Brussels, Ghent and Bruges

Your cycling holiday begins in Brussels, the lively capital of Belgium and the heart of the European Union. After checking into your hotel, you will have the rest of the day free to explore the city at your own pace. Brussels is a city of contrasts, blending elegant historic squares with a cosmopolitan modern identity. A walk through the old town is a must, especially the Grand Place, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful squares in the world. The ornate guild houses and gothic town hall make this a perfect introduction to the city’s charm.

Other highlights include the Atomium, a striking modernist structure originally built for Expo 58, and the Manneken Pis, a quirky symbol of Brussels. The Art Nouveau architecture scattered throughout the city is also worth discovering, particularly if you enjoy design and history. Brussels is also surprisingly green, with parks, gardens and tree-lined boulevards that offer a peaceful escape from the busy streets.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner or explore one of the many restaurants offering Belgian specialities. Whether it is mussels with fries, a pot of carbonnade flamande, or simply a cone of golden chips from a local frituur, you will quickly see why Belgium is so well known for its food. Overnight stay in Brussels.

Your first day of cycling begins with a ride out of Brussels on well-maintained cycle paths leading into the Flemish countryside. The route takes you to Leuven, a vibrant university city and the home of Belgium’s oldest university. Leuven is famous for its brewing traditions, and a stop in the Oude Markt, often called the longest bar in Europe, provides a glimpse of its lively café culture. The ornate Town Hall is one of the country’s most beautiful gothic buildings and is worth a short visit before continuing the journey.

From Leuven, the ride continues to Mechelen, a smaller but historically significant city on the River Dijle. During the Burgundian period, Mechelen was one of the most important political and cultural centres in Europe. Today, its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. The highlight is St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, with its imposing tower offering panoramic views over Flanders. The palaces of Margaret of York and Margaret of Austria add to the city’s charm, recalling its illustrious past.

For those interested in more modern history, the Kazerne Dossin museum provides a thoughtful insight into Belgium during the Second World War. Alternatively, the Toy Museum is a lighter option, especially if travelling with children. In the evening, relax in one of Mechelen’s inviting squares and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay in Mechelen.

This morning offers the option of a short 15-minute train ride to Antwerp before starting the day’s cycling. Antwerp is Belgium’s second largest city, famous for its diamond district, fashion houses and art heritage. A stroll along the Meir, the main shopping street, reveals grand baroque architecture, while the Cathedral of Our Lady houses masterpieces by Rubens. For a more relaxed stop, enjoy a coffee on one of the lively squares before returning to Mechelen to begin your ride.

The cycling route today follows the rivers Rupel and Scheldt, offering peaceful and mostly flat terrain. The scenery alternates between quiet villages, open fields and stretches along the riverside. This stage is shorter than others on the tour, giving you time to ride at a leisurely pace and stop along the way to enjoy the views.

Arrive in Bornem or Puurs, two small Flemish towns that provide a glimpse of local life away from the busier tourist cities. Bornem is known for its abbey and annual cycling race, while Puurs has a reputation for brewing and distilling. Take the evening to relax, enjoy a slower pace and prepare for the longer ride tomorrow. Overnight stay in Bornem or Puurs.

Today’s ride takes you deeper into Flanders as you make your way to Ghent, one of Belgium’s most atmospheric and vibrant cities. The journey follows quiet country roads and cycle paths, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the scenery along the way. As you approach Ghent, the skyline becomes dominated by its many towers, earning it the nickname “the city of a hundred spires.”

Ghent combines medieval history with a lively modern atmosphere. The highlight is the St. Bavo Cathedral, which houses the famous Ghent Altarpiece, also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Jan van Eyck. This is one of the world’s most celebrated works of art and draws visitors from around the globe. Another must-see is the Gravensteen, a medieval fortress that was once the seat of the Counts of Flanders. Its towers and battlements provide an insight into the city’s turbulent past.

The old port area, with its rows of guild houses, is perfect for an evening stroll. Ghent also has a thriving restaurant and bar scene, making it one of the best places in Belgium to enjoy an evening out. Whether you choose a traditional Flemish stew or something more contemporary, you will find plenty of choice here. Overnight stay in Ghent.

The ride from Ghent to Bruges is a highlight of the tour, following scenic canals and quiet paths through the Flemish countryside. The relatively short distance allows you to arrive in Bruges with enough time to explore the city at leisure. Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often referred to as the Venice of the North due to its picturesque canals.

The Market Square, with its impressive Belfry, is the perfect place to begin your exploration. You can climb the tower for panoramic views over the city, or simply sit at a café and enjoy the atmosphere. Other highlights include the Beguinage, a tranquil courtyard that offers a glimpse into the city’s religious history, and the Church of Our Lady, which houses a sculpture by Michelangelo.

Bruges is also known for its culinary delights. Belgian chocolate shops are scattered across the city, and many shopkeepers are happy to explain the traditions behind their craft. Beer lovers will also find plenty of choice, with local breweries offering both tastings and tours. In the evening, enjoy a meal in one of the intimate restaurants or take a twilight stroll along the canals. Overnight stay in Bruges.

Your final cycling stage is a circular ride from Bruges to the coast and back. The route takes you along canals to the village of Lissewege, often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Flanders. Its whitewashed houses and peaceful setting make it a delightful stop. From there, continue to De Haan, a coastal town with Belle Époque villas and a wide sandy beach.

This is a day to enjoy at your own pace. You may choose to take a refreshing swim in the North Sea, relax on the beach or simply wander through the streets of De Haan. The ride back to Bruges is equally pleasant, following gentle cycle paths through open countryside.

If you prefer not to ride today, Bruges itself offers plenty of alternatives. Take a boat trip along the canals, enjoy a carriage ride through the cobbled streets, visit one of the city’s museums or climb the Belfry for a final panoramic view. A short train ride to Ostend, Belgium’s main port on the North Sea, is another option. Whatever you choose, it is a day to enjoy Belgium at its most relaxed. Overnight stay in Bruges.