Round trip through Belgium by car: 5 routes full of pleasure and nature

Belgium is a true road trip paradise: compact, diverse, and full of surprises. Whether you're planning a road trip through Belgium or want to set off spontaneously – this small country has a lot to offer. From historic cities to green landscapes to the North Sea coast, Belgium offers the perfect conditions for a road trip with short distances and many highlights.

Here you'll find five inspiring routes for your next vacation in Belgium – also ideal for travelers from the UK!

Highlights: Beach walks, seafood specialties, medieval old towns

Start your trip in Ostend, the lively coastal town with a wide sandy beach and fresh fish from the harbor. Head north along the Belgian coast to De Haan with its charming Belle Époque architecture.

Just 30 minutes away is the UNESCO jewel Bruges – perfect for an overnight stay. Let yourself drift through the canals or stroll through the picturesque city center with its alleys and chocolate shops.

Highlights: Forests, castles, hiking, and regional cuisine

The Ardennes in southeastern Belgium are perfect for nature lovers. Start in Durbuy, the "smallest town in the world," and continue through the Ourthe Valley to La Roche-en-Ardenne with its Castle ruins.

Those looking for action can drive a little further and find numerous hiking and mountain biking trails – or go canoeing on the Semois River. The High Fens Nature Park takes you to almost alpine altitudes with a fascinating moorland landscape.

Highlights: Ghent, Antwerp, Local Brewing and Art Nouveau

This route combines the best of history and urban flair. Start in Ghent – an insider tip with a student atmosphere and alleys full of street art. Next, we head to Antwerp, the diamond and fashion capital with an impressive train station and vibrant gastronomy scene.

A trip to nearby Mechelen, located between Brussels and Antwerp, is worthwhile. It boasts a charming old town – without the crowds of tourists.

Highlights: Small villages, caves, lake landscapes

Drive through French-speaking Belgium, passing charming towns like Namur or Dinant on the Meuse River. About an hour from Dinant, a visit to the impressive Grottes de Han-sur-Lesse, one of the largest cave systems in Europe, is worthwhile. If you prefer a quieter setting, plan a few days at Lac de l'Eau d'Heure (about an hour from Dinant) – ideal for swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing, even with your four-legged friend, who will especially love this tour.

Highlights: Brussels, Leuven, Mons – Pure Culture & Cuisine

For those who want to soak up some culture: Start in the capital Brussels with the futuristic Atomium, the historic Grand Place, and a stroll via the city's street food markets. Continue to Leuven, the beer capital with a young atmosphere. Afterwards, the charming Mons beckons with its historic city center and French flair.

These cities are only about an [hour apart](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Mons/Leuven,+Belgium/@50.6694285,3.9870452,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x47c24558a6578cfb:0x40099ab2f4d6c90! 2m2!1d3.9612155!2d50.4538181!1m5!1m1!1s0x47c160d05ebbdf85:0x40099ab2f4d5690!2m2!1d4.7024648!2d50.8791453!3e0?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDcwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) – ideal for a round trip around Belgium by car without long driving times.

• Tolls & vignettes: Free in Belgium – only the Liefkenshoek Tunnel near Antwerp is subject to a fee
• Parking: Often subject to a fee in cities, usually free in rural areas
• Accommodation: You can easily find holiday homes via casapilot.

Whether you have a weekend to spare or want to spend two weeks touring the country, a road trip through Belgium is relaxing, varied, and full of surprises. And best of all, the most beautiful regions are often just an hour's drive apart!

Get inspired now and discover suitable accommodations on casapilot!