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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!

Bruges, Belgium

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 !

Ghent

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 !

Durbuy

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.

Antwerp

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!

Ypres

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

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.

Leuven

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

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 .

Mons

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.

Spa

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.

Namur

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.

Liege

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

Ardennes, Belgium

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!

Ostend

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

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

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10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Last updated on February 5, 2024 by Touropia Editors - Leave a Comment

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]

Mons

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]

Dinant

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]

Leuven

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]

Tournai

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]

Mechelen

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]

Ardennes

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

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]

Ghent

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]

Brussels

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]

#1 of Best Places To Visit In Belgium

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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Belgium Map

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Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled

To 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…

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Dinant

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.

Brugge Bridge

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

Brussels - Belgium's elegant capital

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! 

Ghent - one the most beautiful towns in Belgium

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 - an elegant Belgium town

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

Eifel Nature Park - one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium

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!

Durbuy Belgium

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

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

The Sonian Forest - pretty places in Belgium

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! 

Torgny - widely known as the most beautiful village in Belgium

With more than a whiff of Provence, this idyllic little village is often cited as being 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 own 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 but I suggest kicking back, relaxing, and taking in the rolling hills, the honey-coloured houses, the abundance of flowers, the local restaurants’ gastronomy, and walks and bike rides in the countryside, as well as a visit to the Abbey of the Trappist Cistercian monks of Orval! 

11. Wallonia

The Wallonia region - beautiful countryside in Belgium

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 Belgium

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

Hoge Kempen National Park - a magnificent expanse of 5,000 hectares of forest and heathland

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

De Haan - pretty parts of Belgium

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

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

Vallee du Ninglinspo - a romantic and pristine river valley

Dubbed “The Most Beautiful Walk in Adrennes,” Vallee du Ninglinspo is one of the biggest outdoor attractions in the country. 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 - a picturesque medieval town

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

Gaasbeek Castle Belgium

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

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

19. Oud-Rekem

The prettiest village in Belgium

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 - a pretty and historically important Belgium town

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

 Indrani Lodge Belgium

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

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 “To 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!!

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Must-Visit Attractions in Belgium

The Grand Place and market square surrounded by guild halls in Brussels, Belgium.

Nestled between Germany and France , the small country of Belgium has every reason to be confident in its cultural offerings. From Medieval fairytale settings to vast nature reserves and eerie ghost towns, here are the best places to visit in Belgium.

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The Atomium

Building, Memorial, Historical Landmark

best places to visit in belgium

Nine giant steel balls connected with thin tubes: it’s what Belgium and its capital Brussels call one of their ultimate symbols, the Atomium . The remarkable architectural structure was designed to look like an elementary iron crystal blown up to 165 billion times its size. The crown jewel to Brussels’ 1958 World’s Fair, the gravity-defying Atomium has remained a defining part of the city’s skyline. The sculpture now sits on the Heysel Plateau in Laeken, a suburb in northwestern Brussels, where the expo took place.

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Napoleon’s Waterloo

Memorial The hundreds of re-enactors who come together annually to remember Napoleon’s defeat by the United Kingdom, Prussia, Hanover, the Netherlands, Nassau and Brunswick on the fields near Waterloo in 1815 are proof that the battle lives on in the collective imagination. Besides the yearly spectacle, the Lion’s Mound – a man-made hill with a statue of a lion at the top, about 20km (12mi) south of Brussels – and several of other memorials recall the coalition’s victory over the French general more than two centuries ago.

Brussels’ Grand Place

Building, Memorial

The Grand Palace is a late-17th century landmark located in the capital’s central square, which is considered one of Europe’s finest

Tell an extravagant architect to come up with a prosperous, late Medieval market square, and chances are you’ll get something like Brussels’s Grand Place . The plaza, hidden from view and accessible through one of six spindly cobbled alleys, is guaranteed to overwhelm with dozens of baroque guild houses, the ornate King’s House, now the city museum, and the 15th-century City Hall. All contribute to the remarkably homogeneous look of Europe’s best-preserved Medieval plaza.

Victor Horta’s Major Townhouses

Museum, Architectural Landmark

Hotel Solvay is one of the finest examples of architect Victor Horta’s work in Brussels

Often exalted as the father of the art nouveau movement, Victor Horta has left Brussels dotted with innovative townhouses that changed the face of late 19th-century architecture in the West. If you’re short on time and have to choose between his four Unesco-labelled townhouses, the Horta Museum honours the artist in his former home and workshop, the Maison & Atelier Horta in the Brussels suburb of Saint-Gilles, while Unesco describes the Hotel Solvay in central Brussels as “the most ambitious and spectacular” of his work in the art nouveau period.

St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

Cathedral, Church The most stolen piece of art in the world resides in Ghent’s Saint Bavo’s Cathedral , its rightful home ever since Jan van Eyck and lesser-known brother Hubert created it in 1432. More commonly referred to as the Ghent Altarpiece , the 12-panel polyptych has survived a tumultuous eight centuries. Seen as the first great painting that kick-started the Renaissance, the work was taken by Napoleon’s troops, commandeered by the Nazis, recovered from salt mines by the “monuments men” and at one point sold by a duplicitous priest.

Flanders Fields

Museum For the better part of World War I, allied troops found themselves buried in a gruesome trench-war stalemate in the fields surrounding Ypres , in the Flemish part of Belgium. Memorials dot the countryside and city, and the nearly destroyed Cloth Hall is now the In Flanders Fields Museum, named after the poem by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae.

The Basilica of the Holy Blood

Church, Building, Memorial Squeezed into a corner on the generally pale, cream-coloured Burg Square in Bruges’ historic core, the darker-hued, romanesque Basilica of the Holy Blood, built in the 12th century, stands out like a sore thumb. Of course, the extraordinary chapel contains an extraordinary relic; a vial believed to contain the blood of Jesus, which is brought out for worship every day.

The Bruges Belfry

The Belfry of Bruges at night

If you’re deciding what to see in Belgium, or more specifically its most picturesque city, then climbing the Bruges Belfry ’s 366 steps is an excellent way to start – survey the cobweb of Medieval streets in this Venice of the North and decide which buildings you want to see up close. The belfry itself was used for spotting fires or other threats to the city, after it was built in the market square in 1240. The tower itself caught fire 40 years later and although the belfry was successfully rebuilt, the city archives were destroyed.

The Hallerbos or blue forest

Forest Spring forests overflowing with bluebells are not just a feature of the a British countryside. They exist all over Europe, and Belgium’s Hallerbos, which lies mainly in the Flemish Brabant region, puts on a particularly lovely display. Timing is everything on this one. The purple carpet of flowers can appear anytime between the start of April and the end of May, and only sticks around for a couple of weeks.

The Beaufort Project’s permanent pieces

Architectural Landmark

Rock Strangers by artist Arne Quinze at the seaside resort of Ostend (Oostende) in West Flanders, Belgium.

Since the Beaufort Project started, more and more strange-looking sculptures have popped up in Belgium’s coastal towns. From Arne Quinze’s giant, indented orange titans ( Rock Strangers ) in Ostend, to Jan Fabre’s self-portrait that has him riding a massive bronze turtle ( Searching for Utopia ) in Nieuwpoort, the exceptional pieces that earned a permanent spot at the end of the public art triennial make the country’s seaside a more exciting place to explore.

The Grand Curtius Museum

Museum It might not be on many people’s lists of what to do in Belgium, but history and anthropology buffs will find their own piece of heaven in Liège’s Grand Curtius Museum . Archaeological objects are preserved and displayed in great numbers, telling the tale of humanity and our evolution through the ages. Thanks to the merging of several other museums into the Grand Curtius, including those specialising in arms and decorative arts, it tells this story from several perspectives.

The charming town of Durbuy

Panoramic landscape of Durbuy, Belgium, renowned as the smallest city in the world.

Tiny Durbuy, a cheery storybook town on the banks of the Ourthe River in the forested Ardennes region, is one of the cutest places to visit in Belgium. This “smallest city in the world” with a population of around 11,300, is an ideal base for long hikes or kayaking trips. The artisan jam factory and quirky topiary park can’t help but up the quirky factor considerably.

The High Fens

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark In a natural no-man’s-land straddling the Belgian-German border, the High Fens nature reserve, with its mysterious moors and rare wildlife, makes for a hiker’s dream. Be on the lookout for wild boar, the hen harrier bird, and the protected black grouse. The fens are closed during droughts, when there is a high risk of fire.

The Rubens House

The artist Rubens’ house in Antwerp (Antwerpen), Belgium.

That Peter Paul Rubens was a man of many talents is evident when entering his home and workshop in Antwerp. The Italian-style home now offers glimpses of the painter’s art and that of his contemporaries, as well as objects he would have used in his life, including a silver ewer and basin.

Antwerp’s MAS and neighbourhood Het Eilandje

Museum Out of Antwerp’s tight relationship with the sea – the Belgian capital of cool is also Europe’s second largest port – the impressive MAS museum , one of the most imposing of Belgium landmarks, was born. And the MAS, in turn, took care of the rebirth of the old dock neighbourhood Het Eilandje . To get a panoramic view of one of Antwerp’s hippest neighbourhoods, climb the museum’s freely accessible “horizontal boulevard”.

The Plantin-Moretus Museum

Museum, Library

Plantin Moretus Museum

Precious 16th-century dictionaries that creak upon opening, some of the world’s oldest printing presses and the copper plates that revolutionised printing technology are among the wonders you’ll find at the Plantin-Moretus Museum . The museum is at the former Plantin Press, and this is where the first atlas and the multi-language Plantin Polyglot Bible was printed.

The Carnaval de Binche

Amusement Park In the small Walloon town of Binche, clown-like figures known as “Gilles”, which are meant to ward off evil spirits, have been celebrating Mardi Gras by parading around town in ostrich plume hats and pelting oranges at the crowd (don’t throw them back – they’re considered good luck) for as long as memory serves.

The ghost town of Doel

Architectural Landmark An accidental ghost town in the shadows of a nuclear power plant – and therefore a graffiti haven – the village of Doel in East Flanders was long ago slated for demolition to expand the harbour of Antwerp, but protests have stopped this happening so far, and the town is in limbo. It has become an unofficial urban canvas for Belgian and international street artists in which to go hog-wild. Fittingly, seeing as Doel looks like it’s right out of a post-apocalyptic film, there is a dwindling population of rebel inhabitants who refuse to leave.

The abandoned IM cooling tower

Building Talking about urban explorers’ pilgrimages, the abandoned IM power plant of Charleroi is one for the books. Entering its sky-high cooling tower, which was built in 1921, and looking up from its moss-covered bowels is enough to send shivers down the spine. Security guards are often on-site to prevent explorers from entering the aging construction, though, as safety can’t be guaranteed.

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  • 32 Places To Visit In Belgium That Make The Country Irresistible

23 Mar 2023

Belgium is all about a harmonious fusion of old world charm and modern culture and trends. From vintage castles, mansions, museums, and churches to modern architecture, shopping arcades and amusements; this European gem is the home of many spectacular places for all types of vacationers. And if you are planning a trip to this mesmeric country, here’s a complete list of places to visit in Belgium . You may get spoiled by choices while going through the list, so it is recommended to pick the places as per the time in hand, vacation itinerary, and the like. Promising to add a zest of fun and excitement to your journey, these places in Belgium will surely make it a memorable affair while you’re in the beautiful country of Belgium.

Places To Visit In Belgium For Best Experience

Wondering which are the best places to visit in Belgium? Check out our list of famous places that you should visit while you are exploring Belgium. Keep scrolling down and read along! Don’t forget to include the places you like in your itinerary for a truly cherishable trip to Belgium.

  • Brussels : Nightlife And Shopping
  • Bruges : Palaces And Canals
  • Ghent : Art And Serenity
  • Antwerp : The Food Capital
  • Ardennes : Hills, Forests, And Adventures
  • Tournai : World’s Most Beautiful Cathedrals
  • Dinant : Caves And Wildlife
  • Leuven : Best Belgian Breweries
  • Mons : Peace And Relaxation
  • Mechelen : Cruises And Picnics
  • De Haan : Picturesque Beaches
  • Durbuy : Blooming Rhododendrons And Poppies
  • Arlon : A Battle-Scarred History
  • Beguinage : A Lost World Made By Women
  • Genk : Parks And Nature Reserves
  • High Fens : Rare Flora And Faunas
  • Hoge Kempen National Park : Lakes And Pine Woods
  • Knokke-Heist : Unmatched Scenic Beauty
  • Kortrijk : A Shopper’s Paradise
  • La Roche-en-Ardenne : Famous Museums & Animal Parks
  • Liege : Hep Nightlife Scenes
  • Malmedy : Hiking And Biking Trails
  • Zwin : A Birdwatcher’s Heaven
  • Ostend : Beaches And Gothic Architecture
  • Rochefort : World Famous Cafes
  • Namur : Medieval Forts And Rivers
  • Spa : Birthplace Of Thermal Springs
  • Bastogne : Home Of The Wood Of Peace
  • Hasselt : A Classic Destination
  • Ypres : For War Memorials
  • Charleroi : Observe Rich Art
  • Meuse Valley : A Lush Place

1. Brussels: Nightlife And Shopping

The iconic capital city

Image Source

Being the capital city and one of the largest hubs of great museums, palaces, chapels and mansions, Brussels is one of the most popular places to visit in Belgium. This is also the administrative capital of the European Union and pulls tourists from different parts of the world. Famous for world-class cafes, pubs, restaurants and shopping arcades – Brussels offers a plethora of options to make your European holiday enchanting and exciting. There are various Brussels sightseeing options in Belgium, for all kinds of travelers that won’t disappoint!

