gem.

Access: 36 minutes by train from Brussels-Central or 1 hour by car
Attractions Château des Comtes, belfry, Saint-Michel church, Patershol district

3. Antwerp, the diamond capital

Just 46 kilometres from Brussels, Antwerp welcomes you with its central station, one of the most beautiful in the world, and its rich artistic heritage. This port city is fascinating for its economic and cultural dynamism. The historic centre is full of architectural treasures, while the trendy districts bear witness to the city’s contemporary vitality.

Download the audio tour to discover Antwerp on foot and on your own

Discover the many facets of Antwerp with our audio tour, which takes you on an exploration of 22 remarkable sites. From the majestic Central Station to the narrow streets of the historic centre, via the emblematic sites linked to Rubens, our tour takes you through Antwerp from all its most captivating angles.

Access: 45 minutes by train from Brussels-Central or 45 minutes by car
Sightseeing Central station, Grand-Place, Rubens House, zoo, diamond district

4. The botanical garden in Meise

Just 11 kilometres from Brussels, the botanical garden at Meise is one of the most beautiful nature excursions around Brussels. This 92-hectare garden is home to more than 18,000 plant species from all over the world. Tropical greenhouses, collections of rare plants and the Château de Bouchout create an exceptional setting for a day of botanical discovery.

Access: 20 minutes by car or bus 250, 251, 260
Attractions Tropical greenhouses, Bouchout castle, botanical collections, themed gardens
Prices: Approximately €8 for adults, free for under 6s

5. The Forêt de Soignes

The Forêt de Soignes, 11 kilometres from Brussels, offers an exceptional nature break. This UNESCO-listed forest boasts a remarkable beech forest and numerous hiking trails. The hundred-year-old trees, some of which reach 35 metres in height, create a striking plant cathedral.

Access: 20 minutes by car or 72 bus
Things to do: Hiking, mountain biking, wildlife watching, picnics
Routes: Marked trails from 3 to 14 km

6. Waterloo and its historic sites

Just 20 kilometres from Brussels, Waterloo plunges you into History with a capital H. The 1815 battlefield is now home to a remarkable museum complex. The 40-metre-high Lion’s Hill offers an exceptional panorama of the plain where the decisive battle that changed the course of European history took place.

Access: 25 minutes by car or W bus
What to see 1815 Memorial, Lion’s Hill, Panorama, Hougoumont Farm, Wellington Museum
Fares: Combined ticket from €18

7. La Hulpe castle

The Château de La Hulpe, 25 kilometres from Brussels, offers one of the most romantic excursions around Brussels. This 19th-century neoclassical château, formerly the property of Count Solvay, is nestled in 227 hectares of parkland classified as Wallonia’s exceptional heritage site. The formal gardens, lake and forest paths create an idyllic setting.

Access: 30 minutes by car or train + bus
Attractions Castle (guided tours), formal gardens, forest park, sculptures
Activities: Walks, picnics, cultural events

8. Villers-la-Ville Abbey

Villers-la-Ville Abbey, 30 kilometres from Brussels, is one of the most beautiful Cistercian sites in Europe. This 12th-century abbey, listed as an exceptional heritage site in Wallonia, is impressive for the state of preservation of its Gothic ruins. The abbey church, cloister and monastic buildings bear witness to the past grandeur of this spiritual place.

Access: 35 minutes by car or train + bus
What to see Ruins of the abbey church, cloister, medicinal gardens, interpretation centre
Tickets: €9 adults, €7 senior citizens, free under 12s

9. Pairi Daiza, the animal kingdom

Pairi Daiza, located 57 kilometres from Brussels, is Belgium’s most visited zoo and one of the best family outings around Brussels. This exceptional zoo is home to over 800 animal species in faithful reconstructions of their natural habitats. The Land of the Cold, the Kingdom of Ganesha and the Garden of the Worlds offer a fascinating trip around the world.

