7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Brussels

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Brussels, Belgium

9:00AM

Visit the Atomium

Start your Brussels adventure at the iconic Atomium, where both kids and adults can marvel at its unique structure and enjoy panoramic city views.
Take Metro Line 6 to Heysel station.
EUR 16, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Mini-Europe

Right next to the Atomium, there’s Mini-Europe, a miniature park featuring famous European landmarks, perfect for the kids to get up close with replicas.
Walk to Mini-Europe, it’s a 5-minute stroll.
EUR 14.50, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Chez Léon

Savour classic Belgian mussels at Chez Léon, near the Grand Place, known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Take Metro from Heysel to Gare Centrale.
EUR 60 for family of four, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll at Grand Place

Spend the afternoon roaming around Grand Place, surrounded by stunning architecture and charming street performances.
Short walk from Chez Léon.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Manneken Pis

Finish your day with a visit to the quirky Manneken Pis statue, a symbol of Brussels that kids usually find amusing.
Walk from Grand Place, it’s a 10-minute walk.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at La Roue d'Or

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at La Roue d'Or, situated close to the central attractions, with ample choices for both kids and adults.
Walk from Manneken Pis.
EUR 70 for family of four, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Art and History

Brussels, Belgium

9:00AM

Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center

Kickstart your day with the world of comics at the Belgian Comic Strip Center, where Peppa Pig and Tintin await your family’s arrival!
Take Metro to Passage 44.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Royal Palace

Next, head to the Royal Palace of Brussels to admire the grandeur of the Belgian monarchy and its beautiful gardens.
Walk to Royal Palace, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy a wholesome lunch at Le Pain Quotidien, with delicious organic options suited for the whole family.
Short walk from Royal Palace.
EUR 50 for family of four, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Magritte Museum

Delve into the surreal world of René Magritte at the Magritte Museum, sparking the imaginations of kids and adults alike.
Short walk from Le Pain Quotidien.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Brussels Park

Conclude your day by relaxing at Brussels Park, a perfect spot for a family picnic or to simply let the kids run around.
Short walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cafe des Minimes

Dine at Cafe des Minimes, offering a variety of dishes and desserts that cater to diverse taste buds in a cozy setting.
Take local bus from park.
EUR 65 for family of four, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Charming Bruges

Bruges, Belgium

8:00AM

Travel to Bruges

Take a morning train to Bruges, known for its medieval architecture and enchanting canals, perfect for family exploration.
Train from Brussels to Bruges via SNCB.
EUR 30 for family of four, 1 hour

9:30AM

Canal Cruise

Start your day in Bruges with a family-friendly canal cruise, offering unique views of the 'Venice of the North'.
Walk to the boat station from the train station.
EUR 50 for family of four, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Markt

After the cruise, explore the bustling Markt square, surrounded by stunning architecture and local shops.
Walking distance from the canal boat dock.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at De Halve Maan Brewery

Taste local Bruges beer and Belgium cuisine at De Halve Maan Brewery, where kids can enjoy traditional fries.
Short walk from the Markt.
EUR 70 for family of four, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Belfry of Bruges

Climb the Belfry of Bruges for breathtaking views of the city; children will love the adventure of climbing the 366 steps!
Walk over to the Belfry from the restaurant.
EUR 12 for family of four, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Chocolate Museum

End your day with a visit to Choco-Story, the chocolate museum, where you can learn the history of chocolate and even participate in a workshop.
Short walk from the Belfry.
EUR 30 for family of four, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Olive Tree

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at The Olive Tree, featuring Mediterranean dishes that cater to all tastes.
Take a local walk around the historic centre.
EUR 65 for family of four, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Discover Ghent

Ghent, Belgium

8:00AM

Travel to Ghent

Catch a morning train to Ghent, a beautiful city filled with history and charm that your family will adore.
Train from Bruges to Ghent via SNCB.
EUR 25 for family of four, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Gravensteen Castle

Start exploring Ghent by visiting Gravensteen Castle, where kids can transform into knights and princesses while exploring the castle’s exciting history.
Walk to the castle, approximately 15 minutes.
EUR 28 for family of four, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll along Graslei and Korenlei

After that, enjoy a picturesque walk along the Graslei and Korenlei, where you can enjoy the stunning views along the river.
A short walk from the castle.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at De Graslei

Indulge in local cuisine at De Graslei, perfectly located by the river and ideal for families.
Walk from the stroll area.
EUR 60 for family of four, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit STAM Ghent City Museum