Tourist Attractions: Grand Palace, Atomium, Mini Europe, Mannekin Pis and Tintin Museum Where To Stay: Hotel Amigo, NH Brussels Grand Place Arenberg, Radisson Blu Royal, Floris Ustel Midi

Must Read: 10 Things To Do In Belgium That Are Fun

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2. Bruges: Palaces And Canals

Where time has stood still

One of the most stunning tourist attractions in Belgium is Bruges- a picturesque medieval town, gifted with historic buildings and canals. The gorgeous palaces, chapels, and mansions of Bruges reflect the history of Vikings while the network of canals, flowing through the city has helped Bruges to earn the title of ‘Venice of the North’. Explore this quaint town in bicycles, enjoy boating in the canal or indulge with Belgian hot chocolate at any of the quaint cafes of the main market square.

Tourist Attractions: Grote Market Square, Belfry Tower, and Gruuthuse Mansion Where To Stay: Hotel Aragon, Floris Hotel, and Golden Tulip Hotel de’ Medici

3. Ghent: Art And Serenity

Ghent: A picture perfect medieval town is one of the most unique places to visit in Belgium.

Another one among the famous places in Belgium is Ghent – a quaint and serene town, endowed with historical sites, medieval structures, and churches of Belgium . Famous for housing the Alter Piece; Ghent is a favorite destination for art lovers and history buffs, but the quietude and charm of the place attract travelers of all kinds. This surreal blend of history and laid back vibes make this town one of the most unique places to visit in Belgium.

Tourist Attractions: St Bavo’s Cathedral with Alter Piece located inside, Gravensteen, Belfry of Ghent and Saint Nicholas Church Where To Stay: Ghent Marriott, Golden Tulip Hotel de’ Medici and Hotel Gravensteen

Suggested Read: Belgium Nightlife

4. Antwerp: The Food Capital

A buzzing hub of art enthusiasts

A true Belgian delight; Antwerp is all about culture, art, and traditions. On one hand, it showcases vintage architectural wonders and palaces but on the other, there are some modern and trendy art galleries and museums. Known for great food and beer, this place is the diamond district of Belgium as more than 70% of the world’s uncut diamonds are traded here. It is one of the best places to visit in Belgium in 2 days .

Tourist Attractions: Plantin Moretus Museum, Rubenshuis, Museum aan de Stroom and Antwerp Zoo. Where To Stay: Leonardo Hotel, Ibis Hotel and TRYP by Wyndham

5. Ardennes: Hills, Forests, And Adventures

Heaven for adventure lovers

Ardennes is a hilly destination and one of the most favorite places in Belgium, among adventure enthusiasts. Ideal for trekking, camping, and biking, Ardennes boasts of thick forests, cliffs, caves and is known for Belgium wildlife and wild animals like lynx, deer, and wild boar. If adventure is what you are seeking on your trip to Belgium, you won’t be disappointed after your visit to Ardennes. It is one of the best places to visit in Belgium in one day.

Tourist Attractions: Castle of Bouillon, Han-sur-Lesse and Labyrinth of Barvaux Where To Stay: Azur en, Hotel Eden and Hotel des

Suggested Read: Castles In Belgium

6. Tournai: World’s Most Beautiful Cathedrals

Tournai is a picturesque destination and tops the list of places to visit in Belgium.

Located at the Belgium-France border, this buzzing city houses one of the most beautiful cathedrals of the world. This is a hub of art and sculptures and allures art lovers and history buffs throughout the year. As one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium, Tournai has some great museums and art galleries and the town Belfry is the oldest in the country. If you are looking for interesting things to see in Belgium then do head to this place.

Tourist Attractions: The Belfry of Tournai, Folklore Museum, Musee d’Histoire Naturelle et Vivarium and Notre Dame Cathedral in Tournai Where To Stay: Hotel Cathedral, D’ Alcantara and Floreal le Panoramique

7. Dinant: Caves And Wildlife

The cave city

Situated by the banks of Meuse River in the Namur province of Belgium, Dinant is another tourist delight and one of the finest places to see in Belgium. Home to famous natural caves, caverns of Europe such as Caves of Han and the Grotto of Dinant, as well as the best national parks in Belgium , Dinant has a rich wildlife reserve with exotic biodiversity. Located 65 km from Brussels, Dinant is one of the must-visit Brussels sightseeing spot.

Tourist Attractions: Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, La Citadelle, Charles-de-Gaulle Bridge, Adolphe Sax Statue and Parc de Furfooz Where To Stay: La Panama, Hotel Ibis and Castel-de-pont-a-Lesse

Suggested Read:  15 Festivals In Belgium

8. Leuven: Best Belgian Breweries

bis Leuven Heverlee

Flaunting of best Belgian breweries, Leuven is another name in the list of best places to see in Belgium. This picturesque place is famous for happening marketplaces, street side pubs, cafes and churches, and galleries, like any other Belgian city, but being home to world’s oldest Catholic university, Leuven always buzzes with a student population from different parts of the world. Here, you will also find one of the best hotels in Belgium .

Tourist Attractions: Town Hall, Botanical Garden Kruidtuin, University Library & Bell Tower and Saint Peter’s Church. Where To Stay: Pentahotel, Park Inn by Radisson and Hotel Ibis

9. Mons: Peace And Relaxation

Hear the melodies of Belfry bells

The list of best places to see in Belgium also features Mons. A large cobblestone square, Grand Palace, and age-old town hall await every tourist at Mons- the picturesque capital of Hainaut province of Belgium. But what attracts and fascinates every traveler here is the sweet tunes of town’s magnificent Belfry bells, perched at the top of 270 feet tower. This is one of the best Belgium tourist places.

Tourist Attractions: Collegiate Church of Sainte-Waudru, Jacques Du Broeucq alabaster statues and Van Gogh House Where To Stay: Congress Hotel Mons Van der valk, Hotel Dream and Hotel Lido

Suggested Read: 10 Best Belgium Beach Resorts

10. Mechelen: Cruises And Picnics

Mechelen: A vibrant town is one of the best places to visit in Belgium.

Located close to Antwerp is Mechelen – another lively and picturesque place in Belgium. Mechelen is unique in many ways. Famous for boat tours and brewery tours; one can climb the massive tower of St. Rombout Cathedral to enjoy the breath-taking view of the Antwerp port or visit the world-famous Carillion School, which is famous for lessons on the complex instrument of bells. It will be really unfair if we don’t mention Mechelen while talking about the best places to visit in Belgium.

Tourist Attractions: Brouwerij Het Anker, St. Rumbold’s Cathedral and Provincial Groendomein Vrijbroekpark Where To Stay: Hotel Hobbit, Best Western, and NH Mechelen

11. De Haan: Picturesque Beaches

De Haan seaside village is regarded as one of the most romantic places to visit in Belgium

Image Source Located in northern Belgium, De Haan is a picturesque village situated on the shores. It is most popular for its 11-kilometer-long beach which is lined with great restaurants, chic cafes, exciting bars, and some of the best homestays in Belgium . But it’s fine white sand and amazing nightlife aren’t all that it boasts. Couples also love to roam around in the streets of Concessie, which is another enjoyable part of this seaside town and makes it one of the most romantic places to visit in Belgium.

The stunning Belle Époque buildings and the grand town hall are something you must not miss out on when you’re here. When here, one can also try hiking and biking on the enormous sand dunes or visit the exciting amusement parks.

Tourist Attractions: Belle Époque, Villa Savoyarde, Spioenkop, La Potinière, Astridpark, De Grote Schamele Weecke, and more Where To Stay: Hotel Astel, Hotel Rubens, B&B Yaca, Villa Verde, and more.

Suggested Read: 15 Offbeat Destinations In Europe

12. Durbuy: Blooming Rhododendrons And Poppies

Durbuy village in Belgium

Image Source Are you still looking for Belgium tourist places? Tucked away deep inside a serene valley bordered by lush woods, Durbuy always manages to enchant its visitors with its old world charm and its rustic cobblestone lanes and cottages draped in various kinds of flowers like rhododendron, ivy vines, and poppy blooms. The streets and lanes all appear to be laid out across the town in the form of a spider web, making it one of the best places in Belgium for photographers and artists.

The locals are super friendly and might just treat you to a hearty mug of chilled beer once you set foot into the hamlet. Though the town is an ideal place to lay low if you wish to get away from urbanization, don’t be fooled by its laid back and rural vibes. You’re sure to find a number of fine-dining restaurants and craft boutiques here to keep you busy.

Tourist Attractions: Rue des Récollets, Amblève, Topiary Park, Cave Comblain, and more Where To Stay: Azur En Ardenne, Hotel des Comtes, La Lisiere, Hotel Victoria, and more

13. Arlon: A Battle-Scarred History

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

Another popular Belgium tourist attractions is Arlon. Arlon is densely populated. It is close to the borders of Luxembourg and France. It is on the crossroads of multiple invaders. There were Celtic, Roman, and Gaullish settlements in the area, and all the fascinating traces of the rich past can be found in Arlon. The Archaeological Museum of Arlon is one of the best places to go in Belgium with your family and friends. This is amoungst the most popular Belgium tourist attractions.

Tourist Attractions: St Donatus’ Church Where To Stay: La ferme d’a Yaaz, Van Der Valk Luxembourg Arlon

Suggested Read: Safaris In Belgium

14. Beguinage: A Lost World Made By Women

Estonian Design House

In the thirteenth century, women who wanted to dedicate their entire lives to God without completely withdrawing from the world founded the Beguinages, which were communities created to meet their physical and spiritual needs. They were called the Beguines. This is the history of Beguinage. There are 13 Flemish Beguinages. They are surrounded by ditches and walls.

Tourist Attractions: Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaerde Where To Stay:  Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie, 9 Hotel Central, The Dominican

15. Genk: Parks And Nature Reserves

Enjoy boating at Genk, one of the best places to visit in Belgium for picnic spots.

Genk is one of the best places to visit in Belgium in 2 days. The city is located in the Belgian province of Limburg near Hasselt boasting great garden-city design, marshland nature reserves, quiet park and more. You can learn about coal mining in Genk by visiting one of the old coal mines such as André Dumont or take a hike or a bike ride through beautiful Hoge Kempen National Park while in the city. You can also explore the distinctive outdoor museum of sundials at the Genk Sundial Park, which provides one of a kind experience to its visitors.

Tourist Attractions: Bokrijk, an open-air museum, Hoge Kempen National Park, old coalmines of Andre Dumont Where To Stay: Carbon hotel, Hotel Ecu and Green hotel

Suggested Read: 10 Places For Shopping In Brussels

16. High Fens (Eifel Nature Park): Rare Flora And Fauna

Eifel Nature Park

High Fens – Eifel Nature Park also called North Eifel Nature Park is truly a heaven for nature lovers. The beautiful landscape is home to rare species of flora and fauna, deep valleys, forested mountain sides. If you are lucky, you can spot the very rare violet copper butterfly, starling-sized dipper which is easily recognisable by its white breast and its liking for swimming and diving. This is the best amongst Belgium tourist attractions .

Tourist Attractions: Rare species of flora and fauna, rolling mountains, picturesque villages. Where To Stay: Hôtel des Bains & Wellness, Hostel Malmedy – Youth Hostel and Au Chat’rme des Blanches Pierres

17. Hoge Kempen National Park: Lakes And Pine Woods

Hoge Kempen National Park

Another stunning Belgium tourist places is Hoge Kempen National Park, which is the first National Park in Belgium located between Genk and the Meuse River Valley. Spread over 5,000 acres, the park consists of big lakes, large pine woods and purple flowering heathland. The highest spot in the park offers a mesmerizing view. The park is home to many rare and special animals such as roe deer, the slippery snake, the swallowtail butterfly and the European beewolf living in the natural habitat.

Tourist Attractions: Information kiosks, Cafeterias, Hiking and mountain biking Where To Stay: Arte Hotel, Hotel Atlantis and Hashotel

Suggested Read: 10 Beaches In Belgium

18. Knokke-Heist: Unmatched Scenic Beauty

people on beach

Knokke-Heist is one of the best places to visit in Belgium in one day. It is a small Belgian coastal town located on the edge of the famous Zwin Nature Park. The place attracts tourists from all across the world as the place boasts of its scenic beauty and rich history. It’s known for the surrounding mudflats and gorgeous sandy beach. The most commonly seen birds are oystercatchers and storks. It is also known for The For Freedom Museum which describes the history of the area during the Second World War.

Tourist Attractions: For Freedom Museum, The Zwin, Zwin Nature Park and Knokke Casino Where To Stay: Hotel Adagio, Villa Verdi, Manoir du Dragon and Hotel Binnenhof

19. Kortrijk: A Shopper’s Paradise

kortrijk

Kortrijk is a beautiful city in Flanders, the northern part of Belgium. The city has a wonderful historic center with several market squares, churches, colourful shopping areas and also a creative area. There are these towers called the Broeltowers which are the icons of Kortrijk and make up some of the top places to visit in Belgium. You can visit many restaurants, lunchrooms and coffee places to try some amazing dishes. Also, they have really good vegetarian options.

Tourist Attractions: Broel Towers, Lys and béguinage of Courtrai Where To Stay: Hotel Messeyne, Parkhotel, Bootel Ahoi

Suggested Read: Belgium In June

20. La Roche-en-Ardenne: Famous Museums And Animal Parks

la_roche

Located about 70 kilometers from Liege on the banks of the River Ourthe, La Roche-en-Ardenne is an attractive little town offering you with a variety of things to do and Belgium attractions. Make sure to visit the WWII Museum, Ardenne Ham Museum and the Pottery too to learn about the region’s tradition and history. You can find red deer, wild boar, pheasants, wild sheep, wolves, and many farm animals in the famous animal park on the Deister plateau.

Tourist Attractions: Ourthe, Lake Nisramont, Parc Chlorophylle, WWi Museum Where To Stay: Hotel Beau Rivage, Domaine de I’Alu and Hotel Les Arcades

21. Liege: Hep Nightlife Scenes

liege

Liege is the third largest city in Belgium with vibrant nightlife, lip-smacking food, and drink. The place is known for top class museums and churches as well as art galleries that makes Liege one of the must-visit places for architecture and art lovers in Belgium. Take a long walk through the Coteaux de la Citadelle or enjoy a picnic at the beautifully maintained Parc de la Boverie. To add more charm to your visit to this city, make sure to plan your trip to Liege during festival time. Your one trip during the many different festivals celebrated throughout the year, will tempt you back every now and then.

