The Ultimate Belgium Itinerary - Best Things to Do in Brussels, Bruges & Ghent

The Ultimate Belgium Itinerary – Best Things to Do in Brussels, Bruges & Ghent

If I had to describe Belgium in three words it would be:

opulent, fairytale, and decadent.

Welcome to Belgium – a country where medieval fairytale cities, refined culture, and some of the world’s most decadent food come together. Whether it’s your first time visiting Belgium or you’re returning to explore more deeply, this small but mighty country offers an unforgettable mix of history, design, and indulgence. From ornate grand squares and storybook canals to legendary chocolate, waffles, and effortless train travel between cities, this ultimate Belgium itinerary covers the very best things to do in Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent. Ready to explore one of Europe’s most charming destinations? Here’s exactly how I did Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent in one seamless, solo-friendly flow.

Day 1: Brussels

Decadent Sweets & Belgian Chocolate, Vintage Shops, & Grand Squares

I landed, dropped my bag at The Dominican (central, quiet, chic—the perfect base), and within five minutes I was inside the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. This isn’t just a shopping arcade — it’s a stunning 19th-century, glass-covered passage filled with natural light, elegant boutiques, and old-world charm.

First mission: chocolate. (Obviously.) Inside the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, I stopped into Mary, one of Brussels’ most iconic chocolatiers, founded in 1919. Fun fact: Mary holds a Royal Warrant as Purveyor to the Belgian Court, which basically means it’s been officially recognized by the royal family for its quality — very old-world, very Brussels. (They also had dairy-free options for my fellow vegans).

I also popped into La Belgique Gourmande for Cuberdons — traditional cone-shaped Belgian candies with a firm shell and a liquid, jewel-like center. Raspberry is the classic flavor, but there are tons of others to try – I recommend trying pear and apple:) They’re one of those treats you don’t really see outside Belgium.

At the end of the gallery, you step straight into Grand Place — and no photo really prepares you for it. Ornate, gold-trimmed guild houses from the 14th century surround the square in every direction, creating one of the most breathtaking historic plazas in Europe. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause, look up, and just stand there for a moment.

Then it’s time to walk over to the Le Sablon aka Sablon Quarter to shop vintage, thrift, and check out unique design shops.

Unique shops to check out in Brussels:

Melting Pot Kilo (clothes by weight), MAAZ (curated secondhand finds), Les Petits Riens, Sablon Antiques Center, Lallas Vintage, Lorentz, Episode, KALAMITY

Unique coffee spots, bakeries, & cafes:

MOK COFFEE
Kaffabar (coffee)
Charli (bakery)
Tonton Garby (iconic sandwich shop)
WOLF food hall – multiple food stalls – casual & lively

If you want to see Brussels efficiently, these are the tours I’d book:

If you have more time in Brussels and want to experience something more unique, I would book these tours:

Day 2: Bruges & Ghent

Fairytale Canals, Historic Castles, A Belgian Waffle & Belgian Fries

BRUGES

I walked to Brussels Central Station (about 15 minutes from my hotel), grabbed a ticket at the kiosk — genuinely easy, with friendly English-speaking staff around if you need help — and hopped on the train to Brugge. I upgraded to first class for under $30, and it was quiet, spacious, and very comfortable.

Bruges is pure magic: cobblestone streets, dreamy canals, and medieval towers everywhere you look. I wandered Langestraat, which is vintage heaven (I found a vintage ashtray and a book nook puzzle kit at TOC (The Old Curiosity Shop), admired the iconic belfry at Markt Square, and watched the boats in the canal.

But the real standout? Otto Waffle Atelier. Hands down the best Belgian waffle I’ve ever had — crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and not overly sweet. I’ll never forget that Belgian waffle.

Unique shops to check out in Bruges:

Kringwinkel, Think Twice, TheLockerVintage, Cherry Picker Record Shop, Brocante Cafe for vintage, Sue Ryder BookShop

If you want to experience Bruges without overplanning, these are the tours worth booking:

GHENT

In the afternoon, I hopped back on the train and stopped in Ghent on the way back to Brussels (just 30 minutes from Bruges). Took a short taxi from the station to the city center.

Ghent is one of Belgium’s most captivating cities, blending medieval history with a youthful, creative energy that makes it feel both impressive and lived-in. It often feels like Bruges’ cooler, artsier sibling – more relaxed, less polished, and full of character. The city is known for its scenic canals, striking historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, all set within a compact, walkable center. One of Ghent’s standout landmarks is Gravensteen, a dramatic 12th-century stone castle located right in the middle of town and surrounded by canals. I grabbed famous Belgian fries at Frites Atelier before wandering along the Graslei and Korenlei waterfronts, where some of the city’s most beautiful guild houses line the water – especially magical in the evening.

These tours cover the best of Ghent, from canals to historic landmarks.

Why Belgium Is a Solo Travel Dream

Everything’s walkable. I barely used transport within cities.
Trains are efficient, clean, and link all three cities seamlessly.
Safe and welcoming vibe. Felt completely comfortable exploring and dining alone.
Food is next-level without being pretentious – waffles, chocolate, fries, and beyond.

For a more seamless trip, these guided tours take care of the logistics for you.

Belgium truly has it all — fairytale cities, rich history, incredible food, and effortless travel between destinations. Whether you’re wandering grand squares in Brussels, drifting through Bruges’ canals, discovering Ghent’s creative energy, or indulging in chocolate, waffles, and café culture along the way, every day offers something memorable. I hope this ultimate Belgium itinerary helps you plan an amazing trip and discover the very best things to do in Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent. And if you end up visiting any of these spots or booking the tours I linked, let me know — I’d love to hear about your experience.

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