Embarking on a journey to explore new cities is always filled with excitement and anticipation for the unknown adventures that lie ahead. For me, travel is not just about discovering new places on the map; it’s about immersing myself in different cultures and histories. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Belgium, a charming and vibrant country in Europe. Over the course of three days, I found myself enchanted by some of Belgium’s most beautiful cities, each offering its own unique charm and surprises.
Three days in Belgium are sufficient to explore the best the country has to offer. The cities are small and easy to navigate in a day. Moreover, Belgium boasts the best railway network in Europe, making travel between cities efficient and convenient. We spent three days in Belgium and visited Ghent, Bruges, and Brussels. We arrived in Ghent by bus from London, a journey of just 6 hours overnight, allowing us to make the most of our time upon arrival in Belgium.
As you’ll see, the charm of Belgian cities lies in getting lost in their streets. Every corner is worthy of a photograph, especially during the Christmas season when ice rinks and beautiful markets with crafts and food stalls adorn the streets.
Ghent
After checking into our hotel near the Sint-Baafs Cathedral, one of Ghent’s most prominent landmarks alongside its picturesque canals, we wasted no time immersing ourselves in the city’s charm. Fueling up with a typical Belgian waffle for breakfast, we were ready to explore Ghent’s treasures. The morning air was crisp, and despite the chill, the clear weather promised a perfect day for wandering.
With no strict agenda in mind, we grabbed a city map and set off along the enchanting canals, formed by the convergence of the Lys and Scheldt rivers. The sight of historic buildings lining the waterways, adorned with festive decorations during the Christmas season, added to the city’s allure. Every corner seemed postcard-perfect, begging to be captured in photographs.
Strolling through Ghent’s cobblestone streets, we discovered hidden squares and cozy cafes. The city exuded a serene ambiance, with locals and tourists alike savoring the festive atmosphere. The blend of medieval architecture with lively Christmas markets enhanced our experience, offering us glimpses into Ghent’s rich history and vibrant culture.
As the sun began to set, we decided to indulge in a quintessential Ghent experience—a boat ride along the canals. Gliding past illuminated buildings and under charming bridges, we marveled at how the city transformed into a magical wonderland at night. The reflections of lights on the water created an ethereal ambiance, leaving us enchanted by Ghent’s beauty.
The following morning, after a refreshing night’s rest, we made our way to Ghent’s train station—a mere 10-minute walk from our hotel. The station was bustling with activity, and we were struck by the multitude of bicycles parked outside, a testament to Ghent’s reputation as a cycling-friendly city.
Boarding a train bound for Bruges, just a short half-hour journey away, we eagerly anticipated the next chapter of our Belgian adventure. The scenic route through the Belgian countryside offered glimpses of quaint villages and picturesque landscapes, adding to our anticipation of what Bruges had in store for us.
Our time in Ghent had been nothing short of enchanting, filled with historical discoveries, culinary delights, and the warmth of Belgian hospitality. As we departed for Bruges, we carried with us fond memories of Ghent’s festive spirit and a newfound appreciation for this gem of a city in Belgium.
Bruges, the Most Beautiful City on this Three-Day Route in Belgium
Upon arriving at Bruges station, a scenic half-hour walk awaited us before reaching the heart of this captivating city. The cobblestone streets, while charming and characteristic of Belgian cities, proved a bit challenging with our luggage in tow. However, the anticipation of exploring Bruges overshadowed any minor inconveniences.
Before immersing ourselves in Bruges’ historical center, we strolled through one of its bustling shopping streets. Despite the chilly weather, the festive atmosphere enveloped us, urging us to explore every corner and shop window along the way. The sense of community and warmth among locals and visitors alike added to the city’s welcoming charm.
To inject a bit of adventure into our day, we decided to rent a tandem bike to navigate Bruges’ narrow streets. Maneuvering through the labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, alongside other cyclists and occasional cars, became one of the most exhilarating experiences of our entire Belgian journey. It allowed us to cover more ground while soaking in the city’s medieval architecture and serene canals from a unique perspective.
As we pedaled through the streets, we eventually found ourselves at the impressive Markt and Burg squares, two iconic landmarks that epitomize Bruges’ historical grandeur. The Markt square, with its towering Belfry and surrounding guildhalls, exuded a sense of medieval splendor. Nearby, the Burg square boasted the imposing City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, each contributing to Bruges’ rich tapestry of history and architecture.
Our exploration wouldn’t have been complete without indulging in Belgium’s culinary delights. At a local food stall, we couldn’t resist trying the famous Belgian fries—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and served with an array of delectable sauces. The taste was exceptional, living up to its reputation as a must-try Belgian specialty.
After a day filled with sightseeing and gastronomic pleasures, we sought refuge in a cozy restaurant for a hearty dinner, savoring traditional Belgian dishes accompanied by local beers. The evening ambiance in Bruges was enchanting, with historic buildings bathed in soft lights and the gentle sounds of the canals adding to the city’s romantic allure.
As we retired to our accommodation for the night, we reflected on our time in Bruges with fondness. The city had charmed us with its medieval beauty, culinary delights, and warm hospitality. Our journey through Belgium was unfolding beautifully, leaving us eagerly anticipating our next adventure in Brussels, the final stop on our three-day Belgian itinerary.
Brussels
We’ll tell you how to get from Bruges to Brussels (and vice versa). By the way, we hope your arrival is smoother than ours!
After an hour’s journey from Bruges, which nearly ended in an accident, our three days in Belgium concluded in the capital. We had to be at Zaventem Airport by around 9 p.m. to catch our flight home, so we had to make the most of the day.
We opted against visiting the Atomium because it is located far from the city center. Upon arrival at Central Station, just a 5-minute walk from the Grand Place, a square that truly comes alive at night. After wandering around the center, we went to see the Manneken Pis. We were warned it might be underwhelming, but we still found it amusing to see the famous statue, which stands no taller than half a meter.
After a quick lunch, we headed towards the more institutional area of the city. We visited the Royal Palace and Cinquantenaire Park, which is right across from it. Despite seeming far, you can walk to the European Parliament from here, where there is a comprehensive free exhibition. We recommend going early to fully enjoy it; you can find the opening hours on the Parliament’s website.
After briefly exploring the Parlamentarium exhibition, we headed to the airport from Central Station. After three days in Belgium, we said goodbye eagerly anticipating our return to discover new cities—each street has its own special charm!
Whether it was the historic allure of Ghent, the romantic beauty of Bruges, or the blend of modernity and tradition in Brussels, each stop offered me a glimpse into distinct cultural atmospheres and human charm. This trip has not only broadened my horizons but also enriched my life. I look forward to future adventures, eager to explore more unknown wonders and experiences of beauty.
