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If you're planning a trip to the Belgian capital next year, you might fancy taking a quick day trip to another city to shake up your stay and make the most of Belgium's pint size. To help you plan the best Brussels day trip, our experts have put together this article listing 6 stunning cities near Brussels that are easily accessible by train and less than 2 hours' travel including:
And if you do decide to spend a little longer in each location, we've also thrown in some hotel recommendations and the best things to do at the weekend just to make things even smoother for you.
How To Plan Your Day Trip From Brussels
Before we dive into the best day trips from Brussels by train, allow us to help you plan your trip so that you can have a stress-free break.
Is Brussels a good base for day trips?
Brussels is definitely a great base for multiple-day trips. It has excellent transport links all over the country including rail networks, buses and motorways. Brussels is also easily reachable by plane from the UK making it a breeze to reach.
What are the towns nearest to Brussels with tourist attractions?
If you're wondering where to go for a weekend break near Brussels that offer plenty of things to keep you entertained, here are our top picks:
- Bruges:
Distance: about 1 hour by train.
Attractions: the Beguinage, the Belfry, and a boat trip. - Leuven:
Distance: about 23 minutes by train.
Attractions: its university, Stella Artois Brewery, magnificent Grand-Place and Grand Béguinage. - Mechelen:
Distance: about 10 minutes by train.
Attractions: the Grand-Place, the Saint-Rombaut Cathedral, the Grand Béguinage, and the Het Anker brewery. - Ghent:
Distance: approximately 36 minutes by train.
Attractions: the Castle of the Counts, St Bavo's Cathedral, and the picturesque canals. - Namur:
Distance: about 1 hour by train.
Where are the French-Speaking towns near Brussels?
The French-speaking cities near Brussels are in Wallonia, along with Flanders and Brussels, they make up the main regions of Belgium. If you want to visit some Walloon towns without spending too much time commuting, here are our picks for the best Walloon towns close to Brussels:
- Waterloo - Distance: about 25 minutes by train.
- La Hulpe - Distance: about 30 minutes by train.
- Braine-l'Alleud - Distance: about 30 minutes by train.
- Tervuren - Distance: about 30 minutes by train.
- Namur - Distance: about 1 hour by train.
Where are the Best Weekend Trips from Brussels?
Would you rather spend more than a day visiting another city close to Brussels, then we recommend booking a few nights in one of these beautiful European cities which all offer a lot of fun for travellers:
- Antwerp - (about 45 minutes by train): take a walking tour, shop for diamonds and visit the city's amazing zoo.
- Amsterdam - (approx. 2 hours by train): rent bikes, museum hop and embrace Amsterdam's inclusive nightlife.
- Paris - (approx. 1 hour and 20 minutes by train): a city that needs no introduction, visit the Louvre, wander the Marais and check out the freshly renovated Notre Dame.
The 6 Best Day Trips from Brussels For 2025
1. Antwerp, Belgium
Journey time by train: Around 50 minutes
Rail network: SNCB
Fare: From €11 per passenger
The first city close to Brussels to visit for a weekend away is Antwerp, less than an hour by train. This port city will win you over with its architectural style, a blend of Art Nouveau and Gothic and its train station is said to be one of the most beautiful in the world! In Antwerp, you can visit world-famous museums such as the Plantin-Moretus Museum, or choose to stroll through the trendy Het Zuid district for a spot of shopping or try some of Belgium's famous waffles. In the early evening, we urge you to take a stroll around Antwerp's Grand Place and Notre-Dame Cathedral, which provide a romantic backdrop to your stay.
Which hotel to choose in Antwerp?
- Hotel Franq ★★★★ :
A blend of elegance and charm, Hotel Franq is perfect for a romantic weekend in the heart of the city. With its luxurious rooms, cosy atmosphere and gourmet restaurant, this hotel offers a warm and refined haven to enjoy Antwerp during a weekend close to Brussels. - Hotel Indigo Antwerp ★★★★ :
Located a stone's throw from the station and the historic district, Hotel Indigo Antwerp combines modern style with a cosy atmosphere, ideal for a romantic getaway. Its uniquely designed rooms and cosy lounge provide the perfect setting to relax after a day exploring Antwerp's winter charms. - NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★ :
The NH Collection Antwerp Centre Hotel, with its elegant design and soothing atmosphere, is the perfect place for a romantic weekend in the heart of Antwerp. Its comfortable rooms and interior garden offer the perfect haven of peace after a day exploring the city's treasures in winter.