Tourist Attractions: Montagne de Bueren, Curtius Museum, Parc de la Boverie and St. Paul’s Cathedral in Liege Where To Stay: Hotel Neuvice, Amosa, Smartflats and Crowne Plaza Liège

Suggested Read: 12 Indian Restaurants In Belgium

22. Malmedy: Hiking And Biking Trails

malmedy belgium

Malmedy, a small town in the Belgian province of Liege offers many key attractions for its visitors. The Baugnez 44 Historical Centre attributes the history of Malmedy during the Second World War. Another historical place, Malmundarium covers the history and culture of the area. All around Malmedy you have got opportunities for hiking and biking trails that will offer spectacular views of the area as you walk past the flowering fields.

Tourist Attractions: Baugnez 44 Historical Centre, Malmundarium and hiking around the city Where To Stay: La Ferme du Pere Eugene, Hotel La Forge, Terrasses de Malmedy 2 and L’Horizon Chambres, Studios & Apparts

23. Zwin: A Birdwatcher’s Heaven

The Zwin Nature Reserve

Zwin is an enchanting nature reserve on the border between Belgium and the Netherlands. It was established in 1952 with its bigger part in Belgium(158 hectares) and a smaller portion in Netherlands.(33 hectares) The reserve is famous for its varied diversity of salt-resistant plants, including a huge number of bird species. It is truly a haven for bird watchers. The reserve has a small zoo as well that houses a number of captivating domestic birds.

Tourist Attractions: Zwin nature park, Zoo Where To Stay: Hotel St. Pol, Strandhotel Cadzand and Ibis Budget Knokke

Suggested Read: Belgium Travel–Cockpit Of Europe

24. Ostend: Beaches And Gothic Architecture

Ostend beach

One of the largest cities on the Belgian coast, Ostend has gained popularity because of its port’s strategic location. It is one of Belgium’s favourite tourist destinations famous for its gorgeous sandy beaches, Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum and more. The best way to know the city well is by walking through the narrow streets around Het Visschersplein while enjoying the local produce at the local markets. Don’t forget to notice the magnificent architecture of the Gothic Church of St Petrus and St Paulus.

Tourist Attractions: Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum, Gothic Church of St Petrus and Fort Napolean Where To Stay: Hotel Botteltje, Hotel Monarc and Otia Bij Nacht

25. Rochefort: World Famous Cafes

rochefort bel

Rochefort is a mesmerizing city in the Belgian province which is famous for its many shops and cafes, top class churches. There is a lesser-known gem of a cave system in the city. It is an easy to explore city with almost everything on the main street. known variously as Rue de Behogne, Place Roi Albert 1er and Rue Jacquet. Along the way you will walk past a number of cafes where you can taste Rochefort’s famous Trappist beer.

Tourist Attractions: Domain of the caves of Han, Lessee and Veves castle Where To Stay: Hotel Le Limbourg, La Fayette hotel and Hotel La Malle Poste

Suggested Read: Gorgeous Places To Visit In Europe In January

26. Namur: Medieval Forts And Rivers

Namur is one of the top-most places to visit in Belgium during winter season.

Image Source Sandwiched at the confluence of the two serene rivers of Meuse and Sambre, Namur is famous for its high rise citadel that sits overlooking the city and gives it its fame. Namus is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Belgium owing to this medieval fortress as well as the warm smiles of its people you will be greeted with here everyday. While this citadel was once Europe’s mightiest fortress, it now lies sombre and still, but is still capable of drawing in tourists from far and wide courtesy its oozing charm and overwhelming outlook.

It’s beauty is even compared to that of the many world famous castles in Bruges . Adorned with splendid gardens, offering breathtaking views of the rivers and the city beyond, and bearing a dashing bronze statue of an enormous turtle, this citadel is one of its kind in all of Europe.

Tourist Attractions: Rue de Fer, Hôtel de Gaiffier d’Hestroy, Museum of Ancient Art, Cathedral of Saint Aubain, Diocesan Museum, St. Loup Church Where To Stay: Ibis Namur Centre, Hotel Beauregard, Hotel Les Tanneurs de Namur, Château de Namur

27. Spa: Birthplace Of Thermal Springs

Unwind at spa session, one of the best places to visit in Belgium with your loved ones.

Image Source Tucked in a serene valley in the Ardennes mountains, Spa is a beautiful town in Belgium that is popular for its mineral springs as well as the fact that the word “spa” actually comes from here. Other than being the birthplace of spa, it is one of the best attractions in Belgium also because of the annual Belgian Grand Prix that is held right in the village next door – Francorchamps. It’s also the origin of the famous mineral water brand Spa that is exported all across the world from here.

Tourist Attractions: Musée de la Ville d’Eaux, Church of Notre Dame, St. Remacle Church, Thermes de Spa Where To Stay: Radisson Blu Palace Hotel Spa, Radisson Blu Balmoral Hotel, Manoir de Lébioles, Villa Des Fleurs

Suggested Read: 5 Great Things To Do In Europe In December

28. Bastogne: Home Of The Wood Of Peace

Bastogne belgium

Image Source This tiny yet charming town in Belgium is located very close to the Luxembourg border and is a great spot for patriots and history lovers. It is the very place where many American soldiers had died one of the biggest battles of WWII’s – the “Battle of the Bulge”. There are many unique memorials across the city that have been established to honour the fallen soldiers and their contribution in shaping this country to make it what it is today.

You must also visit the Wood of Peace dedicated to those American veterans, Belgian combatants, soldiers, and even civilians who had laid down their lives for Ardennes. A dense forest of over 4,000 trees planted to commemorate the 50th anniversary of that historic battle, this Wood of Peace is one of the best places to visit in Belgium courtesy of its unique design. The trees are laid out in the image of the UNICEF emblem that can only be seen from above.

Tourist Attractions: Grand Place, Sherman Tank, Mardasson Memorial, Wood of Peace Where To Stay: L’ Ardenne Buissonière, Hotel Leo Station, Hotel Melba, Merceny Motel

29. Hasselt: A Classic Destination

Hasselt: A Classic Destination and a town with canal, is one of places to visit in Belgium with your partner.

A flemish city and municipality, Hasselt is a classic destination known for housing the best villas in Belgium . The town is composed of several small communes like Spalbeek, Wimmertingen, Kuringen, and Stokrooie, and the hamlets of Kiewit and Rapertingen. You can also take a boat ride at the Demer river and Albert Canal, which runs through the town. Perhaps, this destination is one of the must see places in Belgium.

Tourist Attractions: Bokrijk, Japanese Garden, Plopsa Indoor Hasselt, Herkenrode Abbey Where To Stay: Villa Saporis, Grandes Villas de France, Radisson Blu Hotel

Suggested Read: 5 Things To Do In Europe In May

30. Ypres: For War Memorials

A War Cemetery is one of the most popular places to visit in Belgium

A major town located in the western Flanders region, Ypres is one of the must visit places in Belgium. The town represents the losses of World War 1 through the battlefields around, war museums and memorials. Many important buildings were destroyed during the war but the Belgians have managed to re-constuct a few including the famous St. Martin’s Cathedral. It is one of the topmost places to visit in Belgium in Winter . You can also  enjoy multiple shopping destinations such as the Grote Markt.

Tourist Attractions: Cloth Hall, Bellewaerde, Menin Gate, Tyne Cot Where To Stay: Hotel Novotel Ieper Centrum Flanders Fields, Albion Hotel Ypres, Chez Paul

31. Charleroi: Observe Rich Art

Witness the scenic beauty of Charleroi, one of the most popular places to visit in Belgium

If you are wondering about where to visit in Belgium that’s offbeat as well as modern, then the answer to your question is Charleroi, an art-centric modern city in Hainaut. You can explore an overload of art in the city including the City Hall, depicting Belgian folk songs, St. Christopher’s Church signifying the old times of Mosaic, the Museum of Fine Arts showcasing the ultimate painting collection. In short, there are plenty of art places to explore. Once you are done with the art, you can actually taste the best of Belgian food at the restaurants and cafes – another form of cultural exploration.

Tourist Attractions: River Sambre, Bois du Cazier, Musée de la photographie à Charleroi, Aulne Abbey Where To Stay: Hotel ibis Charleroi Centre Gare, Auberge de Jeunesse de Charleroi, Class’Eco Charleroi

Suggested Read: 8 Spots For Scuba Diving In Europe

32. Meuse Valley: A Lush Place

Flowers and Lake in a Valley is one of the best places to visit in Belgium

A valley in a European country means the very best of mother nature. Located in the southern part of Belgium, you can get the true feel of a lush countryside. Take a boating trip across the river, admire the beautiful scenery and visit the beautiful towns surrounded by dense forests. This is one of the most famous romantic places to visit in Belgium, located between the towns of Dinant and Namur. You can find the best places and opportunity for hiking, cycling and trekking in Belgium . 

Tourist Attractions: Argonne massif, Lorraine Regional Nature Park, Verdun historical sites Where To Stay: Le Château De Conde En Barrois, Chez John et Thomas, La Chambre d’Amis

Further Read: DO NOT Leave For Europe Without Packing These 8 Things

Belgium is the dream of many travelers and if you ever get to live it, make sure you see at least some of these incredible places to visit in Belgium that make the entire nation proud. Don’t think much and book your trip to Belgium right away! And if you know of any more places to explore in this beautiful country, let us know in the comments section below.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Belgium

What is the best city to visit in Belgium?

All the cities in Belgium are awesome and have something unique to offer to travelers. From Brussels, Bruges, Ghent to Antwerp, every city in Belgium is worth visiting.

What are the things to do in Belgium?

There is a range of fun and exciting things to do in Belgium, like eating fries and waffles and drink copious amounts of beer. You must go for sightseeing tours in Belgium to catch the true vibe of the place.

What can you see in Belgium in 3 days?

There’s a lot you can do in Belgium on a 3 days trip. From touring the many cities like Brussels and Antwerp to engaging in the many popular activities like tasting craft beer and chocolates, visiting the museums and castles, cycling around the cities, hiking and trekking, and much more.

How many days do you need in Belgium?

A duration of 4 nights and 5 days is ideal for exploring the best of Belgium. However, the place is full of surprises and you won't regret staying even for a week in Belgium.

How long do you need in Brussels?

A duration of 2 days is enough for exploring places to visit in Belgium Brussels.

Where should I go for a weekend in Belgium?

If you’re in Belgium, you can spend a weekend in Antwerp, Ghent, Hasselt, and Ypres.

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Best things to do in Belgium

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

  • roughguides.com
  • best-things-to-do-in-belgium

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 2.02.2023

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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 .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Belgium, created by local experts

The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

8 days  / from 2808 USD

The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

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

Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

9 days  / from 3024 USD

Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

Explore the path of the World War II Liberation Route 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.

Taste of Three - Belgium, France and Switzerland

10 days  / from 5616 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 .

beer-belgium-shutterstock_624298955

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-shutterstock_416301760

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-river-semois-wallonia-ardennes-belgium-shutterstock_302955749

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Ghent

saint-bavons-cathedral-ghent-belgium-shutterstock_1134031376

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

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Brussels

brussels-grand-place-shutterstock_660874609

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.

The Rough Guides to Belgium and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Pocket Rough Guide Bruges

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

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Antwerp

cathedral-antwerp-belgium-shutterstock_316088360

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.

carnival-binche-belgium-shutterstock_557779867

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-belgium-shutterstock_159661769

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-belgium-shutterstock_567638365

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-brussels-shutterstock_186798551

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

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

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.

 West view of the Magritte Museum from the Rue Montagne de la cour © Shutterstock

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 chocolate, pralines © Shutterstock

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.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © Sira Anamwong/Shutterstock

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Destinations | EUROPE

23 most beautiful places in belgium to visit this year.

4 Jan 2022 | Belgium , Destinations , Europe

Wondering which are the most beautiful places in Belgium for your next visit? Let me help you! I grew up in the east of Belgium, in a small village in Limburg. I then moved to Antwerp, and I’ve now been working and living here for more than 10 years. I feel completely at home here. 

People often ask me if I would ever move out of Belgium, as I love to travel and spend so much time abroad. But Belgium feels like a real home to me, and I love the security and comfort I have here. It’s a mesmerising country, though often underrated – which is exactly why I’m going to take you to the most beautiful places in Belgium to add to your bucket list.

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

23 Most beautiful places in Belgium

Belgium is a small country, so it’s super easy to travel through. Travelling from the north to the south takes no longer than 3 hours by car. Along the way, you’re spoiled with stunning architecture and astonishing scenery. 

Brussels is the capital of Belgium, and from here you can explore more of the country by day trips or on extended road journeys, enjoying stops along the way. 

The cities of Bruges, Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent are without doubt the top cities to visit in Belgium, so definitely add them to your to-do list. You can also opt for a day by the sea, or immerse yourself in our gorgeous natural scenery on bike or foot. Belgium has something to offer everyone and besides the fickle weather, it’s a beautiful country that will charm you instantly.

Belgium is associated with beer, chocolate and football (and of course, everybody knows us for holding the record as the country who’s gone longest without a government). 

Some people tend to make fun of our tiny spot on the world map. But fortunately, Belgium is so much more than just the place where you can eat the best fries and chocolate in the world. If you love modern world history, there is no better place like Belgium to visit many tourist attractions such as Mini Europe, Flanders Fields museum and other World War II sites.

Most beautiful places Belgium

Preparing for your trip to Belgium Travel Inspiration

Public transport in belgium travel guide: getting to the country.

Brussels Airport is one of the most important hubs in Europe, so it’s easily accessible from all corners of the globe. We also have airports in Deurne (Antwerp), Charleroi and Ostend.

