With all the discussion lately about places that are unwelcoming to tourists, we thought we’d highlight a gem that still welcomes attention. Belgium may be a small country, but it packs a huge punch when it comes to history, architecture, food, and culture. Whether you're craving medieval towns, UNESCO-listed sites, or world-class beer and chocolate, a short 3 to 4-day tour can give you a satisfying taste of this underrated European treasure. Here's how to make the most of your time.

Day 1: Brussels – The Heart of Belgium

Where to Stay:

Book a hotel near the Grand Place for walkable access to major sights. Try Hotel Amigo (luxury) or The Dominican (mid-range) for a central location with local flair.

What to See & Do:

• Grand Place: One of Europe’s most stunning squares. Visit at night when it's lit up.
• Manneken Pis: Quirky and iconic, if underwhelming in size. Worth a photo.
• Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert: Elegant shopping arcade with artisan chocolates.
• Magritte Museum: Surrealism lovers will enjoy this homage to the Belgian master.

What to Eat:

• Waffles: Brussels-style waffles are light and crispy, best from Maison Dandoy.
• Moules-frites (mussels and fries): A Belgian staple, served in big steaming pots.
• Beer tasting: Visit Delirium Café with its hundreds of beers on tap.

Day 2: Bruges – A Medieval Fairytale

Getting There:

Take a 1-hour train ride from Brussels to Bruges.

Where to Stay:

Stay overnight in the old town. Hotel Dukes' Palace Bruges is a former palace turned luxury hotel, or try Hotel de Orangerie for romantic canal views.

What to See & Do:

• Markt Square & Belfry: Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.
• Canal boat tour: See the “Venice of the North” from the water.
• Church of Our Lady: Home to Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child.
• Groeningemuseum: Flemish masterpieces by van Eyck and Memling.

What to Eat:

• Flemish beef stew (Carbonnade Flamande): Rich and cooked in local beer.
• Chocolates: Stop at The Chocolate Line or Dumon.
• Hot chocolate: Try it at The Old Chocolate House, where it comes as a block you stir into milk.

Day 3: Ghent – Belgium’s Best-Kept Secret

Getting There:

30-minute train ride from Bruges to Ghent.

Where to Stay (if doing 4 days):

If staying overnight, choose 1898 The Post, a boutique hotel in a converted post office with moody, literary vibes.

What to See & Do:

• Gravensteen Castle: A storybook fortress in the middle of town.
• St. Bavo’s Cathedral: Houses the famed Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by van Eyck.
• Korenlei and Graslei: Stroll the riverbanks lined with guild houses and cafes.
• Street Art Tour: Ghent has a creative edge—visit Werregarenstraatje, a sanctioned graffiti alley.

What to Eat:

• Waterzooi: A creamy chicken or fish stew, typical of Ghent.
• Cuberdons (nose candies): Raspberry-flavored sweets unique to the city.
• Local craft beers: Try a Gentse Strop or Gruut, brewed without hops.

Optional Day 4: Leuven or Dinant

Leuven – The University City (close to Brussels)

• See: The jaw-dropping Town Hall, KU Leuven’s old campus, and the oldest still-brewing brewery in the world, Stella Artois.
• Eat & Drink: Enjoy the bar scene and student energy at Oude Markt, nicknamed the "longest bar in the world."

Dinant – A Fairytale on the Meuse River

• See: The stunning Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, the clifftop Citadel, and the home of Adolphe Sax (inventor of the saxophone).
• Tip: Rent a car to reach Dinant easily, or take a scenic train ride.

General Tips for Your Belgium Tour

• Getting Around: Belgium’s train system is fast, cheap, and easy to navigate. Base in Brussels if you prefer day trips.
• Weather: Pack layers and an umbrella—Belgium is beautiful, but often damp.
• Language: Dutch (Flemish) in the north, French in the south, and a bit of German in the east. Most people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
• Souvenirs to Bring Home: Lace from Bruges, chocolate, Trappist beer, and speculoos cookies.

Conclusion: A Short Trip with a Lasting Impression

Belgium is often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, but those who visit quickly discover its rich culture, relaxed pace, and delicious culinary scene. Whether you're wandering the cobbled lanes of Bruges, tasting Trappist beer in Ghent, or admiring art in Brussels, this 3 to 4-day itinerary provides a perfect mix of urban culture, medieval beauty, and indulgent comfort. Bon voyage—or as they say in Dutch, Goede reis!