best places to visit belgium in summer

8 of the best places to visit in Belgium

May 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Explore Belgium with this guide to the country's best places to visit © RossHelen / Getty Images

Travelers often overlook Belgium in favor of neighbors like France and the Netherlands, but it’s one of Europe’s best kept secrets. While its history means Belgium is linguistically and culturally diverse, it’s also small and compact, making it easy to hop between destinations. 

From perfect fries and chocolate to accessible nature breaks, picturesque medieval towns and vibrant art and fashion scenes, there's plenty to experience in Belgium. Here are the best places to visit.

1. Brussels

Best for shopping, museums and street food

Brussels , the capital of Belgium and seat of the EU and NATO, is one of Europe’s most multicultural cities. 

Art lovers can spend a whole day visiting the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium – its six different museums include the must-visit Magritte Museum – along with the Boghossian Foundation at Villa Empain, and the modern-chic Center for Fine Arts, a multipurpose cultural venue commonly referred to as BOZAR .

The city is filled with architectural masterpieces such as the Grand Place , a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, and the illustrious Maison Cauchie , which can be toured on certain weekends with advance reservations.

You can find some of the world’s best and most affordable vintage shopping at the Brussels flea markets, most notably the daily open-air antique market in Place du Jeu-de-Balle, and the shops in the Sablon district.

Planning tip: For food and drink lovers, Brussels is the place to taste all of Belgium’s highlights. Délirium Café is a beloved, always-crowded bar with more than 2000 types of beer, including the country’s famed Trappist beers. Nearby, there are a handful of outdoor kiosks, known as frietkot (snack stands), where you can get your fix of frieten – fries served in a paper cone with your sauce of choice. To satisfy a sweet tooth, try Belgian chocolate at Pierre Marcolini and the fluffy Brussels-style waffles at Maison Dandoy .

Start crafting your Belgium budget with these tips .

2. Namur Province

Best for forts, nature and river views

Known as the “Land of Valleys”, the land-locked province of Namur in the Wallonia region is rich in rivers, cliffs, rolling farm hills and lush Ardennes greenery.

With postcard-perfect aesthetics and a mighty citadel perched atop limestone cliffs, Dinant is the ideal day-trip destination. Stroll around the town, cruise along the river, ride the cable car up to the fortress to take in the sweeping views and enjoy the scenery from a cafe while tasting regional specialties like the Couque de Dinant, a hard biscuit that comes in various shapes. Made of equal parts wheat flour and honey, it can be kept indefinitely, making a great souvenir to take back home.

For a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, head to Liernu, an even smaller town that’s the epitome of tranquility. Here you’ll find L’air du Temps , a fine-dining restaurant in a beautifully renovated farmhouse set on 5 hectares of private gardens. Most of the dishes served are sourced from the garden and often feature highlights of the local terroir, like Wallonia’s most sustainable food source, the Petits-Gris de Namur snails.

From there, you’re a stone’s throw from the city of Namur , capital of both the province and the region. This relaxed city is home to one of Europe’s largest citadels and also the adults-only Musée Félicien Rops , which exhibits the life and work of the scandalous 19th-century Belgian artist.

Best for wandering and romantic escapes 

A visit to Bruges feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Often called the Venice of the North, the city is incredibly charming with an intricate network of tree-lined canals, cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture. To add to the allure, many of the distinctively medieval buildings look like gingerbread houses, thanks to the red Gothic brick. All that and the fact that it’s the birthplace of Flemish Primitive painting led to the entire historic center of Bruges being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bruges is best experienced at a leisurely pace. Wander around the Old Town on foot, soaking up the atmosphere of the city squares, the Markt and the Burg ; hop on a canal boat tour and count all 54 bridges, then bike along the canals to the less crowded places. For the best bird’s-eye views, head to the Belfort , one of Bruges’ most recognizable landmarks, and climb the 366 steps to the top.

Catch your breath with a crisp Belgian beer, which can be found on every corner of the city. Noteworthy destinations are De Halve Maan , a brewery that also offers tours with tastings, and ’t Brugs Beertje , a legendary beerhouse with more than 300 Belgian brews on the menu.

Last but not least, no visit to Bruges is complete without a visit to the Groeningemuseum , a fine art museum with an impressive Flemish Primitive collection.

Best for fashion and design 

Home to the world-renowned Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp , Belgium’s second city is also its coolest. Some of fashion’s top creatives, including Martin Margiela and Balenciaga’s Demna Gvasalia, have connections to Antwerp . A few have gone on to open shops here that are worth a visit, such as Dries Van Noten’s Het Modepaleis and Ann Demeulemeester’s sleek, black-and-bone-white flagship store .

There are more trendy shops in the Kammenstraat and Nationalestraat areas that make up the Fashion District, where you can also find the impressive fashion museum MoMu .

Beyond its stylish inhabitants, Antwerp has a visual edge driven by the contrasting architectural styles of contemporary projects and medieval buildings. Make your way down to the port to marvel at late architect Zaha Hadid’s Antwerp Port House and the MAS , home to exhibitions and collections revolving around the city.

5. The Belgian coast

Best for beaches 

The  Belgian coast stretches for 65km (40 miles), meaning you can pack multiple towns into a visit without feeling overwhelmed. Making things even easier is de Kusttram , a coastal tram that’s one of the longest in the world. It starts near the French border at De Panne and travels all the way to Knokke-Heist near the Dutch border, making 67 stops. The complete journey takes 2.5 hours and allows you to admire the coastline in its entirety, jumping off whenever you like without having to worry about parking.  

The two must-visit stops are De Haan and Oostduinkerke. De Haan is unlike other towns in that all buildings must be under five floors, which helps preserve its small-village charm. The low beachfront made up of Belle Epoque architecture and unspoiled grassy dunes is love at first sight for many. Still not convinced? The sweet treats at the retro Wafelhuis Annie or high tea at the vintage 't Stil Genot tearoom are sure to win you over. 

Oostduinkerke, or East Dunkirk, is a protected dune area and the only place in the world where shrimpers still use horse-dragged nets to collect tiny gray shrimp from the sand. This centuries-old tradition is practiced by just over a dozen highly trained locals and takes place at low tide during the warmer months, usually between April and October. In 2013, shrimp fishing on horseback in Oostduinkerke received UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity status. To learn more about this and the other local sea traditions, visit Navigo , a national museum housed in a 19th-century fisher’s cottage.

Best for a quirky weekend break

Located between Brussels and Bruges, Ghent encapsulates the best of Belgian cities: winding canals, medieval architecture, enviable museums and cobblestone alleyways filled with shops and restaurants. The difference is that it’s also home to the largest student population in Belgium – a young, beating heart in one of the country’s oldest urban areas. 

Take a closer look and you’ll find an unconventional creative community, flourishing music scene and so many plant-based menus that it’s often referred to as the vegetarian capital of Europe. 

Since 2009, Ghent has proudly held the title of UNESCO Creative City of Music. There’s a wide range of options for everyone’s tastes, from Belgium’s first silent disco at Abacho to performances at the never boring Vooruit Art Center and De Bijloke Muziekcentrum , and live music on the street and in bars and cafes like Kinky Star , a record-label-owned cafe famous for its Irish coffees and alternative concerts.

Best for thermal hot springs and well-being

Spas around the world take their name from this peaceful and breathtaking Ardennes town. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, Spa is known for its healing thermal springs and lightly sparkling mineral water. The most famous spa in Spa is Thermes de Spa , a modern and surprisingly affordable complex in the hills that’s backed by more than 150 years of knowledge and tradition. With a stunning natural landscape as your backdrop, resting and relaxing feels easy here.

Spa is also home to the world’s first casino , a permanent exhibition of Joan Miró lithographs , and the annual Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix at the world-class Spa-Francorchamps track.

These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Belgium .

8. Hoge Kempen National Park

Best for nature

Hoge Kempen National Park is the only national park in Belgium. A former coal-mining site, it opened in 2006 following the cooperative conservation efforts of businesses, government agencies and environmental organizations.

The 57 sq km (22 sq mile) nature reserve is mostly heathland and pine forest, a lush landscape of evergreen trees – and vibrant purple-flowering shrubs in August and September – next to expansive artificial waterways. Today, it’s inhabited by more than 6000 species of flora and fauna, which is especially impressive considering the area’s industrial history. 

Planning tip:  There are numerous entrances to the park. For those without a car, the park can be accessed through the Kattevennen Gateway , first by taking a train to Genk station, followed by a De Lijn bus ride or a short walk. Once inside, there are different routes depending on whether you’re exploring by bicycle, mountain bike, horseback or on foot. Admission is always free, and the park is open all year long. Rangers offer guided experiences for all ages with advance registration.

This article was first published May 13, 2022 and updated May 5, 2024.

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Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

A real gem of the European Low Countries, Belgium might be small but boy does it pack a punch! Ranging from the Francophone villages of Wallonia in the south to the Flemish diamond towns and North Sea coast, this nation hosts everything from buzzing European parliaments to sobering war memorials between its borders. Here, we take a look at all the best places to visit in Belgium , checking off the energetic capital, the wilds of the Ardennes, culturally-rich Mons and plenty, plenty more along the way!

Catapulted to fame by the 2008 hit film In Bruges, this pop-up cut-out of a medieval town in the heartlands of Flemish Belgium rarely fails to impress.

Its old centre is an enchanting labyrinth of winding stony streets, each fringed with the rising apses of Low Country townhouses. Here, soaring belfries clad in Gothic carvings and twisted gargoyles peak above the Grote Markt; chip merchants tout double-fried cones of Belgian frites next to ubiquitous Irish pubs (there’s an unexpectedly lively nightlife), and romantic gondolas drift up and down the canals.

Oh, and don’t miss the Basilica of the Holy Blood – a Gothic masterpiece that’s said to house a vial of Christ’s congealed blood! Also see our guide to Bruges !

It’s just a matter of time before Ghent begins to vie against Antwerp and Brussels for the top spot on lists of Belgium’s must-see metropolitan destinations.

Once one of the most powerful city states in Europe, it opted to take something of a backseat in the modern age; preferring to hide its gorgeous location on the confluence of the Scheldt and Leie and that chocolate box old town area (the largest pedestrianised urban zone in the country).

Today, travelers head in to explore the postcard-perfect rows of Flemish townhouses that line the Graslei docks, or delve into the Gothic medley that rises with the bulwarks of the Gravensteen castle. Others sip Belgian brews in the riverside pubs, or devour platters of moules frites amidst the tight-knit alleyways. Read more in our best things to do in Ghent !

Nestled deep in a wooded valley in the midst of the Wallonia Ardennes, Durbuy enchants visitors with a rustic web of winding cobblestone lanes and bucolic cottages dressed in rhododendron, ivy vines and poppy blooms.

A clutch of hearty and welcoming Belgian beer joints rubs shoulders with accomplished fine-dining restaurants between the streets of the medieval centre, while narrow lanes like Rue des Récollets are a real treat for strollers.

Summertime brings booming crowds to the craft boutiques of the self-proclaimed ‘smallest town in the world’, while winter gives a wilder hue to the riparian setting in the middle of pretty Luxembourg province.

Cool, confident and classically subversive, Antwerp has really honed its rep as the second city of Belgium.

A booming diamond trading centre and moneyed to the hilt, the town touts grandiose Flemish houses, winding medieval streets overshadowed by the looming Gothicism of the city Cathedral, the glorious old home of Rubens, and an endearingly gaudy Red Light district where Toots Thielemans tunes echo past candlelit beer bars.

And then – of course – there’s the Het Zuid neighbourhood; Antwerp’s sleepless modern edge, where bohemian coffee shops rub shoulders with antique emporiums, fixie riders glide past graffiti artists and the acclaimed MUHKA art gallery offers cutting-edge avant-garde. See our post on the best things to do in Antwerp to learn more!

Etched into the minds of many as the site of one of the most bloody and destructive battles of the First World War, little Ypres in the midst of the Westhoek is a real must for any history buffs making their way through Belgium.

From 1914 onwards, the rolling fields around this ancient city were dug-out by French, Canadian, British, ANZAC and other allied troops as they vied for control of West Flanders and attempted to push German lines back over the infamous Passendale Ridge.

Today, this bloody struggle is commemorated by the Menin Gate Memorial and the In Flanders Fields Museum, which has been hailed as the most comprehensive World War I exhibit in all of Europe.

6. The Hoge Kempen National Park

Belgium’s solitary National Park is a real patchwork of natural beauty that does well to sum up the wild hinterland of Eastern Flanders.

Covering 60 square kilometers of the picturesque Limburg region, the park is home to rolling heath and undulating hills, misty pine forests and mirror-like lakes, all dotted with packs of wild deer and sweeping blooms of lavender and thistle.

With a whopping total of more than 200 kilometers of winding hiking trails and countless bridal paths and biking tracks besides, it’s hardly surprising that this one’s now a real favourite amongst outdoorsy types making their way through the Low Countries.

Touting its 800-year-old university, a booming student population of more than 25,000 beer-loving erudite Belgians and the famous Grand Béguinage district (a UNESCO-attested area of cobbled streets, enchanting red-brick buildings and pretty Flemish facades), it’s hardly a surprise that Leuven is on the up.

Yes sir, travelers are now more eager than ever to delve into the elegant streets that weave around the Grote Markt below the filigreed Gothic spires of one eye-watering City Hall, while others will come just for the beer – this is the home of the sprawling InBev brewery (one of the largest of its kind in the world), along with countless specialist craft bars touting ancient Trappist ales and Belgian abbey beers to boot!

Also see: the 15 best things to do in Leuven .

8. Brussels

No list of Belgium’s top must-see sights could possibly be complete without at least a mention of its sprawling, action-packed and indelibly exciting capital city.

Not only is Brussels the beating heart of modern European politics, drawing lawmakers from Estonia to Portugal, but it’s also the home of the iconic Grand Place market square, where a palimpsest of the Gothic, the Baroque the  fin de siècle and Beaux-Arts styles coalesce amidst the apses and spires.

And all around this historic plaza, hidden alleys conceal Belgian beer bars bursting with Trappist brews and frothy ales, famous chocolatiers, holes-in-the-wall touting waffles and stacks of double-cooked Belgian frites, fine art museums bulging with Bruegel and Rubens, regal parks with soaring monuments like the Cinquantenaire – the list goes on as you’ll see in our guide on Brussels .

Proud former European Capital of Culture and the home of perhaps the most elegant historic centre in all of Belgium, Mons and its array of Luxembourgish-come-Germanic townhouses sits draped over the southwestern hillsides just a stone’s throw from the border with France.

The action focusses on the irresistible Grand Place square, where the elaborate facades of one seriously photogenic town hall sit in the shadow of Belgium’s only Baroque belfry (a UNESCO World Heritage Site to boot).

The town is also home to the erstwhile house of the totemic Dutch post-impressionist Vincent Van Gogh, while the famous Ducasse festivities in the spring make for a striking display of local religious traditions, complete with biblical re-enactments, pitched battles between St George and the dragon, horse parades and more.

Responsible for adding the prefix ‘spa’ to destinations famed for their bubbling mineral springs right across the globe, this charming little town in the heart of Liege province comes complete with row upon row of regal facades and La Belle Époque architectural pieces.

It has been hailed for its healing waters since way back in the 14th century, and today folk still flock to the all-new Thermes baths that look over the downtown streets where once Dumas and Victor Hugo and the fictional Hercule Poirot would have flitted between Parisian-style cafes and babbling fountains.

A patchwork of traditional Mosan-style homes built from grey brick and stoic black slate, crisscrossing cobblestone lanes and pretty riverside promenades, Namur belies its official status as a regional capital with a laid-back, historic vibe.

Its undisputed piece de resistance is the sprawling medieval Citadelle that crowns the hillsides above the Sambre. More than 1,000 years old, it remains one of the largest fortresses in all of Europe and comes complete with oodles of escape tunnels and bulwarks that were used right up until WWII.

And once travelers are done touring the castle complex on the hill, Namur’s cobbled Place du Vieux Marché beckons; a pretty European square that’s awash with al fresco cafes and Belgian beer bars aplenty.

Straddling the Meuse River as it meanders northwards through the grassy valleys and woods of Wallonia, Liege is one of the less-trodden cities in Belgium. However, travelers who linger here just a little before heading out to explore the wilds of the Ardennes are in for a real treat.

For one there’s a seriously pretty medieval old town area that cascades down from the fascinating Citadel of Liege to the riverbanks, encompassing the flying buttresses of a reconstructed city cathedral, acclaimed institutions like Musée des Beaux-Arts and the eclectic Egyptology-come-Bonapartist collections of the Curtius Museum as it goes.

And then there’s the nightlife – a medley of student-led jazz bars and Low Country pubs that bustles between the Victorian and Art Deco homes of the Le Carré neighbourhood. Learn more about Liege: best things to do in Liege .

13. The Ardennes

A sprawling section of southern Belgium that’s famed as one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in all of Northern Europe, the Ardennes ranges from the city of Namur, across the valleys of the meandering Meuse River and down to the wild plateau Fens on the edge of the German Eifel Mountains.

Between its borders travelers can seek out rock-clad castles like Chateau de Bouillon, Mardi Gras festivities in Malmedy , beautiful canoeing waters along the River Lesse, stalactite-dotted caves and grottoes amidst the Ourthe hills, dense woodlands and Trappist monasteries in Rochefort , rugged cliffs in Dinant , verdant valleys that give way to winding river channels, misty forests that go on for miles and oodles, oodles more!

Escape the inland cities and towns of Belgium for a blast of North Sea air along the sun-splashed (at least by summer!) esplanades of Ostend , which runs its way along the windswept coastline of West-Flanders just a short ride out of Bruges.

Much-loved by locals for its buzzing atmosphere and sandy beaches between June and August, it’s actually surprisingly easy to fall in love with this one’s cookie cutter seaside hotels, curiously English tearooms and hedonistic clubs along Langestraat.

There’s history to explore too, most notably at the infamous Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum, which chronicles German fortification of the European seaboard, while aquariums and various marine-themed expos relate the town’s indelible connection to the North Sea.

15. Bastogne

Perched right on the borderlands with Luxembourg to the south, the now sleepy, 15,000-strong town of Bastogne boasts a history going all the way back to the centuries when Gallic tribes waged war with Roman centurions in the Low Countries.

However, the spot is now better known for its place at the heart of the tumultuous and dark histories of the 20th century. In 1944 it was from here that German divisions planned the Battle of the Bulge, and the town subsequently played host to the heroic 101st Airborne Division as they were encircled by Axis troops.

Today, this pivotal moment of the Western Front is commemorated at the acclaimed Bastogne War Museum, the colossal Mardasson Memorial and the Bastogne Barracks alike.

15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium:

• The Hoge Kempen National Park
• The Ardennes

20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Belgium

Often overlooked as a travel destination in favor of France, Spain, and Germany, I honestly think Belgium is the underrated gem of Europe!

Home to a collection of impossibly picturesque suspended-in-time medieval towns and cities, I personally think it offers some of the most beautiful and romantic breaks on the continent. From my time spent exploring, here are my favourite places…

This under-the-radar beautiful gem of a city sits on the banks of the river Meuse in Belgium’s Walloon region. The picturesque town is backed by a spectacular sheer cliff face and protected by the ancient fortified citadel.

The city’s historic buildings are steeped in legend – as you meander through the narrow streets, you can sense this place has many stories to tell.

Perhaps the city’s most famous connection comes from it being the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the man who invented the Saxophone whose house you can now visit. 

I would suggest trying the delicious Flamiche (a bit like a Tarte Flambe) or Couques de Dinant, which are delicious brittle honey biscuits.

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The perfectly preserved medieval city is the place for couples wanting to head out on a romantic European getaway.  Thousands of visitors can’t be wrong and I was personally a huge fan!

In fact, I couldn’t quite believe it existed! With a collection of attractive market squares, steep-gabled houses lining dreamy canals, and winding cobbled streets all tied up in a compact, primarily traffic-free package Bruges, the suspended-in-time canal-side city is very romantic and it’s also undeniably photogenic! 

I would recommend visiting  Burg Square, the 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall), which has an ornately carved ceiling, Market Square, which features a 13th-century belfry with panoramic views, and of course, one of the critically acclaimed restaurants (of which there are many)! 

3. Brussels

Forget the dull image that one of Europe’s premier cities seems saddled with; in my opinion, Brussels is beautiful and trip-worthy! The city has become a thriving cosmopolitan metropolis in the last few decades and it’s a joy to explore.

The historic architecture (including a perfectly-preserved late seventeenth-century centre) is genuinely superb and add in a fine collection of art galleries, museums, a famous foodie scene which consists of everything from chocolate and waffles to Michelin star adorned fine cuisine (and of course the delicious beer!) then I think Brussels easily deserves a place on this list! 

I loved Ghent! While most head for Brussels or Bruges, the small but beautiful port city is arguably Europe’s best-kept secret. Ghent was, in fact, the most powerful in Europe, but today, it’s a very relaxed, picturesque place with more than a whiff of bohemian air which I was totally charmed by.

Beautiful Ghent is also story-book pretty with a collection of canal-side medieval architecture, Michelin-starred restaurants, quirky boutique stores, and a rich calendar of cultural events.

To get the feel of the place, I would recommend skipping the touristy canal boat trips and discovering all the local hotspots instead! 

Spa is an elegant town which, yep, you’ve guessed it; it’s famous for being an ‘original’ spa. Located in the Ardennes region of eastern Belgium, it’s naturally blessed with abundant mineral-rich thermal waters.

Tourists flock here to relax and enjoy the water’s and hot springs’ health and wellness benefits.

It’s also easy on the eye with beautiful buildings, thermal baths, a historic casino, an array of luxury hotels, and an endearing 19th-century retro charm. 

6. Eifel Nature Park

With its low-hanging mist and miles of untamed, rugged wilderness, this park has a mystical and almost other-worldly beauty. The beech forest-covered conversation area lies mainly in Germany but also borders Belgium.

It also happens to be home to some incredible wildlife – wild cats, wild boars, wildcats, black grouse, red deer, and eagle owls all call this beautiful place home; since the new millennium, the lynx has again been sighted in this remote and highly protected area for the first time in three centuries.

I love that p art of the park’s moors dates back to the last Ice Age!

The accolade of the smallest town on earth and a population of just 500, Durbury is a tiny gem! It’s located just 2 hours from Brussels and in my opinion, it proves that the best things come in small packages! 

It’s maintained in its charming medieval setting. Today, its pedestrian streets are flowered, narrow, and cobbled, winding between the old bluestone homes and buildings, attracting curious visitors to its shops, fine restaurants, and hotels.

Shop for artisanal produce, gaze at half-timbered houses, visit the beautiful Topiary Park and stop to quench your thirst at La Ferme du Chêne, which brews beer using a 14th-century method. Sporty types can also kayak or raft the Ourthe River that passes through the city.

8. Chateau de La Hulpe

France isn’t the only country boasting fairytale castles; Gium’s finest is truly exquisite.

Located in the municipality of La Hulpe in the Walloon Brabant and less than an hour away from Brussels, this beautiful chateau was modelled after the castles in the Loire Valley in France and served as Marquis Maximilien de Béthune’s home.

The castle itself is not open to the public. Still, you can visit the garden, which is littered with sculptures and brimming with colourful flowers, and also the surrounding park, which is known for its rolling lawns, small ponds, and fragrant rhododendrons where I would recommend you take a walk, take a picnic or kick back and relax! 

9. The Sonian Forest

Part of this magnificent forest has just been awarded a UNESCO heritage status. Beginning in the Iron Age, the 4,000 hectares of woodlands used to be part of a long natural border of beeches and oaks stretching from Brabant to the north of France.

It’s a treasured, peaceful, and unspoiled place and in my opinion, definitely deserves a place on this list! It’s also a naturally picturesque destination to spot roaming wild boars, foxes, and roe deer! 

With more than a whiff of Provence, this idyllic little village is often cited as the prettiest in the country. Lying on the southernmost tip of Belgium lies Torgny in the Gaume region in the province of Luxemburg, south of the Ardennes and surrounded by France on three sides.

The houses consist of ochre-coloured, hand-hewn stones and red curved tiles, reminiscent of the south of France. The village also enjoys its little microclimate, which is well-suited for vineyards!

I would just say it’s a quiet place, so don’t expect too much going on. I suggest kicking back, relaxing, and taking in the rolling hills, the honey-coloured houses, the abundance of flowers, the gastronomy of the local restaurants, walks and bike rides in the countryside, and a visit to the Abbey of the Trappist Cistercian monks of Orval! 

11. Wallonia

In my opinion, a visit to Belgium would not be complete without a visit to beautiful Wallonia!  This French-speaking region of the country is among the larger land areas but still has a traditional and laid-back feel.