When traveling from North America, I recommend flying to Brussels and then connecting to the rest of the country by road (renting a car), or using public transport. 

We have an extensive train network, with direct trains (including high-speed trains) from Brussels to Paris, London and Amsterdam (among others). 

When you’re in Belgium, you can reach all cities by train . Although I have to be honest, our public transport is quite expensive and does not always run punctually.

You can also easily move around Belgium by car. There are good highways that help you move around the country quickly, but just beware of our rush hours. Driving around the major cities between 7:00 – 9:00 am and 4:00 – 6:00 pm guarantees you’ll stumble into a couple of traffic jams.

Belgium overall is a safe country, and you can travel solo, or as a group, without any issues. 

As a European Union member, Euros is our official currency, and we have three official languages. They are Dutch, French, and German. But English is spoken and you shouldn’t have issues in popular cities. However, I do recommend learning a few phrases in Ducth and French – depending on the region you are planning to visit! It will be handy to communicate with the locals or staff in small towns. 

In terms of visa, US passport holders can travel to Belgium visa-free, and stay here for upto 90 days. 

Where to stay in Belgium? Here is my guide to the best places to stay in Belgium

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

23 Most beautiful places in Belgium to add to your bucket list

Here’s a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium

From the fashion capital Antwerp to hiking around Le Tombeau de Géant or visiting historic castles, there’s never a dull moment in our underrated European gem. Keep reading to find out more about the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium.

DISCOVER THE LOMMELSE SAHARA IN BEAUTIFUL LIMBURG

Yep, you read that right – sand dunes in Belgium.

My favorite spot in Belgium is without a doubt the Lommel Sahara. This is where I grew up, and I still love to visit this beautiful park in the north east time and time again. 

You can enjoy a pleasant hike, indulge in a picnic with friends by the water, or just relax and do nothing in the tranquility. It’s one of the most beautiful natural areas in our country, and I highly recommend it to everyone! 

You can even grab yourself a free hammock on-the-go when you register at the info desk.

Address: De Souverein, Sport Veldstraat 10, 3920 Lommel. The park has a huge parking lot where you can leave your car.

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

GO FOR A BIKE RIDE IN THE BEAUTIFUL REGION OF MAASEIK  

Did you know that Maaseik is part of a cycle path network of over 2,000 kilometers – most of which are completely car-free and pedestrian-only? 

The unique road system, the convenient cycling map (for sale at Maaseik Tourism) and the handy number plates at each junction help you find your way without a hitch – even if you spontaneously divert from your intended course. You can find more info about Maaseik here.

Hotel tip : For an overnight experience in nature, you should stay at Warredal , Maaseik. Sleep under the stars in a treehouse in the middle of the forest!

Location: Maaseik is 1.50 hours by car, or 2.50 hours by train from Brussels 

Two days of nature and adventure in Maaseik

read next |  EXPLORE MAASEIK – TWO DAYS OF NATURE AND ADVENTURE

Visit the helixagon in linter.

Helixagon comes from ‘Helix’ and ‘Hexagon’, two figures that occur frequently in nature. The artwork from Frederik Vaes is a playful ode to nature and the bee. A tilted and twisted hexagonal viewing tube on the beautiful landscape.  

Address: Rodestraat 3350, 3350 Linter (about 50 minutes by car from Brussels or 1.25 hours by train).

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

READING BETWEEN THE LINES CHURCH, BORGLOON

Want to see something truly unique during your trip? The architect duo Gijs Van Vaerenbergh built a breathtaking transparent church in Borgloon. The beautiful landscape is visible through the church, both from a distance and up close. The unique church appears both present and absent from the landscape at the same time.

The construction weighs no less than 30 tons. It’s 10 meters high, and consists of 100 stacked layers of steel plates in the shape of a Loons church. Visit it during sunset to witness the colourful setting sun shining through the church!

Hotel tip: Stay at Hoeve Roosbeek. You can find more details here . 

Address : Grootloonstraat 2, 3840 Borgloon. 

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

VLOOYBERG TOWER (VLOOYBERGTOREN) IN FLANDERS

This floating staircase is made of stainless Corten steel, with a colour that reflects the iron sandstone heritage of this part of Belgium. The Vlooyberg Tower is over 20m long and 11m high. It was built in 2013. 

It serves as a lookout point, and it’s located at one of the highest locations of the Hageland (around 80m).

Address: Oudepastoriestraat 22, 3390 Tielt-Winge (Travel to Tielt-Winge from Brussels in 45 minutes by car, or by train in 1.25 hours). 

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

HORST CASTLE (KASTEEL VAN HORST) IN HOLSBEEK 

This water castle can be found in the green valley of the Wingebeek, nestled between the hills of the Hageland. The castle, with its large pond and moat, is home to the famous Belgian cartoon character De Rode Ridder by Willy Vandersteen. 

A beautiful parkland extends around the castle, owned by the Agency for Nature and Forests.  

Address : Horststraat 28, 3220 Holsbeek (Travel to Horst Castle by car in 45 minutes, and by train in 1.25 hours from Brussels).  

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

CYCLE THROUGH THE BLOSSOMS IN HASPENGOUW

Haspengouw guarantees stunning sights all year round, but April is by far the best month to explore this region. Make sure you’ve got your camera handy – all the trees are in bloom at this time of year, so you’re guaranteed a wonderful one-of-a-kind floral display! 

The trees only bloom on average around 10 days per year and it’s difficult to predict exactly when this will happen, so do some research before visiting to avoid disappointment. 

Hotel tip : Stay at B&B Maison Mairie Hasselt . You can find more details here .

Address : An hour away by train, or drive from Brussels.

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

STROLL THROUGH THE INNER STREETS OF GHENT

When it comes to the best cities to visit in Belgium, Ghent is a super fancy city for both architecture and shopping. You’ll find plenty of boutique shops in a gorgeous authentic setting. 

Be sure to sit and enjoy a drink or a snack taking in the beautiful view over the water, or take a boat trip through the city center.

When in Ghent, you must try their local sweet, the cuberdon! A cuberdon is a traditional cone-shaped Belgian piece of candy from the East Flanders Region. It’s hard on the outside but gelatinous on the inside – and it has a really short shelf life. Because of this, it’s only available in Belgium, making it a delicious exclusive treat.

Address : 45 minutes by car from Brussels or less than 40 minutes by train.

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

GRAVENSTEEN GHENT

A visit to the mystical castle ‘Het Gravensteen’ absolutely cannot be missed on your to-do list of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium. 

This important sight in Ghent is a castle with a very turbulent history, closely intertwined with the complex political and social history of the city. It’s the only remaining medieval moated castle with an (almost) intact defense system in Flanders. Your visit to the Gravensteen will give you a complete picture of knight culture in the 12th century in Belgium.

Address: Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Ghent  

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

VISIT THE CENTRAL STATION IN ANTWERP

Antwerp is definitely one of the best cities to visit in Belgium – but did you know we have the most beautiful train station in the whole of Europe ? Whether you actually need to take a train or not, you definitely need to check out this amazing station when visiting Belgium. 

If you want to snap some Insta pics in the station, make sure to be there around 6:00 am – the station becomes extremely crowded in the early mornings!

Hotel tip : De Gulde Schoen, you can find more info and details here .

Address: Koningin Astridplein 27, 2018 Antwerp. 45 minutes by car from Brussels or less than 40 minutes by train.

Antwerp Travel Guide

TOMORROWLAND FESTIVAL (BOOM)

Many visitors worldwide flock to Antwerp every year for this world-famous festival. Is it really worth the trip? 

The short answer is yes! It’s simply a phenomenal festival that will blow you away. Not just because of the music, but also through all breath-taking details like the podium constructions, mystical signalizations, unique lighting concepts and much more. 

Tomorrowland is truly a fairytale. The festival takes place each year in July, with different types of tickets going on sale far in advance.

Address: De Schorre in Boom. 30 minutes from Brussels by car, or 1.25 hours by train. 

ON A TROLL HUNT IN BOOM

Missed out on your chance to grab a ticket for the festival? No worries – the De Schorre domain is a beautiful slice of nature in Belgium. It’s also a great day out with children. 

You can do a pleasant walk here in search of trolls that are hidden deep in the forest. There’s also a barefoot path that the kids will love – I highly recommend a visit!

Address: Schommelei 1, 2850 Boom. 30 minutes from Brussels by car, or 1.25 hours by train. 

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

ASTONISHING LITTLE ALLEY IN BELGIUM 

Discover the most beautiful alley in the country: De Vlaykensgang in Antwerp. The alley used to be home to shoemakers who had to sound the cathedral’s bell, and the poorest people in the city used to live here. 

It’s now filled with antique shops, galleries and even an exclusive restaurant, Sir Anthony Van Dyck. 

The alley dates back to the year 1591 and connects the Hoogstraat, the Oude Koornmarkt and the Pelgrimstraat. When you step through the gate at Oude Koornmarkt 16, you imagine yourself in another time. You can find a more detailed blog post about Antwerp here .

Address : Vlaaikensgang 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium. 45 minutes by car from Brussels or less than 40 minutes by train.

Antwerp travel guide

read next |  ANTWERP TRAVEL GUIDE

Gallery saint- hubert brussels.

If you are spending a weekend in Brussels , you need to visit the Gallery Saint Hubert. Initiated by the architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer, the spectacular Galeries Royales project took shape in the 1830s. 

The works began in 1846 and were (almost) completed in time for the official opening on 20 June 1847. The gallery includes several shops, auditoriums, cafes, restaurants and apartments. 

Right away, it became the place to be seen for the fashionable. Instantly the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert drew a wide audience attracted by the many luxury brands, elegant cafes and cultural hotspots. 

Address: Galerie du Roi 5, 1000 Brussels. 

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

GRAND PLACE BRUSSELS

Brussels is without a doubt one of the top cities to visit when in Belgium. Stroll around the Grote Markt, enjoy the famous landmarks and most spectacular historically-preserved architecture in our country! 

You’ll also find plenty of nice souvenir shops, and the finest chocolate from the world’s most famous chocolatiers. Brussels City Hall is also located at the complex, and its museum is worth a visit.

Hotel tip : Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Place Rouppe .

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

LA HULPE CASTLE IN LA HULPE

La Hulpe Castle is located in the heart of a vast domain classified as an exceptional Walloon heritage. This castle is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium. It was once owned by Count Solvay and the architecture is based on the French castles. 

It is a beautiful area to enjoy a pleasant walk, they even welcome dogs in the park!

Address: Chaussée de Bruxelles 111, 1310 La Hulpe. ( 30 minutes by car and train from  Brussels).

La Hulpe most beautiful places to visit in Belgium

VISIT THE WALZIN CASTLE IN DINANT

Walzin Castle is located in Dréhance, which is a part of the greater area of Dinant, in the province of Namur. This neo-gothic castle stands on a steep rock above the right bank of the Lesse, where the river flows over into the Maas. It’s a beautiful castle, definitely worth a visit from afar. 

Though as it is a private domain, unfortunately it’s not possible to visit the castle itself. Despite this, the castle is still one of the most beautiful places in Belgium to visit.

Address: Rue de Walzin 1, 5500 Dinant. ( 1.25 hours by car from Brussels or 2 hours by train).

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

WANDER THROUGH THE BEAUTIFUL CITY OF DINANT

Dinant is without a doubt one of Belgium’s most hidden gems. Historically speaking, its location on the water and along multiple trade routes supported the economic development of this charming town. 

Dinant is located in the French-speaking municipality of Namur, and is known for its colorful scenery. What makes the city so picturesque is the lovely Meuse river that flows through it. 

It also has a perfect blend of culture, adventure and nature. I have to admit I only discovered Dinant recently! 

Because of coronavirus, I was unable to travel abroad – so I was ‘forced’ to explore my own country a bit more. It was a real pleasure to tick this city off my Belgium bucket list.

Address: Located 1.25 hours by car from Brussels or 2 hours by train.

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

PARK FURFOOZ NEAR DINANT

A place for both young and old to enjoy! The park of Furfooz near Dinant invites you to enjoy its archaeological, natural and geological heritage. You can discover it to the fullest during a pleasant walk, around 4 kilometers long, along the edge of the river Lesse.

Entrance fee is 5 euros. 

Address: 79 Rue du Camp Romain, 5500 Dinant. ( 1.25 hours by car from Brussels or 2 hours by train).

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

FONDRY DES CHIENS IN VIROINVAL

Close to Nismes lies Fondry des Chiens, a protected and unique place in Belgium (occasionally referred to as the Belgian canyon). Millions of years of reclamation in the limestone have created this huge canyon, which reaches up to 20 meters! In short, a unique piece of nature in Belgium and definitely worth a visit.  

Address:   Located 1.30 hours by car from Brussels or 3.50 hours by train.

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

GO HIKING NEAR LE TOMBEAU DE GÉANT

Belgium’s nature at its finest! Hidden in the most southern point of our country is without a doubt one of the windiest places in Belgium – you will be blown away by its pure beauty! 

This place helps you forget all your worries while enjoying the sweeping panoramic view and a wonderful hike through the Belgian Ardennes .

Address: Moulin du Rivage, 6833 Bouillon. Located less than 2 hours by car from Brussels, or a 4 hour train ride away.

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

ROCHER DU HAT IN CHINY

Without doubt one of the most beautiful sights in Belgium is Rocher Du Hat. Located in the picturesque village of Chiny and hidden deep in the forest, you’ll stumble across the perfect place to get away from all the stress and bustle of our everyday lives with your whole family.  

Address: 6810 Chiny, Belgium (2 hours by car from Brussels or 4 hours by train). 

Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit

DISCOVER MONS

A unique historical gem that reminds us of our important role in industrial history. This city is a model for the respectful conservation of our heritage. It is no coincidence that Mons was proclaimed the European Capital of Culture in 2015. Read all about the sights in Mons here .

Address: An hour by car or train from Brussels. 

Van Gogh House Mons

read next |  HIKING IN BELGIUM – DISCOVER THE BELGIAN ARDENNES

Go to the fairy tale old town centre of brugge .

