Flanders' cities of art | Brussels - Bruges

There is always something going on in Brussels. The vibrant Belgian metropolis is rich in art and culture, and the architecture is inspiring. The Grote Markt, the Atomium and the Manneken Pis statue are the must-see sites which symbolise the capital. Belgian fry stalls are a classic element of the cityscape - you will find a bag of the crispy fries on practically every corner.

After breakfast, you’ll have time for a tour of the European capital. You can learn all kinds of interesting facts about Central Africa in the Royal Museum in Tervuren, or take a walk through the park beside it and fortify yourself for the next few kilometres with a picnic. The historic Art City Route will quickly lead you to Leuven. This university town is a hive of activity, with students setting the pace in the pedestrian zones. Following the course of the Dijle, you will reach Mechelen, your destination for today. The chimes of the famous tower bells can be heard ringing through the narrow streets up to eight times an hour.

Mechelen is a picturesque Flemish jewel with hundreds of heritage-protected buildings, churches and monuments dating back to the 16th century. On quiet and flat paths, you will follow the course of the rivers Beneden-Dijl and Nete. The historic town of Lier is not only famous for its delicious food: The town’s beguinage and striking belfry were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites some time ago. Today’s destination, Antwerp, is known as an important trading centre for diamonds. Art is not neglected in the port metropolis either, and shopping fans will enjoy the numerous high-class boutiques.

Antwerp is situated on the Scheldt, the river which you will follow all day today. Lush green meadows and grazing cows will accompany you on your route. Idyllic scenery alternates with picturesque Flemish villages and there are many places to relax over a cup of coffee. A huge wooden horse is the symbol of the town Dendermonde, today's stage destination. Every ten years, the Ross Bayard parade provides a unique folk festival. In the evening, the numerous restaurants on the historic market square will spoil your palate.

Today you will once again follow the course of the river Scheldt. The flat cycle paths along the riverbank guarantee a carefree cycling experience, and you will pass many small Flemish villages that are perfect for a rest. At the end of today’s stage is Ghent, with a multitude of cultural treasures. In the historic centre, the sights are strung together like pearls. This trendy city will also allow you to indulge in the culinary landscape of Flanders in the evening.

During today's stage you will immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape around the river Leie. The picturesque region’s green landscape with its extensive forests is a true natural paradise and has inspired countless artists. Neoclassical castles and small artists' villages line the way, and you can also admire the works of the painters in the local museums. Your stage destination Kortrijk has the charm of a big city with the cosiness of a village. In the centre, you will find a mix of modern architecture, centuries-old cultural heritage and passionate creativity.

You should not delay too much today, because Bruges awaits you at the end of the stage: arguably one of the most beautiful places in the world. The city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a treat for the eyes. The medieval city centre has remained practically unchanged since the 15th century. The canals guaranteed success and prosperity in the Middle Ages and made Bruges the Venice of the North. A perfect place to end your cycling tour through the historic art cities of the beautiful Flanders region!

After breakfast, you will start your journey home. You can choose an optional return transfer with our cycle bus to Brussels or an extended stay in Bruges with the possibility of a round trip to the North Sea.