19-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Belgium
Belgium is a dream destination for families seeking an epic journey that doesn't sacrifice comfort for adventure. This 19-day route focuses on the country's incredible rail network, stroller-friendly city centers, and a blend of historic wonder and modern fun that keeps both toddlers and teenagers engaged.
By basing yourselves in major hubs like Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp, you can explore the best of the Benelux region without the stress of constant packing. From the comic book walls of Brussels to the sandy beaches of Ostend, this itinerary ensures a relaxed pace with plenty of time for waffles, chocolate, and park play.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Brussels
Arrival at Brussels Airport (BRU)
Land at Belgium's main hub and take the smooth 20-minute train ride directly to the city center.
Grand Place Exploration
Marvel at one of the world's most beautiful squares. It is mostly flat and stroller-accessible, perfect for a first family photo.
Chocolate Tasting at Leonidas
Stop for a kid-friendly chocolate introduction where the pralines are as famous as the history.
Relaxed Dinner near Rue des Bouchers
Enjoy a classic Belgian meal of moules-frites in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Day 2: Brussels - Icons & Miniatures
The Atomium
Visit this iconic 1958 World's Fair landmark. The elevator ride to the top is a hit with kids of all ages.
Mini-Europe Park
Located right next to the Atomium, see all of Europe's landmarks in 1:25 scale with interactive buttons.
Design Museum Brussels
A colorful and spacious museum nearby that is easy to navigate with a stroller.
Parc de Laeken Picnic
Let the kids run free in the vast green spaces surrounding the Royal Palace of Laeken.
Day 3: Brussels - Comics & Parks
Belgian Comic Strip Center
Discover the birthplace of Tintin and the Smurfs in a stunning Art Nouveau building with easy lift access.
Comic Book Route Walk
Follow the street art murals scattered across the city center. It's like an urban treasure hunt for children.
Parc du Cinquantenaire
Visit the massive arch and the playground, followed by a quick look at the vintage cars in Autoworld.
Dinner in the European Quarter
A quieter area with plenty of modern, spacious restaurants suitable for families.
Day 4: Travel to Ghent & Castle Discovery
Train to Ghent St-Pieters
A comfortable 35-minute train ride. Strollers can be rolled directly onto most Belgian IC trains.
Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts)
An authentic medieval castle with a humorous audio guide that kids absolutely love.
Ghent Canal Boat Tour
A relaxed 40-minute boat ride is the best way to see the city without tiring out little legs.
Check-in near Korenmarkt
Stay in the pedestrianized heart of the city for easy evening strolls.
Day 5: Ghent - Science & Sweets
The World of Kina
A nature museum specifically designed for children and teenagers with interactive exhibits.
Patershol District Lunch
Explore the winding, car-free alleys of this historic neighborhood for a quiet lunch.
Ghent Belfry
Take the elevator to the top for a panoramic view of the city's dragon mascot.
Cuberdon Tasting
Try the traditional cone-shaped raspberry candies from a street cart in Groentenmarkt.
Day 6: Ghent - Day Trip to Pairi Daiza
Travel to Pairi Daiza
Take the train to Cambron-Casteau for what is frequently voted the best zoo in Europe.
The Land of the Cold
See polar bears and penguins in beautifully themed, spacious enclosures.
The Kingdom of Ganesha
Explore the stunning Indonesian-themed gardens and see the elephants.
Return to Ghent
Relax on the train ride back after a full day of animal encounters.
Day 7: Moving to Bruges - The Fairy Tale Begins
Train to Bruges
A short 25-minute journey into the heart of West Flanders.
Minnewater (Lake of Love)
Walk through this peaceful park filled with swans—a perfect entry point to the city.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
A magical way for kids to see the cobblestone streets without the walking fatigue.
Check-in at a Historic Boutique Hotel
Bruges offers many family-run guest houses in old mansions.
Day 8: Bruges - Chocolate & Fries
Choco-Story Museum
Learn the history of chocolate with a dedicated kid's trail and live demonstrations with samples.
Frietmuseum
The world's only museum dedicated to potato fries, located in a beautiful 14th-century building.
Belfry of Bruges
For older kids, the 366-step climb rewards you with the best views in town.
Dinner at Markt Square
Enjoy the evening atmosphere of the illuminated provincial court and colorful gables.
Day 9: Bruges - Windmills & Canals
Sint-Janshuismolen Windmill
Walk along the city's green ramparts to see real, working windmills on the edge of town.
Canal Boat Trip (Alternative Route)
If you missed it in Ghent, the Bruges boat tour is essential for seeing hidden gardens.
Koningin Astridpark
A local favorite with a great playground and plenty of shade for a mid-afternoon break.
Waffle Workshop
Join a family-friendly session to learn how to bake your own Brussels or Liège waffles.
Day 10: Ostend - The Belgian Coast
Train to Ostend
Just 15 minutes by train to the 'Queen of Seaside Resorts'.
The Beach Promenade
Stroll the wide, paved walkway that is completely stroller-friendly and lined with shops.
