16-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Belgium
Belgium is a land of refined tastes, where medieval architecture meets avant-garde fashion and Michelin-starred gastronomy. This 16-day itinerary is designed for the discerning traveler, blending the country’s rich artistic heritage with exclusive, high-end experiences that define modern luxury.
From the sparkling diamond districts of Antwerp to the fairy-tale canals of Bruges and the rugged elegance of the Ardennes, you will traverse the country in first-class comfort. Prepare to stay in historic palaces, dine at world-renowned establishments, and enjoy private access to the cultural treasures of the Low Countries.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Brussels
VIP Airport Arrival
Arrive at Brussels Airport (Zaventem) and enjoy a private limousine transfer to your hotel. We recommend staying at the historic Hotel Amigo, located just steps from the Grand Place.
Grand Place Private Tour
Meet your private historian guide for an exclusive walk through the UNESCO-listed Grand Place, exploring the intricate guild houses and the King’s House.
Sablon District Shopping
Visit the Sablon district, home to Belgium’s finest antique dealers and luxury chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini and Wittamer.
Dinner at Comme Chez Soi
Indulge in a legendary culinary experience at this iconic restaurant, known for its exquisite Art Nouveau interior and world-class French-Belgian cuisine.
Day 2: Brussels - Art & Heritage
Royal Museums of Fine Arts
Enjoy a private guided tour of the Old Masters Museum, focusing on the works of Bruegel and Rubens before they get crowded.
Magritte Museum
Explore the world's largest collection of works by the surrealist master, René Magritte, housed in a stunningly renovated building.
Mount of the Arts
Take in the panoramic views of the Brussels skyline from the Kunstberg garden, a perfect spot for photography.
Seafood Dinner at Quai aux Briques
Savor the freshest North Sea seafood at a high-end bistro in the historic Fish Market district.
Day 3: Brussels - Art Nouveau & Chocolate
Horta Museum Private Visit
Step into the home of Victor Horta, the pioneer of Art Nouveau, and marvel at the intricate ironwork and light-filled spaces.
Exclusive Chocolate Workshop
Join a master chocolatier for a private workshop where you will learn the secrets of Belgian pralines and create your own confections.
Bois de la Cambre Walk
Relax in the city's largest park, a sprawling English-style garden perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll.
Evening at the Opera
Enjoy a performance at the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie, one of Europe’s leading opera houses.
Day 4: Mechelen & The Journey to Antwerp
First-Class Train to Mechelen
Depart Brussels via a first-class rail cabin for a quick 20-minute journey to the charming city of Mechelen.
St. Rumbold's Tower
Ascend the iconic tower for views stretching as far as the Atomium in Brussels on clear days.
Kazerne Dossin
Visit this moving memorial and museum, reflecting on the historical significance of the region during WWII.
Arrival in Antwerp
Continue to Antwerp and check into Hotel August, a former convent transformed into a design-led sanctuary.
Day 5: Antwerp - Diamonds & Design
Diamond District Private Viewing
Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world. Enjoy a private tour of a high-end workshop to see master cutters at work.
Rubens House
Explore the home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, which houses a spectacular collection of his paintings and personal artifacts.
Fashion Museum (MoMu)
Discover why Antwerp is a global fashion hub at MoMu, featuring rotating exhibitions of avant-garde Belgian designers.
Dinner at The Jane
Dine at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in a stunning former chapel. Booking months in advance is essential.
Day 6: Antwerp - The Port & The Arts
Private Harbor Boat Tour
Charter a private yacht to explore the Port of Antwerp, one of the largest and most technologically advanced ports in the world.
MAS Museum (Museum aan de Stroom)
Visit this architectural landmark for its exhibits on Antwerp's global history and the 360-degree rooftop view.
Luxury Shopping on Schuttershofstraat
Browse high-end boutiques and international luxury brands in Antwerp’s most prestigious shopping street.
Belgian Beer Degustation
Enjoy a private tasting of rare Trappist beers at a high-end specialized bar like Kulminator.
Day 7: Ghent - Medieval Grandeur
First-Class Train to Ghent
Relax on a short first-class train ride to Ghent, a city that seamlessly blends medieval history with a vibrant student energy.
St. Bavo's Cathedral
Witness the "Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" by the Van Eyck brothers, one of the most influential works of art in history.
Gravensteen Castle
Explore the 12th-century Castle of the Counts, a remarkably well-preserved medieval fortress in the heart of the city.
Dinner in Patershol
Explore the narrow alleys of the Patershol district for a refined dinner at a hidden culinary gem.
Day 8: Ghent - Canals & Culture
Private Canal Cruise
Experience Ghent from the water on a private eco-friendly boat, sipping Champagne as you pass historic guild halls.
Design Museum Gent
Visit this museum for a deep dive into Belgian and international design history (check for renovation status).
Graslei & Korenlei Stroll
Relax on the most beautiful quays in Europe, perfect for people-watching and enjoying the atmosphere.
Michelin Dining at Vrijmoed
Enjoy contemporary Belgian cuisine at the two-Michelin-starred Vrijmoed, known for its creative vegetable-focused dishes.
