Belgium

Weekend Roadtrip: Germany to Leuven & Brussels, Belgium

Looking for a quick weekend getaway? Belgium is just a few hours away and perfect for a road trip! My friends and I recently drove to Leuven and Brussels for a fun-filled weekend, and it was amazing. Here’s everything we did, along with tips and recommendations to help you plan your own trip.

Day 1: Exploring Leuven

Our first stop was Leuven, a charming university city just 2.5 hours from my place. We reached Leuven around mid-morning and started at the Leuven Town Hall, one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in Europe. It’s right in the heart of the city and great for photos!

After admiring the town hall, we roamed around the city center and made our way to the Leuven Christmas Market. The market was full of cozy vibes, local crafts, and delicious food. Don’t miss the Belgian waffles and hot mulled wine (glühwein) to keep warm. If you’re a beer lover, Leuven is home to Stella Artois, so grabbing a pint is a must!

Tip: Parking in Leuven can be tricky. Use one of the designated parking garages outside the center and walk in—it’s easier and saves time.

Day 1 Afternoon: Check-In at Condo Gardens Brussels

After exploring Leuven, we drove another 30 minutes to Brussels and arrived at Condo Gardens Brussels around 4:00 PM for check-in. The accommodation was simple but comfortable, and booking it through Booking.com made the process easy. We took some time to relax, recharge, and freshen up for the evening.

Tip: If you’re driving, Condo Gardens has parking options, but it’s a good idea to reserve in advance since spaces are limited. It cost €12 whole day for weekdays and sunday is FREE.

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Day 1 Evening: Brussels Christmas Market, Light Show & Pub Crawl

Around 6:30 PM, we headed out to the Brussels Christmas Market, one of the largest in Europe with over 200 stalls spread across the city center. The light displays, festive decorations, and holiday cheer were truly magical. 

One of the highlights of the evening was the Light Show at Grand Place. During the holiday season, the entire square lights up in a dazzling display of colors and music, creating an unforgettable experience. It happens every evening, and it’s a must-see if you’re visiting Brussels in December.

Later at 9:30 PM, we joined a pub crawl that we had booked through GetYourGuide. It’s a fantastic way to experience Brussels’ nightlife and meet new people. The crawl took us to several bars and ended at a lively nightclub, where we danced the night away. Definitely one of the best parts of the trip!

Tips:

  • Arrive early at the Grand Place to grab a good spot for the light show.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and keep some cash on hand—some bars on the pub crawl may not accept cards.

Day 2: Exploring Brussels

We started our second day bright and early with a visit to the Grand Place, Brussels’ central square and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seeing the square during the day gave us a different perspective, and the ornate guildhalls and Town Hall were just as impressive.

Next, we walked to Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a luxurious shopping arcade filled with boutiques, chocolate shops, and cafes. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth visiting just for its elegant design and atmosphere.

Our final stop was the iconic Atomium, a futuristic structure originally built for the 1958 World Expo. You can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Brussels. It’s a bit outside the city center, so we drove there, but public transport is also an option.

Tip: Book Atomium tickets online (GetYourGuide) in advance to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.

Things to Do & Recommendations:

  1. Leuven Highlights:

    • Visit Leuven Town Hall.
    • Explore the Leuven Christmas Market.
    • Try Belgian waffles and Stella Artois beer.

  2. Brussels Highlights:

    • Stroll through the Grand Place.
    • Watch the Light Show at Grand Place during the holiday season.
    • Shop or wander at Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.
    • Visit the Atomium.
    • Don’t miss the Brussels Christmas Market (late November to early January).

  3. Pub Crawl Tips:

    • Book your experience through GetYourGuide for easy access.
    • Be ready to dance and have fun—it’s a great way to meet locals and travelers!

  4. Accommodation:

This weekend road trip from germany to Leuven and Brussels was short but packed with fun. From the charming streets of Leuven to the vibrant nightlife, iconic landmarks, and festive holiday vibes of Brussels, it was an unforgettable adventure for us.

Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or solo, this road trip is perfect for a weekend escape. Pack your bags, gather your friends or family, and get ready for an unforgettable Belgian adventure!