Belgium Car Rental Deals Save Big on Your Road Trip

Welkom in België Bienvenue en Belgique! Belgium’s blend of medieval towns, modern cities, and scenic countryside is best explored with the freedom of your own car. From the bustling European capital of Brussels to the quaint canal-lined streets of Bruges, and from Antwerp’s vibrant arts scene to the rolling hills of the Ardennes, a rental car lets you see it all on your terms. This page is your all-in-one guide to renting a car in Belgium. We’ve combined unbeatable euro deals with insider advice so you can book confidently and hit the road with a plan. Whether you’re visiting historic battlefields, touring famous breweries, or hopping between Belgian chocolates and waffles in different cities, we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle at the best price. And throughout your journey, AirportVanRental your trusted global OTA partner ensures you have transparent pricing, quality service, and support. Get ready to explore the heart of Europe (Belgium!) at your own pace with convenience and savings.

Belgium might be smaller than some of its neighbors, but it’s packed with places to see and a car rental helps you connect the dots effortlessly. Here’s why renting a car in Belgium is a great idea for travelers:

• Multi-City Convenience: Belgium’s top destinations Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Liège, etc. are all within a couple of hours of each other. While there are trains, a car lets you visit multiple cities in one day or carry on to the next town at your leisure, without being tied to train timetables. For example, you could have breakfast in Brussels, lunch in Ghent, and dinner in Bruges, stopping for a photo at a castle in between all in one day with your own car (ambitious, but doable!). If you’re based in one city, a rental also allows easy day trips to others or to charming small towns not as easily reached by train.
• Explore Hidden Gems: Beyond the famous cities, Belgium has many lesser-known treasures. With a car, you can venture to places like Dinant (the picturesque town on the Meuse River under a cliff-side citadel), the Ardennes forests for hiking or war history (Bastogne, anyone?), or Ypres and other WWI sites in Flanders Fields. Public transit can be limited or time-consuming to these spots, but a car makes it a smooth trip. Want to visit a Trappist abbey brewery in the countryside (like Westvleteren or Orval) or an out-of-town theme park with the kids? A car is by far the easiest way. Flexibility = seeing more of the “real” Belgium beyond the guidebook highlights.
• Cross-Border Freedom: Belgium sits at the crossroads of Western Europe. With a car, you can easily drive into neighboring countries a lunch in Luxembourg? A quick trip to Dutch Zeeland’s beaches? Popping over to Lille, France for some shopping? All very feasible. There are no hard border checks (Schengen Area), so you might not even notice you’ve entered the Netherlands until the highway signs change language. While trains connect major cities internationally, rural cross-border exploration is simpler by car. And if you’re doing a grand Europe road trip, renting in Belgium can be a strategic start point to then drive into France, Germany, etc., at your own pace.
• Small Country, Big Variety (in One Trip): In a single day with a car, you could experience Belgium’s cultural diversity start in Dutch-speaking Flanders with its Gothic architecture, then drive an hour or two into French-speaking Wallonia with its different vibe and castles, and even dip into the German-speaking corner near Eupen. No long train transfers, just a scenic drive. You’ll be able to stop wherever something catches your eye: perhaps a random antique market in a village or a stunning viewpoint over the Meuse valley. A car allows these impromptu stops and detours that can become the best memories.
• Family & Group Friendly: If you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, renting a car often makes practical and economic sense. You can pile everyone and everything (luggage, strollers, picnic supplies) into one vehicle, rather than coordinating multiple train tickets or lugging bags through stations. Need to take a break? Pull into a highway rest area (Belgium has nice ones with playgrounds, etc.). With a car, you also have control over things like car seats for kids ensure safety and comfort by renting the appropriate size vehicle and child seats through us. And splitting the cost of one car and fuel among 4 people can be cheaper than 4 separate rail fares, especially for first-class comfort. Plus, there’s nothing like a road trip playlist and camaraderie in the car, versus everyone scattered on a train.