The fairytale old town of Brugge must not be missed from your Belgium bucket list. Home to the beautiful market square, and one that is filled with historic buildings including a 13th century Belfry tower, Brugge makes for a great visit at any time of year, but it is particularly magical in the winters!

Do make a stop at the Burg square, a 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall), and go on a romantic canal tour to enjoy the city from the waters! 

Address: It takes 1.25 hours by car from Brussels or 1.25 hours by train. 

Most beautiful places in Belgium

HOGE KEMPEN NATIONAL PARK IN MAASMECHELEN

If you are craving some time outdoors, then look no further than the Hoge Kempen National Park. This is the first recognized National Park in the region of Flanders, and is located in the province of Limburg. 

The national park is home to pine forests, with a gorgeous landscape of ponds, and lovely flora covering it all. There are hiking trails of all difficulty levels, and you can also go cycling, horse riding or more! You can also see  rare animals and other fauna that live inside the park in a natural setting.

Located only an hour or so away from the capital city of Belgium, Hoge Kempen National Park is perfect for a weekend trip. You can book overnight accommodation at the park, and relax and rejuvenate soaking in the views of the mountains. 

Read about hiking trails in Flanders here

Address: 3630 Maasmechelen, Belgium (It takes 1.25 hours by car from Brussels). 

Most beautiful places in Belgium

Visiting Belgium

So there you have it. These are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium, and also my personal favourites. Belgium is home, and if you are planning a trip here, I say – do it! You won’t regret it – there is nature, history, and who doesn’t love chocolates? I know I do!

Pin: 23 Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit 

best places to visit in Belgium

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15x The Best Places to Visit in Belgium in 2024

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best places to visit in belgium

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.

This article may contain affiliate links. This means we receive a small commission whenever you book or purchase something through our links (at no extra cost to you!). You can find more information in our disclaimer.

#15 De Panne

What are the best places to visit in belgium.

canals in the beautiful medieval city Bruges

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

view of the city hall on Brussels Grand Place

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

best places to visit in belgium

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.

best places to visit in belgium

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

View on the river Ourthe with Durbuy town on the right and the castle in front

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.

best places to visit in belgium

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)

best places to visit in belgium

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

best places to visit in belgium

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.

best places to visit in belgium

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

best places to visit in belgium

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.

best places to visit in belgium

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

best places to visit in belgium

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!

view of the canal in Damme with the boat Lamme Goedzack

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

best places to visit in belgium

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 .

best places to visit in belgium

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 GUIDE  

🧳 What to pack when visiting Belgium?

Check out our Ultimate Belgium Packing List and FREE Checklist , where you can find all the information you need before leaving for Belgium!

🛤️ What’s the best way to get around in Belgium?  

The best and 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. Of course, public transportation is also a great option, book your train and bus tickets here , to explore every corner in Belgium.

🖺 Do I need travel insurance in Belgium?  

Yes – Starting at US$45 per month, get the assurance and security you need with a policy from  SafetyWing – a renowned provider of travel insurance.

🚰 Is it ok to drink tap water in Belgium?  

Definitely YES! Unless there’s a sign that it’s not drinkable. While it is safe to drink tap water in Belgium, if you prefer the taste of mineral water, you can easily fill up a LifeStraw Bottle with tap water and take it with you wherever you go.

🎫 Where can I book my Belgium accommodations?  

If you are looking online for accommodations, make your bookings for hotels in Belgium using Booking.com .

🔌 Can I use my electrical devices (such as phone chargers) in Belgium?  

The standard voltage and frequency of power outlets in Belgium are 230V and 50 Hz. If you want to use an appliance that runs on less than 230 volts, you should bring a separate voltage converter with you.

✈️ Can I get a direct flight to Belgium?  

YES – Because Belgium is home to two large international airports, Brussels Airport (BRU) and Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL). You can check prices and book your flight with WayAway .

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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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The 12 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

best places to visit in belgium

If you thought Belgium is a boring country with nothing to see, think again! Belgium captivates visitors with the best museums I’ve ever been to, the most beautiful squares that I’ve ever seen, and the best beer that I’ve ever had.  

As far as the best places to see, Belgium has very few natural highlights to speak of, so all but one of the places on this list are man-made destinations. Which isn’t a bad thing if “the man” making them did a great job!

You might also be interested in reading:

  • Belgium Itinerary: 7 Days in the Heart of Europe!
  • Belgium Travel Tips: 19 Things That Will Make Your Trip Easier
  • The Top 15 Museums in Belgium: From Comics to Beer
  • Our 9 Top Restaurants in Belgium
  • 7 Best Day Trips from Brussels (Includes Train Details)  

A map of Belgium showing the best places to see in the country

Most of Belgium’s highlights are in the northern half of the country in the region called Flanders  

Our top tips for the best places in Belgium:  

  • The vast majority of the best places in Belgium are in Flanders, the northern half of Belgium.
  • Don’t underestimate Brussels . The place is packed with museums and tourist sites that you’ll have trouble fitting into even 3 full days.
  • Most other top places, like Ghent and Bruges , can easily be done as a day trip from Brussels .
  • Some popular places require advance bookings: Gravensteen in Brussels is one, the Belfry in Bruges is another.
  • No matter where in Belgium you go, you won’t have trouble communicating in English. We talk about language and a ton more fun facts and observations in our Top Tips for Traveling in Brussels article .  

1. Meuse Valley

Meuse Valley with surrounding hills in Belgium

Does Belgium have any nature worth seeing? Not really. Meuse Valley is an exception  

That one lone ranger is the Valley of the Meuse River. The water cuts deeply into the landscape , creating great scenery along its banks, though most of what you’d actually be stopping to see are, again, man-made places like towns and castles picturesquely built next to or on the limestone cliffs along the river.  

The Meuse flows into southern Belgium from northern France before continuing to the Netherlands and, eventually, the North Sea. The valley used to be an industrial hub, which had an unfortunate consequence in 1930 when a thick, pollutant-filled smog covered the valley for several days, killing dozens of people .  

Nowadays, there’s no more of that, if you turn a blind eye to the deteriorating factories and smokestacks that’ll ruin the otherwise lovely views here and there.  

Take a trip down to the south of Belgium with the ultimate goal being the town of Dinant , who had its own place on this list (see no. 7).  

You can visit the Citadel of Namur , with its underground tunnels, views of Namur and Meuse Valley, and a great museum to boot.  

Driving further south, make a stop at Les Jardins d’Annevoie, the 18 th century gardens filled with waterfalls and fountains. I mean it’s just a garden, and if you don’t like gardens, you’ll find it boring, but nobody is forcing you to visit it, ok?

Aerial view of Celles village in Belgium

One of Belgium’s cutest villages, Celles, is just a stone’s throw away from Meuse River  

In Yvoir , you can take a little ferry to an island on the Meuse.  

Around Dinant, there are many castles . Too many to care about them all, unless you’re visiting from a castle-less country, in which case you’ll be more excited about them than I am.  

Past Dinant, there is the Renaissance Castle of Freÿr , which sits right on the Meuse River bank and has a manicured garden. The best way to see it, though, is probably from the rocks on the opposite side of the river. Any rock climbers out there should take the chance to see the castle from the top of the Rochers de Freyr.  

If you stray from the Meuse and go a bit east, you can wander around one of Belgium’s cutest villages, Celles . Then, take a peek at the Disney-esque Vêves Castle stopping to see what some consider Belgium’s most beautiful limestone rock mass —Aiguilles de Chaleux.  

2. Flanders villages

White houses of De Haan village in Belgium

Small town vibes in De Haan  

Flanders is a region in northern Belgium , the part where they speak Flemish, which is closely related to Dutch, as opposed to the southern region of Wallonia, where French is prevalent.  

The region used to be (and still is!) one of the richest parts of Europe , and because of that, the culture that developed there was very sophisticated. Many artists live or have lived in this part of Belgium.  

The villages that are sprinkled throughout Flanders are particularly enticing, with cute houses and a charming atmosphere. If you’re after some real small-town Belgian life, head over to Oud-Rekem , which was named Most Beautiful Flanders Village .  

But if Oud-Rekem, located all the way on the eastern border, is too far out for you, you can take a trip to a village that is also Belgium’s best beach resort—De Haan . It’s close to Bruges .  

Deurle is undeniably delightful. One look at those white or brick houses, all with wooden window shutters , nestled amongst abundant greenery, and you just want to curl up with a book, drink hot cocoa, and never go back to work. Deurle is just 15 km (9 miles) west from central Ghent .  

3. Bruges and Ghent boat canal tours

views during the canal boat tour in Bruges in Belgium

Views during the boat tour in Bruges. To find out who came out the back door and why it was stupid, read our Bruges guide .  

What do you get when you add a system of canals to a town full of awesome medieval architecture? Mosquitos! Great Instragram photos ! And a lot of bridges, narrow pathways, and just sheer charm.  

But most of all, you get to travel around the town in a little boat , seeing everything from a unique perspective (unless you hail from Venice, Italy…in that case, maybe you won’t be that excited about this item). Somehow not needing to walk makes everyone love a good boat ride.  

We took boat tours in Ghent and Bruges and loved them both, though Ghent won over Bruges in our books. The towns are big, so the tours aren’t long, lasting about 40 minutes and costing €7.50 in Ghent and €12 in Bruges.  

The guide on the boat tells you interesting bits and bobs about the history of the town and the buildings you are slowly passing by. It’s a pleasant outing that doesn’t hurt your wallet or your legs . Win win.  

4. Gravensteen

A tourist at the Gravensteen Castle in Ghent in Belgium

My, my, what a great-looking castle  

The “ Castle of the Counts ” was our favorite place in Ghent . Gravensteen is the only surviving medieval castle in Flanders with a moat and an almost intact defense system . For me as a history geek that was cool to see.  

Not only was the castle meant to protect the city, but it was also supposed to intimidate the town’s own citizens in case they wanted to challenge the count’s authority. Tell me you have a big ego without telling me you have a big ego.  

If you buy a ticket in advance and actually get to go inside (unlike us—no tickets in advance meant we couldn’t go in!) you’ll even get to take the supposedly entertaining audio tour , see some torture equipment, and peek at a hidden mural which is only visible from one of the castle’s towers.  

Read more about Gravensteen and more sites in the city in our Ghent guide.   

  • Gravensteen , Sint-Veerleplein 11, Ghent 
  • Open daily 10 am–6 pm, last entrance at 4:40 pm  
  • Tickets cost €12, buy them in advance or risk not getting in   

Dinant town with colorful houses, church and citadel by the Meuse River in Belgium

Dinant: Too kitsch or just right?  

The undeniable birthplace of the saxophone (you’ll see reminders of the musical instrument everywhere), Dinant is the most popular tourist city in southern Belgium. It’s located on the Meuse River, the same one that we talked about a few items higher on this list.  

So, after you explore the rest of Meuse Valley, put your anchor down in this pretty town and do some sightseeing there.  

At first glance you’ll see the row of colorful houses sitting on the Meuse River bank, protected spiritually by the impressive Notre Dame de Dinant on the side and actually by the Dinant Citadel up from the top of the limestone cliffs that form a dramatic backdrop. Just this view alone is enough to be worth a trip down there.  

You can climb up to the citadel on your own two feet or take a cable car. It is said that the panoramic views of the valley are cherished more by those that take the stairs! Just kidding. But it’s probably true.  

For the best views of Dinant, walk along the Charles de Gaulle Bridge . Just don’t accidently bump into one of the colorful saxophone sculptures while staring into your phone while taking a photo of the Notre Dame.  

As you would expect, the riverside promenade offers a wide selection of restaurants and cafes.  

6. Charleroi

The Boiz du Cazier museum exterior in Charleroi, Belgium

Back to Charleroi’s roots: The former coal mine turned museum @ Boiz du Cazier  

Charleroi is the largest city in Wallonia, aka the French-speaking half of Belgium. If you Google it, you might find that Charleroi was voted the ugliest city in the world . It is also apparently home to some corrupt politicians and has been called the most depressing city in Belgium, too. But don’t flock to Charleroi just yet! Lol.  

What it lacks in beauty, though, it makes up in character. And fantastic museums . And a cool train station. Just ignore the rusty old coal plants right next to the city center.  

Charleroi wasn’t happy about the label it kept getting, so it has seen a major facelift in recent years, making the central part of the city actually pretty nice. If you have your expectations straight.  

You will still notice the stark difference between the shininess of the new and the decaying gloominess of the old. Charleroi has also seen a strange kind of tourism —people coming to see for themselves if it is really as bad as the internet makes it sound.  

For normal people not chasing sensations, Charleroi is home to one of the best photography museums in Europe , the Photography Museum, Contemporary Art Center of the French Community .  

It’s located in a renovated convent building , with a contemporary wing added to the side of it. Even just this contrast of the architecture is worth seeing, though the exhibitions inside (and outside) are a must-see on any art literate tourist’s visit.

Photography Museum exterior in Charleroi, Belgium

Mixing the old with the new @ Photography Museum, Contemporary Art Center of the French Community  

Closer to the city center is the Charleroi South, the city’s main train station . If the sun is out, the renovated historic building even looks pretty!  

Across the river from the train station is where you’ll find “new Charleroi“, the facelifted area with shopping malls and welcoming, clean squares. Some are new, and some, like the Le Passage de la Bourse, adds a welcome touch of history (and a place to hide in case it rains).  

Since mining was what brought Charleroi its riches, and is also the reason why it then became the dump of a city it’s known as, we thought it best to learn about this industrial history.  

Boiz du Cazier is an industrial heritage site—a former coal mine that was the site of terrible mining disaster in 1956—that is now home to two great museums . The Industry Museum focuses on the mining industry and the Glass Museum is all about glassmaking, which used to be famous in the region.  

Charleroi has another claim to fame besides coal and museums—it’s the birthplace of one of the country’s oldest comics magazines : Spirou. First published in 1938, Spirou featured famous characters such as Lucky Luke and The Smurfs. You’ll find comics sculptures and murals all around Charleroi.  

