Cultural Delights of Belgium: 5-Day Trip to Lier, Antwerp, and Mechelen Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Antwerp Central Station (Spoorwegstation Antwerpen-Centraal), often referred to as the "Railway Cathedral." After admiring the stunning architecture, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Brasserie Bruut, located near the station.

Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Rubenshuis (Rubens House), the former home and studio of the renowned painter Peter Paul Rubens. For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Bistro Bis, known for its contemporary Belgian cuisine. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Antwerp City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour and learn about the city's beer culture.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Antwerp with a pub trail pub crawl, starting at The Jane, a unique dining and drinking concept in a former military hospital chapel. Explore the city's best bars and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Enjoy a morning coffee and pastry at L'Atelier de Bossimé, a cozy spot with a warm ambiance. Then, set out to explore the Mechelen Planckendael ZOO, home to a wide variety of animals in a beautiful park setting. Spend the morning observing the wildlife and learning about conservation efforts.

For lunch, head to Le Comptoir de Marie, a restaurant known for its elegant dishes and attentive service. After a satisfying meal, take part in "The Alchemist" Mechelen Outdoor Escape Game , a fun and interactive way to discover the city's history and hidden secrets.

Dine at L'Eau Vive, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a refined menu in a serene setting. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the Mechelen Beguinage (Groot Begijnhof), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the well-preserved architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Start your day with a guided bike tour of the city, taking in the major landmarks such as the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) and the Museum Plantin-Moretus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at Le Coq aux Champs before the tour.

After the bike tour, have a relaxed lunch at La Villa des Bégards, offering a menu that reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region. Spend your afternoon exploring the Antwerp Diamond District (Diamantkwartier) and indulging in some shopping or simply admiring the craftsmanship.

For dinner, experience the gastronomic delights of L'Air du Temps, a restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and elegant ambiance. End the evening with a performance at the Royal Ballet of Flanders (Koninklijk Ballet van Vlaanderen) or enjoy a leisurely walk along the Antwerp Riverside (Schelde).

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at 't Korennaer Restaurant & Hotel, known for its warm hospitality and delicious morning fare. Begin your day with a visit to the Lier Zimmer Tower (Zimmertoren) and Astronomical Museum, where you can learn about the history of timekeeping and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

For lunch, head to Hostellerie Le Prieuré Saint-Géry, a charming restaurant with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Afterward, take a self-guided walking tour with offline access to explore the hidden gems of Lier, including the Saint Gummarus Church (Sint-Gummaruskerk) and the Lier City Museum (Stedelijk Museum Wuyts-Van Campen en Baron Caroly).

Conclude your Belgian journey with a grand farewell feast at Auberge du Moulin Hideux, a restaurant nestled in the countryside, offering a serene setting and a menu that celebrates the flavors of the region. Raise a glass to the memories made and the experiences shared during your time in Belgium.