Our Belgium Car Rental Advantages (Why Book with AVR)

Booking your Belgium car rental with AirportVanRental means you get expert service and unbeatable value that go beyond just a car. Here’s why travelers choose us for Belgium rentals:

• Top Selection Across Belgium: We partner with all the major rental companies and trusted local agencies throughout Belgium. Whether you need a compact car for Brussels city driving, a luxury sedan for business in Antwerp, or a minivan for a family touring Flanders, we have thousands of options. Pick up at airports (Brussels, Charleroi, Antwerp) or train stations and downtown offices whatever fits your itinerary. Looking for an automatic transmission (common in our inventory for those not used to manuals) or a specific make/model? Our filters let you refine and find exactly what you want. We even cover locations beyond big cities, like perhaps you need a car in Liège or Namur we’ve got you covered.
• Lowest Prices in Euros, Guaranteed: We constantly compare prices and negotiate deals to ensure you get the cheapest rates on Belgium car hires. Our system will display specials like free upgrade offers or discounted weekly rates up front. And the price you see is in Euros (EUR), so local to Belgium (with an approximate USD conversion if you prefer). No hidden currency exchange markups. Found a better price elsewhere with the same conditions? Let us know we’ll match or beat it. We’re committed to saving you money so you can spend more on Belgian chocolates, beer and museum tickets!
• No Hidden Fees Total Transparency: The price quotes on AirportVanRental for Belgium include mandatory charges VAT (21% in Belgium), local surcharges, road taxes, etc. We believe in full transparency: you’ll know about any young driver fee, one-way fee or additional driver fee before you book. When you arrive at the counter, you won’t be blindsided by unexpected costs that weren’t listed. For instance, if Brussels Airport rentals have an extra premium location fee, we show it in your quote. Additionally, we clarify the insurance and deductible terms in advance (so you know what is covered and can make informed choices about add-ons). In short: what you see is what you pay and we despise hidden fees as much as you do.
• Customer Support & Local Expertise: With AirportVanRental, you’re never alone on the road. Our customer support is available 24/7 to assist you in English (and other languages) if any issues arise be it a flight delay affecting your pickup or a question about extending your rental. We can communicate with the local rental office on your behalf if needed (handy in case of any language hiccups, though most Belgian rental staff speak English). Moreover, we give you local driving tips (see below!) and we’re continually updating information like any new low-emission zones or road rule changes in Belgium, so you’re well prepared. We’re not just a broker we’re your travel partner, before, during, and after your trip.
• Flexible Rentals (One-Ways & More): Need to pick up your car in Brussels and drop it in Amsterdam or Paris? Through our network, many such one-way plans are possible. We clearly display any one-way fee at booking (so you can weigh the convenience). If you plan to tour Europe, we make it easy to see which rental brands allow cross-border travel and what paperwork might be needed. Want to add a GPS or child seat? You can request it while booking so it’s ready for you. We strive to offer as much flexibility as possible because we know travel plans aren’t one-size-fits-all. And if you need to modify or cancel, our policies are customer-friendly (often free cancellations up to 48 hours before pickup, etc.). AirportVanRental adapts to you.

Top Car Rental Deals in Belgium

(Prices in EUR per day, based on typical low-season rates at major locations like Brussels. “From” means lowest baseline rate actual prices depend on date & location.)