What to do in Antwerp on a weekend
- Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum: this museum traces the history of printing in Belgium but also in Europe and is a must-see in the city.
- Wander around the Eilandje district: this rehabilitated former port district is now home to a number of trendy cafés.
- Admire the Havenhuis: admire this glass and steel building supported by a former 19th-century fire station.
2. Bruges, Belgium
Journey time by train: Around 40 minutes
Rail network: SNCB
Fare: From €17 per passenger
Second on our list of the best day trips from Brussels to visit is Bruges is also known as the ‘Little Venice of the North’ which is definitely one of the most romantic cities you can visit. With its picture-postcard scenery, winding canals, medieval houses and cobbled streets, you'll feel like you're strolling through a different era.
The city is also a paradise for lovers of chocolate, waffles and Belgian beer, with many artisanal shops and cosy cafés. You won't know where to turn with all these artisan chocolate shops, breweries and cafés. As for sightseeing, don't miss the belfry on the Grand-Place, the museums dedicated to Flemish art, or a boat trip on the canals.
Which hotel to choose in Bruges?
- NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★ :
With its authentic charm, elegant rooms and stunning views of historic buildings, this hotel creates an enchanting setting for a romantic getaway less than an hour from Brussels. - NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★ :
Located along a picturesque canal in Bruges, Hotel Ter Brughe is the perfect place for a romantic break. Its warm atmosphere, charming period rooms and water views create an enchanting setting for a weekend in the heart of the medieval city. - NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★ :
The Hotel de l'Orangerie embodies Flemish charm and refinement. With its elegant interiors and cosy ambience, this hotel offers an idyllic setting for enjoying the timeless beauty of this city near Brussels.
What to do in Bruges on a weekend
- A beer tasting at ‘t Brugs Beertje: one of the city's most iconic bars.
- Walk through the Sainte-Anne district: a more peaceful area, walk up the city walls and admire the famous windmills.
- Climb to the top of the Belfry: to admire the Grand-Place from a height of 83m.
3. Lille, France
Journey time by train: Around 35 minutes
Rail companies : SNCF
Fare: from €25 per passenger
Third on our list of the best day trips from Brussels is Lille, this time on the other side of the French border and famous for its delicious food and Flemish flair. Lille is less than an hour from Brussels, this city is situated at the crossroads of Europe, linking the major capitals. Lille is an attractive city in northern France with a rich architectural heritage, mixing Flemish and French influences. Old Lille, with its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses, offers a picturesque setting for a romantic or family getaway.
In two days, you can explore the Grand'Place, the vibrant heart of the city, visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of France's largest museums, or stroll through the lively Wazemmes district.
Which hotel to choose in Lille?
- NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★ :
Located in the heart of Lille, this hotel combines charm and elegance for an unforgettable stay. With its refined design rooms and warm atmosphere, it's the ideal setting for a getaway just a stone's throw from the city's most beautiful sites. - NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★ :
The Hôtel Couvent des Minimes, housed in a former 17th-century convent, offers a unique setting combining history and modernity. With its majestic architecture, elegant rooms and interior garden, it's the ideal place for a weekend of charm and serenity in the heart of Lille. - NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★★ :
The Hôtel Hermitage Gantois, housed in a historic 15th-century building, brilliantly combines old-world charm with modern luxury. With its spa, light-filled patio and ideal location in the heart of Lille, it's the perfect address for a weekend of elegance and relaxation.
What to do in Lille on a weekend
- Walk around the Saint-Sauveur district: an area of Lille with many trendy bars and new restaurants.
- Taste the famous Meert Waffle: with its delicious Madagascar vanilla filling, the waffle is a must-try sweet to be enjoyed in the authentic setting of Meert's historic patisserie in Lille.
- A guided tour in a Citroën 2CV: discover Lille's city centre in a unique way behind the wheel of a 2CV.
4. Maastricht, The Netherlands
Train time by train: Around 2 hours
Fare: From €26 per passenger
In 4th place in our ranking of towns close to Brussels to visit at the weekend is Maastricht in the Netherlands. At the crossroads between the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany, Maastricht is a Dutch city with cobbled streets offering a charming setting for a weekend near Brussels.
In two days, you can explore the historic centre with the Vrijthof square, visit the Saint-Servais basilica, stroll through the Quartier de Wyck renowned for its trendy boutiques and cafés. We strongly recommend a visit to the librairie Boekhandel Dominicanen, housed in a former 13th-century Dominican church. A secret not so well kept by the locals, it is one of the favourite haunts of travellers.
