Introduction
The E17 highway connecting Antwerp to Bruges follows a medieval trade route established when Antwerp's diamond district first gained prominence in the 15th century. This 95-kilometer corridor passes through the Waasland region, where the Scheldt River's tidal influence created unique marshlands that still define the landscape today. Belgian drivers maintain a strict 120 km/h limit on this expressway, with frequent speed cameras monitoring the stretch between the Antwerp Ring (R1) and the Ghent bypass. The journey crosses three distinct Flemish provinces—Antwerp, East Flanders, and West Flanders—each with architectural variations visible even from the road. For those planning this drive, understanding these regional distinctions enhances the experience. Consider reading our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities for additional planning strategies.
3-Day Antwerp to Bruges Itinerary
An Antwerp to Bruges itinerary 3 days allows thorough exploration. Day 1 in Antwerp should include the Plantin-Moretus Museum at Vrijdagmarkt 22, which preserves the world's oldest printing presses in their original 16th-century location. Reserve 90 minutes here, then walk 8 minutes to the MAS museum's rooftop for port views. Overnight in Antwerp. Day 2: Drive 40 minutes to Ghent via E17 exit 15. Park at P7 Sint-Michiels (€12/day) and visit St. Bavo's Cathedral between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM to see the Van Eyck altarpiece. After lunch at Pakhuis (Schuurkenstraat 4), drive 50 minutes to Bruges via E40. Check into accommodations near 't Zand square. Day 3: Begin at the Groeningemuseum at 9:30 AM when crowds are minimal, focusing on the Flemish Primitive collection. At 2:00 PM, join a 45-minute boat tour from Huidevettersplein dock to see canal-side architecture from water level. This schedule balances driving time with substantial visits, answering how long to drive Antwerp to Bruges while maximizing experience.
Best Stops Between Antwerp and Bruges
For those wondering about things to do between Antwerp and Bruges, several worthwhile detours exist. Sint-Niklaas, 25 minutes south of Antwerp on the E17, contains Europe's largest market square (3.19 hectares) where Thursday markets have operated since 1513. The town hall's 353-step tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding polders. Continuing south, Dendermonde sits at the confluence of the Dender and Scheldt rivers, 40 minutes from Antwerp. The 13th-century Béguinage here contains 61 houses arranged around three squares, with the Church of Our Lady displaying original Gothic woodcarvings. Ghent requires the most significant detour—exit the E17 at junction 15 onto the R4, adding 30 minutes to the total drive. The Gravensteen castle's 2-meter-thick walls and collection of medieval judicial objects merit at least two hours. Between Ghent and Bruges, Tielt's 14th-century cloth hall tower houses a carillon with 49 bells played manually each Saturday at 11:00 AM. For those considering whether it's worth driving Antwerp to Bruges versus taking the train, these intermediate destinations provide compelling reasons to choose the road.
Route Logistics
| Route Option | Distance | Driving Time | Key Roads | Toll Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Highway | 95 km | 1 hour 10 minutes | E17, R4, E40 | €0 (no tolls) |
| Scenic Alternative | 115 km | 2 hours 15 minutes | N49, N9, N44 | €0 |
| With Major Stops | 130 km | 3-4 hours | E17, N49, N9 | €0 |
The most efficient route begins at Antwerp's R1 ring road, taking exit 15 onto the E17 southbound. After 65 kilometers, transfer to the R4 around Ghent, then join the E40 westward for the final 25 kilometers to Bruges. Road conditions are generally excellent, though the E17 experiences congestion weekdays 7:30-9:00 AM near the Antwerp port area. Parking in Bruges costs approximately €15-25 per day in secured lots like 't Zand or Station, while Antwerp's Park & Ride at Linkeroever offers €5 daily parking with tram access to the city center. Fuel prices average €1.85 per liter for unleaded 95 along this corridor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Antwerp to Bruges?
The direct highway drive takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes via the E17 and E40, covering 95 kilometers. With typical traffic, allow 1 hour 30 minutes during weekday mornings. A scenic route using secondary roads requires about 2 hours 15 minutes.
What are the best stops between Antwerp and Bruges?
Key intermediate destinations include Sint-Niklaas (25 minutes from Antwerp) for its massive market square, Dendermonde (40 minutes) for its medieval Béguinage, Ghent (1 hour) for Gravensteen castle, and Tielt (1 hour 40 minutes) for its historic cloth hall. Each adds 30-90 minutes to your total travel time.
Is driving from Antwerp to Bruges better than taking the train?
Driving offers flexibility to visit intermediate towns and costs approximately €25 in fuel versus €22-30 per person for train tickets. The train takes 1 hour 20 minutes direct but requires transfers to reach sites outside city centers. For exploring multiple locations, driving provides superior access.
Can I complete an Antwerp to Bruges trip in one day?
Yes, the direct drive takes just over an hour, allowing a day trip with 6-8 hours for exploration. However, to properly experience both cities' major sites—like Antwerp's cathedral and Bruges' belfry—and enjoy relaxed meals, spreading the visit over 2-3 days is recommended.
What road should I take from Antwerp to Bruges?
Take the E17 south from Antwerp's R1 ring road (exit 15). After 65 km, transfer to the R4 around Ghent, then join the E40 west for the final 25 km to Bruges. This route avoids city centers and maintains 120 km/h speed limits. Alternative N-roads provide scenic options but add 45+ minutes.
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