3-Day Belgium Escape from London: Brussels, Bruges & Ghent Highlights

Day 1: Arrive and Explore Brussels

Brussels, Belgium on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Travel from London to Brussels

Depart London St Pancras via Eurostar train to Brussels Midi, approx. 2 hours. Early travel maximises full day in Belgium.
EUR75, 2h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy a healthy Belgian breakfast with freshly baked bread at this popular bakery chain near Brussels Midi station.
EUR15, 1h0m

10:30am

Grand Place

Visit the UNESCO-listed magnificent central square of Brussels, renowned for its ornate guildhalls and the Town Hall. Stunning photo opportunities abound.
Free, 1h0m

11:45am

Manneken Pis Statue

See Brussels' famous little fountain statue, a quirky landmark just a short walk from Grand Place.
Free, 0h15m

12:15pm

Lunch at Chez Léon

Taste classic Belgian moules-frites in this beloved and historic restaurant close to Grand Place.
EUR25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Explore extensive collections including Flemish masters like Rubens and surrealist works by Magritte. Open 10am-5pm weekdays.
EUR15, 2h0m

3:45pm

Cinquantenaire Park and Arch

Relax in this beautiful park featuring a large triumphal arch and museums, a peaceful break in the city. Open daily.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Evening chocolate tasting tour

Experience a guided tour including samples at Brussels’ finest chocolatiers, a must to enjoy Belgian chocolate culture.
EUR30, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Noordzee Mer du Nord

Dine on fresh seafood in this lively outdoor street food spot nearby Grand Place, perfect for fresh and authentic tastes.
EUR30, 1h0m

8:30pm

Optional: Evening stroll or rest

Explore the illuminated Grand Place or head back to your accommodation to rest for the next day.
Free, Flexible
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Day 2: Discover Bruges

Bruges, Belgium on July 8, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Bruges

Take an early train from Brussels to Bruges, approximately 1 hour. Arrive ready to explore the medieval city.
EUR15, 1h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at Li O Lait

Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and Belgian waffles at this charming cafe in Bruges’ historic centre.
EUR12, 1h0m

10:30am

Belfry of Bruges

Climb the 366-step tower for outstanding panoramic views of Bruges’ medieval centre. Open 9:30am-6pm.
EUR14, 1h0m

11:45am

Basilica of the Holy Blood

Visit this distinctive basilica housing a revered relic purportedly containing Christ’s blood.
Donation-based, 0h45m

12:30pm

Lunch at De Halve Maan Brewery

Tour the brewery and enjoy a meal paired with their famous Brugse Zot beer. Open daily from 11am.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:00pm

Boat tour on Bruges canals

Take a relaxing 30-minute boat tour to see iconic canal-side architecture from the water. Runs daily from 10am until evening.
EUR12, 0h45m

3:00pm

Groeningemuseum

Discover Flemish and Belgian paintings ranging from Jan van Eyck to modern masterpieces. Open 9:30am-5pm.
EUR14, 1h0m

4:30pm

Explore Market Square

Enjoy the bustling square with cafes, shops and street performers, absorbing the lively Bruges atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Den Gouden Harynck

Indulge in gourmet Belgian cuisine in an elegant setting with excellent seasonal menus. Reservations recommended.
EUR45, 1h30m

8:00pm

Evening walk by Minnewater Lake

Wind down with a gentle stroll by the romantic 'Lake of Love' with beautiful sunset views.
Free, Flexible
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Day 3: Ghent & Return

Ghent, Belgium on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Ghent

Catch an early train from Bruges to Ghent, a 30-40 minute journey to this vibrant university city.
EUR10, 0h40m

9:00am

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien Ghent

Start your day with organic bread and pastries at this popular chain located in Ghent's centre.
EUR15, 1h0m

10:00am

Gravensteen Castle

Tour the medieval fortress offering interactive exhibits and panoramic views over Ghent. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR12, 1h30m

11:45am

St Bavo's Cathedral

Marvel at the impressive Gothic architecture and see the famous Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers.
Donation-based, 0h45m

12:30pm

Lunch at De Graslei

Eat at one of the historic waterfront restaurants offering local Belgian dishes with views of the medieval quay.
EUR30, 1h0m

1:45pm

Boat Tour of Ghent Canals

A relaxing 40-minute boat trip through Ghent's winding canals showcasing the city’s remarkable architecture.
EUR12, 0h45m

3:00pm

Free time for shopping or exploring

Stroll the quaint streets around Korenmarkt for souvenirs, or relax in a café before heading back.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Travel back to London

Return by train from Ghent to Brussels Midi, then Eurostar back to London St Pancras. Total travel approx. 3h30m.
EUR75, 3h30m
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