The region of Wallonia has much to offer tourists and locals, including picturesque medieval towns with half-timbered buildings, historic architecture (hailing from the classy Renaissance period), thick forests, rugged cliffs, traditional restaurants and my favourite, the traditional Trappist beers which you’ll find everywhere! 

Veurne was once an area of Belgium encompassed by fortresses to fend off the impending Viking attacks. However, fortification failed, and the room was invaded, but thankfully, all the scars of the past have faded and left Verne as a historical yet beautiful part of the country which I would recommend visiting!

Veurne is a city of historical significance, so it’s home to many beautifully preserved buildings. Many of the buildings and ruins throughout Veurne depict a distinct Renaissance and Gothic style and are very impressive! 

13. Hoge Kempen National Park

The national parks here are treasures just waiting to be explored, and in Belgium’s Hoge Kempen National Park, you can explore and stay directly in the park to immerse yourself in its immense natural beauty! 

Hiking and camping are available here and I would highly recommend both. It also offers modern lodging arrangements for those who don’t wish to get that close to nature!

14. De Haan

Coastal regions of Belgium draw in tourists from all over the world, and one my my personal favourites is De Haan. Just under 13,000 people populate De Haan and I love that it has a small-town vibe.

Attractions within De Haan range from unique shopping opportunities, traditional mills, and outdoor adventures such as exploring the dune forest.

There is no limit to what you can find in De Haan, and unlike other areas that only cater to high-end travelers, this area provides something for everyone on every budget. Views from Spioenkop are among the best photo opportunities in De Haan so I would suggest heading there!

15. La Roche-en-Ardenne

Driving around Belgium offers some beautiful scenery, but if you want something to enjoy outside your vehicle then I would suggest stopping at the pretty but low-key city of La Roche-en-Ardenne. La Roche-en-Ardenne is located in a picturesque valley at the bend of the Ourthe River. 

This location is full of picturesque scenery, from forests and hills to castle ruins and miles of fields! Enjoy your experience exploring this rugged countryside surrounded by unspoiled wilderness.

Cave explorers and outdoor enthusiasts love it here and I also would recommend bringing your camera along too, you’ll need it! 

16. Vallee du Ninglinspo

Dubbed “The Most Beautiful Walk in Adrennes,” Vallee du Ninglinspo is one of the country’s biggest outdoor attractions. It boasts miles of trails and enjoyable scenery through stunning wilderness.

A hiker’s paradise, I love that Vallee du Nignlinspo offers something new around every bend. Waterfalls, natural pools, and rocky landscapes mix beautifully with unspoiled wilderness in this area.

Damme is an area of Belgium that encompasses Oostkereke, Vivenkapelle, Sint-Rita, Sijsele, Lapscheure, Hoeke, and Moerkerke. The population of this growing area is just under 11,000 people. It remains a tiny, intimate town with much to offer tourists and locals.

Book enthusiasts flock to Damme, located in Belgium’s north region, as it is home to an increasing number of bookstores. Bookworms, poetry lovers and culture vultures will especially love it here!

Damme has a very walkable layout but also maintains an excellent bus route and is a bike-friendly area, so no matter how you travel in Damme, I’m sure you will enjoy this picturesque village just like I did!

18. Gaasbeek Castle

Located in Lennik, Flemish Brabant, Belgium, Gaasbeek Castle is a stunning and romantic spot! From April 1 to August 30, I recommend visiting the Castle for a tour. The castle is beautifully preserved, and I think the surrounding grounds are among the most beautiful in the country.

Ground admission is relatively inexpensive, and tours of the castle are available at various times throughout the day. .

19. Oud-Rekem

Dubbed “The Most Beautiful Village in Flanders,” Oud Reken is simply waiting for visitors to stroll their historic pathways and cobblestone pathways! 

If like me you like your travelling pace to be a little slower, then Oud Reken is the perfect place! The Castle d’Aspremont-Lynden is one of the most famous sites, but it is not the only one.

Visitors enjoy access to this historical village, of various indoor and outdoor museums and friendly locals around every corner. If quaint is your idea of perfection then I think you’ll love it here!

Ypres is a city of almost 35,000 people, not a tiny village but a thriving town which would recommend visiting if you can!

Historically, Ypres has seen its share of fighting, including during WWII. Still, today’s Ypres is full of beautiful sites and a key pilgrimage site for those wishing to pay their respects to those who tragically lost their lives during war times.

Among the many historical sites throughout the city, tourists enjoy walking along the shores of the Yperlee River and taking pictures of the many memorials placed around Ypres. History comes alive in Ypres, so I would suggest bringing your camera and a good pair of walking shoes to take it all in.

My Stay at Indrani Lodge

I stayed in Indrani Lodge , located in the heart of the historic Brabant-Wallon village of Loupoigne, only a 45-minute drive from Brussels.

Combining contemporary stylish luxury with landmark elegance and personalized service, the lodge is a meticulously renovated medieval farm set amidst rural farmland, ace to escape city hassles but still within easy reach of the cultural attractions of one of Europe’s quirkier cities.

Surrounded by beautiful lush green landscapes, the hike was linked to a horse ride through rural farmland, ancient abbeys, historical battle sites, or a round of golf at one of several nearby courses!

Indrani Lodge offers five luxuriously appointed and designed en-suite bedrooms, a relaxing leafy garden, and a rejuvenating sauna.

In keeping with the harmonious surroundings, they’ve also recently launched a new retreat program offering a wide selection of wellness retreats and focusing on the themes of yoga, wellness, mindfulness, and healthy eating which I loved!

Becky Moore - Owner, writer and photographer My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland. Hotel Reviewing Experience - published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Canada Tourist Board , Eviivo , France.fr , Visitoostende.be , Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic , The Times , LA Weekly , Yahoo Travel , Huffington Post , Business Insider , Thrillist , British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur , Daily Express , Wanderlust , Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro . Winner of Travel Blog of the Year . Find me on Linkedin or Facebook .

9 thoughts on “20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Belgium”

hi sir who doesnt want to visit those beautiful places… Gaasbeek Castle is cool place for me

I just love traveling, beautiful places, really thanks for blog and photos. This are really gonna help.

Belgium having some many tourist places to visit..Thanks for sharing the photos which has the important places for tourists.

Fantastic looking places!

Belgium looks like a truly beautiful place to visit what wonderful photos too!

Wow I love this, such beautiful places in a beautiful looking country!

Bruges has certainly been on our travel wish list for a while now! We hear it’s great for chocolate, beer and bicycling :-).

Wow I didn’t know much about Belgium other than Brussels before now, but these look like incredibly scenic places to visit! Thanks for the travel inspiration! 🙂

Belgium is very picturesque.. I have been to Dinant and this city is truly breathtaking I had no idea about Eifel Nature Park before reading this post, looks so beautiful will definitely go there on my next visit. Thanks for sharing Becky!!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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Home » Europe » Belgium » 21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Belgium (2024 • Insider Guide)

21 MUST-SEE Beautiful Places in Belgium (2024 • Insider Guide)

I’ve always thought Belgium was an underrated country. Flying under the radar, this Northern European gem is nestled between Germany, The Netherlands, France, Luxembourg, and the North Sea. It’s a multi-cultural country of French, Dutch, and German speakers, with a history as diverse as its population.

Don’t let its small geographical size fool you. Belgium is an international centerpiece, housing the heart of the EU and NATO headquarters. But it’s not all politics and governments here.

If you know where to look, you could explore age-old medieval villages, cycle along city canals, and visit preserved World War One battlefields. Top that off with a cheese and beer tasting, and you’ve hit the jackpot.

History, natural splendor, and politics aside, there is no denying the country is expensive. If this puts the fear of the bank in you, worry not – there are plenty of beautiful places to visit in Belgium that won’t break the bank.

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2. Brussels

4. borrekens castle, 5. the sonian forest, 7. wallonia, 8. poirier du loup vineyard, torgny, 9. chateau de la hulpe, 10. lommelse sahara, limburg, 11. eifel national park, 12. vallee du ninglinspo, 13. mechelen, 14. hoge kempen national park, 15. bokrijk, 16. the hanging gardens, thuin, 17. antwerp, 18. the blue forest of hallerbos, 20. haspengouw, 21. museum of the far east, brussels, how to see beautiful places in belgium, final thoughts on beautiful places in belgium.

Let’s start the list with an obvious one. Bruges is easily one of the most beautiful places in the country, and, no doubt, the most famous. The fairytale town is almost synonymous with Belgium, attracting over 8 million tourists seeking a dreamy stay . For a population of under 120 thousand, that’s a pretty impressive stat!

Bruges is the capital of West Flanders, famous for its exquisite string of canals, cobblestone Medieval streets, and well-preserved architecture. You might even go so far as to call it the Venice of Belgium !

Sure, you’ll have to fight through a few tourists in the summer months, but it will all be worth it when strolling through the stunning streets lined with blossoming flower pots. It’s one of the best cities in Europe for a reason, right?

Other than exploring the never-ending market squares, admiring gabled homes, and strolling along car-free streets, you should visit Burg Square, an iconic 14th-century city hall with one of the most beautifully crafted ornate ceilings in the land. 

Or maybe climb to the top of the UNESCO-classified Belfry for some of the best panoramic views of the city. For some relaxed downtime, sign up for this guided walking tour and boat trip around Bruges to experience the many charms of the Venice of the North.

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Closing off the list with one of the most popular destinations in Belgium, Brussels is the country’s capital, known for its exquisite architecture and unique history.

Brussels is a delight for culture lovers, adventurers and everything in between. With 138 restaurants every square mile, there really is no better place I can think of for foodies too!

Explore the extensive collection of art galleries and museums, and spend some time tasting traditional delicacies. Or maybe take a chocolate-making workshop and learn how to make tasty treats with a chocolatier artisan.

Whilst we’re on that topic of food, I have to tell you to try Belgian Waffles here, especially if you have a sweet tooth like me. They’re some of the best sweet foods in all of Europe.

There is also an abundance of stunning hotels and places to stay in Brussels, so take your pick of some of my personal favourites. Oh, and by the way, you’ll need at least a couple of nights to explore the city fully.

Belgium isn’t all castles and medieval cities. Located on the northern shores of the country, just a short drive northwest of Bruges, De Haan is a seaside heaven not to be missed when visiting Belgium . This coastal municipality is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and restaurant-lined promenade. 

Of course, you’re going to want to take advantage of every summer day in this unique place to visit in Belgium and spend as much time as you can on the beaches. Top that off with fresh fish and chips at a restaurant by the sea, and we have ourselves the perfect summer’s day. Just don’t let the chilly water deter you…

Just like the area attracts us, so did it attract the Belgian nobility of the last few hundred years. Today, De Haan is home to some of the stateliest Belle Époque mansions and holiday homes. If architecture tickles your fancy, add the Town Hall and Hotel Savoyarde to your list. 

That said, there are tons of other ways to spend your time in De Haan. For starters, the small coastal village is dotted with unique boutiques and shops worth checking out. Along the seaside, there is also an extensive sand dune ‘forest’ where you can zone out and go for long walks.

Disney’s biggest fans couldn’t imagine a more beautiful castle if they tried.

Borrekens Castle, a true fairytale, was first constructed in 1270 by a member of a noble family of the time. They built the castle rising out of a swampy lake, close to what was thought to be a major trading route between Antwerp and Cologne in Germany.

Back in the day, it’s likely that the castle (then called the Vorselaar Castle) was built as a fortified fortress to protect the family from external threats. It’s surrounded by a moat-like swamp and protected by two fortified towers at the doors – I guess this was the alarm system of the day?

After a few changes, the castle now belongs to the Borrekens family, who still live in Belgium today. 

While it certainly deserves a spot as one of the top ten places to visit in Belgium, it must be noted that visitors are not currently allowed at the castle since it is a private residence. 

Equal parts mystical, eerie, and beautiful, there are few places in the world like The Sonian Forest. Along with beech trees that are over two hundred years old, the Sonian Forest is home to an impressive mix of deciduous trees that have been standing tall since the 1700s.

As you might expect, the forest is a hit for outdoor adventurers, as well as families with kids and even those traveling with dogs. You really can tell the true value and authenticity of a place by the locals who visit it, and The Sonian Forest happens to be one of the most loved local hangouts.  

Your mission here is to be a responsible traveler and protect the beautiful nature around you. The easiest thing you can do is reduce your plastic footprint.

Cycling, mountain biking, hiking, and trekking are popular here, with well-groomed tracks and trails across the four thousand hectares of UNESCO-certified forest. One of the most breathtaking parts of the forest is the Valley of the Vuylbeek in Watermael-Boitsfort .

The ancient beech trees have grown to be as impressive as buildings. Growing on either side of the valley, they open into a sunlight-bathed marshland, resembling a natural cathedral. 

For history lovers, the forest is also home to a well-known Neolithic site and tumuli. Also in the Boitsfort region, this archeological haven showcases the remains of a fortified camp from around 4000 BC. 

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If any place on this list will steal your heart, it’s this one. Tucked away between a dramatic cliff face and a peaceful river, Dinant is a riverside town made for photographs. Pro tip? Keep your camera in hands for this one!

Somehow, this small town in Walloon falls under the radar, off the beaten track from Belgium’s more famous cities and attractions. The main features of the town are the fortified cathedral, impressive cliff, and colorful historic buildings – all of which are steeped in history and legend.

Venture across the main bridge at sunset to view the city from a different perspective. With the domineering cliff face lit up in a yellow glow, the incredible cathedral rising in front of it, and perfect reflections in the calm river, you’ll struggle to document just how gorgeous this place is. Like so many of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium, this one is hard to put into words.

Foodies, are you with me? Right, well, Dinant pulls out all the stops for the small-town cuisine. Taste a traditional Flamiche or Couques de Dinant, which are locally famous honey brittle cookies in the region. You’ll be glad I told you so.

Let’s zoom out a bit. Wallonia is a region or province of Belgium known for its medieval towns, Renaissance-inspired architecture, and local beer. Set along a beautiful river with rolling hills, countryside valleys, and some of the best fall foliage on the Belgian map, Wallonia doubles as a nature-fanatic scene.

As part of Belgium’s French-speaking region , there really is a Francophone vibe around here. Combined with a laid-back atmosphere, it’s no wonder locals and tourists flock to Wallonia.

Liege is the largest city in Wallonia and is most famous for its cuisine and historic town center. It might look a bit harsh and industrial at first glance, but this city has a wholesome hub with unique attractions and delicious gastronomy. Don’t believe me? Try a sugar-coated Liege waffle and get back to me…

Oh, and I have to mention that Liege has one of the best cycling routes in Europe (Liege-Bastogne-Liege). Carving out a space to challenge yourself on this one-day ride is a cycling pilgrimage. 

Namur is the region’s capital city, with an equally charming and laid-back feel. Don’t skip out on the Citadel of Namur, which is one of Europe’s most ancient fortresses. You can even explore an intricate network of tunnels under the citadel. Above ground, it also has exceptional views of the old town.

When it comes to postcard-perfect scenery, you won’t find much better than Poirier du Loup Vineyard. Located near the town of Torgny, this wine farm produces some of Belgium’s best local wines. If you ask me, Poirier du Loup is a taste of Provence in Belgium. 

Complimented by a Mediterranean microclimate, the region experiences the perfect conditions for growing grapes. With good wine must come good food, right?

This couldn’t be more accurate, with some of the best restaurants in Belgium (Michelin-starred and casual) set in this wine-growing region. There really is something for every budget here.

The southern town in the province of Belgium is a tiny village that has repeatedly earned the title of the most beautiful village in the country. A short walk through the town, and you’ll see just why. 

Dotted with limestone houses, overflowing flower pots, and picture-perfect vineyards, this quiet area is as Mediterranean as Belgium gets. Even the buildings are reminiscent of the South of France.

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There are few words to describe this exquisite structure in Belgium. Magnificent, majestic, and extravagant could all work, but none quite capture the extensive beauty of Chateau de la Hulpe. For this, you’ll simply have to visit.

Located in Walloon in a municipality called La Hulpe, Chateau de la Hulpe is just a short drive from Brussels, making a perfect weekend plan . The fairytale castle was modeled after similar castles in France’s Loire Valley. No wonder it looks like a scene from France.

Note that although the castle is not open to the public, it is still possible to visit the gardens. Stroll through the sculpture scattered across the lawns, overflowing flower beds, and beautifully landscaped terraces, ponds, and rolling lawns.

Visit for a stroll, to admire the plants, or just to relax on the lush grass. For slow travelers out there, this setting offers the ideal opportunity to fully engage with this beautiful destination.

Many years ago, the castle was owned by Count Solvay, who you can learn about when visiting the gardens. Considered an exceptional site of Walloon heritage, this is no doubt one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium.

Ever thought you would explore sand dunes in Belgium?

Yes, you heard right. This northern European country is home to its own “Sahara” equivalent, lovingly named the Lommelse Sahara after its (very) big brother. 

Located in a bird-rich nature preserve along Belgium’s border with the Netherlands, this sandy spot is one of the most unique and beautiful parks in the country.

The Lommelse Sahara really does live up to its name, resembling a mini desert of some sort (sans the stark heat and lack of water – of course). In fact, the center of the Sahara features a huge lake, which was created because the area was used to mine sand for building in the cities. 

The result? A huge and growing area of desolate dune, with barely any green plants able to flourish. To prevent the area from losing even more greenery, coniferous forests were planted after World War II, reducing the desert area to just 193 hectares. Still pretty big, if you ask me.

 It’s great for hiking, picnicking, or just zoning out and tuning into your most relaxed self. 

When it comes to protected yet untamed landscapes, Eifel National Park is one of Belgium’s most famous nature parks for a few reasons.

First, the park was shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Second, it houses an extensive collection of plants and trees. And third, it is home to some of the most exciting wildlife in the country. 

Known for housing some of the most beautiful adventure trails and hikes in Belgium, the Vallee du Ninglinspo is a natural forest in Wallonia’s ancient mountain range.

Add it to your bucket list of adventures and explore it on foot, by bike, or even along the river by electric boat – the choice is yours!

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It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

In my humble opinion, there is nothing quite like strolling through a medieval European city. The cobblestone streets and traditional, colorful buildings practically tell stories of the town’s past in Mechelen.

It’s especially well known for its multicultural population, with over 100 different nationalities calling the town home.

Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Hoge Kempen National Park in Limburg is a unique nature reserve covering over 12 thousand hectares of protected forests.

It’s a massive area with heather fields and shifting sand dunes, perfect for all types of activities and adventures.

Most famous for its open-air museum, which lays out the history of rural life in Flanders, Bokrijk is one of those towns that will transport you back in time. Other than the museum, make sure to drop by the botanical garden and nature reserve in this unique place to visit in Belgium.

England isn’t the only country that knows how to curate an exceptional garden. These Hanging Gardens are located in the Medieval city of Thuin and feature over two hundred terraced gardens.

Follow one of the many maintained trails through the city and gardens, and you’ll learn about the architectural evolution of the city along the way.

Impossible not to mention on this list that Antwerp is one of Belgium’s most famous and beautiful cities. Base yourself here  rather than in Brussels when visiting Belgium. It’s one of the world’s major seaports, made famous for being the center of the diamond industry many years ago. Today, it’s a hub of fine art, exquisite traditional architecture, and good food.

Explore the legends of Antwerp with this historical walking tour and discover the city’s best-preserved medieval alleyway.

Known as the Blue Forest for its millions of bluebells that bloom from April into May, Hallerbos Forest is one of the most famous forests in Belgium for good reason.

Choose a track to follow by foot or bike, and make your way through the gorgeous forest between spring and fall. From scent to sound, this section of Hallerbos is a treat for all the senses.

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Take a journey through history in Ypres, a charming small town once known for its booming textile industry. But what really sets Ypres apart is its World War I involvement.

During the war, Ypres was used as an ally base to break through German ranks, and as a result, it was bombed throughout the war. It’s a really interesting place to see how historical buildings were rebuilt after the damage.

In Belgium’s eastern district, Haspengouw (or Hesbaye) is a traditional cultural and geophysical hub of the country. It’s been one of the most successful agricultural regions since the pre-Roman era, and is just as lush and gorgeous today as it was back then (we presume). 

Great for a relaxing vacation, hiking, or learning about local history and culture, there is plenty to see and do in this beautiful place in Belgium.

Spread out across three museums in Laeken, these are among the best places to visit in Brussels . Dedicated to the art, nature, and culture of far-eastern countries, you could spend days exploring the unique exhibits and never get bored.

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Surprise, surprise: Belgium has some of the best-maintained roads in the world . While sometimes busy, it’s easy to find where to go and follow road signs, making this the most convenient way to get around between smaller cities and towns.

It would cost around £35 to £65 to rent a small car and up to £150 to rent a large luxury car per day – depending on the time of year.

To travel from major city to another, Belgium’s rail network is comprehensive and one of the best on the continent. And this is a huge title…

To get from one beautiful place in Belgium to another, you can easily pay with GO vending machines and reload your mobile card for cashless payments. A train from Brussels to Antwerp will take you between 45 minutes and an hour and cost around £10 in each direction.

Since the distances between the big cities are so small, flying from one city to another is not the best way to get around. Not only is it more expensive and not great for the environment, but it can also take longer to get through security than just hopping on a train. Admin, if you ask me!

Beautiful travels stay that way insured

And don’t forget to take out travel insurance for your trip! Belgium is safe, but if you’re anything like me, you WILL need insurance. Stay protected and get insured for maximum peace of mind.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Considered the capital of Europe, Belgium has proven itself to be quite the political player. But it’s not just home to the headquarters of NATO and the EU.

The country packs a real punch for history, with over three thousand exquisite castles to wander around, battlegrounds from both World Wars, and a museum dedicated to everything you can imagine.

Add to the list thousands of breweries, a chocolate industry of Willy Wonka dreams, and some of the best restaurants in Europe, and we have ourselves a foodie heaven. If you didn’t know that French Fries were, in fact, from Belgium – now you do.

Picking just one beautiful place in Belgium feels like a crime. But if I had to do it, I wouldn’t miss a chance to visit the unassuming beaches in De Haan . 

Don’t gloss over this magnificent Western European powerhouse, which delivers in every sense of the word.

• Check out the best hostels in Brussels to kickstart your Belgian adventure.
• Knowing where to stay in Bruges can save you time, money and effort.
• Party the night away at one of Belgium’s best festivals . Or, just eat chocolate…
• Prepare well for your city break with our hand-crafted Brussels itinerary .
• Keep the Euro vibes going in another of Europe’s best party cities .
• Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking Germany guide .

Manuel Zaufl

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Coming soon, subscribe here to be the first to know when we launch this, the complete guide to belgium’s coastal cities.

Planning a day at the Belgium coast for a summer beach trip? Here's our ultimate guide of the best things to do by the sea.

From the beachy paradise of Knokke-Heist to the marina of Nieuwpoort, Belgium has tons of things to do at the beach. But these coastal cities pack hidden gem surprises too!

You can also find all of these and more on our map .

So, what are the best coastal cities to visit? 

Most of Belgium's coastal towns are small and cozy, but there’s a few major coastal cities you need to know. Pick your coastal town style and get the full experience of Belgium’s coast. 

The major coastal cities you’ll always hear about are Blankenberghe, Nieuwpoort, Ostend, Knokke-Heist, De Hanne, De Panne and Bredene. We’ve put together a full guide to give you the highlights and hidden gems of the Belgian coast.

But before you go on your coastal adventure...

MY TOP - 5 PICKS

• 🖼️ Discover stunning panoramic views of Brussels and explore exhibitions about Belgium and digital art with this entry ticket to the Atomium
• 🍫 Learn how to become a chocolate maker and create your own Belgian chocolates with this workshop
• 😋 Taste the many flavors of Brussels on a guided walk through the city to try some of the best local chocolates, beer, and even some waffles or fries
• 🍲 Get skip-the-line entrance and priority seating at the Hard Rock Cafe Brussels and take advantage of 2 different menu options
• 🏛️ Discover the “Golden Age” of Bruges (Brugge) with an entrance ticket to the Bruges Historium

Getting to the Belgian coast 

Get to the Belgium coast easily on the train or by car. Wherever you’re coming from in the country, it’s usually not too far. For example, from Brussels to Ostend, you’re looking at a 111 km (70ish miles) trip. Not too bad!  ‍

Good to know : there’s usually the main city a few km inland, then the seaside port. You’ll know you’re getting close to the Belgian coast when you see signs to places ending in “-bad” like Koksijde-Bad as this means the port. 

