While visiting Brussels, you will surely notice that this stunning city is rich in culture and cuisine, but if you have an extra day or more, consider visiting some of Europe’s other charming locales.
Take advantage of the efficient rail system to reach each destination quickly, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the city before hopping on the train back to Brussels.
Here are a few options—in Belgium and the Netherlands—for incredible day trips from Brussels.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Mbell. Image Location: Rozenhoedkaai, Bruges, Belgium
Bruges
Bruges, one of several northern European cities known as the “Venice of the North” for its system of waterways, is a quick train ride from Bruxelles-Midi train station. The average trip takes about 58 minutes.
As the nickname implies, Bruges is an excellent city to tour by boat. You can float the canals and view the medieval architecture of this gothic city, which is also known as a fairytale town because of its ability to transport tourists back to the time of the Middle Ages when the city was wealthy.
After a relaxing canal tour, have some brunch, visit one of the famous chocolatiers, and do some people watching at the Markt square. Don’t forget to visit the Belfry Tower, which you may have seen in the movie In Bruges. If you are an art fan, you are in luck, as the tower is home to a surreal Salvador Dalí exhibition.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Vladislav Zolotov. Image Location: Grote Markt, Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp
Take a train from Brussels to Antwerpen-Centraal station and you’ll already find yourself at a major attraction. One of the most beautiful railway stations in the world, it’s called the “railway cathedral” by residents of the city.
Thanks to the influence of Peter Paul Rubens, Antwerp has remained an artistic city. Let your imagination bloom in the many museums and galleries. Enjoy the architecture through the centuries. Visit Grote Markt, the picturesque plaza at the center of the city, surrounded by guild houses with restaurants and cafés for the weary traveler.
Maastricht
A Dutch city of culture and history, Maastricht is also a great place to relax. Train is the best way to travel, since the center of the city doesn’t allow cars. So, slow down a bit, and take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of this charming city in the south of the Netherlands.
There are many fascinating sites to visit while in Maastricht. Vrijthof square is a lovely area surrounded by historic buildings. There you will find many cafés and restaurants where you can people-watch and take in your surroundings. Saint John Church, Basilica of Saint Servatius, and St. Servatius Bridge are just a few of the historic architectural beauties.
Bookworms, rejoice! You can browse a bookstore housed inside a stunning, 13th-century former church. Bookstore Dominicanen is one of the most famous and beautiful bookstores in the world. It is not to be missed.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Bortnikau. Image Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam
In about two hours, you can travel by train from Brussels to the iconic city of Amsterdam. From the multitude of cafés to the beautiful architecture surrounding the canals, it’s a treat just to explore the streets and waterways.
A canal tour is an excellent place to start but leave time for a museum. The Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum are all popular for good reasons.
Dam Square is a great place to soak up a lively atmosphere. Be sure to sample the delectable Dutch cheeses before you leave.
A big Belgian day out
Find yourself in Brussels with a day to spare? You can reach all these top destinations by train. Download the Trainline App, and buy and store your e-tickets on your phone.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, ooyoo. Image Location: Bruges, Belgium