The perfect short escape just a train or flight away from the UK!

If you're looking for a quick getaway that blends stunning architecture, delicious food, and easy travel, then Belgium is the ideal weekend destination. Whether you're a solo traveller, couple, or group of friends, a weekend trip to Belgium packs in all the charm and excitement of Europe—without long travel times or visa hassles.

Why Choose Belgium for a Short Break?

Quick & Easy from the UK

Travelling to Belgium from the UK is simple and affordable. Flights to Brussels take just over an hour, and the Eurostar from London to Brussels takes under 2 hours. With minimal travel time, you can spend more of your weekend exploring instead of commuting.

Explore Multiple Cities in One Trip

One of Belgium's biggest advantages? It's small but rich in experiences! Thanks to its efficient train system, you can explore Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and even Antwerp in a single weekend. Each city is packed with unique character:

Brussels: The capital city, home to the iconic Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and some of Europe’s best museums.
Bruges: A fairytale town with canals, medieval buildings, and cobbled streets—perfect for romantic walks.
Ghent: A vibrant university city with a lively atmosphere, beautiful castles, and riverside cafes.
Antwerp: Belgium’s fashion and diamond capital, with a cool, modern edge.

This makes Belgium the perfect country for a weekend itinerary full of variety and beauty.

World-Class Food & Drink

A weekend in Belgium isn't complete without tasting your way through the country.

Try fresh Belgian waffles with chocolate or strawberries.
Sip on handmade hot chocolate or sample pralines from legendary chocolatiers like Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini, and Leonidas.
Explore Belgian beer culture with a visit to a local brewery or a beer-tasting bar.
Enjoy hearty local dishes like moules-frites (mussels with fries) or carbonade flamande (Flemish beef stew).

For foodies, a Belgium weekend itinerary can feel like a dream come true.

Museums, History & Culture

Belgium is packed with culture and heritage. In just two days, you can:

Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels
See the Ghent Altarpiece at St. Bavo’s Cathedral
Walk through UNESCO-listed sites in Bruges
Learn about Belgian surrealism at the Magritte Museum

Art, architecture, and European history come together in every corner—making your weekend trip to Belgium both fun and enriching.

Festivals & Local Life

Time your visit right, and you can experience one of Belgium’s many festivals:

Brussels Summer Festival (August)
Fête de la Musique (June)
Gentse Feesten (July)
Winter Wonders Christmas Market (December)

These events bring out local flavours, music, and street life. Even during non-festival periods, you’ll find bustling weekend markets, outdoor cafes, and lively nightlife.

Simple Transport & Walkable Cities

Belgium is ideal for a short trip because it’s easy to get around. Intercity trains are:

Frequent
Affordable
Fast (30–45 mins between cities)

Once you arrive, most towns are walkable—no need to hire a car. This gives you more time to explore historic sites, museums, riverside paths, and cosy local bars.

Easy Visa Options for UK Residents

If you're living in the UK but not a UK/EU passport holder, don't worry. You can easily apply for a Belgium Schengen Visa and travel with confidence.

Many UK residents now plan weekend breaks to Schengen countries like Belgium due to quick visa appointments and simplified requirements.

Sample Belgium Weekend Itinerary from the UK

Day 1 – Saturday:

Morning: Arrive in Brussels, visit Grand Place and Atomium
Afternoon: Explore Magritte Museum or Chocolate Village
Evening: Dinner in a traditional Belgian bistro + local beer tasting

Day 2 – Sunday:

Morning: Day trip to Bruges or Ghent
Walk along canals, shop for chocolates and lace
Return to Brussels in the evening and head home

Perfect for All Traveller Types

Whether you’re:

A romantic couple looking for a cosy escape
A group of friends exploring European culture
A solo traveller looking for art and peace
Or even a family with kids

Belgium offers something for everyone in just a weekend.

Final Thoughts: Why Visit Belgium for a Weekend?

A weekend trip to Belgium from the UK offers a blend of beauty, taste, and culture — all within a few hours of travel. You don’t need weeks off or a huge budget to enjoy Europe’s charm.

So pack your bag, grab your passport, and say hello to Belgium — your perfect weekend awaits!

Why Visit Belgium for a Weekend?