Get the train if you want your pick of the whole of Belgium’s coastline. The easiest to get to are Ostend and Knokke as they have the most direct connections but essentially the train goes to all the major coastal cities, so you’re spoilt for choice. And who doesn’t love sustainability? You’ll have to take the tram to get to the seaside and smaller towns. ‍

Tip! Trams are your friend. Once you’re at the coast, the trams are your best option to get around. Fun fact: Kusttram is the longest tram line in the whole world at a whopping 67 km. The tram comes by around every 10-20 minutes. It’s a good option, especially if you’re on a budget ! See the tram website for full ticket prices.  

Quick overview

Here are some quick deets on each town and the vibe you will be getting! So whatever you’re looking for on a day or beach day out, you’re sure to find here:

• Ostend : a more commercial coastal town with lots of variety! Lots of history here too.
• Bredene : tons of camping sites and super easy to reach on the coastal tram. Good option for families 
• Knokke-heist : known as the more fancy coast side of Belgium by locals. You’ll find lots of food, beach bars and a beautiful nature reserve nearby. Lots of fancy shops.
• De Panne : a bit of everything for your coastal trip! Nature reserves, beaches and family fun aplenty. Plus some architectural surprises. 
• De Hanne : come to De Hanne for viewpoints across the beach, interesting buildings and to trace the footsteps of Albert Einstein
• Blankenberghe : best coastal town for a budget trip. Plenty of activities for families like the aquarium with some surprises too
• Nieuwpoort : classic coastal town with a busy fishing market, pier, shops and pretty nature reserve by the beach

Ostend is a commercial coastal town and has the biggest boardwalk of them all. The main sight strolling into the very broad “Dijk” or boardwalk will be the large casino and the very wide sandy beaches. So you can stroll, walk a long, long way and explore all the cafes nearby. But it’s also a beach city with a historical twist! 

Explore Belgium’s world war history on a stroll along the coast. Ostend’s war history goes back even further to the time of Napoleon. For travellers planning a trip to the Belgium coast, Ostend is one to consider for history buffs. 

Atlantikwall Raversijde

Discover traces of Belgium’s WWI and WWII history. This wall is just part of the massive defenses used by the German forces in both wars. See real bunkers and weapons at this historical sight. The guns pointed out to sea are authentic. Take a stroll along the coast by Ostend for a unique coastal experience. 

Ostend Street Art

Every coastal city in Belgium has something unique to offer. Ostend has a lively street art culture. Forget a regular trip to the beach.

Walk through this coastal city to spot artsy gems by local and international street artists.

Colourful graffiti across the city brings Ostend to life!

Take a stroll around to the city to enjoy this open air gallery before you head over to the beach.

Watersport Oostende Spuikom

Enjoy a tour of lake Spuikom in Ostend and take in the breathtaking view. Young or old, water fun is guaranteed to be had here. Sail, canoe, kite, and windsurf on the Spuikom basin with lessons by skilled professionals. It’s even possible to get your beginner’s sailing license at this sailing if you have the time and dedication.

This small lake located 2km inland is perfect for windsurfers beginners as it's a shallow beginner venue in contrast to open sea where conditions can be more unpredictable.

Where to Stay in Oostende

Budget - Hotel De Hofkamers

Boutique-style rooms in the centre of Oostende that's footsteps away from the beach - now that's a recipe for swim, and, sun and fun.

Mid-range - Upstairs Hotel

This hotel is amongst the best here in style and hospitality - stay in style with spacious rooms.

High-end - Hotel Europe

No matter what the season or weather, there's an indoor pool that you can take a dip in, along with full wellness facilities.

2. Bredene 

Bredene is the perfect coastal city for those planning a longer trip by Belgium’s sea. In a central location, Bredene is in a great spot to reach all the other seaside cities on the coastal tram. With tons of camping sites, Bredene is a super slow travel friendly city. The beach is fairly well-known.

Bredene Beach

It wouldn’t be a top coastal city without a beach. Bredene’s beach is known as the most natural part of Belgium’s whole coastline. Relatively untouched by the beach tourists, the sand and dunes are as natural as it gets. Soak in the sun or soak in the sea at this dog friendly beach. 

Planning a big day trip on the coast? From Bredene Beach, you can walk to Ostend for 5km then catch a free ferry ride for the final stretch. A perfect way to get your Belgian coastal city trip started. 

Have an active day at the beach and join the fun of water sports at Twins Club in Bredene. At this sports club, you can surf with gigantic sups, play volleyball, and relax in the club lounge. If you’re coming for a day, become a day member and have access to entry-level surf materials so you can wave surf, sup, and kayak with a wetsuit. You can also sign up for one hour of lessons in surfing, sup or power kite lessons or 2 hours of lessons in windsurfing, patin or land yacht. There are plenty of events and group activities happening here so no matter who accompanies you, there is something to do together. At the end of the day, enjoy the sunset with a fresh beer in the surfer's bar.

Bredene has a lot of family-friendly camping sites to choose from right near the beach. So if you’re spending the night head over to the park Grasduinen to find plenty of cabins, camping spaces, and more. You can also try the budget-friendly Campsite Astrid.

Where to Stay in Bredene

Budget - ANGEL

This spot has an in-house seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and a terrace all within a close distance to beaches in Bredene.

Mid-range - Sea You Soon

Homey and cosy makes for the best accommodation by the beach! There's also a private jacuzzi just for you during your stay.

High-end - Hotel De Golf

You can walk five minutes to the pristine sandy beaches of Bredene, along with a comfy bed at the end of your day.

3. Knokke-Heist

The stylish and ‘sophisticated’ coastal city of Belgium. Known for its busy cultural events, beaches and more. Knokke has 5 (yup, 5!) beaches for you to explore. Escape into Belgium’s beachy paradise for the relaxing summer holiday you’ve been needing without breaking the bank. 

Note that this coastal town is known for its beach bars that start late spring and are around until early fall. So heading to the beachside? Check out the various beach bars - a lot have playgrounds so very kid friendly too!

Want more than a beach-packed trip? Knokke-Heist has some natural surprises! 

Lakeside Paradise

Ready for a coastal adventure? Try out water skiing with a cable car over in Knokke-Heist. What’s cable skiing ? Well, you’ll be pulled across the water by a cable car instead of a motorboat. Even if you’ve tried water skiing before without a cable car, give it a try. It’s a different feeling! 

Cable skiing not your thing? No problem. Lakeside is also known for its mini beach where you can relax and take a walk around the lake. 

Zwin Nature Park

Prefer to keep your feet on solid ground? Head over to the nature reserve Zwin for a wildlife and nature discovery. You could book a guided tour to get all the details or take a stroll around at your own pace. Just make sure to get to the top of the Panorama Tower for the best views. 

Zwin has tons of walking paths and nature highlights. But there’s one you can’t miss. The walking and cycling trail from Knokke to Cadzand is just stunning! Walk across the Belgium coast and up to the Netherlands border. At low tide you can even walk all the way along the beach between the two costal resort towns, it should take around an hour and a half.

Zwin is beautiful, but it’s no hidden gem. Get local in the forest of Koningsbos. Sometimes called 't Sparrenbos by the locals, this forest is basically a small grove with a few hilly paths. Picture-perfect with tall trees and squirrels running about, the forest is a charming nature spot in the heart of the bustling coastal city. 

Relax on the beach at Albertstrand

Known for having the biggest casino in Belgium, Albertstrand is one of Knokke’s most popular beaches. With 4 beach cabins available, tons of restaurants, and stunning views of the sea, this beach is a super popular spot with tourists. Super family friendly too! 

Walk a bit further out from the centre to find a quieter spot in the summer. Outside the height of the tourist season, Albertstrand is a more relaxing spot to chill and soak in the sun.  ‍

Where to Stay in Knokke-Heist

Budget - Nomad Knokke

Imagine having a chic cabin and tent fusion accommodation just for you and your travel companions? This place is perfect for Knokke-Heist.

Mid-range - ENSO - Boutique Hotel

All you need is in this boutique hotel, with the terrace, a restaurant as well as a bar, all situated in the centre of Knokke-Heist, and only a 300 metre walk from Albertstrand Beach.

High-end - B&B Maison seki

This too beautiful historical house is a B&B which taps into the leisure cottage lifestyle that you can partake in. Bonus: the pool is even heated!

4. De Panne

De Panne is the very last coastal city on the tram line before you hit the French border. De Panne has tons of Mother Nature’s best with nature reserves and beach space aplenty. With tons of family friendly things to do to choose from and beautiful sights to see, De Panne is a solid coastal city when you’re looking for nature and a calmer, relaxing day away from the crowds.

Westhoek nature reserve 

Get some fresh air by the sea at the beautiful dune-filled nature reserve of Westhoek. Get away from the tourist crowds at the beach on a stroll. Choose from an easy going 2.5km walk to a longer walk across the border to France! 

See the wildlife of De Panne from birds and butterflies to wild horses. Take in that sea salt air and refresh. 

Dumont Quarter

Wander the streets of the Dumont Quarter to see stylish cottages and villas. Named after the famous architect Dumont, this quarter is heavily inspired by the 1920s Art Deco craze. A must for photographers! Worth a detour for all after a trip to the beach or nature reserve. These villas overlook the De Panne dunes and are surrounded by hills, trees and more in this green party of the coastal city. 

Belgium locals already know that this theme park is inspired by the Belgian TV character Plop the Gnome. A must visit for families! Or bring along a group of friends for a theme park experience.

Bring the kids along for a roller coaster ride on the back of The Dragon for a swirling trip through the air. Or slide through the water in dinosaur territory at Dinosplash. There’s lots of things to do for younger kids too like the petting zoo. 

You can’t go wrong with a theme park visit near the coast. Combine with a trip to the beach for double family fun. 

Where to Stay in De Panne

Budget - Hotel Montana

Minutes walking from the beach (only 70 metres!) travellers also love this place for its delicious breakfast included with the stay.

Mid-range - Hotel Aan Zee

If cosy could be sum up in one place, then this is it! Designed in a contemporary style, you'll also feel fright at home here.

High-end - C-Hotels Continental

Touches of luxury throughout this fine designed hotel, it's also only 100 metres from De Panne Beach making it a perfect stay.

De Hanne is known for its stunning buildings and unique architecture, especially in the Concessie Quararter. Fun fact: Albert Einstein lived in De Hanne for a few months. There’s traces of him throughout the city, including a statue in the park. There’s lots to do for families too. 

Wenduine Spioenkop

We all love a walk on the beach. The views of the sea, the fresh air, and the sun. Plus, it’s free! But De Haan has one viewpoint you shouldn’t miss on your beach walk in De Haan. Get to the top of the 2nd highest dune of the coast for a panoramic view of the dunes and beach. There’s a cute pavilion here too, perfect for a quick rest in the shade after a stroll. Continue on your way to the bottom of the dune to find Rotonde, a spot for sunbathers, families and more. 

Concessie Quarter

See beautiful French-style Belle Epoque villas from the 1800s. A uniquely designed area in the north of De Haan, right by the coastline. Stroll through the quarter as you’re heading over to the beach for architectural treats. Start in the centre of town at Albertlaan and head up to the beach to see the major highlights like the 100 villas commissioned by King Leopold II. 

The quarter was actually designed by Joseph Stübben, a German town planner and personal advisor to King Leopold II. Who would’ve known? 

Where to Stay in De Haan

Budget - Vakantiecentrum Zeelinde

Close to the seaside with friendly hospitality, this hotel checks all the boxes for comfort, cleanliness, and a location that's steps away from the seaside.

Mid-range - Boutique Hotel Joli Bois

It only takes one look at this hotel to fall in love with it - especially how it's a historically charming building with classically designed rooms that taps into its nautical heritage.

High-end - Hotel Astoria

A true treasure from the early 20th century that's open to this day for the ultimate hospitality.

6. Blankenberge

Known as one of the more casual and relaxed cities on the coast in Belgium, and one of the lesser expensive ones, seek out Blankenberghe if this is more your vibe. Blankenberge is one of the more popular coastal cities in Belgium. Walk across the sandy dunes for a beautiful view at the pier. Or bring the whole family for a fun day out at the aquarium. There’s tons of things to do no matter what you’re into, but Blankenberge is an especially popular destination for a family day out. 

Goolfy Blacklight Minigolf

Have a family friendly day by the beach with a mini golf activity. Great for kids and groups of friends, the mini golf course is just across the street from the beach! What makes this mini golf course by the coast so unique? Well, the course is in blacklight with tons of 3D sculptures.  Super colourful and filled with themed courses, Goolfy Blacklight Minigolf is a family favourite. 

Huisje van Majutte

Wondering what to do in Blankenberge? You probably didn’t expect us to recommend a museum in a coastal town. But if you want something unique to add to your day at the Belgian coast, you can’t beat this 18th century house. This old, charming cottage once home to a fisherman in the heart of Blankenberge.

Sea Life Blankenberge 

Get that coastal feeling with a visit to an aquarium . Seal Life Blankenberge is THE spot to sightsee all the sea animals. Not just fish, but sharks, sea turtles and cute otters are right here in Belgium. 

Family friendly: bring the kids along for an educational but fun trip to the aquarium. There’s interactive screens and info panels throughout to teach ‘em all about the wildlife.

Whether you drop by the aquarium in the week to avoid the crowds or join in at the weekends, make sure to watch the feeding times. The sea lions, otters and penguins look super cute!

Hike the dunes

Hop off the coastal tram in Blankenberge. Start off your day on the beach with a stroll at Duinpad, a hiking area in the sandy dunes. Head to the beach for a look around the pier. The Belgium Pier at Blankenberge is a solid must see while you’re in the city. Walk to the end of the pretty Art Deco style pier from the 1930s for views of the sea. 

Once you’re done strolling around the beach, head over to the city centre of Blankenberge. This coastal city has tons of cafes around the beach. Don’t miss Vishandel Pol that’s loved by locals and tourists alike for their fishy snacks. Find out even more to do in Blankenberge here. ‍

Where to Stay in Blankenberge

Budget - Hotel Manitoba

With a charming facade opening up into an intimate garden and grand decor of an old-world glamour, this hotel gives an aristocratic vibe for an affordable stay.

Mid-range - Hotel Sabot D'Or

You can stay here comfortably for a few days, with its central location and close proximity to the train station making it super convenient.

High-end - Gatsby Hotel - Adults Only - Small Luxury Hotel - by F-Hotels

Spacious rooms with modern design from stylish bathrooms to impeccable service, this hotel makes sure you'll have an unforgettable stay.

7. Nieuwpoort

Welcome to Nieuwpoort. A classic marina town, here you’ll find a sandy beach and port views. Nieuwpoort is connected to the beach tram, making it an easy stop for a coastal holiday. A family friendly seaside resort and a favourite of fishermen. 

Surfclub Windekind

Surfing, kite surfing and paddle boarding. What more can you want for a day at the beach? This watersports centre is a 1 hour drive from Knokke-Heist and 35 mins from Ostend. Come along for lessons in surfing or just to rent a board and face the sea solo. You can bring the kids (8+) too. Gets busiest around July and August, but still worth going to catch those waves. 

After surfing it up, relax & drink by the beach at the nearby bar. There’s parking space right by the bar too if you’re coming by car. 

Fish Market 

Drop by in the early morning from Monday to Saturday to see the fishermen at work. Buy the local, fresh fish at the fish market and auction out on the docks.

Don’t know your way around? No worries! Pop over to the Tourist Centre to meet up with a local guide. Just get up early. The fish tour starts at 9:30 at the town hall. With the group, led by a guide, you’ll see the best points of the Nieuwpoort docks. 

Catch shrimp on horseback 

We promise it’s a thing. A short drive away from Nieuwpoort is Oostduinkerke. Walk to the beach at low tide to see the shrimp fishermen on horseback. You can hitch a ride and join in too. How does shrimp fishing on horseback work? Well, they basically walk the horses into the sea with a net behind them. When they come out of the sea, they look at the net and collect up the shrimps. Turns out shrimp fishing has been a thing here since at least the 1500s. 

For the kids

Planning a family day out on the coast? The kids won’t forget seeing horses at the beach and the fresh shrimp. Book a sea class with the shrimp catchers to teach the family all about the sea, shrimp fishing, and the horses. Plus you get to try the freshly caught shrimp after the 45 min class. 

Looking for free things to do near the beach? You really can’t go wrong with a stroll out on the pier. Enjoy that fresh air on the two piers of Nieuwpoort. 

Walk out to the edge for views of the ocean. From a distance, you might think those things at the end of the piers are mini lighthouses. They’re actually a foghorn and signal lantern for the boats. 

Want to try fishing yourself? Tourists come to Staketsel to park up a spot, sit and relax with a fishing rod. Who knows, you might just get lucky!

Lighthouse 

Beautiful from a distance, Nieuwpoort’s lighthouse is a postcard worthy sight. Snap up photos from the beach for a piece of your coastal memories. Away from the main beach and tourist crowds, the lighthouse is one landmark you can get close to on a quiet stroll. 

The lighthouse isn’t open to the public. It’s actually a B&B. So, you’re just here to enjoy the classic coastal scenery. 

Nature reserve De IJzermonding

Get away from the city and crowds in the nature reserve . Belgium’s coastal cities aren’t just beaches and tourist sights! They’ve got nature and wildlife all of their own. Ijzermonding isn’t as well-known as other nature reserves and there’s lots to see. 

Travel along the salt marshes and stay quiet to see all birds. If you’re lucky, you might just see seals resting in the sand here too. Or keep to the edges of the nature reserve and explore the fields to find herds of adorable, fluffy sheep. 

Where to Stay in Nieuwpoort

Budget - A Casa

This humble accommodation is ideal for a 1 night stay, with bicycle rental service also available so you can explore the surroundings with ease!

Mid-range - Cosmopolite Hotel Nieuwpoort-Bad

This hotel that includes a private wellness centre, a trendy lounge bar and a popular brasserie, has been a fixture on the Belgian coast for over 100 years.

High-end - The CORNR Hotel

Luxury just a few blocks from the beach with a spectacular breakfast included with each booking, this hotel will take care of you in style.

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The first slow travel guide

Antwerp - Belgium

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11 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Written by Lura Seavey Updated May 3, 2023

Tourists will find a surprising variety of things to do in Belgium , from beautiful natural settings to historic landmarks and cultural attractions.

Couples looking for romantic places to visit will enjoy the medieval ambience of old cities like Bruges and Ghent, while those traveling with kids will find plenty of family-friendly activities in the capital city of Brussels and the historic port town of Antwerp.

Military history buffs have plenty to look forward to as well, from the remote battlefields of Flanders to numerous excellent museums dedicated to Belgium's role in the two World Wars.

Find all this and so much more with our list of the best places to visit in Belgium.

1. Medieval Bruges

2. upper meuse valley, 3. brussels: the heart of europe, 4. memorials and battlefields of flanders, 5. antwerp: the cultural capital of flanders, 6. canals, castles, and cathedrals of ghent, 7. mons (bergen), 9. the beaches of belgium, 11. belgium's cathedrals and churches, map of places to visit in belgium.

Bruges is one of the most visited cities in Belgium due to its medieval architecture and thoroughly romantic ambience. Bruges' canals are one of its most charming features, and no visit to the town is complete without a scenic canal boat tour .

From the water, you will be able to enjoy a different perspective of the city; land-lovers can likewise stroll along the canals to watch the boats go by, and the local tourist office has free walking tours available. Of particular note are the mansions along the Dijver Canal , some of which now house museums.

The historic center's two main squares, Burg Square (also known as simply "the Burg") and the Markt Square , which sit adjacent to each other in the middle of the city. Markt Square is surrounded by several impressive buildings, but the Halle and its 83-meter belfry are by far the most imposing structure. The belfry, which was started in 1282 and completed in 1482, is home to 47 bells and has a viewing area for tourists who are brave enough to climb the 366 steps to the top.

Aficionados of ecclesiastic architecture will want to visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood on Burg Square, which has a combination of Romanesque and late Gothic styles. The Burg is also home to the historic Town Hall ( Stadhuis ), which was completed in 1420, and the tourist office, which is housed in the Liberty of Bruges , the former Law Courts .

Those staying in Bruges will find many fascinating towns and tourist sites within a short drive. For a walk or pedal bike ride, the trails along the Schipdonkkanaal are particularly nice, and canal boat tours are also available here. The small down of Damme is home to several historic buildings and a traditional Flemish atmosphere.

Located near the coast, Bruges is also convenient to the seaside and beach communities of Knokke and Ostend , as well as the popular cruise ship port at Zeebrugge. Knokke is best known for its upscale resort community of Knokke-Heist , but is also a hub for art lovers, with an astounding 85 galleries and numerous public art installations. Along with the beaches of Ostend, tourists can visit several good museums including the De Plate Museum , with local history, and the Museum of Fine Art .

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bruges
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Bruges

The Meuse River splits the country north and south, E42 from Liege to Namur, and from there to Dinant. The valley is known for its idyllic small towns, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lush forests that are ribboned with trails.

Namur (also called Namen) sits in the heart of the valley and is home to several historic landmarks, as well as a large university. The Namur Citadel sits on an outcropping above the town and is a fun place to explore, as well as an excellent spot for panoramic views of the valley.

In town, the best sightseeing areas are along the Rue de Fer and in the central Old Town , where you will find several good museums, as well as shops and cafés. You can also see historic churches, including the 18th-century Cathedral of Saint Aubain and the Church of Notre-Dame and its ecclesiastical Treasury , which houses several priceless religious items.

About 28 kilometers to the south sits another of Belgium's loveliest cities , Dinant, which is also home to a stately citadel. West of Namur, the village of Floreffe is home to a stunning 12th-century abbey, formerly the Premonstratensian Abbey , which now houses a seminary. The abbey church still contains some of its original features and is a lovely place to visit.

The next town over is Fosses-la-Ville , also home to a 12th-century monastery. Unfortunately, very little of the original is intact, however visitors can still admire the crypt, choir, and tower.

Northeast of Namur near Franc-Waret is Franc-Waret Castle , a beautiful 17th-century fortified residence. Visitors can tour the castle and grounds; the interior has a variety of original furnishings, artwork, and rare items, while the gardens are carefully tended to appear as they did during the castle's heyday.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Namur

The capital city of Brussels is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting Belgium, home to not only the seat of the Belgian Royal Family but also the central offices of the European Union.

Thanks to the diverse mix of the city's residents, Brussels is known for its variety of restaurants and cafés that represent many gastronomic heritages. In addition to a thriving and lively city center, the Old Town is home to many historic landmarks and fine examples of Baroque and Gothic architecture.

In the heart of the Old Town, tourists will find the main square, the Grand Place (Grote Markt) . This is home to the imposing Brussels Town Hall (Hôtel de ville de Bruxelles), as well as the city's numerous historic Guild Houses ( Gildehuizeb ).

Nearby, on the Rue de l'Etuve, is the famous Mannekin Pis statue. Also nearby is the stunning Saint-Michel Cathedral , a Gothic church that was begun in 1225 and features twin towers and spectacular stained-glass windows.

Overlooking the old city center is the royal family's official residence, the Palais Royale . On the palace grounds is the excavated Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site , a fascinating dig site of the original palace's foundations and long-buried streets that is open for tourists to explore.

Adjacent to the palace is The Mont des Arts , home to several museums, including the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts , which features an ancient art wing and a modern art wing.

More national museums can be found on the grounds of the expansive Parc du Cinquantenaire , which is located near the European Union Headquarters. Here, you can find the Belgian Army Museum and Museum of Military History , as well as the Royal Art and History Museum .

• Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Brussels

Tourists who want to visit some of the most important battlefields, memorials, and conflict-related landmarks will want to start their pilgrimage in Ypres, the sight of some of the most brutal trench warfare during WWI. To get a good overview of the area's involvement and history, as well as see artifacts from the conflicts, visit the In Flanders Fields Museum , located in Ypres's historic Lakenhalle on its main square, the Grote Markt .

After visiting Rijselpoort , the fortified gate where British soldiers set up the command center, tourists typically begin the battlefield tour from Menin Gate. It was from Menin Gate that troops marched into battle, and today it also serves as a memorial to the British soldiers who never returned home after the battles — 54,896 names are inscribed in its surface, and Last Post has been sounded at this spot every night at 8pm since 1928.

The area around Ypres is home to several war cemeteries, including Tyne Cot Cemetery , the largest of the British cemeteries in Flanders. Located about 12 kilometers from Ypres, it is the final resting place for approximately 12,000 soldiers and a memorial to over 35,000 more.

Nearby, tourists will find a smaller memorial dedicated to Canadian soldiers who died in 1915 in the first German gas attack. In the nearby town of Langemark , there is a cemetery for German soldiers with nearly 45,000 graves of the shockingly young men who died here in 1914.