Surely a city full of cute characters can’t be that ugly?!  

The facades of the buildings and a view of the fountain on Grote Markt, Antwerp

I still haven’t figured out the fountain @ Antwerp Grote Markt  

Belgium’s second largest city and the second largest port in Europe is synonymous to diamonds, Rubens, and style . It combines the riches of Brussels with the history of Ghent and Bruges , but with a bit of an artsy edge. And a nightlife. Like a hipster turned CEO of a madly successful startup. That’s Antwerp.  

Antwerp is the world’s diamond trading hub , with 84% or the world’s rough diamonds making their way through. If you are a diamond-loving dude, send your jeweler to Antwerp to get top pick of the uncut rock crop. In 2017, USD 46 billion worth of diamonds was traded in Antwerp. Just think, you could contribute to some of those thousands yourself.  

The Diamond district is located close to the main train station if you’re up for a shopping trip. Plus, the Antwerpen-Centraal station is a sight in itself. Seriously, even if you aren’t traveling by train in Belgium (which you should be!), stop by to look at the magnificent building. It is always on the world’s most beautiful train stations lists.  

What all this diamond talk means is that Antwerp is a rich city , which brings all kind of niceness into the historical mix. You’ll notice the old and the new coming together in Antwerp on every corner.

The interior of the Antwerp train station in Belgium

This is what awaits you @ Antwerpen-Centraal train station  

Take Stadsfeestzaal Shopping Mall , for example. It’s in a restored historical building with arched high ceilings and golden everything.  

When you are tired from draining your bank account, you can take a rest at the Champaign bar . Which probably won’t help with the spending, but it will provide a nice place to recharge. This being Antwerp, it’s not just luxury brand stores, but a nice mix of everything.  

The main square of Antwerp, Grote Markt , is surrounded by intricately decorated historical buildings where gold has been used to a great extent, like the City Hall . It isn’t as fabulous as the main square in Brussels , but it’s still nice. And a great place to people-watch and have a beer or three, all while trying to figure out the statue/fountain in the middle .  

A few steps off of Grote Markt is the Cathedral of Our Lady , a church with a spectacular white interior and Rubens’ works on display. Peculiarly, there’s also a gift shop and a café inside the church. I mean, why not, grab a beer with Jesus and hash out theories about religion. Like if that vial of his blood in Bruges is really real.  

Antwerp is also where famed artist Peter Paul Rubens lived and created, and you can see his work all over the city. Or at his house: Rubens House , which he apparently built himself.  

The incredibly well-preserved home is a museum where you can see not only Rubens’ paintings and sculptures , but also personal items and furniture from Rubens’ time. There is an interior garden to walk through, too. Just beware it gets crowded on weekends and the audio guide could put you to sleep if you aren’t an art aficionado.  

Antwerp is also home to Europe’s second largest port (after Rotterdam). One visit to the port and you’ll wonder if aliens are taking over . Once you realize it’s just the city’s Port House .  

Still want more? See Het Steen castle , and then compare it to the one in Ghent . Learn about Antwerp’s history in the cool MAS museum . Or about the history of the many immigrants that left Europe to the USA by ship through the very building that the Red Star Line Museum is housed in today.  

Our hotel tip for Antwerp

One of the rooms at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp

Zen vibes @ Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp  

In a nutshell, Antwerp is super cool , and you don’t want to miss it! You’d probably be missing out if you only spent the day here, because unlike, say, Bruges, there is fantastic nightlife in Antwerp.  

If you can stay at the 5-star Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp , you’ll be doing yourself a favor. It doesn’t have the word ‘sanctuary’ in its name for nothing! The indoor pool oozes tranquility and there is a gym and a fantastic spa with numerous treatments available. Not only that but is has not one but several Michelin-recognized facilities and chefs on site.  

Prices start at €550 per night for 2 people with breakfast. 

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8. Museums of Brussels

Choco Story exhibits, one of the best museums in Brussels, Belgium

Some of the awesome and probably delicious exhibits at Brussels’ Choco Story Museum  

You could spend three full days in Brussels and just go from one museum to the other and still not see the best of them. Heck, just my personal favorite, the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History , could’ve taken me all day if I wasn’t there with my wife, who was decidedly less enthusiastic about the topic. It. Is. Huge!  

What about cars? Do you like cars? I do… so I loved Autoworld . Karin loved it for 1 hour, I would’ve probably loved it for at least 2. There’s also Train World if you prefer your vehicles on tracks instead of roads.  

I mention repeatedly in my comprehensive article about things to do in Brussels , that the museums in Belgium are by far the best I’ve been to anywhere in the world . The standard is just so high, you can see that a lot of care (and money) goes into making the museums entertaining and educational. Everything is interactive, with most places giving you an iPad or similar device that adds another dimension to your museum-hopping experience.

Some of the cars at Autoworld, one of the best museums in Brussels Belgium

A little bit of car love @ Autoworld  

So even a museum dedicated to something as simple as chocolate, Choco Story Museum , turns into a fascinating trip through history and takes you right into the present with a welcome praline tasting. And you can see a huge chocolate statue of Asterix and Obelix , among others. This was the best chocolate museum I’ve been to anywhere , including chocolate’s native Latin America (we’ve toured Chile , Peru and Mexico so far).  

Speaking of comics, the The Comics Art Museum teaches you a thing or two about Belgium’s pride and joy. Though not the best museum in Brussels, it just feels like you have to go, or else risk making The Smurfs angry and send Tintin on an investigation as to how someone could miss learning about comics in Belgium.  

And how could you visit Brussels, the heart and brain of the EU , and not visit the Parlamentarium —the visitors' center of the European Parliament. It’s free and we loved it.  

For (many) more tips on which museums in Brussels we thought we fantastic, read our Brussels guide . And be prepared to add a day or two to what you thought would be a short city break! Many of the Brussels museums we visited made our top museums in Belgium list . Check that out too.  

A canal in Bruges with typical buildings lining it

Bruges is undoubtedly charming. But we still liked Ghent a little better.  

I’m going to go against the majority and say that Ghent is better that Bruges (see more on Ghent below). But like by a hair. Bruges is lovely, thoroughly Instagram-friendly and romantic , but very touristy. So much so that you’ll be hard pressed to find a local, apart from the ones that are serving you lunch in a restaurant or taking you on a canal boat tour.   

Bruges city center is basically an island encircled by a river, and then cut further into bits by the numerous canals. So, besides walking, you can also take a half-hour boat canal tour . Lovely. But the one in Ghent was better. Again, just slightly.  

If you’re visiting with a special someone, you can try to seal the deal at Lovers’ Bridge, or, you can try to find your special someone at Bonifacius Bridge (read all about the love-related bridges in our Bruges guide ). And if you want to stay the night, the Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce is considered one of Europe’s most romantic hotels and it’s right on the canals! See below for details.

Bruges art museum exteriors and interior of the St. John’s Museum attic

Left: Gruuthusemuseum exterior (that tall tower is not it, it’s the tower of the Church of Our Lady Bruges). Right: the oak ceiling at Sint-Janshospitaal Museum .  

You can explore Bruges’ small center, which includes Market Square (Grote Markt) and Burg Square , along with its fantastic buildings—like the Basilica of the Holy Blood with a “real” bit of Jesus’ blood-stained cloth ( hop on over to Turin to compare it to the man-size Jesus print on another old and revered piece of fabric) or the Bruges City Hall with its impressive Gothic Hall.  

There are several very tall towers that loom over the city, including that of the Church of Our Lady Bruges , which not only has a super tall tower, but it is also home to the only original Michelangelo statue outside of Italy. The UNESCO-acknowledged Belfry is another. Just make sure you get your tickets in advance or you’ll be stuck looking at it only from the outside , just like poor old ticket-less us.

Hops smelling stations and beer tasting at the Bruges Beer Experience in Bruges

Left: Hops smelling stations. Right: Beer tasting stations @ Bruges Beer Experience  

Bruges is also home to some of the best Belgian waffles we’ve come across, Otto Waffle Atelier . You can read about Otto’s and other great Belgian eateries in our Best Restaurants in Belgium article . Actually, if you want to get a better idea about what to eat in general, we have an article about the food of Belgium as well.  

But the two top places that we visited in Bruges were very beer-oriented . The De Halve Maan brewery tour takes you through one of the oldest breweries in Bruges, and the only one that has kept its production within the city center. Check out that underground beer pipeline !  

Last but certainly not least is the Bruges Beer Experience . This is such an educational and fascinating museum! Especially for us beer lovers, it was very interesting to learn about the different types of beer. Belgium truly is beer country and the fact that they even pair beers with dishes just like you’d expect to be done with wine says a lot.  

Get a full rundown on what to do in Bruges in a separate article .  

Our hotel tip for Bruges

The Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce boutique hotel in Bruges, Belgium

This one sits right on the canals of Bruges @ Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce  

The 4-star, waterfront property of Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce is up there in romance vibes with Bonifacius Bridge. The staff at this boutique hotel get infinite accolades in reviews, which is always the thing that can make or break your stay.  

Rooms are decorated with the owner’s art collection and antiques, and they can be on the cozier side (read: small), but at this hotel, it all just feels enchanting. You’ll have breakfast overlooking one of Bruges’ canals and can sit by the fireplace in the dining room with your afternoon tea (read: beer). They have an off-site restaurant not far away. 

Prices start at €170 per night for two people without breakfast.  

10. Atomium and Mini-Europe

The exterior and interior (stairs) of the Atomium in Brussels

The Atomium was one of our favorite things to see in Brussels  

We’ve already told you about the amazing museums in Brussels (actually, we put together a list of the most amazing museums in Belgium! ). Brussels was, for me, the biggest surprise in Belgium. I expected so little. Then I researched it and started to expect quite a lot... and even then it surpassed my expectations!  

A part of that was thanks to the amazing tourist sites like the Atomium and Mini-Europe.  

The Atomium is the giant steel atom that is the symbol of Brussels. It was originally constructed as the main—and temporary—pavilion for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, but is now decidedly permanent. And prominent—the very top orb (one of 8) is 92 m (300 ft) above ground!  

For us, just seeing the Atomium from the outside was probably the most interesting part, but you can go inside as well. The concrete base is a museum and you can go to the individual orbs via escalators and an elevator to visit the viewing platform, gift shop, and a restaurant. All while being flashed at with lasers and lights , feeling like you’re in a futuristic spaceship.

Exploring the miniature architecture at Mini-Europe in Brussels

Karin enjoying some tiny castles on the left and London being outed from the Euon the right  

But out of the two, Mini-Europe takes the cake. We don’t have children, but we are basically big kids ourselves, so we expected to love the miniature versions of some of Europe’s most important landmarks. We weren’t disappointed and spent half a day there and could’ve stayed longer if we had the time.  

All the incredibly expensive structures are so detailed, with about 9000 little people and everything. They even brexit’d the UK! Plus, the Atomium is right next to Mini-Europe in the northern part of Brussels, meaning that you’ll have many photos from itty bitty Europe with a massive atom in the background.  

You can get a combination ticket to both sites that can only be bought in person at one or the other ticket counter. If you want to get your tickets out of the way in advance, just get them online individually.  

My wife in central Ghent by the river, Belgium best places

We “ghent” get enough of Ghent!  

We loved Ghent. It’s not big and you’ll see it all within a day, so it makes a great day trip from Brussels , which is just half an hour away by train .  

The 260k+ city of Ghent is more than twice the size of Bruges, but the central area that is of interest to visitors is very small . It does, however, have canals slicing through it, just like Bruges. If you look at the places on our list of things to see in Ghent , they’re all located within 1 km 2 (0.6 sq. mi). Not sounding so big now, huh?  

The furthest out you’ll go is the STAM, Ghent city museum , which is about 2 km (1.2 miles) from central sites. You’ll learn all about Ghent’s history in this super cool museum with multimedia exhibits. Honestly even if you could care less about the city’s history, it’s worth a wander and a look at the modern glass addition to the historic building, plus the cafe serves good food. Win-win.  

Tourist life in the city center is centered around Graslei , a sort of promenade by the river lined by gorgeous houses and even more gorgeous eateries. So not a particular thing to see here, but it’s the atmosphere that’ll entice you. It reminded us of Copenhagen’s Nyhavn.

Canal with bridge in Ghent, Belgium

Central Ghent = lots to see  

At the southern end of Graslei is the almost mandatory photo op with St. Michael’s Bridge in the background, and from there it’s just a short walk (or scooter ride?) to one of the top sites in Ghent, St. Nicholas‘ Church . Then you can see the Belfry , which actually gives you the best view of St. Nicholas’s Church, and right after that, our personal favorite, St. Bavo’s Cathedral . The interior and art in it are awesome.  

Moving to the north, you’ll hit Ghent’s town hall , which is a beautiful, stately building (see it lit up at night if you can) and then, walking through Grafitti Street , you’re almost at one of Ghent’s most prominent plazas, Vrijdagmarkt .  

Our favorite place in Ghent was the 10th century Gravensteen —a fantastic castle surrounded by a moat. We’ve already mentioned it in more detail further up on this list. Yes, it was so good it deserves its own spot in the country rankings!  

For all of our tips and more places to see in Ghent, read up in our full Ghent guide .  

Our hotel tip for Ghent

Interior of Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel in Ghent, Belgium

Comfy, cool and chic @ Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof  

If you want to stay the night, note that most of the accommodation in Ghent are b&b’s and apartments.  

For an actual hotel, see if you’d like the cozy but fab Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof . It gets you contemporary design, high ceilings and rain showers in the rooms and apparently also very comfortable pillows!  

Besides that, the breakfast is supposed to be amazing and there’s a historic courtyard garden where the onsite restaurant has a terrace. You can wind down in the spa pool or in a sauna or gym.  

Prices start around €250 per night for 2 people including breakfast.  

