8-Day Family and Friends Adventure in Belgium: Culture, Cuisine, and Scenic Sights

Day 1: Explore Brussels

Brussels, Belgium on May 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Start your day with organic pastries and freshly brewed coffee at this cozy bakery known for classic Belgian breakfast options.
EUR15, 1h

9:45am

Grand Place Visit

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its opulent guildhalls and vibrant flower market—a must-see landmark in Brussels.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Visit Manneken Pis

See the iconic little statue representing the humorous spirit of Brussels, located just a short walk from Grand Place.
Free, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Chez Léon

Enjoy traditional Belgian specialties like moules-frites (mussels and fries) in a lively and family-friendly restaurant.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Belgian Comic Strip Center

Explore the colorful world of Belgian comics, featuring famous characters like Tintin in a fun and cultural experience for all ages.
EUR12, 1h30m

3:30pm

Brussels Park Relaxation

Stroll or relax in this serene green space perfect for families and friends to unwind after sightseeing.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at La Roue d’Or

Dine on classic Belgian dishes in an Art Deco setting known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent service.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 2: Historic Ghent

Ghent, Belgium on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Simon Says

Enjoy artisanal coffee and freshly baked goods at a trendy café popular among locals.
EUR12, 1h

9:30am

Gravensteen Castle Tour

Explore the medieval fortress in the heart of Ghent with panoramic views and interactive displays that engage both kids and adults.
EUR10, 1h30m

11:15am

St. Bavo's Cathedral Visit

See the stunning Gothic architecture and the famous Ghent Altarpiece painting, a cultural highlight.
EUR6, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at De Graslei

Savor Belgian cuisine while enjoying views of Ghent’s beautiful canal-side quay.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Boat Tour on Ghent Canals

Take a relaxing 40-minute boat ride to see Ghent’s historic center from the water, perfect for group enjoyment.
EUR12, 45m

4:00pm

Visit Patershol Neighborhood

Wander through cobblestone streets filled with charming shops and cafés, ideal for a leisurely walk.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Publiek

Enjoy modern Belgian dishes in a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere with locally sourced ingredients.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 3: Charming Bruges

Bruges, Belgium on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Li O Lait

Relax with fresh waffles and coffee at this beloved local spot near the city center.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Belfry of Bruges Climb

Climb the 366 steps of the medieval bell tower for panoramic views of Bruges' rooftops and canals.
EUR14, 1h

11:00am

Market Square Exploration

Visit the bustling heart of Bruges with historic buildings, shops, and street performers.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Olive Tree

Dine on Mediterranean and Belgian fusion dishes in a cozy environment perfect for groups.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Canal Boat Tour

Enjoy a scenic 30-minute boat ride through Bruges’ iconic canals to view the city’s fairy tale architecture.
EUR10, 30m

3:00pm

Visit Groeningemuseum

Discover Flemish and Belgian masterpieces including works by Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.
EUR14, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at De Stove

Experience intimate family dining with hearty Belgian fare in this small, charming restaurant.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 4: Antwerp Highlights

Antwerp, Belgium on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Normo Coffee

Kick off the day with expertly brewed coffee and light bites in this popular Antwerp café.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Cathedral of Our Lady Tour

Marvel at the Gothic architecture and notable artworks including pieces by Peter Paul Rubens.
EUR8, 1h

11:00am

Antwerp Zoo Visit

Explore one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Europe, great for kids and adults alike.
EUR28, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Frituur Numidie

Taste authentic Belgian fries from this highly rated local frituur that offers crispy delights and sauces.
EUR10, 45m

2:30pm

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)

Visit Antwerp’s iconic museum showcasing maritime history and panoramic rooftop views of the city.
EUR15, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk along the Scheldt River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks with views of the port and city skyline, perfect for families.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at De Peerdestal

Savor traditional Flemish beef steak in a rustic and welcoming atmosphere suitable for groups.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 5: Mechelen Cultural Day

Mechelen, Belgium on May 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Brasserie De Zeveren

Enjoy a hearty Belgian breakfast in this quaint brasserie known for its friendly service.
EUR12, 1h

9:45am

St. Rumbold's Cathedral Visit

Climb the cathedral tower for spectacular views and explore its stunning architecture and art.
EUR8, 1h30m

11:30am

Toy Museum

Delight children and adults alike with a diverse collection of toys from different eras.
EUR7, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Den Tseut

Sample delicious Belgian fare in a cozy setting offering local specialties that families appreciate.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Planckendael Zoo

Spend the afternoon exploring this expansive zoo park featuring animals from around the world.
EUR25, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Bistro De Zalm

Relax with fresh seafood and regional dishes in a family-friendly bistro near the city center.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 6: Namur and Citadel

Namur, Belgium on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien Namur

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast of bread, eggs, and coffee in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Explore Namur Citadel

Visit the extensive fortress offering panoramic views, historical exhibitions, and walking trails.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at ICI Restaurant

Savor contemporary Belgian cuisine with fresh ingredients in a stylish and welcoming setting.
EUR30, 1h

1:30pm

Walk Through Old Town

Explore the charming old quarter with bustling markets, shops, and cafes for a relaxed afternoon.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Boat Trip on Meuse River

Take a leisurely 1-hour boat ride along the river to enjoy scenic views of Namur’s landmarks.
EUR15, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at L'Estaminet

End your day with hearty regional dishes served in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 7: Scenic Dinant

Dinant, Belgium on May 21, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mokafe

Start with fresh croissants and coffee in this popular café overlooking the Meuse River.
EUR12, 1h

9:30am

Visit Dinant Citadel

Take a cable car or climb to the historic citadel for breathtaking views and military history exhibits.
EUR9, 1h30m

11:30am

Collegiate Church of Notre Dame

Admire the striking Gothic church with its unique onion-shaped dome and stained glass windows.
Free, 45m

12:30pm

Lunch at La Broche

Enjoy fresh local specialties including trout dishes right on the riverbank, perfect for families.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Bayard Rock and Kayaking

For adventurous families, rent kayaks to explore the Meuse River or walk to the scenic Bayard Rock.
EUR20, 2h

6:00pm

Early Dinner at L’Évasion

Dine on Belgian and French classics in a relaxed setting before returning to Brussels.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 8: Return to Brussels

Brussels, Belgium on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Peck 47

Fuel up with creative breakfast dishes and fresh juices at this hip café in central Brussels.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Royal Museums of Fine Arts

Explore Belgian and international masterpieces in a large museum complex, perfect for a last cultural experience.
EUR12, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Noordzee Mer du Nord

Enjoy fresh seafood snacks and casual dining at this popular outdoor fish bar near the market.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Chocolate Tasting at Pierre Marcolini

Indulge in luxurious Belgian chocolates at this renowned chocolatier for a sweet farewell treat.
EUR15, 1h

3:30pm

Leisurely walk in Parc de Bruxelles

Relax and reflect on your trip with a stroll through the largest urban public park in Brussels.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at La Villa Lorraine

Celebrate your last evening with fine dining featuring elegant Belgian and French cuisine in a classy setting.
EUR50, 2h
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