There are additional sites clustered in and around the village of Kemmel , a region that saw heavy fighting. Tourists will find several war cemeteries in the Kemmelberg area, as well as a water-filled crater that was created by the British blasting local mines. Today it is known as Lone Tree Crater , and the body of water is the Pool of Peace .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ypres

The port city of Antwerp has many cultural and historic sites to visit ; it's known both for its industry and artistic influences. The majority of the city's most significant buildings are on and around the Grand Place ( Grote Markt ) in the center of the old town. In this area, tourists will find the 16th-century Town Hall (Stadhuis), the Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis), and Rubens' House (Rubenshuis) .

Those arriving by train into the impressive Central Station ( Middenstatie ) will find a treat waiting for them next door at Chocolate Nation , the world's largest Belgian chocolate museum . This is a big hit with families, conveniently adjacent to the Antwerp Zoo . The zoo, which was founded in 1843, is known not only for its population of over 950 species but also for its beautiful Art Deco architecture and stylized animal habitats.

Antwerp is also known for its excellent museums, which explore a variety of topics. History lovers will enjoy the Red Star Line Museum , which focuses on emigration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) , which includes exhibits about local history, as well as artifacts from around the world. The Museum Mayer van den Bergh is an excellent fine arts museum, as is the Royal Museum of Fine Arts .

• Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Antwerp

Tourists who want to enjoy the romantic atmosphere of a medieval town without the crowds of Bruges will want to visit Ghent, a rival in architectural and historical significance.

The majority of Ghent's historic guild houses can be found along the Graseli Canal and the Korenlei Canal, including the Koornstapelhuis, which dates from the early 13 th century; the Gildehuis der Metselaars (House of the Masons) built in 1527; and the Tolhuisje (Customs House), which was built in 1682. Those lucky enough to visit in the evening should make time for a canal boat cruise to appreciate the sight of these lovely buildings lit from below.

In the heart of Ghent's Old Town , the impressive Gravensteen is moated by the diverted waters of the Lieve River. This massive medieval fortress was constructed in the late 12 th century and has all the grandeur and classic elements of a fairy-tale castle. Today, it is home to a museum that features artifacts from the building's varied uses, from a royal residence to a textile factory.

If you love exploring castles, you can also visit the beautiful Laarne Castle , which is located just 11 kilometers from Ghent. This pentagonal fortress was built in the 11 th century and also houses historic exhibits.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ghent

Located near the French border, Mons sits between the Trouille and Haine rivers along the route between Paris and Brussels. The Grand-Place de Mons sits in the city center and is home to several historic buildings, as well as plenty of shops, cafés, and restaurants along its picturesque cobblestone streets.

The City Hall ( Hôtel de Ville de Mons ) stands at the head of the city's main square, and the remaining four sides of the large courtyard are flanked by buildings dating to the 15th through 18th centuries.

Just a couple of blocks away from the main square at the top of a hill, you will find the Belfry of Mons , also known as El Caitau. This UNESCO-listed bell tower was constructed in the 17th century in the Baroque style and stands at 87 meters tall with a carillon of 47 bells. Here, you can climb the stairs to the observation platform at the top for panoramic views of the city. At the foot of the hill sits the 15th-century Brabant Gothic Collegiate Church of Sainte-Waudru .

Mons is also home to several good museums, and history buffs will want to prioritize a visit to the Mons Memorial Museum , formerly called the War Museum . The museum has over 5,000 artifacts relating to the country's involvement and occupation during both World Wars and also includes interactive exhibits.

Art lovers will appreciate the paintings at the Musée des Beaux Arts (Fine Arts Museum), as well as the unique collections at the Decorative Arts Museum Francois Duesberg .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mons (Bergen)

Located about 30 kilometers east of Brussels, Leuven sits on the river Dijle and is home to one of the country's oldest and most famous universities. You can see many fine examples of Gothic and other architectural styles on the university campus and throughout the city, starting with Leuven's City Hall that features 236 figures on its ornate façade.

Just next door across the Grote Markt sits St. Peter's Church ( Sint-Pieterskerk ), a fine cathedral built in the Brabant Gothic style that houses the Museum of Religious Art . The university's most historic buildings can also be found nearby along the Naamsestraat .

Outside the historic city center, Leuven has several lovely tourist attractions for nature-lovers. The Leuven Botanical Garden Kruidtuin, originally created in 1738 as the medicinal plant garden for the university's medical students, is now home to a variety of flora.

About four kilometers from the center of town, the borough of Kessel-Lo is home to a large nature park that is free to visitors, featuring swimming and paddleboating in the lakes, a petting zoo, and other activities.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Leuven

Although most people don't immediately think of beaches when planning a trip to Belgium, the west coast offers several excellent choices for those who want to soak up some sun and take a dip.

If you're staying in Bruges and Ghent, you can get to most beaches by car in 30- to 45 minutes at most, but day trips from Brussels and even Antwerp are still reasonable at around an hour-and-a-half by car, with additional options via train. Once you're on the coast, it's super-easy to hop from beach to beach on the Coastal Tram, which has 70 stops.

Knokke-Heist is one of the best known of Belgium's beach resort communities and is located near the Dutch border, only about 19 kilometers from Bruges. The town has four beaches along its 12-kilometer coastline, as well as numerous walking, hiking, and cycling trails that wander through the dunes. Visitors will find that Knokke is also home to an astounding number of art galleries, as well as two excellent museums about local and Belgian history.

The town of Ostend may be best known as the main ferry port between Belgium and Great Britain, but it is also home to seaside resorts and beaches, conveniently located only 29 kilometers from Bruges. There is a lovely promenade that runs along the beach, and a breakwater that offers good views of the small city.

Ostend is home to six distinct beach areas, including Sportstrand (Sports Beach), which is dedicated entirely to active fun-in-the-sun, with designated areas for volleyball , kite-flying , and surfing , among other beach sports.

If you want to admire the beautiful architecture of the Koninklijke Gaanderijen (Royal Galleries) while you enjoy the water, head to the western end of the two-kilometer Groot Strand.

The town of Dinant is located 28 kilometers south of Namur and is a popular place to visit for tourists in the upper Meuse Valley.

The heart of this charming town sits in a narrow swath between the Meuse River and an imposing limestone cliff, atop which a citadel has perched since the 11 th century. The Dinant Citadel can be reached via a 408-step stone stairway that was built in 1577, but nobody will judge you if you opt for the scenic cable car ride instead. Once here, you can explore the battlements, former barracks, kitchens, and dungeons, as well as enjoy stunning views of the valley below.

The 16th-century Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame is another of Dinant's major landmarks, featuring a 100-meter onion dome and a unique perch in the side of the cliffs below the citadel. Other top tourist destinations include the Grotte la Merveilleuse , a major limestone cave system that can be explored, and the Rocher Bayard , an impressive pillar of limestone.

The Meuse Bridge is an excellent spot for photography, and boating on the Meuse River is a popular activity in Dinant. The town is also known for being the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the first saxophone, and visitors will find multiple monuments honoring him throughout the town, as well as tour his former home, which is now a museum.

The city of Ghent is home to several of Belgium's most beautiful historic churches, the most lovely of which is the impressive Saint Michael's Church , constructed in the Gothic style of Belgian sandstone. Adjacent to this church is Sint-Michielsbrug ( Saint Michael's Bridge ), and together they are one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

Another excellent example of Gothic architectural styles is Ghent's Cathedral of St. Bavo (Sint-Baafskathedraal), with a choir dating back to the 13th century and a tower constructed in the 15th century.

Among Antwerp's historic churches is the late Gothic St. Paul's Church ( Sint-Pauluskerk), which is home to paintings by Van Dyck, Rubens, and Jordaens, and the country's largest Gothic cathedral, the Cathedral of Our Lady, which was begun in 1352.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

Traveling in Belgium brings forth images of medieval rooftops, lovely canals, tasty beer, and even more indulgent chocolates. However, there is much for one to see in this remarkable European country, where time seems to move at a slower pace and the people are friendly and welcoming to tourists. From modern cities boasting designer shops and glamorous galleries to cobblestone streets laden with museums and native indulgences, the best places to visit in Belgium have something for everyone to enjoy on a vacation.

10. Mons [SEE MAP]

As the capital of the province of Hainaut, Mons is best known for the magical and surprising ringing of the town’s glorious Belfry bells, which hail from the 80 meter (270 foot) tower. Winding streets allow visitors to easily traverse the city sites that are a rich mixture of architectural styles. The Gothic-style Mons Town Hall is eye-catching, and the Collegiate Church of Sainte-Waudru boasts a highly impressive collection of 16th century Jacques Du Broeucq alabaster statues. Naturally, a stop by the Van Gogh House is a must to see amazing reproductions of this master’s works.

9. Dinant [SEE MAP]

This city lies along the sparkling Meuse River in the Namur province just 65 km (40 miles) south of the capital city. The Caves of Han and the Grotto of Dinant are some of the natural attractions that bring visitors here. These caves are some of Europe’s largest and most beautiful and are situated in within a Wildlife Reserve teeming with native flora and fauna. However, the city’s landmark, The Collegiate Church of Notre Dame is still remarkable after being partially rebuild post a massive landslide, as does the restored Citadel that overlooks the city. Accesses to most of Dinant’s sanctuaries are accessible with an appointment, but the Sanctuary of Beauraing is open daily.

8. Leuven [SEE MAP]

Home to the oldest Catholic university in the world, Leuven is home about 100,000 residents with nearly 35,000 of them being students that keep the city lively when classes are in session. Two seemingly endless streets are laden with interesting shops and galleries, while the more historical section of the city boasts sites such as the The Belfry on St. Peter’s Church and the Grand Beguinage. Visitors will find much action and things to do in the Grote Market in Leuven, where sites like the City Hall are adjacent to exceptional dining options and street side pubs and cafes. This city’s location makes it an ideal alternative to Brussels as a vacationer’s main hub to explore the rest of the country.

7. Tournai [SEE MAP]

Adjacent to France, the quaint and lovely community of Tournai is an excellent place to tune out the hustle and bustle of larger Belgium cities. More than 2000 years of rich cultural history can be explored here, and this city is home to what is believed to be one of the most beautiful churches in the world – the five-towered Gothic and Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral. Constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries, the cathedral houses the Shrine of Our Lady and works by Ruvens and Jordaens. The town Belfry is the oldest in the country and offers visitors 257 steps to the most remarkable views in the city of Tournai. The Museum of Fine Arts is filled with masterpieces from primitive and contemporary artists ranging from Campin and Rubens to Roger Van der Weyden and Van Gogh.

6. Mechelen [SEE MAP]

A vibrant town that doesn’t draw the tourism that many other Belgium cities do, Mechelen is actually one of the best places to visit in Belgium. From tours of the Beguinage Brewery to river boat tours, there’s much to see and do in this Flanders locale. A trip to the top of the St. Rombout Cathedral’s massive tower is the best way to get a panoramic view of the Antwerp Port and this lovely city. One don’t miss stop is the magnificent Carillion School, where students come from across the globe to get instruction on playing this complex instrument of bells.

5. Ardennes [SEE MAP]

For hiking, biking and camping, visitors to Belgium should head to the rugged hills of the Ardennes with their tight forests, caves and cliffs. They are home to wild boar, deer and lynx and hide a number of friendly villages, lots of castles and a few other notable sights. The impressive caves of Han-sur-Lesse, the castle of Bouillon and the modern Labyrinth of Barvaux are some of the best picks. The city of Namur makes a great base from where to explore the Ardennes and has some fine sights itself too.

4. Antwerp [SEE MAP]

Antwerp is a city with many faces. While it may not be as historically preserved as Bruges or Ghent, it is a very dynamic city, offering a perfect mix of history and present-day modern life. Lovers of great food, great beer, and good times, this city is most well-known for the Diamond District, where more than 70 percent of the world’s rough diamonds are traded. Art abounds in Antwerp , with Revenshuis celebrates the baroque works of Peter Paul Ruebens and the Plantin Moretus Museum is the home of printer and bookbinder Christoffel Plantin. Architectural wonders await with the 1351 construction the gothic Cathedral of Our Lady, and the majestic combination of baroque and Gothic architecture of the Saint Paul’s Church.

3. Ghent [SEE MAP]

Belgium’s best kept secret, Ghent is a city of history. During the Middle Ages, it was one of the richest and most powerful cities in Europe. It was once considered the second largest city north of the alps, after Paris. The impact of this rich past can be clearly seen when viewing the imposing architecture of churches and the houses of rich traders. The whole of the city center is restored in this fashion, and still breathes the atmosphere of a thriving late-medieval city state. This is particularly so along the scenic old Graslei harbour, and grand medieval cathedrals and the Gravensteen castle.

2. Brussels [SEE MAP]

Known for its diversity of sites and places of interest, Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and is likely where visitors will begin their sightseeing. As the headquarters of many European institutions, Brussels might also be considered something of a capital for the European Union.

Most notably, the Grand Place is the city’s center and was established in the 13th century. Terrace cafes and pubs are plentiful around this central square, as are other sites of interest such as the stunning Gothic style Town Hall. Shopping is plentiful amid the Galeries St. Hubert, a centrally located glass-roof arcade filled with shops, cafes, and theaters.

1. Bruges [SEE MAP]

Located in northwestern Belgium, Bruges is one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval towns, boasting an old world charm and romantic atmosphere. Once an important center for Flemish art and textiles, Bruges today is best known for its beautiful canals.

Bruges may be the largest city in the West Flanders province, but it is still small enough to explore by walking. The main attraction in Bruges is the postcard-perfect Old Town. Surrounded by picturesque canals and medieval walls, the historic district is teeming in beautiful old architecture including Romanesque and Gothic churches like the Church of Our Lady that houses a Michelangelo sculpture, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which claims to possess a vial of blood from Jesus Christ.

The city’s most famous landmark is the Markt Square belfry. Visitors can climb this 13th-century bell tower to admire spectacular views of the city. Other sites not to miss include the spectacular Gruuthuse Mansion, and the impressive Saint John’s Hospital, which was built in 1188.

Must-do activities in Bruges include visiting the museums, which exhibit the city’s culture, traditions and art works by famous Flemish artists. Strolls down cobblestone streets offer dozens of shops selling delicious chocolates, Belgian beer and traditional lacework. Scenic canal cruises are readily available, while horse-drawn carriage rides present romantic experiences.

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium – Ranked

• Post author By thebumpercrew
• Post date March 24, 2024
• Categories In City Breaks , Europe , Road Trips , Travel , Van Life
• 1 Comment on The 15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium – Ranked

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Belgium, you’re in the right place! Belgium is the little country wedged between its better-known neighbours, France, the Netherlands and Germany and has always been a little under the radar for us. But who knew there would be so many gorgeous places to visit in such a small country? Read our guide to the best places to visit in Belgium below to discover the towns and cities that make Belgium such a wonderful place.

Belgium is famous for tons of things you might not realise – frites (fries, which aren’t French!), chocolate, beer, Tintin, Lotus biscuits, the waffle, the home of the European Union, battlefields, the word ‘spa’, pralines and the saxophone, to list a few, and according to the internet, Belgium is also famous for Manneken Pis, but we’ll explain more about that later.

Belgium is home to a few places on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which we mention below. So, if history is your thing, especially World War history, Belgium is an excellent option for a travel destination. But no matter what your taste, we’re confident you’ll find a bit of something in this beautiful country to suit your needs. So, without further ado, let’s look at the best places to visit in Belgium, and if it wasn’t on your list of places to visit, it should be!

The Best Places to Visit In Belgium

We’ll never know how we had never visited Ghent before or why it wasn’t even on our radar. Hands down, Ghent is the best place to visit in Belgium; there’s no doubt about that. It’s full of things to do, things to see, medieval architecture, and canals and has a great modern twist with its street art scene. Although Ghent doesn’t have UNESCO World Heritage status, the old centre is a work of art. Head to Het Belfort van Gent and walk from there. You can explore seemingly endless little streets, all full of character. Ghent is a remarkable place you can’t miss if you’re visiting Belgium.

While you’re there, take a boat trip to uncover Ghent’s past. They run from Grasbrug bridge, take 40 minutes and are around 10 Euros.

Top Things to Do in Ghent

• Take a canal boat tour
• Visit Gravensteen Castle
• Visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
• Climb Ghent Belfy
• Walk down Graffiti Street

2 | Brussels

If you’ve heard of Belgium, you’ve likely heard of Brussels . It’s the capital city of Belgium and one of the most famous cities in the country. It’s home to NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) and regarded as the home of the EU (European Union). It is also one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Brussels has a relatively small yet rich city centre with plenty of things to do, including Manneken Pis. Check out our things to do in Brussels post to explore more of what the city has to offer.

Remember we mentioned him at the start? Well, he’s one of Brussels’ most famous attractions in Brussels, and he’s a small, urinating boy statue. Ha! He has his own set of clothes, and the myths surrounding him are fantastic. If you take a free walking tour , you can learn all about the myths, plus you’ll discover loads of other interesting facts about Belgium and Brussels, including its little-known but shocking colonial past! Our guide was Tristan, who was friendly, funny, and informative and gave some great recommendations for frites, beer and chocolate – what more could you want?!

While you’re there, take a walking tour to discover the highlights of the city and the relatively unknown dark modern history of Belgium.

Top Things to Do in Brussels

• Head on a walking tour
• Eat frites at
• Drink beer at Delerium Cafe
• Find Manneken Pis
• Admire the town square

Bruges is one of the most famous places in Belgium. Traditionally, Bruges was known for lace making, but that’s been proceeded by the world of social media. These days it’s better known for its picturesque centre and canals, and if you’ve ever seen the film ‘In Bruges’, you’ll be familiar with the city’s landscape and undoubtedly, its belfry. You can spend hours aimlessly walking the streets and take the opportunity to get on the canals for a boat tour while you’re there. Bruges is the perfect place for a weekend break – there are loads of things to do, all within walking distance of the centre.

While you’re there, head to the De Halve Maan brewery for a tour.

Top Things to Do in Bruges

• Visit Bruges Markt
• Explore the canals by boat tour
• Climb the belfry tower
• Take a brewery tour at De Halve Maan brewery
• Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood

You may be familiar with Ypres if you’re a history buff. Ypres is surrounded by the battlefields of the First World War and has a strong connection to this bloody past. You’ll find war memorials and cemeteries dotted around the city, plus the In Flanders Fields Museum. Despite being largely destroyed in the war, Ypres has been beautifully restored, so even if World War history isn’t your thing, Ypres is worth a visit.

While you’re there, watch the Last Post Ceremony. It takes place at the Menin Gate at 8 pm every night and is free to attend.

Top Things to Do in Ypres

• Witness the Last Post ceremony
• Visit In Flanders Museum
• Visit the Commonwealth War Graves
• Walk the city walls

5 | Mechelen

Mechelen is the first place on our list that we’d never heard of. It’s a small city located about 20 minutes by train from Brussels and Antwerp. It’s home to one of Belgium’s best cathedrals, Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral, and has an impressive and vibrant town square. The cathedral is free to enter, but you must pay to climb the tower. And if you’re in Mechelen towards the end of August, you might stumble upon the Maanrock Festival – a free music festival hosted in the square that brings even more vibrancy to this small city.

Other highlights of Mechelen are the Kazerne Dossin Memorial and the Gouden Carolus brewery, which has been brewing in the city for more than half a century.

Top Things to Do in Mechelen

• Visit Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral & tower
• Visit Kazerne Dossin Memorial
• Take a brewery tour at Gouden Carolus brewery

Of all the places to visit in Belgium with beautiful town halls, Leuven tops the list with the grandest of them all – the 15th-century gothic building is a remarkable sight. Aside from the strength of the architecture, Leuven is a powerhouse when it comes to beer and is the reigning brewing capital of Belgium. This is because it’s home to the headquarters of Inbev, the world’s second-largest brewery. You may know them for Stella Artois and, as we discovered, Leffe! And best of all, you can visit the brewery!

Leuven is also known for the sheer volume of pubs in Old Market Square. It’s considered the longest bar in Europe because there are 45 pubs! 45! And if you’re after a coffee stop in Leuven, we recommend visiting Noir for a delicious brew.

Top Things to Do in Leuven

• Visit the Stella Artois brewery
• Admire Leuven Town Hall
• Visit one of the 45 bars in Old Market Square
• Visit Museum M for the best view over the city
• Explore Groot Begijnhof, a tiny UNESCO site

Dinant is a beautiful town that sits along the Meuse River. It’s famous for a few things – it’s waterfront, barbican, Leffe beer, and it’s the home of the saxophone, which Adolphe Sax invented. You can even visit his house, which is now a small museum.

If you’re visiting Dinant by road, try to visit Walzin Castle. It’s a castle perched on the Lesse River and is a beautiful sight and a great place to enjoy a picnic by the river in peaceful surroundings. If you’re a beer lover, while in Dinant, hop over to the other side of the river and head up the hill to visit Abbaye de Leffe for great beer, a museum and a beer garden with a view over the town.

Top Things to Do in Dinant

• Visit Abbaye de Leffe
• Admire the iconic Collégiale Notre-Dame de Dinant
• Visit La Citadelle de Dinant
• Explore the caves at Grotte la Merveilleuse
• Visit Walzin Castle

8 | Antwerp

By area, Antwerp is the largest city in Belgium and is full of things to do. It’s home to the Diamond Square Mile, where you will find more diamonds than anywhere else in the world. It’s also the place where the diamond hallmark originated. You’ll also find the Cathedral of Our Lady on the UNESCO World Heritage List and one of the world’s most remarkable train stations, Antwerpen-Centraal. You won’t be short of things to do in this vibrant city, that’s for sure! Antwerp is a large city compared to some of the others on this list of the best places to visit in Belgium, so be prepared for a walk between the old and new parts.

Top Things to Do in Antwerp

• Visit Antwerpen-Centraal train station
• Visit Het Steen and the visitor centre
• Visit Antwerp City Hall
• Admire Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp
• Visit the Diamond District

9 | Tournai

Tournai is located in western Belgium, just a few kilometres from the French border. Tournai is one of the oldest cities in Belgium and is best known for a couple of things -it’s home to what is considered the oldest belfry in the country and the five-spire Romanesque- and Gothic-style cathedral, Notre Dame de Tournai , both of which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Tournai also has a beautiful town square lined by cafes and restaurants for you to soak up a little bit of the city’s atmosphere before moving on. Tournai isn’t huge, so plan a morning or afternoon visit.

Top Things to Do in Tournai

• Climb the belfry
• Visit Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Tournai
• Enjoy coffee in the town square
• Visit the Natural History Museum and Vivarium

10 | Kortrijk

Kortrijk is a little gem in the Flanders region of Belgium. It’s a small place to visit in Belgium. Still, it has a few notable places to visit, including the Broal Towers, which straddle the Leie River, and the quaint Begijnhof Kortrijk (Beguinage of Courtrai, in English), which dates back to the 1200s and the Belfry of Kortrijk, which is also on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Kortrijk is also a popular shopping destination and is the first city in Flanders to have a pedestrianised shopping street. It’s also home to the ‘K’ shopping mall, one of the largest in Belgium. Because of this, Kortrijk remains one of the best places for shopping in the country. Kortrijk is another of the small places to visit in Belgium, so you don’t need to dedicate too much time to see the city – pop in for a coffee and a wander and then move on.

Top Things to Do in Kortrijk

• Stroll around Begijnhof Kortrijk
• Walk the bridge between the Broel Towers
• Visit Kortrijk 1302 multimedia museum
• Go shopping
• Head to the Texture Museum

Located about an hour south of Brussels, Mons is located in the Wallonia region of Belgium and is most famous for Grand-Place, the beautiful town square, but there is more to Mons than the town square – head to Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church, which is way bigger inside than it appears outside! It’s a church and not a cathedral, but you’d be forgiven for mistaking it to be a cathedral because it’s massive, plus it’s home to a rather grand carriage used for processions through the city.

There’s also a gorgeous park on top of the hill, right by the belfry, where you can head for some peace. To get there, head up Rue Cronque – a quaint and cute street next to Grand-Place.

Top Things to Do in Mons

• Visit Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church
• Enjoy the peace in Parc du Château
• Admire the Grand-Place, the town square
• Walk up Rue Cronque, a short but cute street

Another city in the Wallonia region of Belgium is Namur. Strategically located where two rivers meet, the Meuse and Sambre, the city is full of little streets to wander, vintage shops and cute cafes. You will quickly get lost in the city for a few hours, and don’t forget to take a wander up to the citadel. Once upon a time, it was one of the mightiest fortresses in Europe and now offers unbeatable views over the city; plus, it has over 400 metres of underground tunnels to explore!

