5 Family Friendly Days in Brussels

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Advisor - Holly Huff
Curated By

Holly Huff

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Solo Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Family Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Belgium

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Entertainment

A brick street with houses with a lot of windows and painted murals in the surrounding areas.
Curator’s statement

Belgium is a country located in Europe, which is often overlooked as a vacation destination. However, there are plenty of things to do in Belgium that can entertain both children and adults. When traveling with kids, it can be challenging to find activities that will be enjoyable for everyone. By choosing Belgium, you will get a chance to explore a unique part of Europe that many people haven't yet discovered. Moreover, it is a more affordable option compared to other parts of the continent.

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Day 1: Arrive in Brussels

A boat full of people going down a river surrounded by stone buildings and trees.

After you arrive in Brussels, check in to your hotel and take some time to explore the city and adjust to the time change. Start your day by visiting the Grand Place. It is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe and a great place to walk around, enjoy the sights and grab something to eat. There are multiple restaurant options that overlook the square. While exploring the square, you will see some of the beautiful architecture that Brussels is known for, including buildings that have been there for hundreds of years.

Day 2: Join a Waffle-Making Tour!

A grand white building with gold trim and detailing.

If you're traveling with children, it's a good idea to start the day with something that will be enjoyable for them and you. In Brussels, you can enjoy their famous waffles by joining a waffle-making tour. Afterwards, take some time to rest before embarking on a guided bike tour of Brussels. It's an excellent way to explore the city and your guide will be able to recommend some great places to eat. If you are traveling with young children who cannot ride a bike yet, there are bike options available that will allow your child to ride with you. You can choose between a group or private tour.

Day 3: Indulge in Belgium Chocolate

A storefront window with a lit yellow neon sign and merchandise being displayed at night.

No trip to Belgium can be considered complete without indulging in some of their famous chocolates. And what better way to try this chocolate than joining a guided chocolate tour? Depending on your preference, you can choose from multiple tour options for both group and private tours. For those who love beer, there are options that combine both beer and chocolate so that there is something for everyone. In case you are not interested in bike riding, you can opt for a guided walking tour of the city. Make sure you don't miss the Manneken Pis statue, a two-foot statue of a peeing boy. Kids will love it and it's a great opportunity to take memorable photos.

Day 4: Visit Bruges

A stone building with luxurious detailing in front of a cloudy blue sky.

If you're looking for a day trip from Brussels, Bruges is a great destination. You can get there by train or arrange for a private transfer to pick you up from your hotel. Once you arrive, you'll have the option to join either a group or private tour to explore the city. Bruges is a medieval city that will take you back in time. It's best to start early in the day as many of the attractions close early in the evening.

While in Bruges, be sure to try the famous chocolate. It's different from the chocolate in Brussels, and you'll find that each city thinks their chocolate is the best. If you're joining a tour, you'll meet your guide in the Market Square, which is a beautiful square that includes the Provincial Palace, Belfry Tower and Cloth Hall. You can also take a boat ride on the canal to get a different perspective of the city. Many tours include both a walking tour and a boat ride on the canal. If you're traveling with young children who may not be able to do a walking tour, you can take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage instead.

You may notice a change in language when you visit Bruges. While French is spoken in Brussels, Flemish is spoken in Bruges. However, you won't have trouble finding people who speak English in either city.

Day 5: Visit Some of the Beautiful Cathedrals

An interior of a cathedral with various arched and stained glass windows.

On your last day in Brussels, you will want to experience some of the beautiful cathedrals the city offers. Make sure you check out both Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral. Both are free to enter and are great examples of Gothic architecture in Belgium. If you have young children who need to burn off some energy, a trip to Parc du Cinquantenaire is another excellent option. Also, if you are interested in doing a little shopping, a visit to Les Galeries Royales Saint Hubert is the place to go.

Need to know

Advisor - Holly Huff

Travel Advisor

Holly Huff

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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 5-Day Journey Through Oahu.

This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Belgium.