12. Central Brussels

Grand Place buildings, Brussels, Belgium

Soaking in the architecture on Grand Place  

Our favorite place in Belgium was the I-thought-it-would-be-boring-but-it-so-wasn’t city of Brussels ! Yes, it has some very very good museums and the EU Parliament is sat here, but the best part of Brussels was... Brussels! The city center, to be exact.  

The city’s main square, Grand Place, is overwhelmingly elegant. Everything is golden or at least intricately decorated, but most often golden and intricately decorated. It’s just a pleasure to be there, not just because it’s the country’s wealth blatantly on display . For one reason or another, Brussels’ Grand Place is beautiful. 

The square is flanked by important buildings. There’s the Town Hall , which was built in the 15th century and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has very detailed Gothic decorations on the façade and a tower that commands attention from near and far.   

Or the Brussels City Museum , which is home to the original Manneken Pis statue, one of the more boring icons of Brussels. The museum building itself is at least as interesting as the museum that it contains.  

In the summer, you’ll often be witness to concerts on the Grand Place, and in the winter, things get even more magical with the Christmas market .

The Triumphal Arch in Brussels, Belgium

The Triumphal Arch in Brussels, the top of which you can visit when you have a ticket to the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History . Just wowzers! Details in our Brussels guide .  

Brussels‘ center is wider than just these couple of squares—the Royal Palace and Brussels Park require your visit, especially if you’re there in the short time during the summer each year when it’s open to visitors inside and out.  

Keep on heading east from there and you’ll pass the EU Parliament with its Parlamentarium and then Parc du Cinquantenaire , which is full of a number of museums as well as the wonderful Triumphal Arch .   

We have a huge amount of information on everything that we thought was worth seeing in Brussels in our Brussels guide . Another article you might want to look at is our Brussels itinerary .  

Our hotel tip for Brussels

A room at the Radisson Red in Brussels

The cool and comfortable Radisson Red  

Halfway between the Royal Palace and the Parc de Cinquantenaire is the hotel we stayed at while in Brussels, the Radisson Red . It’s the same hotel we stayed at in Lima, Peru , and we again thought it was really good bang for your buck .  

The Radisson Red concept focuses on bringing people together through art, fashion and music . It’s all very youthful and connected, they even have an app where guests can share photos. There are huge TVs in every room, along with wall art and just art in general all over the hotel, customizable lighting in rooms and numerous social spaces where you can chill and to live DJs playing.  

Prices start at €250 per night for 2 people with breakfast.    

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Hi! I’m Jan. I live in Prague, Czech Republic. I try to experience the best the world has to offer, and I don’t cease to be impressed. But if I’m not, I’m sure going to tell you! You can count on my full honesty and real opinions here. No bullcrap. I own and run several companies, which gives me great (but not unlimited) freedom to roam the world.  

I was first inspired to start this blog by my own experience of researching for upcoming trips—I often struggle with a lack of good information, accuracy, and authenticity of resources. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” don’t even visit the destinations they write about! 

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15 most beautiful cities & towns in Belgium to visit

Dinant Belgium

Belgium might be a small country but let me tell you, it packs a mighty punch for its array of picture postcard cities and towns. Famed for destinations like Bruges and Antwerp, there are so many beautiful cities in Belgium to visit.

I adore this country and I know that there is so much more to be discovered beyond the popular capital city, Brussels.

As you hop from town to another, I know you’ll be treated to the fabulous landscapes of Wallonia and Flanders and, of course, be treated to some of the finest dining in Europe.

Many of the most beautiful cities and towns are so because of their outstanding plethora of history and architecture, often with a UNESCO World Heritage Site thrown in for good measure.

With bucket list item after bucket list item, and within such easy reach of the UK, I’m sure that, like me, you’ll keep popping back for more.

So, without further ado, let me take you on a journey to the best cities and towns in Belgium to visit.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Best cities and towns in Belgium to visit

Best for: Fairytale aesthetic

Nearest airport: Ostend-Bruges 

Where to stay: 

  • Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage
  • Hotel Dukes’ Palace Brugge
  • Boutique Hotel Die Swaene

Top tours to book: 

  • Boat Cruise and Guided Walking Tour
  • Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting
  • City Highlights Bike Tour

Bruges is one of my personal favourite cities in Belgium – if not Europe. It’s a fairy tale destination that charms visitors with its picturesque mediaeval charm.

Justifiably dubbed ‘the Venice of the North’, there’s no doubt that Bruges is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium.

Imagine leisurely boat trips along charming canals, ambles along cobblestone streets (stopping off at a chocolatiers or two) and lifting your camera to snap image after image of captivating architecture. 

Jessie in Markt Square

Some of the most iconic Belgium landmarks are in Bruges, making it one of the best known cities in Belgium.

Unfortunately, that also means it draws throngs of tourists, so I’d recommend planning your trip and excursions wisely, and visiting during the off-peak or shoulder seasons if you can.

I’d suggest taking your time to explore the historic centre of Bruges, with sights such as the Belfry, Church of our Lady (home to Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child) and Quai du Rosaire.

Make sure you sip a beer and enjoy some chips while you’re there – and leave room for a waffle too!

Discover more of the best things to do in Bruges in my guide. I love that Bruges also has an incredible dining scene too, so have a read of my guide to the best Michelin restaurants in Bruges too.

Or check out my favourite luxury hotels in Bruges for an unforgettable stay.

Best for: Medieval meets modern

Nearest airport: Antwerp, Brussels

  • Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof
  • 1898 The Post
  • Comic Art Hotel
  • Private 2-Hour Walking Tour
  • 50-Minute Medieval Centre Guided Boat Trip
  • Guided Urban Bike Tour

Ghent is most definitely one of the top five cities in Belgium in my opinion, primarily in terms of its beauty.

Yes, it’s got a modern twist to it that marks it out from the cities more dominated solely by historical charm, but it’s this blend with heritage that makes it so appealing.

It’s the second most populated city in Belgium and has a lively vibe. Ghent wins out with architectural wonders, and it feels like every corner involves a new ‘wow’ moment.

Ghent

Marvel at the Gothic St Bavo’s Cathedral, wonder at the incredible Gravensteen Castle and of course, climb the steps of the Belfry.

I love that Ghent is a great city to explore by foot too, especially in the centre, because of the centralised pedestrian zone. 

I’d recommend visiting Ghent during the annual music and theatre festival (Gentse Feesten). However, Ghent is perfect for a visit at any time of year, or at Christmas for the market .

A huge draw is the foodie culture, especially if you’re a vegetarian. Remarkably, Ghent has the highest number of vegetarian restaurants per capita globally!

Before you leave, I’d advise stocking up on cuberdons – deliciously scrumptious raspberry sweets.

Find hotels in Ghent for your visit.

3. Brussels

Best for: Political significance

Nearest airport: Brussels

  • Juliana Hotel Brussels
  • Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo
  • Hotel Indigo Brussels
  • City Highlights Walking Tour and Food Tasting
  • Beer Tasting Tour with Seven Beers and Snacks
  • 2.5-Hour Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop

Of course, I couldn’t list some of the most beautiful cities in Belgium without mentioning its capital! Centrally located, Brussels is the beating heart of Belgium and is a feast of delights for visitors.

Bursting with UNESCO World Heritage Sites and famous landmarks, make sure you leave enough time on your visit to pack everything in!

Brussels Belgium

My favourite sights in Brussels include the Grand Palace, the Atomium and the comical bronze statue of a peeing boy, Manneken Pis! Plus, be sure to enjoy some fabulous shopping on Rue Neuve.

Brussels has a catchy atmosphere, with jazz, beer, waffles, shopping and chocolate all vying for attention.

I don’t think it has the quaint charm of other Belgium cities, but it does make a great base for exploring other parts of the country.

Discover my favourite luxury hotels in Brussels for a memorable stay. Can’t decide which city to visit? Read my guide to Brussels or Bruges .

Best for: Adventure enthusiasts

Nearest airport: Liège

  • Hotel Sanglier
  • Gîte Wellness “Le Poirier”
  • La Chambre Rose

Definitely one of the most beautiful towns in Belgium in my opinion, Durbuy charms visitors with its rich history, beautiful landscape and its wending cobblestone streets.

I love that it boasts an impressive castle as well as a mishmash of other sights and monuments. And I think these make it a must-visit city in Belgium.

Durbuy Belgium

You won’t need long to fully experience Durbuy, but I’d definitely recommend exploring the natural Rocher de la Falize – a stunning hiking route that offers wonderful views over the La Warche valley.

Indeed, if you’re an adventure enthusiast like me then you’ll find a lot to do nearby, including rock climbing. Within the city itself, take time to visit the architecturally interesting Halle aux Blés. 

Browse hotels in Durbuy for a quaint place to stay.

Best for: Foodies

Nearest airport: Antwerp

  • Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp
  • Hotel Julien
  • Hotel FRANQ
  • Guided Bike Tour
  • Private 3-Hour Historical Sightseeing Walking Tour
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour

Antwerp sits proudly on the Schelde River and I think you’ll agree is one of the better known cities in Belgium.

Thanks to its world-famous collection, Antwerp is often called the diamond capital of the world, but there’s so much more to see and do here.

Antwerp Belgium City

I love that there’s a real wealth of interesting museums, tranquil and beautiful churches and fascinating historical buildings.

My favourite museums and art galleries include MAS, Plantin-Moretus and Rubenshuis. While little ones will enjoy a trip to Antwerp Zoo.

Peaceful and pensive moments can be found inside the Cathedral of Our Lady and Saint Paul Church. I’d recommend that any culture enthusiasts aim to visit in August during the Cultuurmarkt van Vlaanderen.

Insider travel tip: I’d advise arriving by train to be amazed at the station’s incredible architecture.

Discover hotels in Antwerp for your stay.

Best for: A hidden gem

  • Auberge de Bouvignes
  • Hôtel Castel de Pont-à-Lesse
  • La Merveilleuse by Infiniti Resorts

This tiny gem is bursting with things to see, making Dinant one of the best towns in Belgium.

It’s found in the Walloon Province of Namur, sitting on the Meuse River. Birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, Dinant is rightly proud of its heritage!

Dinant Belgium

When in Dinant, you can’t help but be impressed by the citadel which sits majestically and strategically on a tall cliff towering above the river. I think the Church of Notre Dame de Dinant is also well worth a visit.

Make sure your teeth are up to the challenge of trying the regional delicacy, the Couques de Dinant, a hard biscuit of honey and flour.

Often exquisitely shaped and pressed, you’ll definitely need a coffee to wash it down! If you prefer something savoury, I’d recommend opting for the region’s flamiche.

Find hotels in Dinant .

Best for: A university city

  • Martin’s Klooster Hotel
  • Begijnhof Hotel
  • Park Inn by Radisson Leuven
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Offline Access
  • Escape Tour – Self-Guided Citygame

Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities (founded in 1425), I’m sure you can envisage the character of Leuven that persists to this day.

It’s a vibrant student city retaining its historical personality, and with its university buildings evident across the city, I think it’s well worth exploring.

In keeping with its student roots, Leuven is the birthplace of Stella Artois! Indeed, you can visit the world’s largest brewery here.

Leuven Belgium

Unfortunately, Leuven was badly hit in both World Wars. But it’s still worth visiting the central library dating from 1636 which has been painstakingly restored.

There are a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Leuven, such as St Peter’s Church and the Great Beguinage. I’d also recommend taking time to visit the Gothic Town Hall and Arenberg Castle.

Just a short drive east of Brussels, Leuven is worth tacking on to your Brussels trip if you have time. 

Browse hotels in Leuven .

Best for: Wellbeing

  • La Villa des Fleurs 
  • Hôtel l’Ecrin d’Ô
  • Le 24 Hotel

Spa is famous for exactly what you’d expect: it’s grown as one of the nicest towns in Belgium because of its natural springs.

Spa in Belgium

Visitors have been drawn to Spa for its… spas… since as early as the early 16 th century.  Unsurprisingly, a visit to Spa is characterised by enjoying the springs and accompanying resorts.

I think it’s a wonderfully romantic spot, especially as it’s nestled amongst hills, mountains and splendid forests of the Ardennes.

Spa is a perfect place in Belgium to unwind and relax and I’d recommend the hydrotherapy experience at Thermes de Spa.

If you need livening up a little after all that relaxing, then make sure you visit the Casino de Spa – the world’s oldest casino. 

Discover hotels in Spa .

Best for: Vibrant nightlife

  • Radisson Liege City Centre
  • Van Der Valk Sélys Liège
  • ibis Styles Liege Guillemins

Liège is a dynamic and bustling city and I think it’s often overlooked as one of the best Belgium cities to visit.

However, if you’re after great and dazzling nightlife after dark and rich architecture by day, then I’m sure you’ll love Liège. 

Liege City in Belgium

There are a remarkable number of things to see and do in Liège, so make sure your hangover allows it! My favourite places to visit include the Grand Curtius Museum and La Boverie Museum.

Another reason not to party too hard the night before is that I’m sure you’ll want to tackle the Montagne de Bueren – one of the world’s most insane staircases.

Browse hotels in Liège . 

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10. Mechelen

Best for: Character

  • Martin’s Patershof
  • Van der Valk Hotel Mechelen

If you’re planning a Belgian tour and will be travelling from Antwerp to Brussels, or vice versa, I’d recommend stopping off at Mechelen.

This historic city is a characterful place with some of Belgium’s best known monuments and buildings. 

Mechelen

I’d recommend starting a visit to Mechelen by taking a deep breath and climbing the 514 steps of St Rumbold’s Tower for incredible views of the city. Trust me, it’s well worth the effort and will help you get your bearings before exploring further.

My favourite places to visit include the 13 th century Brusselpoort and the Mechelen Toy Museum. Round off a stop in Mechelen by enjoying a cool glass of Gouden Carolus beer.

Find hotels in Mechelen .