Top Things to Do in Namur

• Climb up the citadel
• Ride the cable car
• Visit Saint-Loup church

13 | Durbuy Vieille Ville

Durbuy is the smallest city in Belgium and claims to be the smallest city in the world, although this isn’t confirmed. Please don’t make the mistake we did, and head to Durbuy on Google Maps! You’re looking for Durbuy Vieille Ville , or Durbuy Old Town, just a few kilometres from Durbuy (check out our map below for the exact location).

Durbuy is nestled in a picturesque wooded valley and is the perfect place for a short stop. It’s not very big and won’t take long to get around, but it’s worth the visit. Be aware; it’s pretty expensive. A standard coffee was almost 2 Euros more than the average we paid around Belgium. While you’re there, jump on the tourist train and head to the Belvédère de Durbuy. It’s the best place to see the Durbuy from.

Top Things to Do in Durbuy Vieille Ville

• Admire Château des Comtes d’Ursel
• Visit Topiary Park
• Head up Belvédère de Durbuy

The word ‘spa’ derives from a town named Spa, in the Ardennes region of eastern Belgium, and it’s famous for – you guessed it – spas! Spa is a small town, so you don’t need to dedicate too long to see it. A morning or afternoon will suffice.

Although it’s known for its mineral-rich thermal waters, you won’t find many places to submerge yourself in them these days. Your best bet is to head to Thermes de Spa for a relaxing afternoon. Thermes de Spa sits atop a hill overlooking Spa and is accessible via road (it has a paid car park) or a funicular railway from the town. Thermes de Spa costs 25 Euros for 3 hours, and inside, you’ll find a poolside cafe, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room to enjoy. Spa is also known for Spa water, where you can take a self-guided tour of the factory .

Top Things to Do in Spa

• Thermes de Spa
• Ride the funicular
• Visit the Spa water factory

Liege is last on our list, not because it’s not worth visiting, but because it’s not as good as the rest of the places in Belgium. Ha! Liège has tons of character, but it doesn’t have the charm of the other places on our list. Despite the lack of charm, some things draw you to Liège and make it worth the visit – it’s the home of the Belgian waffle and has an imposing hill to climb!

So, if you’ve ever had a Belgian waffle, its origins stem from Liège with its brioche dough and pearl sugar. So, if you’re looking for your fill of waffles, look no further than Une Gaufrette Saperlipopette, where you’ll find the best waffle in Liège (plus, they give you tasters in the queue if you’re lucky!).

Once you’ve had your fill of waffles, head to Montagne de Bueren, where you can climb the 374 steps to get an incredible view of the city. There’s also a cool train station worth looking at but be prepared for a walk – about 20 minutes from Liège centre.

Top Things to Do in Liège

• Eat a Belgian waffle
• Climb Montagne de Bueren
• Admire the modern Liège-Guillemins train station

Places to Visit in Belgium Map

How to get to Belgium from the UK

There are a few options to get to Belgium from the UK listed below.

There are several options to travel to Belgium by road from the UK. You can take your own vehicle and travel via the Euro Tunnel, from Folkstone to Calais. If the Euro Tunnel isn’t your thing, you can take the ferry from Dover to Calais to Dover to Dunkirk. We recommend the Dover to Dunkirk route, sailing with DFDS.

Dove r to Dunkirk is a better alternative to Calais because the price is as good, but you get flexibility up to four hours each way of your sailing time included with the price. The downside is the sailing takes about 30 minutes longer, but you gain most of that back because Dunkirk is closer to Belgium than Calais, especially if you’re heading to northern Belgium.

If you don’t fancy driving to Belgium, you can take the Eurostar from London St. Pancras International. Brussels is only 2 hours from St. Pancras International by Eurostar. If you want to visit any other Belgian town or city accessible via train, you can get to any Belgian station included in the ticket.

Your Eurostar ticket is valid on any local train in Belgium for 24 hours from when your Eurostar arrives in Brussels and 24 hours before your Eurostar departs Brussels on your return journey. This ticket validity excludes Brussels Airport routes and Thalys trains. So, you could have a stopover in Brussels before moving on to another part of Belgium. What a bargain!

Is Belgium worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Belgium is a great country to visit, and although it’s small, it packs plenty of things to do with plenty of lovely towns to visit. Belgium also has an interesting past, especially if you’re interested in military history.

How many days in Belgium is enough?

Although Belgium isn’t a big country, there is still a lot to see. A week is a good length of time if you only want to visit the really popular spots. If you want to visit more places and don’t want to skim over them, allow 10 days.

What is the prettiest town in Belgium?

It’s suggested Dinant is the prettiest place in Belgium, but we don’t think this is the case. It’s a bit of a one-trick pony when it comes to views. Bruges and Ghent outperform Dinant for eye candy, pretty streets and architecture.

The Best Places to Visit in Belgium

• Durbuy Vieille Ville

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Best things to do in Belgium

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We bet you a beer – hell, make that two – that Belgium will exceed your expectations. The country’s highlights range from the ancient and quirky to the oh-so-cool. You can bank on centuries-old castles and boisterous carnivals as well as home-grown haute couture, comic book museums and street art. To sum it all up, here's our list of the best things to do in Belgium.

• 1. Immerse yourself in Belgium's legendary beer culture

2. Enjoy the beach in Ostend

3. go kayaking and hiking in the ardennes, 4. see the famous altarpiece in st-baafskathedraal in ghent, 5. visit museés royaux des beaux arts in brussels, 6. take a walk around grand-place in brussels, 7. go to musée hergé, 8. see rubens paintings in antwerp’s cathedral, 9. take part in the carnivals, 10. explore bruges, 11. sample exquisite moules, 12. marvel at brussels’ art nouveau architecture, 13. honour the memory of those who died in the war at menin gate in flanders, 14. visit flanders fields museum, 15. study cubism and surrealism art at the musée magritte in brussels, 16. tasting famous belgian chocolate - one of the best things to do in belgium.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg , your essential guide for visiting Belgium .

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10 days  / from 5668 USD

Taste of Three - Belgium, France and Switzerland

Start your journey in Belgium and explore Brussels, Ghent and Bruges. A high-speed train will then take you to Strasbourg, from where you'll discover the Alsace. Proceed to Basel as your base, from where you'll see plenty of Switzerland: Zermatt, Matterhorn, Mount Pilatus and much more.

1. Immerse yourself in Belgium's legendary beer culture

Belgium produces more beers than any other country in the world – around eight hundred and counting – making it a top destination for beer lovers looking for things to do in Belgium. There are strong, dark brews from a handful of Trappist monasteries, light wheat beers perfect for a hot summer’s day, fruity lambic beers bottled and corked like champagne, and unusual concoctions that date back to medieval times.

Any decent establishment will have a beer menu, as well as the glasses to go with them – no Belgian bar worth its salt would dare to serve a beer in anything other than its proper glass. To get the full picture of beer culture in Belgium explore our guide to the the top 20 best Belgian beers .

Tasting the variety of beers is on the top of the list of things to do in Belgium © Pennypayton/Shutterstock

Like many of the resorts along Belgium’s coast, Ostend boasts a glorious stretch of beach. From the far end of Visserskaai, there are fine coastal views with the assorted moles and docks of the harbour in one direction, Ostend’s main beach extending as far as the eye can see in the other.

On sunny summer days in Belgium, hundreds drive into town to enjoy the beach and participate in traditional seaside activities such as sandcastle building and kite flying. Soaking up the sun and swimming are also popular things to do in Belgium.

Looking for a perfect European beach holiday? Explore our guide to the 10 best beach holidays in Europe .

Where to stay in Ostend:

• Best for Art Deco design: Thermae Palace
• Best for location: C-Hotels Andromeda

Find more accommodation options to stay in Ostend

Ostend beach, Belgium © Illya Kryzhanivskyy/Shutterstock

The Ardennes’ stunning hills and valleys are perfect for a range of outdoor activities, and you don’t have to be a well-equipped expert to have a go. With access to two rivers – the wide and sluggish River Meuse and prettier River Lesse – and surrounded by steep, wooded cliffs, Dinant is the ideal base to try some sporting activities.

The Dinant tourist office sells the Carte Dinant, which shows nineteen signposted walks in the Dinant area, as well as two mountain-biking routes of 23km and 32km respectively. If you’re short on time, take a 20-minute walk north along the west bank of the Meuse to the medieval village of Bouvignes.

Kayaking on the River Lesse, which is wilder and prettier than the River Meuse, is a popular activity available from April to September in Belgium and is definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Belgium.

Frahan village in Ardennes, Belgium © trabantos/Shutterstock

Ghent’s centre is a joy to discover, and its cathedral is home to Jan van Eyck’s Adoration of the Mystic Lamb – one of the medieval world’s most astonishing paintings. The third church on this site, and 250 years in the making, the cathedral is a tad lop-sided, but there’s no gainsaying the imposing beauty of the west tower, with its long, elegant windows and perky corner turrets.

In a small chapel to the left of the cathedral entrance is Ghent’s greatest treasure, a winged altarpiece known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (De Aanbidding van het Lam Gods). This is a seminal work of the early 1430s, though of dubious provenance.

Where to stay in Ghent:

• Best for B&B: B&B Achilles
• Best for service: Van der Valk Hotel Gent

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Saint Bavons Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium © Alfiya Safuanova/Shutterstock

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You’d have to go an awfully long way to beat Belgium’s best art museum, with superb collections ranging from Jan van Eyck, Bosch and Bruegel to Ensor and beyond. On the edge of Place Royale, the Musées Royaux des Beaux Arts holds Belgium’s best all-round collection of fine art. This is a vast hoard that is exhibited in three interconnected museums:

• the Musée Old Masters, with art from the Renaissance to the early nineteenth century;
• the Musée Magritte, devoted solely to the work of the Belgian surrealist;
• and the Musée Fin-de-Siècle which covers art from the mid-nineteenth to the early twentieth century.

The museums also host a prestigious programme of temporary exhibitions for which a supplementary admission fee is usually required. Visiting Museés Royaux is among the essential things to do in Belgium for anyone who is interested in arts.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts, which features many drawings, paintings and sculptures, Brussels, Belgium © Shutterstock

The obvious place to begin any tour of Brussels is the Grand-Place, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, which sits at the centre of the Lower Town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Of the square’s medieval buildings, however, only parts of the Hôtel de Ville and one or two guild houses have survived, the consequence of an early example of the precepts of total war.

Each guild house has a name, usually derived from one of the statues, symbols or architectural quirks decorating its facade. Inevitably, such an outstanding attraction draws tourists in their droves. That said, there’s no better place to get a taste of Brussels’ past and Eurocapital present.

This tailor-made trip to the Netherlands and Belgium will bring you the best of two countries. From the quaint streets, canals and windmills of Holland to beer and Belgium chocolate tasting in three beautiful Belgium cities.

Where to stay in Brussels:

• Best for modern stays: nhow Brussels Bloom
• Best for retro vibes: The Scott Hotel Brussels

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Grand Place in Brussels © Galina Savina/Shutterstock

Everyone knows Tintin. This museum is an appropriately thoughtful homage to his creator, housed in a magnificent purpose-built structure. The brainchild of Hergé’s second wife, Fanny Rodwell, the museum concentrates on his life and work. However, his most celebrated creation inevitably grabs the attention.

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A couple of rooms take you through Hergé’s “dreary but happy” childhood, his early cartoon creations and work in advertising and design. While later ones examine the inception of the Tintin stories in detail. Here there are displays on each of the principal characters as well as Hergé’s influences in creating them – travel, science and cinema among them.

Herge Museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Belgian cartoonist Georges Remi, creator of Tintin © Shutterstock

One of the most beautiful Gothic structures in Belgium, the interior of which is graced by four fine paintings by Rubens, is definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Belgium. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Mary and is the seat of the Archbishop of Antwerp. It is known for its towering spires, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows.

The cathedral is home to a number of important artworks, including paintings by Peter Paul Rubens, who was a member of the cathedral's choir and is buried in the cathedral.

Visitors to Antwerp's Cathedral can explore the interior of the cathedral, including the nave, the chapels, and the choir. The cathedral is open to the public and offers guided tours and other educational programs. Antwerp's Cathedral is a must-see destination for anyone interested in architecture and history.

Where to stay in Antwerp:

• Best for location: Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt
• Best for budget: Citybox Antwerp

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Cathedral in Antwerp © Pigprox/Shutterstock

Belgium’s annual carnivals, which are held in February and early March, are a must-see event for anyone looking for unique and exciting things to do in Belgium. These carnivals are known for their originality, colour, and boisterous atmosphere. One of the most renowned is held in February at Binche, in Hainaut, when there’s a procession involving some 1500 extravagantly dressed dancers called Gilles.

There are also carnivals in Ostend and Aalst, and in Eupen. The action lasts over the weekend before Shrove Tuesday and culminates with Rosenmontag on Monday. This is a pageant of costumed groups and floats parading through the town centre. Most remarkable is Stavelot’s carnival, where the streets are overtaken by so-called Blancs Moussis, townsfolk clothed in white hooded costumes and equipped with long red noses.

Carnivals often reflect people's cultural heritage, read our guide to Europe's 10 best alternative carnivals and perhaps you will be inspired to visit at least one of them.

Binche carnival © Alexander Narraina/Shutterstock

Bruges, with its canals, museums, and gorgeous medieval architecture, is without question one of Europe’s most beguiling cities and a must-see destination for anyone looking for things to do in Belgium. The obvious place to start an exploration of the city is the two principal squares: the Markt, overlooked by the mighty belfry, and the Burg, flanked by the city’s most impressive architectural ensemble.

Almost within shouting distance are the three main museums, the pick of them being the Groeninge, which offers a wonderful sample of early Flemish art. Another short hop brings you to St-Janshospitaal and the important paintings of the fifteenth-century artist Hans Memling, as well as Bruges’ most impressive churches, the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk and St-Salvatorskathedraal.

Explore one of Europe's most intact medieval cities - Bruges, the Venice of the North on this Bruges & Ghent Full-Day Trip . Marvel at the ornate City Hall and the stunning market square in Ghent. Taste the famous Belgian chocolates, the national dish of Moules Frites and beer.

Where to stay in Bruges:

• Best for families: Grand Hotel Normandy
• Best for comfort: Hotel Ter Brughe

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bruges

Bruges © thesixthfloor89/Shutterstock

Belgian cuisine is second to none but has none of the pretentiousness of French food. The national dish — mussels and fries — proves the point. Mussels (moules/mosselen) are cooked in a variety of ways and served with chips. It is a national favourite at lunch or dinner – indeed it’s effectively Belgium’s national dish.

Traditionally, mussels are only served in season – i.e. when there is an “r” in the month (September to April). They are best eaten the time-honoured way, served in a vast pot with chips and mayonnaise on the side. They are served typically either à la marinière (steamed with white wine, shallots and parsley or celery), or à la crème (steamed with the same ingredients but thickened with cream and flour).

Moules © NeydtStock/Shutterstock

The capital’s middle class took to this style of architecture like ducks to water. Victor Horta and Paul Hankar are the names to conjure with. Some of the best-known Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels include the Atomium, the Cauchie House, and the Horta Museum. The Atomium is a futuristic-looking building that was built for the 1958 World's Fair and is now a popular tourist attraction.

The Cauchie House is a private residence that is known for its colourful and elaborate Art Nouveau decorations. The Horta Museum is a museum dedicated to the work of the Belgian Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta and is housed in his former residence.

Learn about the origins and the development of the Art Nouveau architectural style in Brussels on a 3-hour guided tour . Travel to the Bailli district to see several of the most important Art Nouveau houses in the city. Finish at the Victor Horta Museum.

Art Nouveau building © E. Pals/Shutterstock

World War I was decided on the plain of Flanders , a point hammered home by the interminable names on the hulking mass of the Menin Gate in Ieper . East of the Grote Markt, the massive Menin Gate war memorial was built on the site of the old Menenpoort, which served as the main route for British soldiers heading for the front.

It’s a simple, brooding monument, towering over the edge of the town, its walls covered with the names of those fifty thousand British and Empire troops who died in the Ypres Salient but have no grave. Volunteers from the local fire brigade sound the Last Post beneath the gate each and every evening at 8 pm.

Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing in Ypres, West Flanders, Belgium © Shutterstock

The outstanding In Flanders Fields Museum focuses on the experiences of those caught up in the war rather than the ebb and flow of the military campaigns, though these are sketched in too. At the start, there is an excellent introduction to the origins of the war, followed by a detailed section on the German invasion of Belgium in 1914, describing the damage the invaders inflicted and the atrocities they committed.

Thereafter, the museum outlines the creation of the Ypres Salient and the gruesome nature of trench warfare with discrete subsections on, for example, the evolution of mortars, the use of gas and tunnelling.

Explore the path of the World War II Liberation Route with this tailor-made trip through Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands . Visit important landmarks and museums on the way with this self drive itinerary, with enough time to explore cities such as Brussels and Rotterdam on the way.

The preserved trenches at Hill 62 Sanctuary Wood on the Western Front near Ypres, Belgium © Shutterstock

One of the unmissable things to do in Belgium is to visit the Musée Magritte. It displays the definitive collection of works by Belgium’s most famous modern artist. Musée Magritte's four floors are devoted to the life, times and work of René Magritte. Beginning on the top floor, the museum trawls through Magritte’s life chronologically, with original documents, old photos and snatches of film.

There is an early sketch of his wife Georgette, early Cubist efforts and the later surrealist works he became best known for – often perplexing pieces, whose weird, almost photographically realized images and bizarre juxtapositions aim to disconcert. There are posters by Magritte, too advertising drinks, films and commercial products, as well as a selection of the more Impressionistic works he produced in the 1940s.

Magritte Museum from the Rue Montagne de la cour, Brussels © Shutterstock

The Belgians picked up their love of chocolate via the most circuitous of historical routes. The Aztecs of Mexico were drinking chocolate when Hernando Cortéz’s Spanish conquistadors turned up in 1519. Cortéz took a liking to the stuff and brought cocoa beans back to Spain as a novelty gift for Emperor Charles V in 1528.

Within a few years, its consumption had spread across Charles’s empire, including today’s Belgium and Luxembourg. At first the making of chocolate was confined to a few Spanish monasteries. However, eventually, Belgians got in on the act and they now produce what are generally regarded as the world’s finest chocolates.

Even the smallest town will have at least one chocolate shop. Although some brands are everywhere – Leonidas, Godiva and Neuhaus are three big players. Try to seek out independent producers such as Wittamer or Pierre Marcolini in Brussels or The Chocolate Line in Bruges, as their chocolates are usually that bit better.

Discover Belgian chocolate and learn how to make these tasty treats with this Belgian Chocolate Workshop . Enjoy a workshop with the guidance of a chocolatier and make chocolates yourself.

Belgian pralines © Shutterstock

If you are looking for inspiration and new ideas for your European holiday, read our guide to the 20 best places to visit in Europe on a budget .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the Belgium without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Ready for a trip to Belgium ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg or Pocket Rough Guide Bruges . If you travel further in Belgium, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Belgium. For inspiration use the itineraries from our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

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Top image © Sira Anamwong/Shutterstock

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Top Destinations To Check Out In Belgium This Summer

Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent are popular tourist destinations, but there is more of Belgium to discover beyond these cities. This summer, whether you decide to relax by the sea, vacation to the mountains, or simply just enjoy Belgian beers, these five destinations will guarantee unforgettable holiday experiences.

This year, Mons was chosen as the European Capital of Culture. Get lost in a maze of over 8,000 sunflowers at Mons’ Grand-Place. Celebrate summer, music and food with Festival au Carré , featuring 10 concerts and 16 spectacles in eight different locations. Witness history as the collegiate church of Sainte-Waudru becomes transparent with the use of digital technology. This technology will reveal its fascinating gothic architecture to visitors. Fans of the arts? Feast your eyes with sporadic street art while strolling around town. Street sculptures include a pile of books falling down a window of the University of Mons, a giant vase popping out from a building or modern menhirs inside a park. Mons awaits your visit.

Located on Flanders’ coast, the small beach village of De Haan is perfect for those seeking a tranquil day at sea. The village has all the facilities to make your trip stress-free, including expansive camping sites, lifeguards on duty, and food stands selling waffles and ice cream. Bars and restaurants are also scattered along the beach. De Haan is also known for providing shelter for Albert Einstein , who stayed there for six months before finding asylum in the United States from the Nazis. The village honors Einstein with a life-size statue of him in a small park situated at the end of Normandiëlaan street. In the center of De Haan is the beautiful art nouveau style tram station, which was built in 1902. Don’t miss the chance to get on the world’s longest coastal tram, spanning 68 kilometers with 70 stops, and it’s only 2 euros per ride.

Did you know the word ‘spa’ comes from the name of the Belgian town in the province of Liège? The town of Spa was Europe’s famous health resort in the 16th century, attracting famous visitors such as Tsar Peter the Great of Russia, Emperor Joseph II of Austria, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas. The town became known as the ‘Café of Europe’. Nowadays, Spa is no longer the St. Tropez for celebrities, yet it remains a charming town with countless springs and rivers. Relax and unwind at Les Thermes de Spa , an 800 square meter complex with indoor and outdoor baths, saunas and hammams. If you’re lucky enough, you can catch the Spa Formula One Grand Prix at one of the most popular circuits in the world.

La Roche-en-Ardenne

Stretched over three provinces, Liège, Luxembourg and Namur, the region of Ardennes is considered the ‘wildest region in the surrounding part of Europe’. The most popular town in the Ardennes is La Roche-en-Ardenne, known for its picturesque scenery and Medieval castle ruins. Active travelers can choose from different outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking and mountain climbing. Families with children can join a walking tour at Parc à Gibier to witness forest wildlife such as deer, wild boars, lynx, foxes, pheasants and much more. At the end of an active day, you can sit down at a restaurant, sip on the local beer Feodale, and enjoy a dish of Ardennes trout to make your holiday complete.

Waterloo celebrates the historic battle’s bicentenary in 2015 with various events . Visitors can revisit the battlefield and climb the recently rehabilitated Lion’s Mound to experience the panoramic landscape reflecting what it was like in 1815. It is also possible to watch a 4D movie and feel immersed in the middle of the battle with the smell of gunpowder, the sound of cannons and scenes of cavalry charges. History has never been more fun than at the ‘History in Blocks’ exhibition, where 1.2 million Lego blocks are used to detail Emperor Napoleon’s life, starting with his wedding through to the Battle of Waterloo. You will also find replicas of famous landscapes such as the Arc de Triomphe, Les Invalides, and Château de Saint-Cloud.

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15x The Best Places to Visit in Belgium in 2024

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15 OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO VISIT IN BELGIUM

Stuffed between major destinations as France, the UK and the Netherlands, Belgium often doesn’t stand a chance when visitors are planning a trip to Western Europe. However, with more sights per square meters than any of its neighbouring countries, it’s well worth a week or more of your time! To help you discover how beautiful tiny Belgium really is, we’ve compiled this list of 15 best places to visit in Belgium.

#15 De Panne

What are the best places to visit in belgium.

Probably the most known medieval city of Western Europe, Bruges attracts tourists from all over the world. And for good reason: the entire historic centre is simply stunning and oozes a fairytale feeling. The entire centre is also a UNESCO World Heritage site .

We guarantee you’ll fall in love with the small canals and stunning architecture. Not to mention the many interesting museums, tasty restaurants and the lovely countryside once you step out of the city.

Bruges is small enough to explore on foot, but you might want to check out the canal boat rides and horse-drawn carriages to see the city from a different perspective.

More about Bruges

Sightseeing

Things to do in Bruges with kids

• How to get from Ghent to Bruges & vice versa

#2 Brussels

Brussels is not only the capital of Belgium but also the capital of Europe. Add to that the millions of tourists that visit the city every year and you’ll understand how multicultural Brussels always feels. As the largest city in Belgium, there are many neighbourhoods and sights to explore, but if you stick to the cultural centre you’ll already have your work exploring all there is to see.

There’s a big emphasis on history, architecture and comic book art, but Brussels has something for just about anybody.

More about Brussels

• How to visit Brussels in a day
• The best museums to discover in Brussels
• The best day trips from Brussels (in and outside of Belgium)
• How to get from Ghent to Brussels & vice versa

Belgium’s third most visited city is Antwerp. The city is famous as the world capital of diamonds and as a fashion capital (originally thanks to the “Antwerp Six”: 6 designers including Dirk Bikkembergs, Ann Demeulemeester and Dries van Noten who put Antwerp on the fashion map but nowadays thanks to the alternative fashion scene). However, it has more to offer than clothes and diamonds alone! You can discover Antwerp’s past in the historical centre with some fantastic architecture, famous painters (Pieter Paul Rubens) and medieval hideaway streets.

