15 Best Castles in Belgium: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
- Pack Lense
- 11 minutes ago
- 6 min read
Why a Belgium Road Trip Is the Best Way to See Its Fairytale Castles
Exploring Belgium by car is the perfect way to uncover its most enchanting castles. A Belgium road trip offers the freedom to venture off the beaten path, discover hidden gems, and visit the best castles in Belgium at your own pace. From medieval fortresses to romantic châteaux, this Belgium castles road trip promises stunning architecture, scenic countryside, and unforgettable history at every turn.
Planning the Perfect Belgium Castles Road Trip Itinerary
Planning a Belgium castles road trip is easier than you think—and incredibly rewarding. With its compact size, excellent roads, and rich medieval heritage, Belgium is ideal for a road trip that connects history, architecture, and countryside charm. Whether you're a history buff or just love scenic drives, this itinerary helps you discover the best castles in Belgium in one unforgettable Belgium road trip.
Here’s how to plan the perfect route:
Start in Brussels – Convenient for international arrivals and close to several castles.
Head south to Wallonia – This region is packed with fairytale fortresses and dramatic scenery.
Mix big-name castles with hidden gems – Visit iconic sites like Gravensteen and Bouillon, but make time for lesser-known spots like Château de Modave.
Plan for 5–7 days – Gives you time to enjoy each stop without rushing.
Rent a car for flexibility – Many of the best castles aren’t accessible by public transport.
Stay in nearby towns or castle hotels – Enhance the experience with local charm and easy access.
Travel in spring or autumn – Fewer crowds and beautiful landscapes.
This well-paced itinerary ensures you see the highlights while enjoying the freedom of the open road.
Top Tips for a Belgium Family Road Trip to Visit Castles
Planning the perfect Belgium family road trip to explore the country's most enchanting castles? Here are some essential tips to make your castle road trip both smooth and unforgettable:
Map Your Route Strategically
Belgium is compact, making it ideal for a road trip. Start by grouping castles by region—such as Wallonia, Flanders, and around Brussels—to minimize driving time and maximize sightseeing.
Choose Family-Friendly Castles
Not all castles are created equal when traveling with kids. Look for castles with interactive exhibits, large gardens, or guided tours tailored to younger visitors. Château de Bouillon and Gravensteen Castle are great choices for families.
Plan for Breaks and Picnic Stops
Many castles are surrounded by scenic parks or forests, perfect for a picnic or rest break. These stops make your Belgium road trip more relaxed and enjoyable for children.
Book Tickets in Advance
Popular castles can get busy, especially during weekends or school holidays. Booking tickets online ensures entry and often saves you time and money.
Stay in a Castle Hotel
Add a magical twist to your journey by staying overnight in a castle hotel. It’s a fun and memorable way to enhance your castle road
Map of the Best Castles in Belgium You Can Visit by Car
A medieval fortress in the heart of Ghent, Gravensteen looks straight out of a movie. Built in the 12th century, it features turrets, a moat, and even a torture museum. Kids love the dramatic setting, and the rooftop views are stunning.
Don’t miss: The audio guide narrated with wit and humor—it makes history super engaging.
Château de Bouillon – Bouillon
Overlooking the Semois River, this imposing fortress dates back to the 10th century and offers incredible views and dramatic falconry shows. It’s perfect for active families who enjoy exploring tunnels and towers.
Unique angle: Linked to Godfrey of Bouillon, one of the leaders of the First Crusade.
Château de Modave – Modave
This elegant castle is perched on a rock above the Hoyoux Valley. With opulent interiors and French-style gardens, it’s more Versailles than fortress.
Standout feature: 17 beautifully preserved rooms, including a Baroque grand hall with painted ceilings.
Château de Vêves – Celles
This fairy-tale castle with round towers and pointed turrets looks like it stepped out of a storybook. Inside, kids can dress up in medieval costumes, making it a favorite for family visits.
Travel tip: Arrive early for costume rental—it's very popular!
Château de Beloeil – Beloeil
Often dubbed the "Belgian Versailles," this stately home has been in the same noble family for 800 years. The gardens alone are worth a visit—spanning 25 hectares.
