BelgiumJune 27, 2025, by Hansen van der Woude

Belgian road trip along Knokke, Bruges, Ghent & Antwerp

Belgium, June 27, 2025, by Hansen van der Woude

Belgian road trip along Knokke, Bruges, Ghent & Antwerp

From sand between your toes in Knokke to viewing art in Antwerp: this roadtrip ticks all the boxes. Burgundian brunch in Bruges, strolling through the streets of Ghent, and sleeping in the nicest addresses along the way. Belgium at its best. Pack your bags!

Train, car or camper, it doesn't matter how you go, this route is so easy doable that you only have to choose who can come along.

Day 1 & 2: Knokke-Heist, it's popular!

Day 1 & 2: Knokke-Heist, it's popular!

Knokke has been a favorite of the Belgian beau monde for years, and for good reason. Think: wide beaches, stylish places to eat and sleep, and a fresh sea breeze that makes everything just a little bit softer. Start your trip here. Spread out your towel on the beach, grab a coffee at Ble d'Or, a stylish bakery with everything your heart desires in the morning and let it go. Everything.

With some things you just have to Instantly that you think: this is it. You also have that feeling with Roka. A trendy (not too, just right) delicatessen, where you can find the tastiest bites You can pick it up. Not just takeaway, by the way, you can also eat in. After eating? Always  Glacier de la PosteThe ice cream is still made according to a family recipe; you simply have to try it.

Sleeping wing

Sleeping wing

Stay the night at Villa Bonnie, pink walls, white linen, and the perfect match between beach feeling and city ​​chic. Or book Bea B&B in Le Zoute (see also: 'The perfect stay: Bea B&B in Flemish Knokke-Heist'), if you prefer peace and quiet, a swimming pool and design vibes. Knokke is also fun outside the beach. Walk or cycle towards the Zwin Nature Park for a breath of fresh air and bird watching. And who knows, you might even spot a vintage market or pop-up shop in the centre. Read more about Knokke here.

 

Day 3: Bruges - One day is enough to get lost

Day 3: Bruges - One day is enough to get lost

On to Bruges, the Venice of the North. After a train ride of less than an hour, you will find yourself in the middle of a fairytale movie. But with really good coffee. Start at Coffee bar Adriaan of We Are Coffee Makers, where the baristas know what they are doing. Then: get lost. Really. No plan is the best plan in Bruges. Wander through the alleys, sail along the canals and discover the city with your nose in the air and your camera in your hand.

For a culinary outing, join us at LESS by Hertog Jan, fine dining, but then loose. Many small dishes, lots of taste, little fuss. If you prefer to sleep centrally and nicely, then book Hotel Monsieur Ernest, right on the water. Or choose Fred House, a colorful B&B with a sauna and a lovely bed that you want to disappear into.

B&B La Suite

B&B La Suite

The best way to explore Bruges is from B&B La Suite: quietly located in the city center, yet within walking distance of shops and attractions. You'll sleep in a stylish suite with plenty of natural light and luxurious details, and for a culinary dinner or breakfast, simply cross the street to their on-site restaurant. Without CravateThe menu is full of classic dishes with a modern twist. Perfect for those looking to unwind in the city, with comfort, tranquility, and good food within easy reach.

B&B La Suite

 

Bruges is compact, so you don't have to rush anything. Maybe a quick visit to the chocolate museum or a kriek on a terrace. Bruges at its best.

Day 4: Ghent, a city with a golden edge

Day 4: Ghent, a city with a golden edge

The train to Ghent is short, but the atmosphere is completely different. Where Bruges is classic and dreamy, Ghent is creative and quirky. This is where it all happens. Start your day at De Kouter with an aperitif from the Blue Kiosk (yes, really: a blue kiosk) and soak up the atmosphere of the flower market. After that? Shops! First, browse at Just Waldo for vintage pearls, then stop by Shelter, the place where half of Ghent scores their wardrobe. And by then? Hungry. The perfect excuse for a stop at Steam Windows, right next to Shelter. Not finished shopping yet? Head on over to Brabantdam, the bustling street with mostly local clothing stores. Piet Moodshop is the ideal stop for souvenirs or interior inspiration.

On the schedule

On the schedule

Have lunch at Norma of Oats Day Long, Two places where you can eat healthy and delicious food, without feeling like a tree-hugger. Fancy a vegan dessert? Stop by Madam Bakster or get that vegan cream croissant Way. Afterwards you understand exactly why. In the evening you join Heritage, a small, charming spot where chef Sam (25!) cooks up a storm. Not a big menu, but what's on it is spot on. Find more dining options in Ghent at The best thing about Ghent: the large catering list.

Staying overnight? Go for NH Collection Gent, with everything you are looking for in a stylish hotel. Or book B&B Great, with art on the walls, a comfortable bed, and a prime location. And Ghent, you'll want to see it at night too. Stroll along the illuminated Graslei or visit the Gravensteen Castle just as it gets dark. Magical. End the evening with wine at Noble rot.

Day 5 & 6 (and 7?): Antwerp, here you will stay

Day 5 & 6 (and 7?): Antwerp, here you will stay

Last stop: Antwerp. And believe us: you won't want to leave. The city is a mix of grandeur, rawness and creativity. Start at the MAS (do the roof terrace right away) or just walk along the Scheldt. Don't forget Zurenborg, the most beautiful district in Belgium if you ask us, with stately art nouveau houses on the Cogels-Osylei.

Fancy something tasty? Cobra is your place for chic without the stuffy. Shrimp croquettes with caviar? Yes please. Or go for sourdough pizza at Standard, or pasta with Come onThe wine bar options here don't disappoint either. Title, Amber of Spyridon, plenty of choice. The best Antwerp tips? Read it here.

Waking

Waking

You can sleep with a view of the cathedral at Hotel O Kathedral, Wake up to clocks and coffee. Or choose a hotel in the South, near the MHKA or the Fashion Museum.

Day 7? Another coffee at Funk of Charlie's, a final walk along the Eilandje and then… back home. But completely full of inspiration, stories and photos.