• Economy Car from €35/day (≈ $40).Example: Renault Clio or similar. A small 3-5 door perfect for city travel and tight European streets. Easy to park in places like central Antwerp or Brussels. Great fuel economy (important with European petrol prices) ideal for couples or solo travelers with light luggage, sticking mostly to urban sightseeing or short hops. Don’t let “economy” fool you; these modern small cars often have amenities like Bluetooth and A/C. And Belgium is compact enough that even a small engine can handle highways between cities fine.
• Compact Car from €45/day (≈ $50).Example: VW Golf or Peugeot 308 or similar. A bit roomier for passengers and luggage, yet still agile for city and highway. This category is a popular balance for small families or groups of 3-4. Comfortable enough for driving longer distances (say Brussels to Luxembourg City and back) while still not guzzling fuel. With a compact, you can more easily venture to those scenic villages in Ardennes or coastal towns like De Haan, knowing you’ll find parking and have space for some chocolates and beer crates you buy along the way.
• Intermediate Sedan or Wagon from €60/day (≈ $66).Example: Toyota Corolla Touring (wagon) or similar. If you have extra luggage or 4-5 people, an intermediate or estate car offers a lot of trunk space. Wagons (breaks/combies) are popular in Europe great for tossing in multiple suitcases or even a couple of bicycles (with seats down). Perfect for family road trips across Belgium and neighboring countries. Also, these often come with diesel engines in Europe, giving you great mileage for those highway drives. Think of loading up this car with picnic supplies and doing a self-guided battlefield tour from Waterloo down through the Ardennes easy and comfy.
• SUV from €70/day (≈ $77).Example: Nissan Qashqai or Volvo XC40 or similar. A compact SUV/crossover is a nice choice if you prefer a higher driving position or will journey into the countryside. Roads in Belgium are generally excellent, but if you plan to explore rural areas or perhaps visit during winter, an SUV might give you extra confidence (some have AWD). Fits families and groups easily with lots of luggage room. Also fashionable for business travelers who want a classy ride. Drive your SUV from Brussels to the Champagne region in France, or up to the Dutch Zeeland islands versatility is key.
• Minivan (7 Seater) from €90/day (≈ $99).Example: Ford Galaxy, Renault Traffic (9-passenger) or similar. Traveling with a big group? These minivans and passenger vans let everyone ride together. Seating for 7-9 people means no need for multiple cars or juggling train schedules. Pile in and set off to explore. Surprisingly, many European minivans are not much bulkier than a large SUV, so you can still manage city streets (though you’ll prefer to park in designated lots or outside old town centers if possible). This is ideal for extended families doing a heritage trip through Belgium’s towns or a bunch of friends on a Euro road adventure starting in Belgium. Splitting the cost actually makes this quite economical per person.
• Luxury/Premium from €100/day (≈ $110).Example: Mercedes-Benz C-Class or BMW 5-Series. If you want to travel in style maybe you’re on a corporate trip or a romantic getaway upgrade to a luxury vehicle. Enjoy top-notch comfort, advanced GPS/nav systems, and a smooth ride on Belgium’s highways. It’s also a great way to experience Autobahn driving if you head over to Germany. These cars make a statement if you’re arriving at a meeting or simply treating yourself. And Belgium’s relatively short distances mean you won’t break the bank on fuel either.

Note: “From” rates are often available during off-peak seasons or with early booking. Prices can rise in summer (festival season, lots of tourists) or around holiday periods. Always input your actual dates into our search to get real-time rates. We often have special promotions for instance, free additional driver, or winter deals with snow tires included and we update those regularly. To save money, consider weekday pick-ups (weekend demand can be higher) and picking up at city locations rather than airports if feasible (avoids some fees, though we show total cost either way). Also, manual transmission cars are the norm and typically cheaper if you can drive stick, you’ll have more choices at lower prices. But automatics are increasingly available (just filter for it). Booking a bit in advance helps ensure you get your preferred car type, especially for automatics or larger vehicles which can sell out.

Driving in Belgium: What to Know

Belgium offers a generally easy driving experience, with modern roads and short distances, but there are some local quirks. Here’s a guide to help you navigate Belgian roads safely and confidently:

• Roads & Signage: Belgium’s highway network (marked by A or E numbers) is dense and well-maintained, especially around major cities. Signage is usually very good. One important thing: Belgium is bilingual (actually trilingual), so place names appear in the local language of the region. For example, Brussels is bilingual you’ll see signs for Bruxelles (French) and Brussel (Dutch). In Flanders (north), you’ll see Antwerpen (Antwerp), Gent (Ghent), Brugge (Bruges). In Wallonia (south), signs will say Liège (but not “Luik” which is its Dutch name) and Mons (not “Bergen”). This can confuse at borders e.g., driving from Flanders towards Wallonia, “Mons/Bergen” might be listed both (French/Dutch names). Just be aware of the dual names: they refer to the same place. Also, route numbers (European routes like E40, and national A or N roads) are consistent and useful for navigation. Belgian signage often directs by town name rather than cardinal directions, so know some key city names along your route.
• Right-of-Way Watch the Priority to the Right!: A very important rule in Belgium (especially in cities and residential areas) is priority to the right (“priorité à droite” / “voorrang van rechts”). This means at an unmarked intersection, you must give way to any vehicle coming from your right. This rule can be surprising if you’re not used to it. Many intersections have yield or stop signs to clarify, but if you don’t see any sign, assume the car on your right has priority. Conversely, if you’re coming from someone’s right on a small street, you may have priority (still approach carefully not everyone expects it). In practice, many residential areas and side streets apply this. On main roads, usually priority is clarified by road markings or signs. When in doubt, slow and yield. Also, roundabouts typically have signs that cars on the roundabout have priority (yield signs as you enter) follow those. Another related oddity: trams in Belgium have priority in most cases. If a tram is approaching or running alongside, yield to it (and never overtake one that’s stopped to let passengers on/off).
• Speed Limits: Standard Belgian speed limits are: 50 km/h in built-up areas (often strictly enforced, some zones even 30), 70 or 90 km/h on rural roads (it varies: many two-lane roads are 70 now if there’s a lot of intersections, otherwise 90 km/h where indicated), 120 km/h on highways (autosnelweg/autoroute). Look out for posted signs; Belgium has been adding 30 km/h zones in city centers and near schools. On the Brussels small ring road, for example, it’s 50 or 70 in parts. Speed cameras are common both fixed and mobile. Traffic police do use handheld or car-mounted speed cams, especially near highway construction zones or transitions from 120 to 90 zones. Fines can be mailed if you’re caught the rental company will forward it to you, potentially with an admin fee. It’s best to stick to limits; besides, you’re never far from your destination in Belgium, so speeding doesn’t save much time. One note: On highways in rain, officially the limit reduces to 110 km/h for safety (not everyone observes that, but it’s the rule).
• Traffic & Rush Hours: Belgium has a lot of cars relative to its size, and some of the worst traffic congestion in Europe around Brussels and Antwerp. Rush hour (spitsuur) in big cities can mean slow going from ~7-9:30 AM and 4-6:30 PM on weekdays. Brussels’ ring road and arterial routes clog up, as does the Antwerp ring (R1) and Kennedy Tunnel under the Scheldt. Plan accordingly adding 30 minutes to hour for trips crossing through these areas at peak times. If possible, avoid driving in central Brussels during rush hour; its tunnels and small ring can get jammed. Also note: Brussels city has some car-free zones and a complicated one-way system; consider parking on the outskirts (Park & Ride) and taking transit if you’re just going for sightseeing. Many Belgian towns have low-emission zones (LEZ) notably Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and soon others. If you have a rental car, it’s likely new enough to meet standards (Euro 5/6), but it’s something to be aware of. Brussels LEZ, for example, restricts older diesels and requires registration of foreign plates. Rental cars often are registered in Belgium or at least meet standards, but ask your rental agency or check the LEZ website if driving a lot within cities.