Antwerp is also a great location for foodies and offers a lively night scene. The city is the perfect mix between historic & alternative and is well worth a couple of days of your time.

Ghent has always been Belgium’s hidden secret. The city is very similar to Bruges but with much fewer tourists, allowing a more relaxed vibe. As it is also a student city, you get a nice mix between fairytale old and hipster modern. The historic centre is small and walkable, although a boat ride on the canals will tell you more about the history of the city. Also, don’t miss out on the castle-inside-the-city Gravensteen with its large collection of medieval torture equipment.

Ghent has put much effort into becoming eco-minded leading to an interesting shopping and food scene with lots of vegetarian and vegan options.

More about Ghent

• Ghent in a day: what to see and do?
• How to spend a (romantic) weekend in Ghent

Accommodation

• The 10 best hotels in Ghent
• Sleeping on a boat in Ghent: the best options
• How to get from Brussels to Ghent & vice versa
• How to get from Bruges to Ghent & vice versa

Durbuy presents itself as “the smallest town in the world” and they might not be far off with a population of only 500. It might even come across as a very well-made amusement park because it feels like you went back to the Middle Ages. The narrow pedestrian cobblestone streets are lined with flowerpots and charming shops that sell artisanal produce. In between, you find many hotels, bed & breakfasts and restaurants. In short, everything you need for a wonderful experience!

And once you step outside of the city centre, you’ll discover why they also call Durbuy the “adventure capital of Belgium”. Kayaking, rock climbing, an adventure park, mountain biking, laser games and an escape room are a couple of the options available . Not to mention that the surrounding woods of The Ardennes are perfect for long nature walks.

With the oldest university in the Low countries (more or less what we now call Flanders and The Netherlands), Leuven is first and foremost a university city. The roughly 50.000 students bring a livelihood to the city, but we can’t forget about Leuven’s past either. The remnants are still visible in the many beautiful landmarks such as the gothic Town Hall and the picturesque beguinage. More reasons to visit Leuven are the botanical garden (the oldest in the country! Created in 1738 by the University for the Medicine students), the many odd churches and the brewery of Stella Artois.

Also, don’t forget to go for a drink – like the students do – on the Old Market ( Oude Markt ), where one pub is lined up next to the other. This earned the square the nickname “the longest bar in Europe”.

#7 Ypres (Ieper)

A visit to Ypres is all about the World War I history of the area. Located in the far West of Belgium, this is where many important battles were fought. About 300.000 soldiers lost their lives here, so it will not be a surprise that many of the sights are war museums, cemeteries and memorials. Things you can’t miss are a visit to Flanders Fields Museum, the Menin Gate Memorial and the Last Post ceremony (every night at 8 PM). An exploration of Hill 60 is a great idea as well.

Although always a bit haunted by the past, Ypres has more things to discover than the WWI memories. The beautiful market square is well worth a visit as is a walk on the Vauban ramparts (created in the 17th century) and continue on along the canal.

More about Ypres

• Things to do in Ypres

Liège is the largest city in Wallonia (the French-speaking part of Belgium) and is mostly famous for its art scene. Like nearly all Belgian cities it has a nice historical feeling, but its situation along the Meuse river makes it extra special. There are two things Liège is most famous for: waffles (a different kind than the Brussels’ waffles!) and the futuristic rail station Liège-Guillemins. Make sure to check both out! There are also many festivals hosted during the year and each one will give the city a different feeling altogether.

Other things you can’t miss: climb the staircase at Montagne de Bueren and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the city. And visit the Blegny-mine, one out of the 4 coal mines in Wallonia that are UNESCO World Heritage and discover all the secrets of the most important product in 19th & 20th century Wallonia.

Hasselt is the place to go when you want to experience the friendliness of the Limburg province. The historic centre is mostly closed off for traffic and filled with shops and cafes. The city is most famous for Jenever – a traditional liqueur. This drink is still distilled in the 19th century traditional way in the Jenever Museum.

But there’s much more things to do in Hasselt than just drink alcohol – however mostly on the outskirts of the city. You can explore the remains of the Herkenrode Abbey, learn more about traditional Flemish village life in the interactive outdoor museum Bokrijk ( a personal favourite! ), visit the Circuit of Zolder (a popular racing circuit often used in contests) and have a relaxing stroll in the Japanese Garden.

#10 Mechelen

Like Bruges and Ghent, Mechelen is one of those Flemish cities with a prominent role for the river. In this case, it’s the Dyle and you’ll find many charming walk paths along the water and bridges to cross it. Mechelen has a very convenient location between Antwerp and Brussels, making it very easy to reach from just about anywhere in Belgium. It’s also the place to be if you want to tick off UNESCO World Heritage sites

While most cities are lucky to have one beguinage, Mechelen has two: a small and a big one (the latter being part of the UNESCO World Heritage of Belgian beguinages). The city also has two (unfinished!) belfries and both of them are on the heritage list. The first is the belfry at the Cloth Hall and the second is the St Rombold’s tower – the symbol of Mechelen. You can climb to the top of the tower and admire the city from the skywalk.

Deep in Wallonia lies Dinant – a magnificent city on the banks of the Meuse. Its location is quite spectacular with the river on one side, steep cliff walls on the other and a fortified citadel on top guarding the city. Dinant is the birth place of Adolphe Sax, the invenor of the saxophone and other than the museum you’ll also find many saxophone references throughout the city.

Belgium has the most castles per square meter in the whole of Western Europe, and around Dinant, you’ll find a couple of the most beautiful ones like the Castle of Freÿr and the Castle of Vêves. Off course, you can’t miss a visit to the citadel and don’t forget to admire the unique shape of the Notre Dame church.

#12 High Fens

The High Fens – a Natural Park on the border between Belgium and Germany – is probably one of the last remaining pieces of wilderness you’ll find in the country. There are a couple of villages far and in between, but mostly the landscape is bare and desolate. The area also comes with its very own climate: many rainy and misty days and a winter that lasts about 8 months – there’s a big difference with the rest of Belgium.

The National Park is bordered by Eupen, Malmédy, Monschau (a picturesque town in Germany) and Spa (time for wellness!), which you can all include in your visit. However, most people come to the High Fens to walk, bike or cross-country ski. Pay attention though that there are only a couple of trails where dogs are allowed (always on the leash!).

With untouched nature comes spectacular fauna as well. It’s home to the black grouse (the symbol of the High Fens), the black stork and the Tengmalm’s owl amongst many others and in the last couple of years, both the Lynx and the Wolf made their re-entry into Belgium!

Damme more than earns its spot on the list of most charming villages in Belgium. The cobble-stone streets and beautiful old buildings set the scene for this self-claimed book village. It consists of barely 4 or 5 streets, but you can easily spend a half day or more if you explore the surrounding countryside. And it’s only a 10-minute drive from Bruges, which makes it a perfect trip if you’re spending a couple of days in the Venice of the North.

As Damme holds a long history, there are a couple of archeological sights, but there are also two museums, many bookstores, a very nice church (with a tower you can climb!) and a river boat that brings you from Bruges to Damme and back. As it is quite the touristy village, there are also tons of brasseries and restaurants when you need some down-time.

More about Damme

• The complete guide to visiting Damme

Namur is another one of those picture-perfect cities in Belgium. With its impressive citadel overlooking the city and walks along the banks of the two rivers The Meuse and The Sambre, it ticks all the boxes. As with many of the Wallonian destinations, you might have to look past the grey a bit to see the charm and colour, but in Namur, you’ll find plenty of the latter.

The main sight is of course the citadel, and you should plan in plenty of time to make your way up, explore everything and get back down. There’s a tourist train and underground tunnels to discover.

Also, don’t forget to taste the local beer Blanche de Namur .

And for the last item on this list, it’s time for something else. Not a city or town with a beautiful historic centre, but one of the most charming beach towns of Belgium instead. It’s located very close to France and therefore appeals to both Belgian as French tourist, by which it gets overflowed during the summer months.

The beach in De Panne is the widest of the entire coastline, giving you plenty of space to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach (especially if you choose to sit a bit more on the outskirts of town). There’s a lovely neighbourhood – the Dumont neighbourhood – with beautiful old houses in low-traffic streets. But there’s heaps more to do: climb up to the top of the city park, which used to be the viewpoint from where the fishermen’s wives watched their husbands return. Go for a hike in Natural Reserve De Westhoek or in the Calmeyn Forest. Or – if you have kids – head over to Plopsaland, one of the most popular amusement parks in Belgium.

Also, if you head over to the next town, Oostduinkerke, you’ll be able to see the shrimp fishers in action. This UNESCO World Heritage protected tradition consists of fishermen on horseback (in bright yellow suits) fishing for the grey shrimps that you can only find in the North Sea.

Final thoughts

So, what do you think? Is there something that might get you to visit Belgium? Or if you’ve already been there, what would be on your to-do list for your next trip? Let us know in the comments!

BELGIUM TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES  

Getting to Belgium : Fly into one of the main international airports : Brussels Airport (BRU) or Charleroi Brussels South Airport (CRL). Take an international train to Brussels South Station. Or take a ferry to Dover or The Netherlands, then drive or take the train to Belgium.

Getting Around : For the major destinations, the train is by far the best option. You can book your train tickets here . If you’d like to visit smaller places, the most convenient way would be to rent a car. We always use Discover cars , they compare all the rental companies and give you the best rates.

Accommodation : Booking.com is the most popular accommodation platform in Belgium. It’s what I use every single time.

Guided tours : Use Get Your Guide or Viator to find fun tours in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp. Or Guruwalk to find free walking tours in multiple destinations.

Babs Rodrigus is a travel addict at heart and loves to explore her home country Belgium and the rest of the world – preferably with her wife and kids. She’s all about showing you the most mesmerising spots in this tiny European country and making you see how great it truly is.

When she’s not travelling, Babs loves to read, write, eat chocolate (hey, Belgian remember) and sing Frozen songs with her daughter.

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Belgium Itinerary: The Best Places in 3, 4 or 5 Days (2024)

Belgium might not be the first place you would think of travelling to, but in fact, there are many good reasons to visit this country . With its medieval cities, enchanting castles and local delicacies, Belgium has a lot to offer. This Belgium itinerary is ideal for first-timers who want to see the country’s highlights .

As I am from Belgium and lived here for most of my life, I have come to know this little country quite well.

To see the best of what it has to offer, you will need a minimum of 3 days in Belgium . To get to know it better and get a real taste of what this country is all about, 4 to 5 days would be perfect.

So, depending on how much time you have in the country, here’s the perfect Belgium itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 days.

Belgium Itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 Days

The first 3 days of this itinerary will bring you to some of Belgium’s most beautiful places . However, if you have 4 or 5 days in this country, the next days will take you to some of the country’s most famous castles too.

Of course, you can easily switch things up according to your interests if you don’t have 5 days in Belgium.

Let’s dive into this itinerary!

Day 1: Brussels

This itinerary for Belgium starts in Brussels, the bustling capital. Brussels is a lively city that is worth visiting and one that cannot miss on your trip to the country.

This city is famous for being the unofficial capital of the EU and the self-proclaimed “comic book capital of the world” and there are quite some things to see here.

To see the city’s highlights, one day in Brussels will be enough. However, you will need more than one day if you want to visit some of Brussels’ museums and areas outside of the city centre too.

Tip: Brussels is a good place to base yourself when you’re visiting Belgium . It is located in the middle of the country, which makes it easy to access any region from here (Brussels is super small, so nothing is far away).

Brussels’ highlights

• Grand Place: The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site with some pretty amazing architecture. This is Brussels’ main square and it is often featured on lists featuring the most beautiful squares in Europe .
• Manneken Pis: This famous statue of a peeing little boy is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks . It is not far from the Grand Place and if you’re lucky, Manneken Pis will be wearing one of his 900 costumes.
• Galleries Royales Saint-Hubert: Built in 1847, this is Europe’s oldest shopping arcade. Apart from beautiful architecture, you will find plenty of luxury shops here.
• Mont des Arts: If you like beautiful views, you will love the Mont des Arts (“Mount of the Arts” in French), which is home to one of the most famous parks in Brussels. If you climb up this mount’s stairs, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the city.
• Saint Michael and Gudula Cathedral: It is in this cathedral that royal weddings, funerals and coronations take place. The Brussels Cathedral’s interior is quite sober and it has beautiful stained glass windows.
• Saint Catherine Church & La Tour Noire: French for the black tower, la Tour Noire is located right next to the beautiful Saint Catherine Church. This tower is part of the 13th-century city walls.
• Atomium: This giant molecule is a pretty unique landmark. It was built for the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958. As it is not located in the centre of the city, you will need to take the metro to get there.
• Beer tour: If you would like to taste some delicious Belgian beer, it is good to know that there are plenty of b eer tours in Brussels . You will learn more about this brew too if you decide to join one of these tours.

Fun fact: It rains for an average of 200 days in Brussels. Although it rarely rains all day, you will find the best indoor activities in Brussels in this post just in case.

Day 2: Bruges

Today, we’re heading to Bruges, one of the most charming medieval towns in Europe . Beautiful Bruges is located in the North of the country and visiting this city is one of the best things to do in Belgium , which is why it can’t miss from any itinerary for this country!

Note that if you’re using public transportation, it’s good to know that the train station in Bruges isn’t in the city centre. So you will need to take the bus to get there unless, of course, you want to walk.

Tip: If you would like to see Ghent too, it’s good to know that it’s possible to visit Ghent and Bruges in one day as these cities are just a 25-minute train ride apart. It will give you less time in Bruges, though.

Bruges’ highlights

Bruges’ cobblestoned streets, medieval buildings and picturesque canals make it one of the prettiest and most romantic destinations in the country .

You will find the best places to visit in Bruges in one day below:

• Grote Markt: This square has been used as a market square since the 10th century. It is surrounded by beautiful guild houses, and this is the perfect place to start exploring Bruges.
• Belfry of Bruges: This medieval bell tower is located on Market Square, and it can be visited. If you decide to climb its 366 steps, you will be rewarded with a stunning view over Bruges.
• Basilica of the Holy Blood: The interior of this Roman Catholic basilica, located on Burg Square, is truly stunning! It was originally built in the 12th century and houses the relic of the Holy Blood .
• Rosary Quay: Head to the “Rozenhoedkaai” for a beautiful view of the canals with Bruges’ historical buildings as a backdrop. This is one of the most photographed sites in Bruges!
• Bonifacius Bridge and Church of Our Lady: The Bonifacius Bridge, with the Church of Our Lady right next to it, is a truly enchanting area and also one of my favourites in Bruges. It is said that you will experience eternal love if you kiss your loved one on this bridge. If you decide to enter the Church of Our Lady, you will be able to admire the famous  Madonna and Child  sculpture by  Michelangelo .
• Beguinage: This former beguinage is one of the most peaceful parts of the city. It was once home to the beguines but the Nuns of the Order of St. Benedict now inhabit the place.

All in all, there are plenty of good reasons to visit Bruges , this is definitely one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities!

>> Check out my post featuring the best canal view hotels in Bruges if you would like to stay here for a night.

Day 3: Dinant and castles

On day 3 of this itinerary for Belgium, it is time to head to Wallonia , the French-speaking part of Belgium. Here, Dinant, the city of the saxophone, Walzin Castle and the Castle of Vêves are well worth visiting.

You can reach the city of Dinant by train from both Bruges and Brussels. However, if you’re coming from Bruges, the train ride will take approximately 3 hours whereas the ride takes a little less than 2 hours from Brussels.

Note that you can’t reach the castles surrounding Dinant by public transportation . The easiest option would be to rent a car for a day. If this is not an option, it is possible to take a taxi (a 15-minute ride) from Dinant.

Dinant’s highlights

Dinant is most famous for being the place where Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, was born. This is a charming city with some interesting things to see and do.

This city is quite small, so half a day here should be just enough. Here are some of the best places to visit in Dinant :

• Citadelle de Dinant: Standing high on the Dinant rock, the Citadel of Dinant is the place to go for a beautiful view of the city. There is a history and weapon museum inside that will teach you more about the history of Dinant.
• Notre Dame de Dinant: Notre Dame de Dinant is an eye-catching 13th-century cathedral with beautiful stained glass windows. Make sure not to miss it during a visit to this town.
• Saxophone Bridge: This bridge crosses the River Meuse. It is decorated with 28 colourful saxophones, each representing one of the countries of the European Union.
• Rocher Bayard: If you’re entering Dinant by car, Rocher Bayard is this city’s first famous landmark that you will encounter. This 35 m (114.8 ft) high rock formation is split in two, and the road goes right through both parts.

Vêves Castle

The medieval Vêves Castle looks as if it is coming straight out of a fairytale, which is probably the reason why it is often called Sleeping Beauty’s Castle . It towers above the village of Celles, and both its interior and exterior are stunning.

The ground on which Vêves Castle was built has a rich history that dates back to the time of Pépin de Herstal (685), a Frankish statesman and military leader. The current castle, however, was built in the 15th century.

If you would like to stay the night in an enchanting castle, it’s good to know that there are plenty of castle hotels in Belgium . Some of them are near Dinant.

Walzin Castle

Contrary to Vêves Castle, Walzin Castle can’t be visited on the inside because it is privately owned. Its stunning location, however, perched high on top of a rock, makes it one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium .

Vêves Castle was built during the 11th century and later destroyed. The castle has undergone multiple restorations since, and today, only the original watchtowers remain.

Tip: As Vêves Castle and Walzin Castle are pretty close to each other, it is possible to hike from one castle to another. This hike is 15 km (9,3 mi) long, and it will take you through the beautiful Nature Park of Furfooz. In my opinion, this is one of the best hikes in Belgium .

Day 4: Antwerp

If you have 4 days or more on your Belgium itinerary, it is time to head to Antwerp today. This Flemish city is a 40-minute train ride from Brussels or a 2.5-hour ride from Dinant.

Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world . This is a beautiful city with many interesting sights and it has an interesting legend too.

The Legend of Antwerp According to the legend, the name Antwerp comes from “hand werpen”, which means “to throw a hand” in Dutch. The story goes that a long time ago, the mythical Roman soldier Brabo killed a giant that demanded a toll on people who wanted to enter the city. If people refused to pay, the giant would cut off their hands and throw them in the River Scheldt. Brabo then decided to fight the giant by cutting off his hand and throwing it into the river.

You will find a statue of Brabo throwing away the hand of the giant on the Grote Markt.

Antwerp’s highlights

• Central Train Station: This station is often featured in lists of the most beautiful train stations in the world and it’s one of Belgium’s most famous landmarks . This is the first place that you will see if you’re visiting Antwerp by train. If not, make sure to head there and check out the station’s impressive main hall. You won’t be disappointed!
• Diamond District: Antwerp’s famous diamond district is located right next to the train station. This is the part of the city where diamonds are traded and where you will find plenty of jewellery shops.
• Grote Markt: The Grote Markt is the main square of Antwerp, and it is stunning! Beautiful guild houses surround this square, and you will also find a fountain of Brabo here.
• Cathedral of Our Lady: The 123-m (402.5 ft) high Cathedral of Our Lady is the tallest Gothic building in the low countries. It houses an impressive art collection that includes works of Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens .
• Vlaeykensgang: This picturesque alleyway dates back to the 16th century and this used to be a very poor area. Today, however, antique shops and art galleries dominate this area.
• MAS Museum: The MAS Museum houses many interesting exhibitions, and even if you don’t feel like visiting a museum, this is a must-see location. The modern red building in which the museum is housed has a rooftop terrace that is free to access. You will have some of the best views of Antwerp from here.
• Rubenshuis: This museum is located in the building where the famous painter Rubens’ home and workshop were. You will find a collection of his work inside and you will get to see where he painted many of his paintings.

Read m y one day in Antwerp itinerary to find out how to spend a perfect day in this city.

 ❗The Rubenshuis is currently closed due to renovation works. It will reopen in 2026.

>> Check out my post featuring the best hotels in Antwerp if you would like to stay here for a night.

Day 5: Bouillon

On the last day of the 5-day itinerary for Belgium, it is time to head to Bouillon. This is a beautiful destination in the Walloon Semois Valley of Belgian Luxembourg

If renting a car is not an option, you will have to take the train to Libramont and TEC bus number 8 to get there.

Libramont is a 2-hour train ride from Brussels and a 3-hour ride from Antwerp. The bus ride from Libramont to Bouillon takes another hour.

Castle of Bouillon

The Castle of Bouillon towers high above the city. Its history dates back almost a thousand years, and it was once owned by Godfrey of Bouillon – one of the leaders of the First Crusade.

You can visit the castle’s chambers and dungeons while learning about its history. While you’re there, you will also get to enjoy the wonderful view over Bouillon and its surroundings.

Hiking in the Semois Valley

After visiting the Castle of Bouillon, one of the best activities in the neighbourhood is to go for a hike. The Semois Valley is a stunning region that includes the Tombeau du Geant , which is argued to be the most beautiful view in Belgium.

It is good to know that there are many hikes around Bouillon . Some start from the city itself but to get to the starting point of some others, you will need a car.

Whichever hike you choose, you will be rewarded with some amazing landscapes!

Belgium Itinerary Map and Schedule

• Day 1: Arrive in Brussels and visit Belgium’s capital
• Day 2: Take a day trip to the medieval city of Bruges (and Ghent if you want to make an extra stop)
• Day 3: Visit Dinant, Vêves Castle and Walzin Castle in the Walloon Region of Belgium
• Day 4 (optional): Spend a day in Antwerp, the diamond capital of the world
• Day 5 (optional): Go to Bouillon, visit the castle and hike in the Semois Valley

It is good to know that Belgium is a small country and that the distances are short . Therefore, you can easily base yourself in Brussels and take day trips from here during your visit to Belgium.

How to Get to Brussels

Brussels is most likely the place where you will start your Belgian trip. The country’s capital is a well-connected city that can easily be reached by air , train or bus .

Zaventem Airport is 15 km (9.5 mi) from Brussels’ city centre and, from here, you can take a taxi, train or bus to get to the centre.

It’s also possible to head straight from Brussels Airport to Bruges and switch things up a little.

How to Get Around Belgium

Most parts of this itinerary can be done using public transportation , and all the cities that are mentioned are easily accessible by train.

Keep in mind, though, that you will have to walk a bit (or take the tram or bus) to get to the centre of the city from the station of Bruges (and Ghent if you decide to visit this city too).

If you want to visit the Castles of Vêves , the Castle of Walzin and the Semois Valley , however, you will either have to take a taxi or rent a car, which brings me to my next point.

The most flexible way to follow this Belgium itinerary is by renting a car . However, finding a parking spot in cities can be quite challenging and expensive unless you park your car further away from the city centre.

My recommendation: Visit Brussels, Bruges and Antwerp by train. Then, rent a car to visit Bouillon and Dinant. This way, you won’t need to stress about finding a cheap parking spot in the bigger cities, and you will be able to easily visit the castles and go for hikes.

If you want to rent a car in Belgium , I recommend using Discover Cars . This website checks various companies to make sure you get the best rates.

Best Time to Visit Belgium

The best time to visit Belgium is during April , May , June , September and October . At this time of the year, the weather will be pleasant and it is not peak season (this is in July and August).

If you don’t mind the peak season, July and August are good months to visit Belgium too, but hotels might be more expensive at this time of the year. July and August are school holidays in Belgium, and it tends to be more crowded during these months.

This being said, Belgium can be visited all year round. It will be colder and there will be more rain during the winter months ( December to March ), though.

Tips for Visiting Belgium

• If you’re getting around with public transport , use Omnio to check train schedules and book your tickets online.
• Belgium is a small country and the distances between places are short. So, you could easily base yourself in Brussels , which is in the middle of the country, and take day trips from here.
• Make sure to try some delicious Belgian chocolates , fries and beer while you’re in Belgium – they’re the best!
• There are many other beautiful places in Belgium, it all depends on your interests. I have a lot of content about this country so check out some of my other posts about Belgium to make sure that you won’t miss something you might like!

Belgium Itinerary FAQs

How many days are needed in belgium.

Belgium is a small country but there are some nice places to see. I recommend staying here for a minimum of 3 to 4 full days. This way, you will be able to see the country’s highlights and get an idea of what this country is all about.

Are 3 days enough in Belgium?

Three days are enough to see Belgium’s highlights. You can visit Brussels, Ghent, Bruges and Dinant in 3 days. If you have more time, however, you can head to Antwerp and the Semois Valley as well.

What should you not miss in Belgium?

Some of the places that you cannot miss on a visit to Belgium are Brussels, Bruges and Ghent. If you have more time, however, there are many other great things to do in Belgium.

