Antwerp is often regarded as an excursion itself, from Brussels, 53km (33 miles) south, and 40 minutes by train, or Ghent, 58 km (36 miles) southwest, and 50 minutes by train, though you can turn the tables, as both towns are easily accessible by train with departures every 30 minutes or so. Sightseeing packages are available from Antwerp; ask at the tourist office for details.

Lier, 16km (10 miles) southeast, is a pretty little town with canalside scenes which draws comparisons with Bruges. Trains depart hourly from Centraal station.