Day 9: Bruges - The Fairytale Begins
Private Transfer to Bruges
Travel by private car to Bruges, the world-renowned "Venice of the North." Check into the Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage.
The Belfry of Bruges
Climb the 366 steps of the medieval bell tower for an unrivaled view of the red-tiled roofs of the city.
Choco-Story Museum
A private tour of this museum offers a deep dive into the history of cocoa and a tasting of premium Belgian chocolates.
Canalside Dining
Enjoy a quiet, luxury dinner at a restaurant overlooking the illuminated canals.
Day 10: Bruges - Art & Serenity
Groeninge Museum
View the spectacular collection of Flemish Primitive paintings, including masterpieces by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
Private Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
Take a traditional carriage ride through the cobblestone streets, stopping at the tranquil Beguinage (Begijnhof).
Lake of Love (Minnewater)
Walk through Minnewater Park, a serene lake area filled with swans and romantic legends.
Dinner at De Jonkman
Travel just outside the city center to this two-Michelin-starred establishment for a masterclass in modern gastronomy.
Day 11: Damme - A Countryside Escape
Private Boat to Damme
Board a private boat for a scenic ride along the tree-lined Damse Vaart to the picturesque village of Damme.
Lunch in Damme
Enjoy a traditional Flemish lunch at a high-end bistro in this historic book-town.
Lace-Making Workshop
Visit a local workshop to learn about the intricate art of Bruges lace, a craft preserved for centuries.
Return to Bruges
Spend your final evening in Bruges wandering the quiet, lamp-lit streets after the day-trippers have left.
Day 12: Knokke-Heist - Coastal Luxury
Transfer to the Coast
A private driver will take you to Knokke-Heist, Belgium's most exclusive seaside resort town.
Zwin Nature Park
Take a private guided nature walk in this unique salt-marsh reserve, a haven for migratory birds and storks.
Art Gallery Hopping
Explore the dozens of high-end art galleries in the Het Zoute district, featuring international contemporary art.
Dinner at Bartholomeus
Experience the ultimate in seaside fine dining at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the dunes.
Day 13: Namur & Dinant - The Meuse Valley
Scenic Drive to Wallonia
Depart for the French-speaking region of Wallonia. Visit the Citadel of Namur for a private underground tour.
Riverside Lunch in Dinant
Dine along the Meuse River with a view of the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame and the towering cliffs.
Maison Leffe
Visit the museum dedicated to the famous Leffe abbey beer, located in a beautiful former monastery.
Castle Stay
Check into a luxury castle hotel in the Namur region, such as the Château de Namur.
Day 14: Durbuy - The Smallest City in the World
Exploring Durbuy
Wander through the tiny, perfectly preserved medieval streets of Durbuy, nestled in the heart of the Ardennes.
Topiary Park Visit
Visit the world’s largest topiary park, featuring over 250 boxwood sculptures in artistic shapes.
Local Gastronomy Tasting
Sample regional specialties including Ardennes ham and local forest honey at a gourmet boutique.
Gourmet Dinner
Enjoy a game-based meal (in season) at a high-end restaurant specializing in local Ardennes flavors.
Day 15: Return to Brussels - Final Indulgences
Return to Brussels
Drive back to the capital for a final day of luxury. Revisit your favorite spots or explore new ones.
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Do your final shopping in the world's first covered shopping arcade, home to high-end boutiques and the famous Tropismes bookstore.
Atomium VIP Visit
End your trip with a visit to the Atomium, enjoying a glass of Champagne in the top sphere overlooking the city.
Farewell Michelin Dinner
Celebrate your journey at Bon-Bon, where Chef Christophe Hardiquest creates poetic Belgian dishes.
Day 16: Departure
Belgian Breakfast
Enjoy a final indulgent breakfast of Belgian waffles and artisanal coffee at your hotel.
Last Minute Souvenirs
Pick up some last-minute Belgian lace or luxury chocolates at the airport’s premium duty-free shops.
Private Transfer to Airport
Your driver will escort you to Brussels Airport (BRU) for your departure flight.
Lounge Access & Departure
Relax in the Diamond Lounge before boarding your flight home.
Best Time to Visit Belgium
The best time to visit Belgium for a luxury escape is during the late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the gardens are in full bloom or displaying vibrant fall colors. While July and August offer the warmest weather, they can be quite crowded. If you enjoy festive charm, December is magical with high-end Christmas markets and cozy, Michelin-starred dining by the fireplace.
Currency & Money
Belgium uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are universally accepted in hotels, high-end restaurants, and luxury boutiques, though it is always useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases in rural areas. Tipping is generally included in the service charge at restaurants, but for exceptional service in luxury establishments, a 5-10% tip is highly appreciated by the staff.
Getting Around Belgium
Belgium is a small country with an incredibly efficient transport network. For intercity travel, first-class trains are the most convenient and comfortable way to move between Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. For more remote areas like the Ardennes or the coast, hiring a private driver or renting a luxury vehicle is recommended to ensure flexibility and comfort. Domestic flights are not necessary due to the short distances between major cities.
