Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Belgium

Day 1: Arrive in Brussels

Brussels, Belgium

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Start your adventure with a delicious Belgian breakfast of waffles and hot chocolate at this charming café.
Located in the heart of Brussels, easily walkable from your accommodation.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Atomium

Explore the stunning Atomium, an iconic building and museum that offers beautiful views of the city.
Short metro ride from the city center to Heysel station.
EUR16, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chez Léon

Dig into some famous mussels and fries at this vibrant restaurant just steps from the Grand Place.
Walking distance from the Atomium.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Grand Place

Wander around this UNESCO World Heritage site where stunning architecture meets lively street performances.
A short walk from Chez Léon.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Chocolate Tasting Tour

Indulge in a family-friendly chocolate-tasting tour from a local chocolatier, learning about Belgium’s rich chocolate history.
Meet at a central location in the city.
EUR20, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Nuetnigenough

Enjoy traditional Belgian dishes in a casual setting perfect for families.
Short walk from the chocolate tour end point.
EUR40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Wander Ghent

Ghent, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pain de Jour

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee at this delightful breakfast spot in the city center.
Walking distance from the train station.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Gravensteen Castle

Explore this medieval castle with exciting displays that captivate kids and adults alike.
Short tram ride or a 20-minute walk from breakfast.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at De Graslei

Relax riverside, enjoying local Ghent specialties such as Stoverij (beef stew).
Just a short walk from Gravensteen.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Canal Cruise

Take a scenic boat tour of Ghent’s picturesque canals. Kids love the views and history shared by the guide.
Board the cruise at a nearby wharf.
EUR15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit STAM Museum

Learn about the history of Ghent in this interactive museum that has activities for all ages.
Take a tram or a 15-minute walk from the canal drop-off.
EUR8, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at De Graslei

Join the locals for another meal at this popular spot, trying the delicious waterzooi (chicken or fish stew).
Back to the canals for a lovely dinner.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Charming Bruges

Bruges, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 't Zwart Huis

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in this cozy café's vibrant setting.
Short walk from your hotel to the train station for a ride to Bruges.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Market Square

Stroll through the Market Square, with its colorful buildings and delicious street food options.
Easily accessible from the Bruges train station.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Belfry of Bruges

Climb the 366 steps of the Belfry for an amazing view of Bruges—you can make it a family challenge!
Just steps from Market Square.
EUR12, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Quatre Mains

Savor delicious crepes or croquettes in this family-friendly café known for its quaint atmosphere.
A pleasant walk from the Belfry.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Canal Boat Tour

Take a scenic boat ride through Bruges’ canals, providing unique views of the city while the kids enjoy spotting landmarks.
Departure point from the city center.
EUR12, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Visit Choco-Story Museum

Discover the history of chocolate and even participate in a chocolate-making workshop—perfect for all sweet tooths!
Walking distance from the canal tour.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Olive Tree

Enjoy Mediterranean dishes or pizzas, catering perfectly to families after a day of exploration.
Short walk from Choco-Story Museum.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Antwerp

Antwerp, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sint Anna

Delight in freshly baked goods and coffee at this local bakery before heading to Antwerp.
Walk to the train station for a quick ride.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Antwerp Zoo

Explore one of the oldest zoos in the world, home to various exciting animals—a favorite for kids.
Directly adjacent to the train station.
EUR24, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Antwerp’s Food Market

Sample different cuisines at one of the local markets where there's something for everyone.
Short tram ride from the zoo.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Cathedral of Our Lady

Marvel at the stunning architecture and art inside this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site.
A brief walk from the food market.
EUR6, 1 hour

3:30PM

Chocolate Workshop

Participate in an engaging chocolate workshop where the whole family can create their own treats.
Pre-arranged workshop location in Antwerp.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at bistro G

Enjoy a relaxed meal with an excellent child-friendly menu that promises great taste.
Walking distance from the workshop location.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Leuven

Leuven, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at Domus

Taste fresh pastries and local cheeses at the brewery’s café to begin your day right.
Walk from your hotel to the train station.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Old Market Square

Experience the lively atmosphere of the world’s largest bar—complete with shops and street artists!
Easy tram ride from the station.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the University Library

Tour this impressive library that also offers exhibitions and stunning views from its tower.
A short walk from Old Market Square.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Het Depot

Grab a hearty lunch at this casual restaurant that serves delicious dishes in an artistic venue.
A 10-minute walk from the library.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit M-Museum

Explore contemporary art exhibitions while the kids engage in creative workshops offered by the museum.
Nearby the lunch spot.
EUR8, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll in the Park

Relax in the Botanical Garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll and some family photos.
Slightly farther but walkable.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at De Werf

Enjoy a delightful dinner at this family-friendly restaurant with a great view of the park.
Short walk from the park.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Visit Mechelen

Mechelen, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at DeKleine Hertog

Kick off the day with a family breakfast at this local café which features scrumptious pancakes.
Stroll from your hotel to a nearby train station.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Planckendael Zoo

Spend the morning at one of Belgium's premier zoos, ensuring lots of fun with animal exhibits.
Train to Mechelen, then a bus or taxi to the zoo.
EUR21, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Het Anker

Enjoy a meal at this brewery that serves exceptional local food and house-brewed beers.
Nearby the zoo.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit St. Rumbold's Cathedral

Marvel at the architecture of this Gothic cathedral and, for the adventurous, climb the tower.
A short bus ride back to the city center.
EUR5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Playtime at Mechelen's Playground

Visit a wonderful park that offers a variety of play areas for children, allowing them to unwind.
Walk from the cathedral.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at De Karmeliet

Unwind with a comfortable and wholesome meal at this family-friendly restaurant.
Close to the playground.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in Brussels

Brussels, Belgium

8:00AM

Breakfast at Maison Dandoy

Experience delightful Brussels waffles and other delicious pastries at this iconic spot.
Take a train back to Brussels.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Magritte Museum

Explore surreal art suitable for all ages in this museum dedicated to René Magritte, engaging even the youngest guests.
Walk from the train station.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Family Photos at Mont des Arts

Capture beautiful family photos with the city backdrop at one of Brussels’ most scenic locations.
Stroll directly from the museum.
Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy fresh, rustic dishes in a family-friendly bakery/cafe environment.
Short walk from Mont des Arts.
EUR25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shopping at Galeries Royales

Explore this beautiful arcade for unique souvenirs, chocolates, and more while enjoying the stunning architecture.
A quick walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Brussels Park

Unwind at the park where kids can play and families can relax after a busy week of sightseeing.
Just a short walk from the galleries.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Old Cook

End your trip with a delicious meal that offers a fantastic array of Belgian dishes in a cozy family atmosphere.
Close to the park for an easy walk.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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