Access: 1h by car or 1h20 by train (change at Ath)
Prices: €46-48 for adults, €41 for children (aged 3-11), free for under-3s
Opening times: 10am-6pm (variable according to season)
What to see Giant pandas, Asian elephants, Chinese garden, immersive aviary

10. Leuven, university town

Leuven (Leuven in Dutch), 30 kilometres from Brussels, has a vibrant student population and a rich architectural heritage. Home to the oldest Catholic university in the world, this university town is fascinated by its flamboyant Gothic town hall and its many UNESCO-listed beguinages. The friendly atmosphere of the student cafés adds a warm dimension to the visit.

Access: 23 minutes by train from Brussels-Central or 25 minutes by car
What to see Gothic town hall, UNESCO Grand Béguinage, M-Museum, Stella Artois brewery, university library

11. Mechelen, architectural jewel

Mechelen, just 31 kilometres from Brussels, is one of the most charming excursions around Brussels. This former capital of the Burgundian Netherlands dazzles with its Saint-Rombaut cathedral and its Grand Béguinage. The perfectly preserved historic centre reveals Flemish Renaissance architectural treasures at every turn.

Access: 10 minutes by train from Brussels-Central or 30 minutes by car
What to see Saint-Rombaut Cathedral, Grand-Place, UNESCO Beguinage, Marguerite of Austria Palace, Het Anker brewery

12. Tervuren Park

Tervuren Park, 20 kilometres from Brussels, offers a royal escape in a 205-hectare green setting. This former hunting estate of the Dukes of Brabant boasts majestic avenues, a romantic lake and a rich biodiversity. The Royal Museum for Central Africa adds a cultural dimension to this bucolic stroll.

Access: 30 minutes by car or tram 44
Things to do: Hiking, jogging, picnics, birdwatching
What to see Lake, arboretum, Museum of Central Africa, ponds

13. Hal’s Wood and its hyacinths

Hal Wood, 22 kilometres from Brussels, becomes one of the most enchanting nature excursions around Brussels in spring. From mid-April to early May, the wood is transformed into a breathtaking purple carpet as the wood hyacinths bloom. This exceptional natural spectacle attracts thousands of visitors who come to immortalise this ephemeral wonder.

Access : 35 minutes by car or bus 114, 153, 155
Best time of year: Mid-April to early May, when the hyacinths are in bloom.
Things to do: Botanical walks, nature photography, picnics

14. Namur, confluence and citadel

Just 69 kilometres from Brussels, Namur welcomes you to the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers. This Walloon town is famous for its perched citadel offering an exceptional panorama and its historic centre with a Mediterranean feel. The lively terraces along the Meuse and the pedestrianised streets create a particularly pleasant atmosphere.

Access: 1 hour by train from Brussels-Central or 55 minutes by car
Attractions Citadel and cable car, Saint-Aubain cathedral, historic centre, Félicien Rops museum
Things to do: Cruise on the Meuse, local beer tasting

15. Ostend, the Belgian coast

Ostend, 112 kilometres from Brussels, offers a breath of sea air and one of the few sandy beaches in the region. This lively seaside resort boasts a long seafront promenade, fish restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere. The Fort Napoléon and sand sculpture festivals add a cultural dimension to this seaside getaway.

Access: 1h15 by train from Brussels-Central or by car
Attractions Beach, Fort Napoléon, Casino Kursaal, fishing port, contemporary art centre
Things to do: Water sports, seafood tasting, seafront promenade

16. Kortrijk, pearl of the Lys

Kortrijk, 102 kilometres from Brussels, reveals its discreet charms to curious visitors. This authentic Flemish town fascinates with its twin Broel towers, remnants of medieval fortifications, and its peaceful beguinage. The pedestrianised town centre and the terraces on the banks of the River Lys create a particularly relaxing atmosphere.

Access: 1h15 by train from Brussels-Central or 1h05 by car
What to see : Broel Towers, Grand-Place, beguinage, Notre-Dame church, Battle of the Golden Spurs museum

17. Huy and its legendary wall

Huy, 85 kilometres from Brussels, is world-famous among cycling fans for its fearsome ‘wall’. This charming Walloon town, dominated by its 19th-century citadel accessible by cable car, offers magnificent views over the Meuse valley. The historic centre bears witness to its rich medieval past.

