Belgium (Antwerp, Ghent, Brussels, Dinant) 4-Day Trip Itinerary

Train to Antwerp

Board an early morning train from Amsterdam Centraal to Antwerp Centraal Station to begin your Belgian adventure.

Enjoy the scenic journey.

Antwerp Centraal Station

Arrive at Antwerp Centraal, often called the 'Railway Cathedral' for its stunning architecture.

Take some time to admire its grandeur.

Look up to see the ornate domes and grand halls. It's a fantastic first impression of the city.

Cathedral of Our Lady

Visit the magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Admire its Gothic architecture and masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens.

Check holiday opening hours in advance. Entry typically has a fee. The Rubens works are a major highlight.

Grote Markt & Lunch

Explore Antwerp's historic Grote Markt (Market Square), surrounded by impressive guildhalls and the iconic Brabo Fountain.

Enjoy lunch at one of the surrounding cafes.

Many restaurants might be closed or have limited hours on Christmas Day. Check in advance or look for traditional Belgian friteries.

Rubens House Visit

Immerse yourself in art history at the Rubens House, the former home and studio of the renowned Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens.

Verify holiday opening hours. Booking tickets online is highly recommended.

Afternoon Leisure & Shopping

Enjoy some free time to explore Antwerp's charming streets, perhaps some window shopping or a warm drink in a cozy café.

Many shops may be closed for Christmas. Focus on the festive atmosphere and street decorations.

Christmas Dinner in Antwerp

Savor a special Christmas dinner at a local restaurant in Antwerp.

Many establishments offer festive menus.

Reservations are absolutely essential for Christmas Day dinner. Book well in advance.

Travel to Ghent

Take a morning train from Antwerp Centraal to Ghent Sint-Pieters, a quick and convenient journey.

Ghent Old Town Walk

Explore the quiet charm and picturesque streets of Ghent.

Wander through the medieval Graslei and Korenlei, admire the Belfry, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Walk along the canals, cross charming bridges, and discover hidden alleys. Many cafes will be open for coffee and waffles.

Lunch in Ghent

Enjoy a traditional Belgian lunch in one of Ghent's cozy restaurants or bistros.

Try some local specialties like 'waterzooi' (a creamy stew) or 'stoemp' (mashed potatoes with vegetables).

Belgian Cooking Lesson

Join a Ghent local to learn to cook three authentic Belgian dishes, an immersive cultural experience.

This activity offers a unique insight into Belgian cuisine. Note that this will take up a significant portion of your afternoon in Ghent.

Travel to Brussels

Take a short train ride from Ghent Sint-Pieters to Brussels Centraal, your base for the next two nights.

Dinner in Brussels

Enjoy your first Belgian dinner in Brussels.

Explore the area around your hotel for dining options.

Brussels offers a vast array of culinary experiences, from casual friteries to fine dining. Many places will be busy due to the holiday weekend.

Travel to Dinant

Take a morning train from Brussels Centraal to Dinant, a picturesque journey along the Meuse River.

Citadelle de Dinant

Ascend to the historic Citadelle de Dinant via cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the Meuse Valley. Explore the fortress and learn about its history.

Wear comfortable shoes. The cable car offers fantastic photo opportunities. Rating: 4.1/5 stars.

Collégiale Notre-Dame

Visit the iconic Collegiate Church of Our Lady, with its distinctive onion-domed steeple, nestled at the foot of the Citadel.

Admire the Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows.

Pont Charles de Gaulle

Stroll across the Pont Charles de Gaulle, famous for its colorful saxophones, celebrating Dinant's most famous son, Adolphe Sax. Great photo spot.

Enjoy the views of the Citadel and the Meuse River from the bridge.

Lunch in Dinant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Dinant, soaking in the charming small-town atmosphere by the river.

Try some local 'couques de Dinant', a very hard, honey-sweet biscuit, or a 'Flamiche Dinantaise', a local cheese tart.

Return to Brussels

Take the train back from Dinant to Brussels Centraal.

Grand Place Evening Stroll

Experience the magic of Brussels' Grand Place lit up at night, admiring the magnificent guildhalls and the City Hall.

The Grand Place is particularly enchanting in the evening, especially during the festive season.

Beer & Chocolate Pairing

Discover the Brussels beer world with a chocolate pairing guided by a young local expert.

Meet other enthusiasts and sample high-quality Belgian beers and chocolates.

A perfect evening activity to experience two of Belgium's most famous exports. Booking is essential.

Manneken Pis & Jeanneke Pis

Visit Brussels' famous tiny bronze statue, Manneken Pis, and its lesser-known female counterpart, Jeanneke Pis, for a quirky photo opportunity.

Manneken Pis is often dressed in various costumes. Jeanneke Pis is a short walk away, hidden down an alley.

Imagine Belgium VR Experience

Experience a spectacular virtual reality flying journey over Belgium's must-see locations, an immersive 15-minute experience.

A unique way to see Belgium's highlights. Check opening hours and book in advance. Rating: 4/5 stars.

European Quarter Comedy Tour

Join an EU insider and comedian for a unique walking tour behind the scenes of Brussels' European District, combining history and humor.

This tour offers a fresh and entertaining perspective on the EU institutions. Dress warmly as it's a walking tour.

Farewell Lunch in Brussels

Enjoy a final Belgian lunch.

Perhaps try some authentic Belgian frites with a choice of sauces.

Perfect opportunity for a quick and delicious meal before heading to the train station.

Return to Amsterdam

Take a direct high-speed train from Brussels Centraal back to Amsterdam Centraal, concluding your Belgian journey.