• Parking: In cities and towns, paid parking is the norm in central areas. Look for signs indicating a blue zone or paid zone. Many places require a parking disc (blue disc) for limited-time free parking (e.g., 30 min) in certain zones the rental might provide one, ask, or they’re a few euros to buy at a convenience store. For paid parking, there are street kiosks pay and display ticket on your dash. Fees vary: Brussels center might be ~€2-3/hour. It’s often easier to use parking garages, especially in touristy places like Bruges or Brussels they have reasonable day rates (€10-20/day) and you avoid circling narrow streets. Watch out for no-parking signs: a yellow/black zigzag or a red “X” sign means no stopping. Illegally parked cars can be towed or clamped (and fines are steep). One neat thing: in some cities, they have underground sensors and apps (like “Parking.brussels” or Antwerp’s parking app) to guide you to free spots or garages. Also, be mindful of market days small towns often have a weekly market in the main square with no parking that morning (signs will say which day/times).
• Fuel & Service Stations: Fuel in Belgium is not cheap (like much of Europe). Expect around €1.50-1.70 per liter for petrol (95 E10) and a bit less for diesel. Major highways have service areas (Aire/Restauratieplaats) with fuel, restrooms, and often restaurants (yes, you can find Belgian beer at highway rest stops, though don’t drink and drive!). Credit cards are accepted at virtually all pumps some are automatic 24/7 pumps (you pay by card at pump, instructions often in multiple languages). Regular unleaded is called “Euro95” or just “E10” (with 10% ethanol), and diesel is “Diesel” or “B7”. Premium 98 is also at many stations if needed. One cultural note: Belgium previously had a law where many gas stations were closed at night (for safety), but now with automation, you can fuel 24/7 at self-serve pumps. Don’t be surprised if small-town stations have no attendant after hours. For an interesting stop, Q8 and Total stations often have good bakeries or sandwich counters a chance to grab a fresh waffle or some fries (some have fast-food too). And yes, highways in Belgium mostly do not have tolls (hooray!), except the Liefkenshoek Tunnel near Antwerp if you choose to take it instead of city ring (~€6), and a few spots for trucks. Regular cars don’t need vignettes or anything in Belgium.
• Unique Road Signs & Signals: Belgium uses standard European road signs, but a few that might be unfamiliar: A red triangle with a black “X” means uncontrolled intersection (priority to the right applies there). A round blue sign with a white car and bike side-by-side indicates a “fietsstraat” a bicycle street where bikes have priority and cars are “guests” (usually you must go slow). Tram signs: a yellow diamond with a tram means caution, tram crossing. Traffic lights: Belgian lights often go directly from red to green (no red-amber like some countries), and some have a flashing orange for pedestrian phases. A flashing orange light generally means proceed with caution (like at night when lights are off peak). Also, be mindful of zebra crossings: by law, drivers should yield to pedestrians in or clearly about to step into a crosswalk (and Belgian pedestrians will often assert that right). And if you see a white triangular sign with a red border and black cartoon of children that means a school zone, often with 30 km/h limit during certain hours.
• Low Emission Zones (LEZ): If your rental car is newer (Euro 5 diesel or Euro 2 petrol and above), you won’t have an issue. Brussels’ LEZ covers the whole metro region (no checkpoints, but cameras scan plates and fine non-compliant vehicles). Since rental cars are usually registered locally, they’re automatically recognized. Just avoid bringing in older vehicles unlikely with rentals. Antwerp and Ghent have LEZ as well similar rules. If driving a foreign-registered vehicle (not an issue for rentals with Belgian plates), you’d need to register on the city LEZ website beforehand. Check with your rental company if you have any doubt; they often place a sticker or note on the car if it’s compliant.
• Driving Style & Safety: Belgian drivers are generally okay, though some can be aggressive on highways tailgating can happen (flash your left indicator to hint them to pass or move if safe). Use the left lane only to overtake; keep right otherwise. Also, watch for motorcycles lane splitting is legal in slow traffic, so they may weave through jams. In cities, many people bike give cyclists at least 1.5m clearance when passing. Some city centers (Brussels, Antwerp) now have reduced speed zones and sometimes complex one-way systems due to pedestrian/bike friendliness GPS is your friend there, and keep an eye out for “bus only” lanes (often marked in red or with BUS sign; cameras enforce them). Emergency vehicles as in many EU countries, if traffic is stopped, create an emergency corridor (move to sides) for ambulances. And yes, emergency numbers: 112 works for all services, but you can specifically dial 101 for police, 100 for ambulance/fire.