Belgium Itinerary: Final Thoughts

And voila – this was my recommended itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 days in Belgium. I hope that you found exactly what you were looking for and that you will enjoy your trip to my home country! Belgium might indeed be small, but it does have a lot to offer.

If you have more time to spare in this country, I would recommend checking out my post with the best day trips from Brussels too. I spent a lot of time exploring Belgium during the pandemic and discovered some interesting places here!

Read more about Belgium:

• Backpacking Belgium: A Local’s Guide
• Benelux Itinerary: The Highlights in 10 Days (+ Map)
• The Best Hikes in Belgium
• The Most Beautiful Places in Belgium
• Reasons to Visit Belgium: Why it’s Worth Visiting
• Best Theme Parks in Belgium
• Souvenirs From Belgium That Don’t Suck
• Best Day Trips from Brussels: Ultimate Guide
• What is Belgium Famous For? The Most Surprising Facts

Belgium Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Belgium on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🚃 Use Omnio to book public transportation in Belgium. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars   to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa  to visit Belgium

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Waffles is also good choice. BTW I’m really happy to say it was an interesting post to read. I learned new information from your article, you are doing a great job. Continue

Waffles are delicious! And so is chocolate :p Thank you for your lovely message, I appreciate it! 🙂

Do you offer private tours? We will have 4-5 days and want to do Brussels, Ghent snd Bruges by private car. We were thinking 2 days Brussels, one day Ghent and two days Bruges.

Hi Shanea, nice to hear you’re planning a trip to Belgium! 🙂 I don’t offer private tours, so I can’t help you with that, unfortunately. Best of luck!

Get back to me as soon as possible we need an itinerary for visitors coming over her soon .

Came across your blog whilst planning my upcoming trip next month. This is going to sound like a silly question but if im staying in brussles and using public transport such as trains if i was to go to bruges and ghent. If i got a return ticket from brussels to bruges can i stop off on the way and walk round ghent or do i have to get tickets from station to station. Thanks in advance.

Hi Melisa, it’s not a silly question, it’s a good one actually! As long as you’re using your ticket on the same day, you can get off the train in Ghent and then continue to Bruges with a ticket from Brussels to Bruges. 🙂

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Brussels   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Getty Images |

19 Best Things To Do in Brussels

Updated Feb. 2, 2023

Discover your inner child at the Belgian Comic Strip Museum , take a whirlwind tour of the continent at Mini-Europe or tickle your taste buds at a chocolate shop ( Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a good place to start). The Grand-Place is another

• All Things To Do

Grand-Place Grand-Place free

Whether you're just passing through Brussels or here for a week, you can't miss the Grand-Place. This square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits in the heart of Brussels and is renowned for its many Gothic and Baroque-style buildings. The Grand-Place is close to many of the city's main attractions, including the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral and the beloved Manneken Pis . At Christmas, enjoy the Winter Wonders light show at night along with a massive Christmas tree, and every August, admire an enormous carpet made of flowers inside the Grand-Place.

Travelers love the Grand-Place for its stunning architecture. Recent reviewers suggested visiting during the day and night; during the day to see the details of the architecture, and at night to witness the vibrant life that takes over the square. However, a common complaint among tourists was the constant crowds (and higher prices), but that's to be expected at such a big attraction. 

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral free

Built in the Brabantine Gothic style and so named for its chapel dedicated to St. Michael and for housing the relics of St. Gudula, this cathedral's current structure dates back to the 11th century and took some 300 years to build. Inside, you will find stained-glass windows, statues, paintings, a new Grenzing organ and a crypt that may contain the remains of St. Gudula with ancient Roman graffiti on it. Below the current church are the remains of a 10th-century Romanesque church. Outside the cathedral is a square where you can sit on benches under the shade of honey locust trees.

Past visitors appreciated the architecture of the church, with some noting the beauty of the stained-glass windows in particular and described it as "amazing" and "stunning."

Musical Instruments Museum Musical Instruments Museum

A former Old England department store built in the 19th century, the Musical Instruments Museum, also known as the "MIM," is housed in an Art Nouveau building located about a half-mile from the Grand-Place . Inside you'll find more than 1,200 instruments from around the globe displayed across four galleries. The museum gives visitors the opportunity to hear what these instruments sound like, as well. Inside, a restaurant touts fantastic views of the city.

Recent visitors were impressed with the variety of instruments inside the museum, as well as with the building itself. Some advised that there are few signs in English, so it can be a bit confusing. Many suggested parting with a few more euros to take advantage of the audio guide. Travelers also recommend taking a trip to the cafe, which offers great views of Brussels.

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Parc du Cinquantenaire Parc du Cinquantenaire free

Meaning "50th anniversary," Cinquantenaire Park was built in 1880 in honor of the 50th anniversary celebration of the independence of Belgium. It is a large French-style park inside the city surrounded by museums and filled with gardens with a large triumphal arch. The park also hosts a variety of festivities throughout the year, including concerts, fireworks and sporting events.

Past visitors said the park is a relaxing and peaceful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Brussels. They also recommend checking out the car tunnel that runs underneath the park.

Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert free

Want to get in a little shopping while visiting Brussels? Make time for a visit to Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a Renaissance-style arcade built in the mid-1800s. With a glass roof once known as the "umbrella of Brussels," the building is worth seeing whether or not you want to indulge in any retail therapy. Around 6 million visitors come to the Galeries every year to enjoy stores selling everything from clothing to chocolate to diamonds. The Galeries Royales also house restaurants, art galleries, a cinema and theaters. Victor Hugo even once enjoyed hanging out here.

Past visitors said it makes a great place to see on a rainy day and described the building as stunning. Many also recommended checking out the extensive chocolate shops.

Horta Museum Horta Museum

Art lovers should not pass up the chance to see where Victor Horta – one of the founders of the art nouveau movement – lived and worked. The home, which was built between 1898 and 1901 features murals, stained glass and mosaics that are largely intact from its original construction. As you walk through, keep your eyes open for Horta's influences, from the wing-like skylights to the winding banisters to the overhead lights stemming down from the ceiling like vines.

Recent travelers said the museum is a must-see attraction for architecture aficionados, but warned that you cannot take photos inside the museum and that lines are sometimes long.

Cantillon Brewery Cantillon Brewery

When it comes down to it, a trip to Brussels isn't complete unless you've sampled the beer. Cantillon has been brewing traditional Belgian beers, including lambic, gueuze, faro and kriek, since 1900. During your tour, you may learn about brewing, bottling or even how barrels are cleaned, and if you plan ahead, you can even attend a public brewing session to see the action first-hand.

Recent visitors said they enjoyed exploring the brewery and learning how the beer is made. Others enjoyed sampling the unique taste of lambic beer. Reviewers recommended signing up for a guided tour to make the most of your visit.

Mini-Europe Mini-Europe

This theme park north of central Brussels features scale models of more than 350 of Europe's most famous landmarks, from Athens' Acropolis and the canals of Venice to London's Big Ben and Paris' Eiffel Tower. Each replica comes complete with visual and sound effects. Be sure to bring your kids: Many of the park's miniature attractions are interactive, such as Naples' Mount Vesuvius and the Berlin Wall. 

Many past visitors agreed that Mini-Europe is a great place to bring children. They described it as adorable, cute and informative and recommended adding it to your itinerary.

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from $ 67.12

Private Tour: Ghent and Bruges From Brussels Full Day

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Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in Brussels' historic center, is a group of six different art museums: the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Meunier Museum, Wiertz Museum, Magritte Museum and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum. Together, they offer a collection of 20,000 works, dating from the 15th century to modern day. Walking through the halls, travelers will be able to see works from Rubens, Rodin, Gauguin, Magritte and many more. There's also an impressive collection of works from the Flemish school, including Pieter Bruegel.

Past travelers were impressed with the museum's vast collection of art. Considering the size of the collection, many suggested allotting 2 1/2 or more hours to not just see the works, but to appreciate and enjoy them.

Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

For those interested in military history, this museum makes for a great afternoon. Located within Cinquantenaire Park , the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History traces the world's military history over the last 10 centuries, displaying weaponry, uniforms and airplanes from various points in time. Spend a fair amount of time in the airplane hangar, which features some 130 aircraft, including zeppelins, F-16s and more. 

Recent visitors said this museum is well worth a visit and recommend seeking out the view of the city atop the terrace of the triumphal arch. Some warned that no cash is accepted and advised allotting several hours to spend in the museum.

Museum of Natural Sciences Museum of Natural Sciences

Set aside plenty of time to spend at this museum, which will delight the science and dinosaur lovers of all ages. With some 38 million specimens on hand (only a fraction of which are on display), this museum has the largest natural history collection in Europe behind those in Paris and London. Don't miss the dinosaur gallery, the largest room in Europe devoted to dinos, to see a replica of the largest and most complete male T. rex known today, along with 30 complete iguanodon skeletons that were discovered in Belgium 1878. 

Past visitors said the museum is a great activity for kids, with many praising the dinosaur collection. Some reviewers advised visiting a weekday to avoid crowds.

Atomium Atomium

The most popular tourist attraction in Brussels, the Atomium is a depiction of an iron crystal magnified more than 100 billion times that was originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels. Today, it houses multiple exhibitions, a panoramic view over the city and a restaurant with excellent views, and is considered to be a symbol of both Brussels and Belgium.

If there's one reason to head to the Atomium, it's the spectacular views of the city, according to many recent visitors. Travelers advised that it is far from other attractions, however, and that there can be long lines.

Église Notre-Dame du Sablon Église Notre-Dame du Sablon free

Just south of the Grand-Place , the impressive  Église Notre-Dame du Sablon – which dates back to the 14th century – is worth a visit, according to recent travelers. The church's interior features two chapels dedicated to saints and decorated with marble statues. There are also statues of St. Paul and St. Augustine inside.

Past visitors said they were impressed by the statues and stained-glass windows in the church and used words like "stunning" and "magnificent" to describe the interior.

Brussels Walking and Tasting Tour

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from $ 76.00

Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

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from $ 38.83

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Belgian Comic Strip Center Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgium is the birthplace of many legendary comic characters, including Tintin and the Smurfs, and is also home to more than 700 comic strip artists. So it's no wonder the city pays tribute to the comic art in the form of a museum. The Belgian Comic Strip Center tells the story of European comics from their beginnings to modern day through a variety of permanent and temporary collections and a Comic Strip Library boasting more than 60,000 works.

Recent visitors enjoyed their experience at the Belgian Comic Strip Center with many feeling nostalgic to learn about comics they recall growing up. Past travelers were also impressed with the beauty of the art nouveau building, which was designed by architect Victor Horta (you can learn more about him at the Horta Museum).

Manneken-Pis Manneken-Pis free

This little boy has become a renowned Brussels landmark. The Manneken Pis (which translates to "little man pee" in Dutch) is a bronze statue of a child relieving himself that also serves as a public fountain. Though the original statue dates back to the 17th century, the statue on display is actually a replica. Located just south of the Grand-Place , the statue has been the recipient of about 800 different costumes, many of which you can see at the Museum of the City of Brussels. He's even been kidnapped and returned multiple times. The statue's origin story is a bit disputed, but wherever it came from, its allure has endured.

Recent travelers were torn over Manneken Pis. Most agreed they were surprised by the boy's small size, and some maintain it's a must-see, while others say to skip it. Past visitors also warned that it is crowded at most times of the day.

Train World Train World

Train enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at Train World, which sits about 3 miles north of the Grand-Place . Inside you can see restored train stations, dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s, learn about the history of Belgium's railway, see the oldest remaining steam engine in Europe, explore the reasons people use trains from travel to commuting and more.

Past visitors said they loved the interactive exhibits and that their kids did not want to leave. They also recommended a visit to the on-site restaurant.

Parlamentarium Parlamentarium free

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Mont des Arts Mont des Arts free

Brussels Chocolate Walking Tour and Workshop

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from $ 76.56

Brussels Discovery Tour: Belgian food, chocolate, waffles, beer, sightseeing

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Private Full-Day Trip to Bruges & Ghent from Brussels with tastings

(8 reviews)

from $ 765.56

BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts

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Choose your own adventure: Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

Revenge travel is so last year.

“It's not necessarily about just getting out of the house anymore,” said Sydney Stanback, Global Insights and Trends lead at Pinterest, which has seen more than 1 billion travel searches and more than 10 billion travel saves over the past year. 

Sure, many of the usual suspects are once again among the most popular destinations across multiple search engines this year, but she said this summer, “It's more so about traveling with intention.” 

According to NerdWallet’s Summer 2024 Travel Report , 45% of Americans plan to take a trip requiring a hotel stay or flight this summer with expenses averaging just under $3,600. A fifth of those travelers expect to go into debt to pay for vacations.

Here’s what to consider when booking a summer trip, including where to go, when to travel and how to save:

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What is the best place to travel in summer? 

The answer is subjective, especially this summer.

“Everyone's kind of choosing their own adventure based off of what their needs are for travel,” Stanback said. 

Pinterest’s Summer 2024 Travel Report found summer travelers are most interested in adventure, exploring mysterious or uncharted destinations, and rest. Searches for “quiet life” jumped 530%, but that doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.

“My mother actually just took a yoga retreat to Panama,” Stanback said. “That's what she needed to do in order to get the rest that she needed and the well-being that she needed. But for me, when I think of rest and restoration, I simply think about going to a beach spa and just sitting and being by myself.”

Solo travel remains popular. Solo travel searches reached an all-time high in Google in January, but again, not for everyone.

“For Gen Z specifically, that need is to gather and reconnect with their community because they were in isolation for so long and during very meaningful moments in their lives,” Stanback said. She noted group travel and road trips are of keen interest to Gen Z.

“It's not necessarily about traveling and going out and going to restaurants and going to bars and clubs,” she added. “We actually see that a lot with younger generations. They’re kind of stepping away from that and really considering their well-being when they're taking time off.”

Where do most tourists go in summer?

Expedia’s Summer Outlook and Google Flights identified the same cities among their most searched summer 2024 destinations based on flights, though rankings varied by platform.

Top 5 domestic destinations 

◾ Orlando, Florida

◾ Los Angeles

◾ Las Vegas

Top 5 international destinations

◾ Cancun, Mexico

◾ Paris, host of the Summer Olympics

Allianz Partners found slightly different results in their analysis of “more than six million flight itineraries for trips between five and eight days in length for travel booked between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.”

Instead of LA and Vegas, Allianz named Boston and Honolulu among this summer’s top five domestic destinations. Internationally, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, made Allianz’s top five, instead of Rome, Paris and Tokyo.

“I am expecting crowds to rival last summer's in popular overseas cities,” Expedia’s travel expert Melanie Fish said, noting how places like Barcelona and Venice are trying to curb overtourism. “They're trying fees and if that's not enough, they're going to have to go even further.”

How can I save on a trip?

Summer trips are already costly for many travelers. “Americans with household income under $100,000 accounted for nearly half (46%) of intended leisure travel spend in summer 2023,” according to Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report from April.

Expedia’s Fish shared five tips for booking summer 2024 vacations:

◾ Bundle your trip. Booking airfare and a hotel at the same time can earn you deep discounts.

◾ Travel midweek or later in the summer if it's an option. You'll save money and save yourself from fighting crowds. 

◾ Fly early in the day … The early bird who takes the first flight of the day will typically get a better price and a lower chance of delays and cancellations.

◾ Book once, earn twice. You can stack rewards from your travel credit card (and) your airline.

◾ Just go. Don't pressure yourself to create the trip of a lifetime … Do it in a bite-sized chunk if possible. 

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

How far ahead should I book travel?

“The sweet spot is now,” Fish said. “We're within that 21- to 60-day pre-travel window to save around 15% on airfare, so now is the time to plan. That means ready, set, but maybe wait until August to actually go.”

She said travelers can save an average of $250 on international flights if they wait until the peak summer travel season passes. 

“It's 15% cheaper on average to fly domestically in August versus June, 30% cheaper to fly to Europe in late summer, and 55% cheaper to fly to Mexico and the Caribbean in August,” she said. “Of course, August is peak hurricane season , so that has something to do with that price dip.”

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Seize the Summer! 10 Incredible Trips Our Editors Are Taking.

Outside editors know the best places to go on vacation. Let our summer plans be your inspiration.

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We are ready for summer. We’ve got our lightweight tents and Tevas out, spend our free time examining trail maps, and have been outdoors soaking up the longer days in preparation for all sorts of adventures. Where are we going this summer? Some of us have plans to escape to tropical Caribbean ports and the high peaks of South America, while others are simply road-tripping one county or one state over for a long weekend escape.

Haven’t nailed down the specifics of your summer vacation yet? It doesn’t have to be spendy, and you can go with friends, family, or solo. Just pick a place that will offer a sense of wonder, a disconnect from your routine, preferably in nature, which has been shown to improve everything from our psyches to our relationships and even heal heartbreak . Here are the trips we’ve booked.

Northern New Mexico

When the heat hits the country with full force in July, my husband and I will head from our home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, up north to cooler climes near Taos. We’re eager to stay at Hotel Luna Mystica , which isn’t a hotel at all but a grouping of vintage Airstreams all decorated differently. We’ve rented Castor, built in 1972, our best friends have rented the adjacent Pollux, from 1967, and we’ll share a deck. Each trailer has a queen bed, a full kitchen, a bathroom, and views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. The hiking around Taos is incredible, too, with trails in nearly every direction.

From Luna Mystica, you can walk to the Taos Mesa Brewery’s mothership location, which has a stage and live music many summer nights. Early in the mornings we’ll drive the quick 13 miles to the Black Rock Hot Springs on the Rio Grande; my husband will fly-fish from the wide banks while I soak and enjoy the July traffic through the canyon: dragonflies, swallows, kayakers, hawks, and bright-yellow butterflies.

One day we want to tour the nearby Earthships , self-sufficient off-grid homes that look like futuristic dwellings. I’m fascinated by their modern sustainability efforts but also love their incorporation of beautiful, unique design elements—walls made of used tires and earth or accents of recycled glass bottles that glimmer colorfully in the sun. — Tasha Zemke , Outside managing editor

Ten Sleep Canyon, Wyoming

At some point over the winter, I decided I sucked at climbing. As I dragged my feet out of the gym, devoid of stoke and prepared to suck again the next day, I had no idea how to cure my melodramatic self-diagnosis. But that changed two months ago when I started climbing with the ShayrdAir , a mentor program in the Denver area led by big-wall athlete Jordan Cannon . A dozen of my peers and I have attended clinics, trainings, lectures, and meet-ups to define and achieve our climbing goals, and it all culminates in a final trip in June to Ten Sleep, Wyoming.

Why Ten Sleep? This tiny cowboy town in the north-central reaches of the state happens to be the base camp of a massive limestone canyon 15 miles away with more than a thousand sport routes for climbers of every skill level. One of last year’s mentees called it “Shelf Road on steroids”—a reference to a popular Front Range climbing mecca—and noted how the population of the local campground, when filled with climbers, seems bigger than the actual town itself. — Holly Humphries , National Park Trips digital content producer

Saint Lucia

My fiancé and I are taking our honeymoon this summer on the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, best known for two mountains called the Pitons—Gros Piton and Petit Piton. While we’re eager to lounge on the white-sand beaches, snorkel, eat jerk chicken and breadfruit, and enjoy a mud bath at Sulphur Springs, in the dormant Soufrière volcano, we’re most looking forward to guided hikes. I’m especially excited to tackle the Gros Piton Trail (see Gaia GPS map below), which is three miles round-trip, with a little more than 1,800 feet of elevation gain.

We’ve been told this is challenging, but the view from the top of the island and the sea is said to be spectacular. Plus, I plan to set my alarm for an early-morning run just as the sun rises over the sea. — Mallory Arnold , Run associate editor

Machu Picchu, Peru

I’m an editor at Backpacker , and the biggest hiking goal of my life has always been Machu Picchu . I first learned about the ruins in Peru in my middle school history class, and the combination of hiking and Indigenous history intrigued me. A trip to South America seemed like a long shot, but I kept dreaming. Flash forward to the end of May: my college friends and I are going international on our annual reunion trekking trip. We’ll fly into Cuzco and spend two days acclimatizing to the altitude—a little more than 11,000 feet—while touring the city before hitting the Inca Trail with Llama Path , a sustainable-tourism company.

For four days we’ll hike between 7,218 and 13,780 feet before ending at the famous Inca site. With porters carrying our belongings and chefs cooking our meals, this is going to be a lot more glamorous than my usual excursions to the backcountry. I can’t wait. But there’s a more personal reason why this trip is particularly meaningful to me: I recently learned that a suspicious mole was actually stage-one melanoma and was sidelined for weeks in between procedures. I can’t imagine a better place to celebrate being cancer-free. — Emma Veidt , Backpacker associate editor

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

My theme for the summer is: Stay local, but get far, far away. From our home in Boulder, Colorado , my wife and I can drive to Rocky Mountain National Park in less than two hours, and we’ve exploited that proximity to visit many of the park’s peaks, lakes, and trails. Not surprisingly, popular spots are often packed with other nature lovers. So this year we’re taking advantage of a little-used type of wilderness permit to escape the crowds. We’ve reserved long weekends in four of Rocky’s 23 cross-country zones , remote areas without developed trails or campsites, where we’ll likely see more elk and moose than people.

Hidden in some of the park’s most rugged terrain, typically at elevations of 9,000 to 11,000 feet, these zones require expert navigation skills and total self-reliance. Expect rangers at the backcountry desk to quiz you on bear safety, Leave No Trace ethics, orienteering know-how, and prior wilderness experience before issuing your permit, and expect challenging bushwhacking through dense forest. But the reward is worth the effort: the crisp, star-filled nights, high-country wildflowers, and Alaska-worthy solitude will make you feel much farther from civilization than you actually are.

Fair warning: the park provides scant information about the zones, and trip reports are few and far between. Your best bet is to download the Gaia GPS app and subscribe to the Premium edition so you can access detailed topo maps for offline use (there’s typically no cell reception in these zones). Study the terrain closely before you go, and don’t expect to cover more than one mile per hour. — Jonathan Dorn , Outside, Inc., chief entertainment officer

• Switzerland

When I realized I’d be spending my 30th birthday in Europe, I only had two nonnegotiables: Alpine hiking and cheese. Switzerland, specifically the Lauterbrunnen Valley, perfectly fit that bill. My husband and I are planning to spend four nights in the central Jungfrau region: one in a village hotel at each end of the valley, and two at the remote Berghotel Obersteinberg , an off-grid hut that’s only accessible by foot through forests and wildflower-filled pastures. (See Gaia GPS map to the hut below.) Reservations can only be made by phone, a charming and slightly confusing experience that secured us a bed in a private room, breakfast, and dinner for two days for about $106 per person per night.

We’ll fill our days ascending the area’s many trails in the shadow of imposing peaks, past some of the valley’s 72 waterfalls, and our evenings eating hearty meals, including Obersteinberg’s homemade cheese. I’m crossing my fingers that raclette is served–my favorite Swiss dish, it consists of melted cheese scraped over potatoes–but if not, I’ll indulge back in town with a celebratory pot of fondue.

We’re traveling to Switzerland by car but will leave it parked in Interlaken to take advantage of the valley’s excellent public transportation (think: trains, trams, and gondolas), as many of the hamlets are otherwise inaccessible. — Mikaela Ruland , National Park Trips editor in chief

Victoria, British Columbia

Last year my husband and I became rooftop-tent converts in Iceland. I’ve pitched and slept in backpacking tents my whole life, and I never thought I’d be into a roof rig until our European rental experience went right. We realized it can take us two minutes, instead of twenty, to set up or break down camp. Plus, memory foam is so much comfier than the ground, and our gear stays a helluva lot more organized inside the vehicle.

So we scored an open-box deal on a Roofnest , and this summer we’re taking it for a spin from New Mexico up through the Pacific Northwest to Canada. We’ll hit campsites near Olympic National Park along the way, before ferrying to Victoria, British Columbia, to hang out at an oceanside apartment along a 70-mile bike path for six weeks. We’re stoked to beat the heat, enjoy the nearness of open water, and work from a place that’s new to us both where we can trail-run through the backcountry.

On our way home, we’ll swing through Banff, in Alberta, then Glacier National Park , in Montana—two bucket-list areas I’ve been dying to check out. The best part? My husband is the king of finding last-minute camping reservations , so I barely had to lift a finger to map it all out. — Patty Hodapp , Outside Online interim digital director

Paris and Annecy, France

I’m heading to Paris for the Summer Games! I’ve been a huge fan of the Olympics for as long as I can remember, and about a year ago I haphazardly put my name on an email list for the ticket lottery. I didn’t put much thought into the idea of actually attending, until I beat out thousands of other eager fans (a process that saw me awake at 3 A.M., repeatedly refreshing my browser) to secure two tickets to men’s rowing in late July.