Atlantic Wall Raversyde
Explore the bunkers and tunnels of this preserved WWII site (best for older children).
Beachfront Dinner
Fresh North Sea shrimp croquettes are a must-try here.
Day 11: Ostend - Coastal Tram Adventure
The Coast Tram (Kusttram)
Hop on the world's longest tram line which connects the entire Belgian coastline.
De Haan Stop
Visit this charming Belle Époque village with its unique architecture and quiet dunes.
Sandcastle Building
Spend a few hours on the wide sandy beaches of De Haan before heading back to Ostend.
Seafood Feast
Ostend’s Visserskaai is the place for high-quality, family-friendly seafood dining.
Day 12: Travel to Antwerp - Diamonds & Zoos
Train to Antwerp Central
Arrive at what is often called the most beautiful train station in the world.
Antwerp Zoo
Located right next to the station, this is one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in the world.
Chocolate Nation
The largest Belgian chocolate museum in the world, located just across from the station.
Dinner in the Diamond District
A diverse area with many international food options that kids will enjoy.
Day 13: Antwerp - Port & History
MAS Museum (Museum aan de Stroom)
Take the escalators to the roof for a free 360-degree view of the port and city.
St. Anna's Tunnel
Walk or take the vintage wooden escalators through this pedestrian tunnel under the river.
Left Bank (Linkeroever) Park
Enjoy the skyline views and a large playground on the quiet side of the Scheldt river.
Grote Markt Dining
Eat dinner surrounded by the impressive Guild Houses and the Brabo Fountain.
Day 14: Antwerp - Comics & Fashion
Comic Station Antwerp
An indoor theme park located inside the Central Station, perfect for a rainy day.
Meir Shopping Street
A wide, pedestrianized boulevard perfect for a family walk and some window shopping.
Plantin-Moretus Museum
A UNESCO site with old printing presses; surprisingly engaging for kids with its 'printing' activities.
Farewell Antwerp Dinner
Visit the 'Eilandje' district for trendy but casual dining by the water.
Day 15: Mechelen - The Science Hub
Train to Mechelen
A quick 15-minute hop. Mechelen is one of Belgium's most kid-friendly cities.
Technopolis
The ultimate hands-on science center where kids can fly a plane or ride a bike on a cable.
St. Rumbold's Cathedral
The skywalk offers a unique view of the city, and the climb includes 'resting rooms' for families.
Vismarkt Dinner
A cozy square with many cafes that welcome families and offer terrace seating.
Day 16: Travel to Namur - The Ardennes Gateway
Train to Namur
Head south into the French-speaking Wallonia region (approx. 1 hour 15 mins).
Namur Citadel
Take the cable car up to the fortress for spectacular views of the Meuse river.
Citadel Tourist Train
A great way to tour the massive fortifications without the steep uphill walk.
Old Town Walk
Explore the narrow streets of 'Vieux Namur' for a charming Wallonian dinner.
Day 17: Dinant - Saxophones & Cliffs
Train to Dinant
A very scenic 30-minute ride along the river valley.
Citadel of Dinant
Take the cable car up to this fortress perched on a cliff for a history lesson with a view.
Maison Leffe
For the parents: a museum dedicated to the famous beer (with a soft drink/juice for kids).
Saxophone Trail
Dinant is the birthplace of Adolphe Sax. Find the colorful giant saxophones across the bridge.
Day 18: Return to Brussels - Souvenirs & Farewells
Train back to Brussels
A direct 1-hour 30-minute journey back to the capital.
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Do some final high-end chocolate shopping in this stunning 19th-century arcade.
Manneken Pis & Jeanneke Pis
A quick visit to the city's most famous (and small) statues to round off the trip.
Final Celebration Dinner
Choose a restaurant in the Sablon district for a sophisticated yet family-friendly farewell.
Day 19: Departure
Last Belgian Breakfast
Enjoy fresh pastries and a strong coffee before your journey home.
Airport Train Transfer
Head back to BRU for your flight, utilizing the efficient rail link one last time.
Best Time to Visit Belgium
The best time for a family trip to Belgium is between May and September. During these months, the weather is mild (18°C to 23°C), and outdoor parks, boat tours, and coastal activities are in full swing. July and August are the warmest but also the busiest. For a magical alternative, December offers world-class Christmas markets, though you'll need to pack heavy winter gear for the kids.
Currency & Money
Belgium uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including for very small amounts in bakeries and cafes. However, it is useful to carry a small amount of cash for public restrooms (which often cost €0.50) or small market stalls. Tipping is not mandatory as service is included in the bill, but rounding up the total for good service is appreciated.
Getting Around Belgium
The Belgian Rail (NMBS/SNCB) is the backbone of this itinerary. It is one of the densest and most reliable networks in Europe. For families, the 'Standard Multi' (formerly Rail Pass) or weekend tickets (50% off) offer significant savings. Within cities, trams and buses are efficient and usually stroller-friendly. For the Ardennes region (Days 16-17), a rental car provides more flexibility for reaching remote trailheads and castles.