By and large, driving in Belgium is a pleasant experience road quality is good, distances are short, and you have the freedom to see not just the famous sights but also the countryside and cross into neighboring cultures easily. Just remember those priority-to-right intersections and watch your speed, and you’ll be fine!

Popular Road Trips in Belgium

Belgium’s compact size and central location make it perfect for road trips that pack in a lot of variety. Here are a few road trip ideas to consider, each showcasing different facets of the country:

Brussels to Bruges (via Ghent)Approx. 100 km, 1.5 hours drive (direct).

Highlights: Start in the capital Brussels, with its Grand Place, Atomium, and EU Quarter, then drive northwest towards the North Sea. A must-stop en route is Ghent (Gent) only about 55 km from Brussels. Ghent is a lively university city with a stunning medieval center; park and enjoy the view of the three famous towers (St. Nicholas’ Church, Belfry, St. Bavo’s Cathedral) and maybe take a short canal boat ride. Don’t miss the Gravensteen Castle right in Ghent’s center. After a taste of Ghent’s mix of history and cool cafe culture, continue another 50 km to Bruges (Brugge). Bruges is the fairy-tale medieval town nearly frozen in time cobbled lanes, canals, swans, and chocolate shops everywhere. Climb the Belfry for a view, sample some Belgian fries and beer (not before driving or once you’ve parked for the night!). You can also extend this trip out to the coast: Ostend or Knokke-Heist are about 25 km from Bruges if you fancy some beach air.

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid Brussels morning traffic when leaving. In Bruges, cars are restricted in the core; look for a hotel with parking or use one of the underground garages (they’re reasonably priced and central, like Parking Centrum near ’t Zand). The E40 highway connects Brussels-Ghent-Bruges, but for a more scenic approach, consider taking the N9 road between Ghent and Bruges for a bit through Flemish villages (slower but more local color). Also, Belgium is small you could base in one city and day-trip by car to the others if you prefer not to change hotels. Ghent is a nice central base in Flanders since it’s between Bruges and Brussels. One more thing: both Ghent and Bruges have low emission zones; ensure your rental is registered or compliant (most are). If needed, register the plate online (rental company can advise). Usually Euro5 and up diesels and Euro2 and up petrol are allowed, which covers virtually all rentals.

Brussels to Ardennes (Waterloo Dinant Bastogne loop)Approx. 300 km round trip.

Highlights: This trip dives into Belgium’s French-speaking Wallonia and its natural beauty in the Ardennes hills, mixed with historic sites. From Brussels, first head 20 km south to Waterloo, where Napoleon met his defeat. The Lion’s Mound is an iconic hill with a lion statue you can climb for a panorama of the battlefield, and visit the interactive Waterloo Memorial museum to set the scene. Continue southeast into the Ardennes region. Next stop: Dinant (around 100 km from Waterloo). Dinant is postcard-pretty: built along the Meuse River under steep cliffs, with a striking collegiate church and a fortress citadel on the cliff (you can take a cable car up or climb). Dinant is also the birthplace of Adolphe Sax (inventor of the saxophone), so you’ll see saxophones as art around town. Try the local specialty, the flaming “Couque de Dinant” cookie (just don’t break a tooth!). From Dinant, drive deeper into the Ardennes forests toward Bastogne (about 100 km). History buffs will know Bastogne for its role in WWII’s Battle of the Bulge. There’s the Bastogne War Museum and the Mardasson Memorial just outside town, both well worth a visit to understand that pivotal battle. The town itself has memorials, like the famous “NUTS” inscription referencing General McAuliffe’s reply. After Bastogne, loop back towards Brussels (about 150 km) you could break up the drive at La Roche-en-Ardenne or Durbuy, charming small Ardennes towns (Durbuy dubs itself “the smallest city in the world” and is very quaint).

Pro Tip: The Ardennes are hilly and wooded absolutely beautiful especially in autumn with the leaves turning. The roads are winding; take your time and enjoy the scenery. If traveling in winter, be prepared for possible snow or slick roads up in the hills. Bastogne does get snow rental cars in winter will have appropriate tires, but drive cautiously. Dinant and Durbuy can get busy on summer weekends with Belgian tourists aim for weekdays or early arrival for easier parking. In Dinant, there’s a convenient parking along the river. Try to time Bastogne for mid-day to have lunch perhaps a hearty Ardennes dish like game or trout if in season. Language note: In this region, French is primary (plus some local dialects), so knowing a few French phrases is handy (though many people speak some English, especially in tourist spots). The entire loop can be done in 2 days (Waterloo and Dinant one day, Bastogne and return next) or stretched to 3-4 if you want a more relaxed pace with nature hikes or kayaking (the Lesse river near Dinant is popular for kayaking).

Flanders Field Route (WWI history)Approx. 200 km round trip from Brussels.