Which hotel to choose in Maastricht?
NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★ :
The Townhouse Design Hotel & Spa, located in the heart of Maastricht, combines contemporary elegance with a warm atmosphere for a unique stay. With its relaxing spa, carefully designed rooms and friendly welcome, it is the ideal place for a weekend of relaxation and discovery in this charming city.
NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★★ :
Housed in a former 15th-century Gothic monastery, offers a unique experience blending history and modernity. With its majestic architecture, designer rooms and restaurant in the former nave, this hotel is the perfect choice for an exceptional weekend in the heart of Maastricht.
NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★★ :
Maison Haas Hustinx & Spa, located on the charming Vrijthof Square, embodies luxury and serenity in the heart of Maastricht. With its elegant suites, refined spa and intimate atmosphere, it's the perfect address for a weekend of relaxation and discovery in an enchanting setting.
What to do in Maastricht on a weekend
Discover the Boekhandel Dominicanen bookshop: housed in a former 13th-century Dominican church and often cited as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world, this is a must-see in Maastricht.
Visit Fort Saint-Pierre: this historic fortress offers panoramic views of Maastricht and its surroundings.
5. The Hague, The Netherlands
Trip time by train: Around 2 hours 30 minutes
Fare: from €28 per passenger
Said to be one of the most romantic cities in the Netherlands, The Hague is another great choice for a day trip from Brussels. The Hague gives some Dutch flair to your holiday as you can view the nation's parliament and see some of the country's best art at the Mauritshuis, which is home to masterpieces by Vermeer and Rembrandt. If you visit in the summer, why not spend the day at the beach? Scheveningen is easy to reach by tram from the city centre and gives you some much-needed fresh air after spending your time in hectic Brussels.
If you're planning on spending a few days in The Hague, you can explore the Binnenhof, the political heart of the Netherlands, stroll through the historic Noordeinde district with its elegant boutiques, and visit the Peace Palace, symbol of international justice.
Which hotel to choose in The Hague?
NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★:
Housed in a 17th-century building, Hotel Arsenaal Delft offers elegant rooms and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a weekend of relaxation and discovery.
NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★★ :
Housed in a former 15th-century Gothic monastery, offers a unique experience blending history and modernity. With its majestic architecture, designer rooms and restaurant in the former nave, this hotel is the perfect choice for an exceptional weekend in the heart of Maastricht.
What to do in The Hague on a weekend
Visit the Mauritshuis: to admire the portrait of the Girl with the Pearl.
Walk along Scheveningen beach: this beach is a Dutch must-see and is the perfect place to soak up some sun and enjoy the North Sea air.
Explore the Statenkwartier district: Known for its long avenues, international shops and restaurants, be sure to explore this district.
6. Liège, Belgium
Train journey duration: 1 hour
Rail network: SNCB
Fare: from €22 per passenger
The last destination on our list is Liège, a great day trip from Brussels less than an hour away by train. Start your trip to the city by climbing the 374 steps of Montagne de Bueren for a breathtaking view of the city.
For art lovers, don't miss the Musée de la Boverie. And for those with a sweet tooth, head to one of the city's cafés to sample the famous Liège waffles. Often overlooked in favour of other cities, Liège is nevertheless an unmissable destination close to Brussels, perfect for a weekend away.
Which hotel to choose in Liège?
- NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★:
Located in the heart of the city, the Radisson Hotel combines modern comfort with refined elegance. With its spacious rooms, warm atmosphere and proximity to the main tourist sites, it is the perfect address for a relaxing and memorable weekend in Liege. - NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★★★ :
Located on the heights of Liège, this hotel offers a prestigious setting combining history and modernity. With its luxurious spa, panoramic terrace and location close to the historic centre, the hotel is ideal for a luxurious stay. - NH Collection Antwerp Centre ★★★:
YUST Liège stands out for its contemporary design and innovative concept, combining accommodation, art and conviviality. Its trendy atmosphere and warm spaces make it an ideal choice.
What to do in Liège on a weekend
Visit the Boverie museum and park where you can admire paintings by Picasso, Monet, and Delvaux, then take a stroll in its park.
Will You Book a Day Trip From Brussels By Train?
Now that we've summed up our recommendations for the best day trips from Brussels, have we inspired you enough to book your train? Brussels is super accessible from the UK and other European cities making it a great base for further exploration. Whether you want to stay within Belgium or head out to nearby countries, we're sure you'll have a ball!
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