Why Hire a Car in Belgium?

Belgium

When you think about a trip to Belgium, certain names naturally top the itinerary: Bruges, Antwerp, and Brussels and they are almost non-negotiable stops. Each offers something completely different, from the winding canals of Bruges and the trendy, modern vibe of the capital to Antwerp’s world-famous diamond district. However, the real magic of Belgium stretches far beyond these 'must-see' cities.

Having a hire car in Belgium doesn't just mean you can visit these spots in comfort; it also opens the door to those lesser-known areas,charming villages, local food routes, and hidden treasures that aren't always easy to reach by public transport. In a compact country that is perfectly set up for driving, getting behind the wheel is easily the best way to make the most of every mile.

Keep reading as we go into more detail on why hiring a car is one of the best decisions you can make for your trip to Belgium.

Advantages of Hiring a Car in Belgium

Freedom to explore the country at your own pace

One of the top perks of hiring a car in Belgium is the freedom it gives you. Not having to stick to train or bus timetables means you can plan your own route and change things up as you go. If you fall in love with a city and want to stay a bit longer, or if you spot a nice-looking village along the way, having a car makes it much easier to change your plans on the go.

Accessing the Quieter Spots

While cities like Brussels, Bruges, or Ghent are well-connected, there are plenty of corners in Belgium that sit well off the beaten track. Small villages, castles, or nature trails in the Ardennes, for example, are much easier to get to if you’re driving.

Saving Time On the Road

Public transport in Belgium works well, but it isn’t always the quickest option, especially if you want to visit a few different places in one day. With a hire car, you can manage your own time and make the most of every day of your trip.

For instance, hopping between nearby cities like Brussels, Antwerp, or Ghent is much more straightforward when you're behind the wheel yourself.

If You're with Family or a Group

Driving is just easier if you’re with the kids or a few friends. It’s often cheaper, too. You aren't stuck lugging suitcases around train stations or stressing about everyone making the right connection, you just chuck everything in the boot and go.

Driving in Belgium

Road Conditions

The roads in Belgium are generally in good condition and the signs are easy to follow. The motorways connect all the main cities, which makes getting around the country pretty straightforward.

Since Belgium is a small place, the distances between towns are usually quite short. Having a car for your holiday just makes things easier because you can see a lot more than you would if you were stuck using trains or buses.

Tolls in Belgium

A big plus of driving in Belgium is that there aren't any tolls on most of the roads, which keeps your travel costs down.

Where to Park in Belgium

Finding a spot can be a bit of a pain in the big cities, especially right in the centre. That said, there are plenty of public car parks and pay-and-display zones you can use.

Best Places in Belgium to Visit by Car

Brussels

The capital is the best place to start. From here, it’s easy to do day trips to plenty of nearby spots. Make sure you see the Grand Place, the museums, and the general mix of cultures in the city.

Bruges and the Canals

Bruges is one of the most famous spots in the country. With its canals, cobbled streets, and old buildings, it looks like something out of a storybook. If you have a car, you can stop off at other places along the way rather than just going straight there.

The Medieval Ghent

Ghent is another medieval gem that’s well worth a look, and it tends to be less crowded than Bruges. Make sure you don't miss the castle, the old churches, and the lively atmosphere from the local university.

Antwerp: Culture with a Modern Twist

Antwerp is known for its fashion, its massive port, and its arts scene. It’s a great city if you want to see a mix of history and modern life in one trip.

Nature and The Ardennes

If you want to see some proper scenery, head to the Ardennes. It’s down in the south and it’s the best place for hiking or just getting out of the city for a bit. You’ll definitely need a car to make the most of it, as public transport won't get you to the best spots.

Is it Better to Hire a Car or Use Public Transport?

Price Comparison

Getting around Belgium on trains and buses can add up if you’re making several trips a day. On the other hand, hiring a car is often much cheaper, especially if you’re splitting the cost with a few other people. Sites like CarJet make it easy to find a price that works for you.

Freedom and Comfort

A car gives you a level of freedom that public transport just can’t match. Not being tied to a timetable is a massive plus, particularly if you want to see the quieter spots or villages that are a bit further out.

Which Should You Choose?

If you’re only visiting Brussels and maybe one other city, you’ll probably be fine with public transport. But if you actually want to see the country properly, hiring a car is the way to go. Having your own vehicle means you can see Flanders, Wallonia, or the Ardennes at your own pace without having to rush.

Tips for Getting a Cheap Hire Car in Belgium

The earlier you book, the better the price. It’s always worth comparing a few options on a site like CarJet to find the best deal.

Picking the right car makes a difference too. If it’s just one or two of you, a small car is cheaper and much easier to park. If you're in a bigger group, it usually makes more sense to go for something larger.

Don’t forget to check the insurance and the rental terms before you book. Also, if you can, picking your car up at the airport is usually a good idea as there's more choice and the prices are often better.

When is the Best Time to Drive Around Belgium?

You can visit Belgium any time of year, but spring and summer are great for driving because you get the best of the weather and the days are longer.

Autumn is also a great time to go, especially to the Ardennes. The forests turn all sorts of gold and orange, so it’s a brilliant time of year to head out and explore.

Is it Worth Hiring a Car in Belgium?

In short: yes. Hiring a car in Belgium lets you see the country properly without being stuck with a limited schedule. If you want to make the most of the trip, booking through CarJet is a smart move. Having the freedom to go where you want, when you want, just makes the whole experience unforgettable.