Highlights: For history enthusiasts, this drive through West Flanders focuses on World War I heritage and the lovely countryside of the Flanders Fields area. From Brussels, head west about 110 km to Ypres (Ieper) the center of WWI’s Western Front memory in Belgium. Ypres is a beautiful medieval town that was completely rebuilt after being destroyed. Park and visit the In Flanders Fields Museum inside the Cloth Hall for an immersive WWI experience. Walk to the Menin Gate the massive memorial to the missing British and Commonwealth soldiers. If you stay till evening (8 PM sharp), the Last Post ceremony is held here every single day a moving bugle tribute (just make sure to give yourself enough time to drive back or plan to overnight). Around Ypres are many war cemeteries and sites: Tyne Cot Cemetery (the largest Commonwealth cemetery) in Passchendaele is a short drive and highly recommended also see the Passchendaele Museum in Zonnebeke if interested. Hill 60, Vancouver Corner (Brooding Soldier statue), Langemark German cemetery many sites dot the area, you can pick a few that resonate. From Ypres, drive 80 km north to the Belgian coast to lighten the mood perhaps Nieuwpoort or Diksmuide on the way (Diksmuide has the Yser Tower peace memorial). The coast near Nieuwpoort or Oostende offers a refreshing seaside break even a quick walk on the beach or a seafood meal. Then head back 120 km to Brussels. Alternatively, after Ypres you could swing by Bruges (only 60 km from Ypres) if you haven’t seen it a bit of diversion from the war theme but a treat for the eyes.

Pro Tip: For visiting cemeteries and memorials, a car is ideal as they are scattered in rural spots. Most are well signposted from main roads. Pick up a free map from the In Flanders Fields Museum or tourist info it marks all sites. Distances are small but roads can be narrow farm lanes drive slowly and respectfully (these are pilgrimage sites for many). Ypres has a couple of convenient parking lots near the center (follow P signs) the town is small enough to explore on foot. Try a local beer in Ypres many named in remembrance like “Ypra” or “Passchendaele Ale”. If you attend the Last Post, arrive at Menin Gate at least 15-20 minutes early for a good spot. Lastly, don’t attempt to see every single site there are hundreds. Select a handful that interest you (maybe based on nationality or particular battles). This drive can be long if you cram too much, so prioritize. It’s absolutely feasible as a day trip from Brussels, but if war history is a major interest, consider overnighting in Ypres to soak up more and not rush (plus enjoy the town square ambiance at night).

These road trips offer a glimpse into Belgium’s rich tapestry medieval heritage, moving history, natural beauty, and of course great food at every stop (chocolates, waffles, fries, and more!). With your own car, you can tailor each journey to your interests linger longer where you want, skip what you’re not into that’s the beauty of a road trip in a country where everything is close by.