This will be my third time to the French capital, so after the event concludes and I’ve gotten my fill of Olympic pride, I plan to head southeast to Annecy, a town on the French-Swiss border, for a long weekend in the fresh Alpine air. I’ll brave the frigid temperatures of Lake Annecy, stroll Jardins de ’Europe, and of course do some hiking. Routes to the Citadel of Lake Annecy and the Parmelan Plateau have already caught my eye, but like most things, there’s something to be said for going in with half a plan and figuring out the rest later. — Jamie Aranoff , Ski digital editor

British Columbia’s West Coast Trail

Ever since writer Scott Yorko pitched me this story on the deadly history of Canada’s West Coast Trail (see Gaia GPS map below) a number of years ago, I’ve wanted to see the area’s storied shipwrecks, beaches, and wildlife for myself. Yorko wrote not only of the dramatic rescue attempts that led to this 48-mile path’s construction along British Columbia’s rugged coast but also of sandy campsites, verdant rainforest walks, tide pools brimming with sea life, and a floating crab shack that caters to hungry hikers.

In June, I’ll finally experience the trail for myself. I’m prepared for slow miles through boot-sucking mud, rickety wooden ladders, cable cars, and changing tides. With any luck, my partner and I will spot sea lions, whales, and otters; bears, cougars, and wolves are also known to wander the shore. The salty air and marine views should be a welcome departure from the alpine hikes I usually gravitate toward in the summer, and I couldn’t be more excited. — Zoe Gates , Backpacker senior editor

The Andes, Chile

In 2013, I spent five months living in southern Chile. But that was before I was a skier. In the intervening decade, I’ve spent 100 days on snow almost every year. I rarely travel away from my home in the eastern Sierra to ski these days, but my ultimate dream trip is a ski trip to Chile and Argentina. This is the year that becomes a reality. In August, when the austral winter is in full swing, my fiancée and I will fly from Los Angeles to Santiago and enjoy the change of scenery while sipping pisco sours, sightseeing at the Pablo Neruda museum, and checking out the mountaintop zoo. The following day we’ll take a bus to Portillo , a resort nestled among the Andes that’s famous for runs that empty out at Laguna del Inca, for three days on the slopes, and after that , we’ll travel southeast to Las Leñas, in Argentina, for a final two days of skiing above wine country. I never much cared for summer anyway. —Jake Stern, Outside Online digital editor

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7 Best Places To Visit In Georgia In Summer 2024

Are you planning a trip to Georgia this summer but are running out of inspiration? We know that preparing a travel itinerary can be difficult, especially when there are so many things to see and do. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the 7 best places to visit in Georgia in summer 2024 .

Now sit back, relax, and get to know the spots that will make this year’s vacation a sensation.

The Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort

With a rich history, miles of pristine beaches, and fascinating flora and fauna, visiting Jekyll Island is an experience on its own. However, if you want to take it even further, we recommend you stay at the Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort .

It features stylish rooms and suites with scenic views and a wide range of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and upscale dining options with oceanfront verandas. 

If you want to set out exploring the surroundings, you can rent a bike. However, as the beach is right by the facility, you might not even have to.

Stone Mountain Park

If you rather prefer outdoor activities, this is a fantastic tip. Stone Mountain Park is a 3200-acre natural park known for the iconic ​​Confederate Memorial Carving, scenic views, and family-friendly activities. The best part? You don’t even have to leave Atlanta, as it’s set just at its outskirts.

Explore the park’s lush forests, meadows, and lakes through its lovely hiking and biking system, travel back in time at Dinotorium, or take a cable car to the summit of Stone Mountain and savor the breathtaking views of Atlanta’s skyline. There are also opportunities for fishing, boating, golfing, and even camping – it will easily keep you busy for a day or two.

Sea Island Resort

If you thrive on exceptional experiences and like to be treated as a celebrity on your travels, Sea Island Resort in the Golden Isles is the place to be this summer. It boasts 5 miles of beaches, a spa, a tennis center, a yacht club, and three championship golf courses. What’s more, it’s the only resort in the world that has received four Forbes Five-Star awards for 15 years in a row – a confirmation that staying there is truly something special.

It offers various accommodation options – the Cloister, the Lodge, and private cottages – so both families and individuals can choose according to their needs. Oh, and did we mention the array of venues where you can eat? There is everything from a rustic Italian restaurant and a romantic café to a laid-back beach shack and a grill.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Another piece of greenery in Atlanta worth stopping by is the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Even though it might seem boring at first glance, the opposite is true, as this lush oasis is full of natural beauty, art, and education.

Walk through its carefully curated gardens and colorful flower displays, get impressed by the temporary exhibitions, or meditate in the Japanese gardens. You can also take a guided tour and learn more about each plant and the history of the place. On the other hand, kids can enjoy a bit of splashing, climbing, and playing at the Lou Glenn Children’s Garden.

Lake Lanier / Margaritaville Resort

Margaritaville at Lake Lanier is a great option if you like the thrill of water joys but prefer to be outdoors. Just choose where you want to stay – whether in your RV, cabin, or a luxurious glamping tent – and dive straight into summer entertainment.

Board on a yacht excursion, rent a paddle board or a kayak, take a ride at the water park, or stay on the ground and chill with a refreshing drink at the bar – we guarantee you won’t get bored at Margaritaville Resort.

But it’s not just the amenities that make it a splendid getaway. Thanks to its location just outside of Atlanta, it’s also easily reachable and therefore perfect to visit even if you only have a free weekend.

The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort

Last but not least, on the neighboring St Simons Island, you will find the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort – another spot for an indulging retreat. But why this resort in particular? You will fall in love with it at first sight of the Spanish colonial exterior. Also, it’s the only waterfront resort on the island and has direct access to the beach , so you can simply get out of your room and dip straight in. 

Amenities include a spa, tennis courts, a pool with a sundeck, and most importantly, an 18-hole golf course with amazing views. And of course, there are on-site bars and restaurants. We recommend you try their frozen custard – a local specialty.

Splash in the Boro Waterpark and Aquatics Center

Do you and your family love exhilarating slides and playing in the water? How about visiting the best-rated water park in Georgia this summer? Splash in the Boro Waterpark and Aquatics Center is in Statesboro, not far from Savannah. And with so many attractions and amenities to offer, it will please even the most demanding visitors. 

Cool off at a wave pool, take part in a mat race, or float on a lazy river. Then, you can settle down at a cabana and bond over tasty snacks, drinks, and ice cream. Not much of a swimmer? You can take swim lessons at the Aquatic Center or do light, aquatic exercises. Groups and parties are welcome.

The Best Places to Travel This July, From Key West to Montenegro

By Caitlin Morton

School’s out, the sun is shining, and it’s officially time to plan a proper summer vacation . The best places to travel in July are all about making those OOO days really count, even if it means venturing a bit off the radar—think diving tours off the coast of Bonaire, multi-day hiking trips through central Iceland, and Olympic Games viewing parties some 9,700 miles outside of Paris (more on that later). And if you’d rather fill your trip with more relaxing and less adventuring, fear not: We have plenty of destinations for you as well.

We know you’re probably itching for a spectacular holiday as much as we are, so we’ve gathered up a list of places that cover the geographical gamut. Whether you want to make an easy trip to one of the coolest cities in the US (we reveal that answer below) or take multiple flights to reach your final once-in-a-lifetime destination, here are 11 of the best places to travel in July.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is one of the best places to travel in July for one major reason: wildflowers . While you might consider spring to be the best time to see colorful flowers, the park’s northern location in Montana means the blooms reach their peak in July and August. Hike along the Garden Wall Trail to see fields of white beargrass, pink fireweed, and yellow glacier lilies as far as the eye can see.

When you’ve had your fill of hiking (and your phone is full of photos), head back to The Resort at Paws Up , a sprawling, 37,000-acre working cattle ranch in western Montana. Their safari-style canvas tents will make you feel like you’re in the Wild West, while locally sourced meals and spa treatments are worthy of a five-star hotel.

It’s not easy to find an uncrowded beach in Europe during the summer months, but the country of Montenegro is one of your best bets. It takes up less space than Connecticut and has a lower population than Stockholm , but the tiny Balkan nation should not be overlooked—especially since it’s quieter and more untouched than neighboring Croatia and Greece. Beyond the beaches, you can take advantage of the country’s historic Old Towns, UNESCO-protected parks, and lakes begging for a swim.

The country also happens to be home to Mamula Island Hotel , a former 19th-century fortress that was reimagined and unveiled in April 2023. Situated on its eponymous island in Boka Bay, this knockout property features sea-facing rooms, three dining venues, and a beautiful glass-covered internal courtyard. Try to book one of the contemporary panoramic suites in the crown of the main tower, complete with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and terraces equipped with telescopes for stargazing.

The Pantanal

Stretching across parts of southeastern Brazil , Paraguay, and Bolivia , the Pantanal is the world’s largest floodplain and boasts the highest concentration of wildlife on the entire South American continent (yes, even more than the Amazon). Here you can spot ultra-rare jaguars, crocodiles, monkeys, anacondas, and some 650 species of birds; and the dry season from July to October boasts the best visibility.

Note that reaching the Pantanal takes a bit of work: You must first fly to São Paulo (a great excuse to stay overnight at the São Paulo Rosewood ), then fly to the Campo Grande Airport in Mato Grosso, then either drive or take a chartered flight to your lodge. And that lodge should definitely be the upscale Caiman Ecological Reserve , a 204-square-mile refuge known for its luxury villas and local conservation efforts. Between visiting jaguar sanctuaries and horseback riding through the jungle, rest up at the reserve’s hammock garden, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy the starry sky from your private balcony.

Only 50 miles from Venezuela, Bonaire is the farthest east of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao). Since it sits outside the Hurricane Belt—and since its relatively remote location means its never as crowded as other Caribbean islands—there’s not really a bad time to visit; but July is one of the best months to spot animals both above and below sea level. The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary on the southern end of the island is home to more than 10,000 flamingos (July marks the tail end of breeding season), which you can spot from the road or nearby Pink Beach. 

But the most beautiful parts of Bonaire can be found just below the surrounding waters. The entire coral reef around the island is a national park (Bonaire National Marine Park), with brightly colored coral and wildlife ranging from nurse sharks and seahorses to friendly green turtles. There are 85 dive sites within the park and dozens of tour operators on the island, so there’s really no excuse to stay exclusively on dry land. 

Jessica Puckett

Scott Laird

Lucy Bruton

Jahnavi Bhatt

Oaxaca, Mexico

Far from the coastal spring break hot spots of Cancún and Cabo San Lucas, Oaxaca , in south-central Mexico, is one of the most important cultural hubs in the Americas. Explore the region’s craft revolution led by female entrepreneurs, secure a table at Alejandro Ruiz’s Casa Oaxaca for traditional dishes and cocktails, then head to the streets for delicious tlayudas and tacos served from food trucks (our favorites for each: Tlayudas La Chinita, and Lechoncito de Oro, respectively).

An extra special reason to visit in July is the vibrant Guelaguetza Festival, which takes place on the last two Mondays of the month. The festival celebrates the 16 different ethnolinguistic groups of Oaxaca with folk dancing, traditional clothing, mezcal fairs, and concerts.

We named Mongolia one of the best places to travel in 2024 for several reasons, chief among them being the country’s relatively recent accessibility. Last year, Mongolia opened up visa-free travel for an additional 34 nationalities—bringing the total up to 61—in an effort to become a more popular tourist destination. (The campaign is set to run until 2025.) There are also talks of a direct US–Mongolia flight launching later this year.

July is an especially exciting time to visit Mongolia. This time every year, the country throws its annual Naadam Festival (July 11-13), an ancient-style version of the Olympics with horse racing, wrestling, and archery. The event appears on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list for its intrinsic connection to “the nomadic civilization of the Mongols,” and the competitions truly are a sight to behold. You can watch the opening ceremony in Ulaanbaatar’s National Sports Stadium then stick around for the archery and wrestling games; you’ll have to head to the Khui Doloon Khudag field outside of town to watch the horse races.

While people around the world are flocking to Paris this July for the 2024 Olympic Games, we suggest heading to Tahiti for a more tropical—but still sports-oriented—summer vacation. The southern coastal village of Teahupo’o will host the Olympic’s 10-day surf competition this year starting on July 27, and visitors can watch the event on giant screens set up in parks, beaches, and marinas across the island. This leg of the games is particularly exciting this year: It’s only the second time surfing has appeared on the Olympic program (it debuted in Tokyo in 2020), and Teahupo’o’s famous break is often dubbed one of “the deadliest waves in the world.” Surf’s up, indeed.

After all those secondhand adrenaline rushes, you’ll probably want to rest up in an impossibly luxurious resort—something Tahiti has in spades. The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa has all the makings of a classic French Polynesian property, from thatched-roof overwater bungalows to holistic spa treatments. But if you have some extra time, consider hopping on a 20-minute flight north to Tetiaroa, home to The Brando . This ultra-remote, ultra-polished resort plops guests down on a private atoll surrounded by white sand and shallow, turquoise water. It’s just you and nature—with a spa, multi-course dining experience, and villa with a private plunge pool thrown in.

If you’ve spent any time in Chicago , you probably aren’t surprised that our readers consistently vote it the best large city in the United States . And if you haven’t spent time here? We suggest booking a trip to the Windy City stat. There are tons of summer activities for both first-time and seasoned travelers, including visiting the beaches along Lake Michigan, taking Chicago River boat tours, watching the fireworks at Navy Pier, and attending festivals like the Southport Art Fest (July 6 to 7) and Pitchfork Music Festival (July 19 to 21).

There’s no shortage of great hotels in the city , but do yourself a favor and book a few nights at The Peninsula Chicago , consistently voted one of the best properties in town by both our readers and editors. There are many reasons why this decades-old hotel has continued to impress, from that iconic 19th-floor spa to those epic marble bathrooms. We also have our eyes on citizenM Chicago Downtown —the hotel opened in late 2022, and its high-tech features and colorful, offbeat decor still feel delightfully fresh.

There really is no wrong time to visit Iceland, but we’re particularly fond of chasing the midnight sun during July—the more daylight hours for exploring, the better. The summer months also make certain parts of the country accessible that might not be in the winter, including the 34-mile Laugavegurinn hiking trail in the Central Highlands. The mountain huts and campsites along the trail are only open between late June and early September, giving you a small time window to experience the hot springs, black lava fields, and multicolored mountains along the path.

If the term “mountain hut” makes you cringe a little, fear not: Iceland has some luxury stays that might be more up your alley. The Reykjavik Edition opened in the nation’s capital a couple of years ago, featuring custom furniture, local treats in the minibars, and incredible city and harbor views. Making a splash further off the grid is Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll , a remote property with tons of accommodation options (hotel rooms, A-frame huts, campsites) and summer activities ranging from guided hikes to hot spring soaks.

Ernest Hemingway lived in Key West for the entirety of the 1930s, and the tiny island has been honoring him ever since—most notably with the Hemingway Days celebration held every July (this year’s dates are July 16-21). This annual event is piling on extra festivities this year, which marks the author’s 125th birthday anniversary. You can expect prose and poetry readings, a three-day marlin fishing tournament, and special museum exhibits, as well as the festival’s showstopping Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Because what’s better than one Ernest Hemingway? Answer: 140 Ernest Hemingways.

Even if your trip doesn’t overlap with the exact Hemingway Days dates, you can still glimpse a piece of the author’s life at the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Take guided tours of the house where For Whom the Bell Tolls was penned, then stroll through the surrounding gardens and try to spot the famous six-toe cats who roam the property. In terms of accommodations, you have many excellent hotels to choose from (our readers love The Marker )—or opt for something a little cheekier and book a room at the adults-only, clothing-optional Island House Key West Resort .

June–August marks the dry winter season in Botswana , which many consider to be the perfect time to visit. Not only are weather conditions at their best (no rain, lower risk of malaria), but these months offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities as animals tend to stick around watering holes. The country also happens to be one of our favorite safari spots in Africa. While you’re sure to spot wildlife in Kenya’s Maasai Mara or in South Africa’s Kruger, you’ll also be in the company of a couple dozen other jeeps filled with tourists; in Botswana, it feels like it’s only you and nature.

This year is a particularly exciting time to visit, because you’ll get the chance to be one of the earliest guests at North Island Okavango . This intimate micro-camp (and 2024 Hot List winner) occupies its own floating patch of land in the Okavango Delta, which means you have 24/7 lagoon views of hippos, elephants, and other wildlife. Suites with wraparound decks and walkways leading directly out onto the water let you get even closer to the action.

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Does Arizona have any beaches? Here are 14 of the best sandy spots for summer fun

Arizona has just about everything.

We’re a desert state for sure but we’re also rangy with mountains, some so high they’re crowned by alpine tundra. We’re covered with forests, including the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. We’ve got rolling hills, grassy plains and colorful badlands. And the state is slashed by canyons — even a famous one or two.

Of course, it’s true we don’t have an ocean. But just because we lack that ultimate body of water doesn’t mean we’re short of beaches. Arizona contains scenic and surprising beachfront property. That’s always an enticing getaway with summer approaching.

So grab a towel, a sand pail and sunscreen, and hit the road for Arizona's best beaches. 

You can swim here too: Everything you can do at Arizona's newest state park, Rockin' River Ranch

Lake Powell

With hundreds of miles of shoreline, Lake Powell harbors countless remote beaches amid a colorful labyrinth of canyons. There are even a few beaches that don’t require a boat.

Wahweap Beach sits just south of the Stateline launch ramp. Services at Wahweap Marina include lodging, restaurants, campgrounds and boat rentals. Guided boat tours of the lake have been discontinued during the pandemic.

Details:  A Glen Canyon National Recreation Area pass is required; $30 per vehicle, good for seven days: nps.gov/glca . Wahweap Marina: 888-896-3829, lakepowell.com . 

The Chains is a day-use beach in Page that can be accessed from U.S. 89 just east of the bridge over Glen Canyon Dam. A dirt road leads to a parking area that sits above the lake, so some scrambling is required. The beach is mostly sandstone. Of course, how accessible it is depends on the water level in the lake.

Details:  Free. 928-608-6200, nps.gov/glca .

Patagonia Lake State Park

Tucked away amid the rolling hills of southern Arizona, Patagonia Lake State Park is a shimmering oasis in the high desert. And since water is scarce around these parts, the 265-acre reservoir draws summer visitors from all across southern Arizona and northern Mexico looking to cool off.

There’s a roped-off swim area at Boulder Beach, a modest plot of sand. But swimming is allowed in any part of the lake except boat launch areas. Boating, water skiing and fishing are also popular activities. To avoid overcrowding, the park may experience temporary day-use closures.

Details:  400 Patagonia Lake Road, south of Patagonia. $15 per vehicle Mondays-Fridays, $20 per vehicle Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. 520-287-6965, azstateparks.com/patagonia-lake .

Buckskin Mountain State Park

Four state parks cling to the edge of the Colorado River between Parker and Lake Havasu City, accessed from State Route 95. Buckskin Mountain straddles a picturesque section of river, a beautiful combination of stony mountains and sparkling water.

A slender beach fringes most of the shoreline and swimming is permitted. But as is the case at virtually all Arizona beaches, no lifeguard is on duty. Swim at your own risk and keep a vigilant eye on children. Overnighters can enjoy a shady campground, cabana sites and hiking trails.

Details: 5476 SR 95, Parker. $10 per vehicle. 928-667-3231, azstateparks.com/buckskin .

River Island State Park

Nearby River Island State Park nestles in a sloping bowl at the base of stark mountains that rise from the riverbank. An intimate beach sits next to the boat ramp and just beyond the campground with a grassy lawn that’s perfect for tents. Sprawling mesquite trees offer a dollop of shade at the edge of the beach. The short but scenic Wedge Hill Trail climbs the rocky slopes above for staggering views. 

Details: 5200 SR 95, Parker. $10 per vehicle. 928-667-3386, azstateparks.com/river-island .

Cattail Cove State Park

Hugging the southern edge of Lake Havasu, Cattail Cove State Park protects a long piece of scenic shoreline. Swimming is allowed in the roped-off area adjacent to the beach. There are also some small, secluded beaches for those willing to take a short hike downstream and even a dog beach just south of the boat ramp. Other trails ramble across gaunt desert hills. The campground includes RV and tent sites as well as boat-in sites.

Details:  15 miles south of Lake Havasu City on SR 95. $10 per vehicle Mondays-Thursdays, $15 per vehicle Fridays-Sundays and holidays. 928-855-1223, azstateparks.com/cattail-cove .

Lake Havasu State Park

At nearly 11,000 acres, Lake Havasu is by far the largest of western Arizona's parks . And right in the heart of Lake Havasu City, just upstream from London Bridge, it’s also the busiest.

Windsor Beach, a long stretch of white sand, is the main attraction. There’s a day use picnic area at the beach. The park has campsites for RVs and tents as well as air-conditioned rental cabins. Boat and jet ski rentals are available from the park concessionaire, Wet Monkey Powersport Rentals (928-855-2022, wetmonkeyrentals.com ). To avoid overcrowding, the park may implement occasional day-use closures.

Details: 699 London Bridge Road, Lake Havasu City. $15 per vehicle Mondays-Thursdays, $20 per vehicle Fridays-Sundays and holidays. 928-855-2784, azstateparks.com/lake-havasu .

Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City also has free public beaches . Rotary Beach is a 40-acre park with picnic areas, barbecue grills, multiple play areas, a skate park and designated swim area. Its location inside the 5 mph no-wake zone of Thompson Bay makes for calm waters.

London Bridge Beach may be Arizona’s most oceanlike beach with its swaying palm trees and seagull wings flashing white in the sun. It’s on Bridgewater Channel, a spit of sand fronting the water with a view of the famous bridge.

But it also spreads out along the edge of the sparkling lake and includes playgrounds, picnic areas, a walking path, a grassy park with big shade trees, volleyball courts and an enclosed dog park. A wide swath of sand surrounds the palms and a designated swim area. With small waves lapping the shore and gulls crying overhead, it’s easy to forget you never left the state.

Details:  golakehavasu.com .

Yuma has done an amazing job cleaning up and revamping its waterfront in an effort to reconnect to the Colorado River. Gateway Park was part of that development.

Sitting at the end of Madison Avenue, the park has picnic ramadas, a grassy area, playground, fishing piers and a sandy beach with a gradual entry into the water. Located under the Ocean to Ocean Bridge, the span provides a swath of welcome shade.

Just downriver from Gateway, the West Wetlands features two popular beaches. Centennial Beach was established in 2014 with sand dredged from the Colorado River. Playa Linda opened in 2018. What once was the city dump is now a sandy expanse with an accessible ramp, seating wall and grassy area.

Trails lead along the river through heavy woods and a canopy of cooling shade. Above the beaches are a small lake, picnic ramadas and restrooms. Yuma River Tubing offers one-hour float trips between the East and West Wetlands for $15. 928-750-0247, yumarivertubing.com .

Details:   yumaaz.gov/parks-and-recreation .

Roper Lake State Park

Popular with anglers, Roper Lake State Park also has 5 miles of trails, cabins, a campground and a picnic area. Sitting just south of Safford, visitors enjoy views of mighty Mount Graham while fishing the 30-acre lake for largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie and bluegill. There’s a small swimming beach. Sadly, the natural stone hot tub bubbling with mineral spring water has been permanently closed.

Details: 101 E. Roper Lake Road, Safford. $10 per vehicle. 928-428-6760, azstateparks.com/roper-lake .

Meet Roger Naylor

You have two chances to meet Roger Naylor, author and longtime Arizona Republic contributor, on Saturday, June 8.

First, he'll give a presentation on his book "Arizona’s Scenic Roads and Hikes" at 10 a.m. at the Chandler Downtown Library. This is a great opportunity to plan your summer getaways. Also on hand will be the owner of d’Vine Gourmet to discuss local foods and offer yummy samples. The event is free.

Details: 22 Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800,  chandlerlibrary.org .

Later Saturday, Naylor will be at the White Mountain Nature Center in Pinetop-Lakeside at 6 p.m. to give a presentation on his book "Awesome Arizona: 200 Amazing Facts About the Grand Canyon State."

Details: 425 N. Woodland Road, Pinetop-Lakeside. Free for members; $10 donation requested for nonmembers. 928-358-3069,  www.wmnature.org .

Find the reporter at www.rogernaylor.com . Or follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RogerNaylorinAZ or Twitter @AZRogerNaylor.