Access: 1h10 by train from Brussels-Central or 1h by car
Attractions Huy Fort (cable car), Notre-Dame collegiate church, “Huy wall”, municipal museum
Special feature: Arrival of the Flèche Wallonne (cycling)

18. Beloeil Castle

Beloeil Castle, 66 kilometres from Brussels, has been dubbed the “Belgian Versailles” and is one of the most majestic castle excursions around Brussels. This 14th-century princely residence, surrounded by exceptional formal gardens, is home to some remarkable artistic collections. The 25-hectare park invites you to take a romantic stroll.

Access: 1 hour by car or train to Ath, then bus 81
Rates: €15 château and gardens, €9 gardens only
Attractions Princely flats, historic library, formal gardens, pond

19. Lille, French elegance

Lille, just 111 kilometres from Brussels, offers the opportunity for a French getaway on your excursions around Brussels. This northern metropolis boasts Flemish architecture, renowned gastronomy and a friendly atmosphere. The Grand Place, the Vieille Bourse and the Palais des Beaux-Arts bear witness to the cultural wealth of this dynamic city.

Download the audio tour to discover Lille on foot and on your own

Explore the capital of French Flanders with our audio tour of Lille, which guides you through 22 emblematic points of interest. From the Grand-Place to the Vieux-Lille district, via the Vauban citadel, discover the many facets of this endearing city, which will allow you to visit every corner of Lille.

Access: 35 minutes by TGV from Brussels-Midi or 1h15 by car
Attractions Grand-Place, Vieille Bourse, Palais des Beaux-Arts, citadel, belfry
To taste: Welsh, fricadelle, maroilles tart, ch’ti

20. Ypres and its memorials

Ypres (Ieper), 133 kilometres from Brussels, rounds off our list of excursions around Brussels with a moving plunge into the history of the Great War. This Flemish town, completely rebuilt after 1918, is home to numerous memorials and military cemeteries. The Gothic Cloth Halls and the In Flanders Fields museum retrace this dramatic period in European history.

Access: 2h by train from Brussels-Central or 1h30 by car
What to see Cloth Halls, In Flanders Fields Museum, Menin Gate, military cemeteries, Bellewaerde amusement park
Events : Daily Last Post at 8pm under the Menin Gate

In conclusion, these 20 magnificent excursions around Brussels reveal the exceptional diversity of this region at the heart of Europe. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover or in search of cultural discoveries, each destination offers its own wonders. From picturesque Flemish towns to unspoilt nature reserves, these beautiful escapes will enrich your stay in Brussels and help you discover the many facets of Belgium. Don’t hesitate to plan several of these excursions to take full advantage of the rich heritage and culture of this magnificent region. For the best possible exploration of the cities mentioned, don’t forget to download the Navaway app, which guides you through your urban discoveries with fascinating audio guides.

FAQ – Excursions around Brussels

What’s the best day out around Brussels?

Bruges is undoubtedly the most beautiful excursion around Brussels. This perfectly preserved medieval city, nicknamed the “Venice of the North”, offers an exceptional romantic setting with its canals, UNESCO historic centre and remarkable Gothic architecture. Accessible by train in 1 hour, it is the ideal getaway for a memorable day out.

How much does a day trip from Brussels cost?

The budget for a day trip varies according to the destination: allow €15-25 for a return train journey to the Flemish cities (Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp), €40-50 for Pairi Daiza (entrance fee included), and €10-20 for nearby natural sites such as the Soignes Forest or the botanical garden at Meise. Meals and visits are added according to your choice.

What excursions can families take with children?

For families, Pairi Daiza remains the top destination, with its exceptional zoo and 800 animal species. The botanical garden at Meise fascinates with its tropical greenhouses, while the Forêt de Soignes offers some great walks within easy reach. Bruges and its canals are also a delight for children, as are the beaches of Ostend in summer.

Is it possible to visit several Flemish towns in the same day?

It’s possible to combine Ghent and Bruges in the same day, thanks to their proximity (50 km apart) and frequent rail links. Allow 3-4 hours in Ghent in the morning and 4-5 hours in Bruges in the afternoon. This combination allows you to discover two complementary Flemish gems while optimising your travel time from Brussels.