Quick Belgium Driving Facts & Info

• Driving Side: Right-hand side (same as USA and most of EU). Overtake on the left; keep right except to pass on highways.
• Driver’s License: EU/EEA licenses accepted. Non-EU licenses generally accepted if in Latin alphabet; IDP recommended especially if license not in English/French/Dutch/German. Carry your passport as well when driving cross-border.
• Minimum Driving Age: 18 in Belgium to drive a car. Rental age usually 21+ with 1 year license (surcharges under 25).
• Speed Limits: 30 km/h in many residential or city center zones (watch for signs), 50 km/h standard in built-up areas, 70 or 90 km/h outside built-up areas (if not posted, assume 70 on smaller roads, though many rural highways are signposted 90), 120 km/h on motorways and dual carriageways. Speed Cameras are common both fixed (yellow boxes) and mobile; fines are mailed or collected on the spot if foreign. Tolerance is low (few km/h over might already trigger fine).
• Priority Rules:Priority to the right at intersections without traffic lights or signs slow at unsigned crossings, vehicles coming from your right have right-of-way. On roundabouts, yield to vehicles already circulating (unless otherwise signed). Trams have priority when they start moving or at intersections.
• Traffic Lights: Red means stop. No turn on red unless a green arrow sign indicates (rare in Belgium, some lights have small yield sign for right turn on red after stop, but not common). Amber means stop if safe (don’t gun it). Green arrow signals mean protected turn. Flashing amber at an intersection = proceed with caution (priority to right applies).
• Seat Belts & Safety: Seat belts mandatory for all occupants. Children under 135 cm must be in an appropriate child seat. It’s illegal for under-18s to sit in front if a suitable seat in rear is free and they don’t meet height/weight for just belt.
• Mobile Phones: Prohibited while driving unless completely hands-free. Fines for holding a phone are steep (police do enforce). Even using it at a red light can be fined. Use a cradle or Bluetooth.
• Drink Driving: Legal limit 0.05% BAC (about one drink). Above that = fines, possible license suspension on the spot. At 0.08%+ it’s criminal offense (up to imprisonment, large fines, license withdrawal). Best advice: don’t drink at all if you’re driving. Police conduct random breath tests often.
• Tolls:No highway tolls for cars in Belgium. (No vignette required either.) Only notable toll: Liefkenshoek Tunnel (Antwerp) ~€6. If driving into other countries, be prepared for tolls (France, Italy) or vignettes (Switzerland, Austria).
• Fuel: Petrol (gasoline) sold as 95 E10 (regular unleaded with 10% ethanol) and 98 (E5) super. Diesel (B7). Also LPG at some stations. Prices €1.5-1.7 per liter for petrol ($6-7/US gal). Many stations are automated; major credit cards accepted (may need PIN). Some require pre-payment by card. Most highways have 24h service areas. Note: In the Ardennes or rural areas, fuel up when you can as stations can be sparser (still, Belgium is small, you’re never too far).
• Parking: Paid parking in city centers (use pay-and-display machines or mobile app like Yellowbrick/4411). Look for signs and street markings: Blue zones (blue dashed line) require a parking disc (usually max 2 hours free with disc showing arrival time). White P sign with “Payant/Betalen” means paid parking at certain hours. Fines or wheel clamps if you don’t pay cities enforce actively. Use public parking garages for convenience (Brussels, Bruges, etc. have multi-storey or underground lots). Typically free parking on Sundays or evenings in many areas (check signs). Illegal parking (on sidewalks, in no-parking zones, or blocking traffic) can result in towing (and those fees are high + fine).
• Low Emission Zones (LEZ): Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent (and others likely coming). If renting a modern car, it should be compliant. If you plan to drive into these city centers, ensure the vehicle is registered. Rental cars registered in Belgium are automatically recognized. If driving a foreign plate (rare for rentals), you must register online prior. Check lez.brussels or slimnaarantwerpen.be for rules. Electric and newer Euro6 diesels/petrol are fine.
• Lights & Equipment: Dipped headlights required at night and in tunnels (not mandatory in daytime unless poor visibility, but many cars have DRLs). Must have a red warning triangle and safety vest in car (provided by rentals). If you have an accident or breakdown, use them. In winter conditions, not a law to have winter tires, but recommended in Ardennes; if roads are snowy/icy, slow down significantly. Use of fog lights is allowed when visibility <100m (turn off when visibility improves).
• Emergency Numbers: 112 for all emergency services (works EU-wide). For non-urgent road assistance, if your rental has roadside cover, call that number. Belgian police (local) can be reached at 101 for urgent police matters. For a breakdown on highway, you are required to wear a reflective vest and get behind guardrail if possible; use an emergency phone or your cell to call for help (112 or your rental assistance). Highways have reference markers (identify your location by the nearest marker or exit).
• Miscellaneous: Left lane hogging is frowned upon move right except to pass. It’s illegal to use radar detectors (and if found heavy fines). Using a GPS or phone nav is fine as long as hands-free mounted. Keep reflective vests accessible (should be in cabin, not trunk, so you can put it on before exiting car on highway). Bicycles have priority in many circumstances many intersections have special bike lights, and in 30 km/h zones, bikes can go contraflow on one-ways (marked by sign). Watch for bike lanes painted red or outlined. Respect pedestrian crossings if someone is clearly waiting, you should stop. At night, watch for unlit cyclists especially in smaller towns.

With these facts and tips, you’re well prepared to drive through Belgium safely and enjoyably. Goede reis / Bon voyage (have a good trip)!