Best for: Lovers of symmetry, manicured hedges, and historical family portraits.
Gaasbeek Castle – Lennik
Just 15 km from Brussels, this romantic castle combines medieval roots with 19th-century style. The art collection inside is eclectic and impressive.
Special touch: The surrounding park is ideal for a lazy afternoon picnic or walk with kids.
Château de Freÿr – Hastière
Nestled along the Meuse River, Freÿr Castle is known for its terraced gardens inspired by Versailles and its orange trees over 300 years old.
Must-see: The mirrored dining room and ancient graffiti left by visiting royalty.
Alden Biesen Castle – Bilzen
Once a powerful Teutonic Order commandery, Alden Biesen is now a cultural and conference center. Its unique history and Renaissance style set it apart.
Cool event: Hosts medieval festivals, garden days, and open-air opera performances.
Château de Reinhardstein – Ovifat
Hidden in the forest near the High Fens, this castle was lovingly reconstructed in the 20th century. It's wild, remote, and feels like a time capsule.
Adventure highlight: Guided tours reveal stories of knights, weapons, and legends.
Het Steen Castle – Antwerp
Antwerp’s oldest building, Het Steen, sits on the riverfront and now houses a visitor center. Its location makes it the perfect starting point for city explorers.
Fun fact: Once used as a prison and military stronghold—it has a truly layered history.
Château de La Hulpe – La Hulpe
Set within the Solvay Park, this French-style castle is perfect for families who want to combine a nature walk with culture. The surrounding estate is free to roam.
Extra charm: The castle is home to the Folon Foundation—an art museum with whimsical installations.
Château de Jehay – Amay
With its checkerboard façade and moat, Jehay is one of Belgium’s quirkiest castles. Though currently under restoration, the gardens and exhibitions are open and fascinating.
Quirky detail: The facade pattern—alternating grey and white stone—is completely unique.
Kasteel van Laarne – Laarne
A beautifully preserved medieval castle near Ghent, Laarne feels both elegant and fortified. The collection of tapestries and silverware is world-class.
Highlight: The spooky ghost legends told during special evening tours.
Château de Chimay – Chimay
Famous for its connection to the princely family and its beautiful theatre. The interactive tour is family-friendly and includes VR experiences.
Bonus stop: Pair the visit with a tasting at the nearby Trappist Chimay Brewery.
Kasteel van Gaasrode – Aalst
Though lesser-known, this small castle is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path stop. It’s surrounded by lush countryside and ideal for quiet photo ops.
Hidden gem factor: Peaceful grounds and zero crowds—perfect for a relaxed picnic.
Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore Along Your Belgium Castle Road Trip
One of the best parts of a Belgium castle road trip is discovering charming towns, local cuisine, and unique stays along the way. Here’s how to make the most of your journey with memorable stops to sleep, eat, and explore:
Stay in Storybook Settings
Add a touch of magic to your Belgium family road trip by booking a night in a castle hotel or countryside manor. Top picks include:
Château de Modave – Stay nearby and enjoy serene views of the Meuse Valley.
Kasteel van Ordingen – A luxurious retreat with fine dining and spa facilities.
Château de Mirwart – Surrounded by forest, it’s perfect for a peaceful family escape.
Savor Local Belgian Cuisine
No road trip in Belgium is complete without indulging in local dishes. Look for cozy brasseries and family-run cafés that serve:
Carbonnade Flamande (Flemish beef stew)
Belgian waffles and fries
Fresh local cheeses and pastries
Many castles, like Gaasbeek Castle, are near villages with top-rated eateries—perfect for a relaxing lunch break.
Explore Charming Towns and Scenic Stops
Between castle visits, take time to explore Belgium’s postcard-perfect towns:
Dinant – Nestled between cliffs and the Meuse River, it’s ideal for a riverside stroll.
Durbuy – Often called the smallest city in the world, this fairy-tale village is great for kids.
Ghent – A vibrant city where medieval architecture meets modern cafés and street art.
Add in nature walks, boat rides, or chocolate tastings to keep the whole family entertained throughout your castle road trip.