Next, head to the STAM Museum, which presents the fascinating history of Ghent through engaging exhibitions perfect for families.
Take a local bus or walk approximately 15 minutes.
EUR 20 for family of four, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Bourgoyen-Ossegem Nature Reserve

Wrap up your day in Ghent by unwinding in the beautiful Bourgoyen-Ossegem Nature Reserve, offering space for kids to run free.
Local bus from museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant De Graslei

Finish the day with dinner at Restaurant De Graslei, with a variety of dishes that are sure to please every family member.
Take a local bus back towards the city centre.
EUR 80 for family of four, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Educational Leuven

Leuven, Belgium

8:00AM

Travel to Leuven

Head to Leuven by train, where academia and culture blend seamlessly in this vibrant student city.
Train from Ghent to Leuven via SNCB.
EUR 20 for family of four, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit the Catholic University of Leuven

Start the day by exploring the beautiful campus of the Catholic University of Leuven, a great introduction to the city’s history.
Walk from the train station to the university, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Old Market Square

Stroll to the Old Market Square, known as the 'longest bar in the world,' offering various cafes and lively atmosphere.
Short walk from the university.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Domus Brewery

Lunch at Domus Brewery, where the kids can enjoy traditional Belgian dishes in a family-friendly environment.
Short walk from the Old Market Square.
EUR 50 for family of four, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Next, explore the tranquillity of the Botanical Garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll and letting the kids admire the plants.
Walk to the garden, roughly 10 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Football Match at King Power at Den Dreef

If the timing is right, catch a local football match at King Power at Den Dreef, providing an exhilarating experience for the whole family.
Short bus ride or walk from the garden.
Variable, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at De Werf

Finish your day at De Werf for dinner, serving a mix of Belgian and international dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
Walk from the stadium if you visited.
EUR 60 for family of four, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Vibrant Antwerp

Antwerp, Belgium

8:00AM

Travel to Antwerp

Take a train to Antwerp, a city renowned for its fashion, diamonds and artistic heritage, offering plenty of family-friendly activities.
Train from Leuven to Antwerp via SNCB.
EUR 15 for family of four, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Antwerp Zoo

Arrive at the Antwerp Zoo, where children can learn about wildlife and enjoy animal encounters.
Walk from the train station, it’s adjacent.
EUR 80 for family of four, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Meir Shopping Street

Spend some time exploring Meir, Antwerp's main shopping street, perfect for browsing stores and grabbing souvenirs.
Short walk from the zoo.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at De Kaart

Enjoy a family meal at De Kaart, known for its spacious seating and diverse menu suited for all ages.
Walking distance from Meir.
EUR 70 for family of four, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)

After lunch, head to the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), a captivating museum suitable for all ages, showcasing Antwerp’s maritime history.
Walk from De Kaart to MAS, taking approximately 15 minutes.
EUR 28 for family of four, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Antwerp's city park

Spend some time at Antwerp's city park, a lovely spot for a family outing where kids can enjoy playgrounds.
Short walk from MAS.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Frituur No. 1

Wrap up your Antwerp experience with a casual dinner at the famous Frituur No. 1, recognised for its delicious Belgian fries.
Take a local bus to the restaurant.
EUR 30 for family of four, 1 hour
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Day 7: Final Day in Brussels

Brussels, Belgium

9:00AM

Return to Brussels

Travel back to Brussels for your final day, making the most of the many attractions left to explore.
Train from Antwerp to Brussels via SNCB.
EUR 20 for family of four, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Royal galleries of Saint Hubert

Discover the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert, a stunning arcade with shops and cafes, perfect for a morning stroll.
Short walk from the train station.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Royal Museums of Fine Arts

Explore the Royal Museums of Fine Arts to introduce your family to masterpieces and awe-inspiring art, stimulating young minds.
A 15-minute walk from the galleries.
EUR 20 for family of four, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Chez Léon

Return to Chez Léon for a farewell family lunch, where delightful seafood and fries will leave a memorable taste.
Walk back to the restaurant.
EUR 60 for family of four, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Belgian Beer Factory

Treat your family to a fun tour of the Belgian Beer Factory, where you can taste and learn how beer is made—suitable for all ages as family-friendly versions are provided!
Short walk from the restaurant.
EUR 40 for family of four, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Parc du Cinquantenaire

Spend your final moments in Brussels at Parc du Cinquantenaire, enjoying the lush greens and the stunning Arch.
Take the metro from the brewery to Parc du Cinquantenaire.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Dominican

Celebrate your wonderful trip with a dinner at The Dominican, providing world-class cuisine in a welcoming family environment.
Travel back to the city centre.
EUR 100 for family of four, 2 hours
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