11. Ieper/Ypres

Best for: War history

Nearest airport: Brussels, Antwerp

  • Main Street Hotel
  • Ariane Hotel
  • Albion Hotel
  • From Bruges: Flanders Fields Remembrance Full-Day Trip
  • Ypres: Bellewaerde Theme Park Entrance Ticket

Formerly known by its French name Ypres, Ieper has a fascinating and heart-rending history associated with the First World War.

Sitting in West Flanders, it was a strategic place. Expect to see war memorials to the brave souls who lost their lives here.

Ieper Belgium

The Last Post Ceremony is a respectful and meaningful ceremony worth attending. It’s also possible to go on remembrance hikes as well as visit the Flanders Fields museum.

Beyond World War I history, I’d recommend taking time to visit the Lakhenhalle and Grote Markt, and discover the rich textile heritage.

Discover hotels in Ieper .

12. Nieuwpoort

Best for:   A seaside town

Nearest airport: Ostend-Bruges

  • ibis Styles Nieuwpoort
  • Gastenverblijf De Arend
  • Hotel Cosmopolite

I don’t tend to think of the seaside when I think of Belgium, but don’t overlook the seaside town of Nieuwpoort.

Nieuwpoort Belgium

It’s a stunning spot with a mixture of its lovely coast (and wonderful beach) as well as its historic centre.

If you can draw yourself away from beach days, do make sure you visit the vismijn, marina and staketsel. Or if you’re feeling mildly energetic then I’d recommend hiring a bike and cycling along the Frontzate. 

Find hotels in Nieuwpoort .

Best for: Picturesque old town

Nearest airport: Liège, Brussels

  • NE5T Hotel & Spa
  • Mercure Namur Hotel
  • Château de Namur

The striking capital of Wallonia, Namur has mastered welcoming visitors. It’s a small but stylish city that I have no doubt will charm anyone who explores it.

Perhaps the most famed highlight to visit is the dominating Citadel, around which much of the city’s history centres.

Namur Belgium

From here you can also snap some wonderful shots of the city skyline and Meuse River which wends its way through the city’s heart.

Another place well worth visiting in Namur is St Aubin’s Cathedral. Spend some Euros on Rue de L’Ange and also take a leisurely boat tour.

Browse hotels in Namur .

14. Bouillon

Best for: A majestic castle

Nearest airport: Luxembourg, Brussels

  • Hôtel Restaurant Panorama
  • Hotel de la Poste – Relais de Napoleon III
  • The Great View

Another Wallonian town that I’d recommend visiting is Bouillon. The star of the show is Bouillon Castle which is actually one of the most famous places to visit in the country because of its wealth of history. 

A view over Bouillon, Belgium

Bouillon is a small city, but it’s very picturesque as a result, and you can expect wonderful views and scenes.

Within easy reach of the city you can enjoy wonderful walks in the beautiful countryside. Make sure you take in the view from Le Tombeau du Géant of the Senois River. 

Discover hotels in Bouillon .

Best for: Wine lovers

Nearest airport: Luxembourg

  • Gite des 3 Bouleaux
  • Hotel La Venerie

One of the most beautiful towns in Belgium to visit that I think Brits have rarely heard of is Torgny. It sits right down on the border with France, just west of Luxembourg.

I love that it has its own microclimate making it a picturesque and flowery place to discover.

Torgny Belgium

It’s particularly wonderful to take a walk through Torgny’s pretty streets with its stone buildings brought to life with floral displays. 

Torgny is also a vineyard town and if you’re a wine lover like me, then you can enjoy both the landscape and the tastes. Here you will also find Belgium’s first nature reserve.

Torgny even has its own Michelin-starred restaurant, so it’s a great spot for foodies too.

Find hotels in Torgny .

There are plenty more beautiful towns and cities in Belgium to visit that I couldn’t list here, but hopefully this gives a flavour for the fabulous array of places to visit beyond the expected.

If you can’t fit it all in on one trip, which would be near impossible, it’ll just have to be an excuse to come back again! Let me know any of your personal favourite Belgium towns and cities in the comments!

Looking for more Belgium travel inspiration? Have a read of my Bruges travel guide .

Beautiful Cities in Belgium

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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12 Best Cities to Visit in Belgium

Written by Lura Seavey Updated May 4, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Although all of Belgium's cities are well worth a visit, the top picks are ones that can offer tourists a combination of history, culture, architecture, and things to do.

In Belgium's cities, you will find buildings that have been standing for nearly a thousand years. Through them, witness the passage of time in their various architectural styles, from the medieval stonework of Bruges' Halle to the modern-day geometric form of Antwerp's Museum aan de Stroom.

Grote Markt square in the Belgium city of Bruges

Belgium has dozens of remarkable historic churches to admire, and the squares and parks of Belgium's most beautiful cities are a photographer's dream. If you're looking for a different perspective, take a ride in the canals of Ghent and Bruges, gaze across the sea in Ostend, or admire the vista from atop the Montagne de Bueren in Liège.

These Belgian cities are also known for their excellent museums, especially the art museums, which often feature extensive collections of the Old Flemish Masters. Regional history and folk museums can also be found in many places, giving tourists the opportunity to understand the rich cultural history of Belgium.

Plan your next place to visit with our list of the best cities to visit in Belgium.

3. Brussels

5. liège (luik), 6. leuven (louvain), 7. mons (bergen), 8. namur (namen), 11. mechelen, map of cities to visit in belgium.

Brabo Fountain on the Grote Markt, Antwerp

The Dutch-speaking city of Antwerp has long been known as a center for craftspeople and artists, as well as an active trade port. You can explore the old town's Grand Place ( Grote Markt ) to see the historic guild houses and the old Town Hall ( Stadhuis ), and just a block north is the ornate Butcher's Hall ( Vleeshuis ). More historic buildings can be found nearby, including the Plantin-Moretus Museum and the Rubens' House ( Rubenshuis ), both of which have collections open to the public.

Antwerp's museums are some of the best in Belgium, and the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) contains a surprising variety of exhibits that dive deep into history, both local and global. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts , as well as the Museum Mayer van den Bergh focus on fine arts produced by some of the city's most famous artists, including Van Dyck, Rubens, and Jordaens.

One of the city's newest additions is the Red Star Line Museum , housed in the steamship company's former port building, which looks at the massive wave of emigration in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries.

Charming street scene in Antwerp

Antwerp has some excellent family attractions as well, both located close to the impressive Antwerp Central Station (also known as Middenstatie ). A visit is not complete without a stop at Chocolate Nation , where you can learn about Belgian chocolate and, of course, sample it to your heart's content.

Nearby, the Antwerp Zoo keeps kids occupied with over 6,000 animals while parents appreciate the spectacular architecture that ranges from reproductions of ancient temples to Art Deco.

Tourists hoping to see ecclesiastical architecture and artwork have several options, the most famous of which is St. Paul's Church ( Sint-Pauluskerk ). This late Gothic church was built between 1517 and 1639 and houses paintings by Jordaens, Van Dyck, and Rubens.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp ( Onze Lieve Vrouwkathedraal ), the largest Gothic church in the country, is located in the heart of the old town near Grand Place, and St. James' Church ( Sint-Jacobskerk ) is the city's finest Baroque church, located just a few blocks from here.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Antwerp

  • Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Antwerp
  • Top-Rated Day Trips from Antwerp

Historic buildings along the Graseli Canal in Ghent

The old city of Ghent is rife with beautiful historic buildings, many of which are the guild houses and markets that run along the Graseli Canal. The oldest of these buildings is the Romanesque Koornstapelhuis , built around the year 1200.

The House of the Masons (Gildehuis der Metselaars) and House of the Free Boatmen (Gildehuis der Vrije Schippers) date back to the early 16 th century, and the Customs House (Tolhuisje) was built in 1682. The Korenlei Canal is lined with more fine examples, most of which once served as private homes to the city's elite merchants.

Ghent's Old Market Area sits close to the canals, starting with the Groot Vleeshuis (Meat Market), a fantastic medieval structure built in 1410. Next door, you will find the Vismarkt (Fish Market), built in 1689, and two blocks away the Korenmarkt (Wheat Market) sits at the head of an old market square that is now home to numerous cafés and restaurants. Nearby, you can also visit the city's old Town Hall ( Stadhuis ), known for its miscellany of architectural styles from centuries of additions.

The city is also home to some spectacular churches, most notably the Cathedral of St. Bavo ( Sint-Baafskathedraal ), which also chronicles architectural styles, including a Romanesque crypt, a 13 th -century High Gothic choir, and a 16 th -century late Gothic nave and tower.

View of the Leie River and St. Michael's Bridge in Ghent

Another excellent Gothic structure is Saint Michael's Church , built in the 15th century with Belgian sandstone. Adjacent is Saint Michael's Bridge ( Sint-Michielsbrug ), the perfect spot for a selfie with the city's skyline in the background.

Tourists who want to learn more about Ghent's history and Flemish folk life will want to visit the Museum voor Volkskunde (Museum of Daily Life ), also known as the House of Alijn, which looks at Belgian customs and traditions throughout history. The Museum of Ghent (STAM), which is housed in the former Cistercian abbey of Bijloke , has more exhibits that explore the city's heritage.

If you are staying in Brussels and want to see Ghent, but are apprehensive about exploring the country on your own, an organized day trip is a great choice. The Bruges and Ghent – Belgium's Fairytale Cities from Brussels tour is an incredibly affordable option that lets you visit two of Belgium's loveliest cities. This tour includes time to walk around both cities with your guide, as well as an optional canal tour in Bruges.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ghent

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Ghent

Grand Place, Brussels

The economic and political hub of the country, Brussels has a much different feel from any other Belgian city. In fact, its role as the capital of the European Union has provided an influx of culture from across the continent and is perhaps why the city's selection of restaurants and cafés is so diverse and plentiful.

First-time visitors often make the old town's Grand Place ( Grote Markt ) their first stop, home to historic guild houses ( Gildehuizen ), followed by a walk along Rue de l'Etuve to the city's most famous landmark, the Manneken Pis .

You could spend days enjoying the attractions close to the Royal Palace ( Koningsplein ), the official residence of the Belgian royal family. Take some time to explore the Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site , located right at the foot of the palace, where the original palace's foundations and ancient streets have been revealed and are now open to the public.

Just beyond sits the Mont des Arts, home of the city's Royal Museums , including the Museum of Ancient Art ( Musée d'art Ancien ) and the Museum of Modern Art ( Musée d'art Modern ); the Magritte Museum ; and the BELvue Museum , which explores the country's history.

There is a beautiful park just below the palace, however Brussels' most celebrated public space is the Parc du Cinquantenaire , established in 1880. The Palais du Cinquantenaire sits at the back of the park, housing the Belgian Army Museum and Museum of Military History , as well as the Royal Art and History Museum . The European Union administrative buildings sit at the opposite end of the park.

  • Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Brussels
  • Top-Rated Day Trips from Brussels

Canal and stone bridge in Bruges

The distinctly medieval old town of Bruges is one of Belgium's most romantic destinations, full of narrow cobblestoned streets and sleepy canals. Bruges' main squares, the Markt and Burg Square (also known simply as " the Burg "), are located at the heart of the historic district. This is the ideal area to start your day of sightseeing, with plenty of historic buildings and landmark sights.

The Markt's most famous feature is the Belfry ( Belfort van Brugge ), a medieval bell tower with a carillon of 47 bells that sits atop the Halle . If you're feeling ambitious, you can climb the 366 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city.

Other historic buildings on Markt Square are the 15 th -century Huis Bouchoute and the Provinciaal Hof , a fine example of Gothic architecture. As the name suggests, you'll also find a variety of shops in and around the Markt, as well as lovely cafés.

Just one block away is Burg Square , a pedestrian area that is home to the Town Hall ( Stadhuis ), a Gothic structure built between 1376 and 1420. The Burg is also home to the Basilica of the Holy Blood , best known for having a vial of what is said to be Jesus' blood. Another lovely building here is the Liberty of Bruges , the former home of the law courts and current home of the Bruges Tourist Office .

The Groeninge Museum (Stedelijk Museum voor Schone Kunst) is one of the city's best-known museums, home to an impressive collection of paintings by the Old Flemish masters.

A small collection of works by Hans Memling can be found at the Memling Museum , which is in turn housed within Bruges' oldest building, the 12 th -century Sint-Janshospitaal (St. John's Hospital) . Within the old hospital's museum, you can see exhibits of centuries-old medical instruments and other artifacts chronicling the site's history.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bruges

  • Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Bruges
  • Top-Rated Day Trips from Bruges

View from the Steps of the Montagne de Bueren

Although Liège may not be the most picturesque of Belgian cities thanks to an industrial heritage that promoted function over flourish, it has plenty to offer tourists.

The city's most famous landmark is Montagne de Bueren ( Bueren Mountain ), a series of 374 steps, which are set at a staggering 30-percent incline. The steps once provided the soldiers with a direct route from the Coteaux de la Citadelle to the city center, and today they provide tourists with spectacular views if they can make it to the top. If you're visiting during October, be sure to check it out at night, when the entire stairway is lined with candles.

Liège is home to many beautiful public spaces, its largest being Parc Boverie . In addition to spectacular gardens and expansive lawns along the Meuse and Dérivation rivers, the park is home to La Boverie , a museum of fine arts.

Several more museums can be found on the Quai de Maestricht , at the northern edge of the city center. The Grand Curtius Museum (Musée Curtius) displays a variety of artifacts and decorative arts spanning from prehistory through the 19 th century, and the Glass Museum ( Musée du Verre ) exhibits glassware from as early at the 5 th century BCE.

Tourists in search of historic churches have several to choose from. The most centrally located are St. Paul's Cathedral on the Place de la Cathédrale , founded in 971, and the 11 th -century Church of Saint-Barthélemy , which sits near the Quai de Maestricht. The Basilique Saint-Martin sits on a hill overlooking the old town center, rebuilt in the 16 th century and featuring stained glass dating from as early as 1526.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Leige

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Liege

Leuven Stadhuis

Despite a great deal of destruction during both World Wars, a good number of Leuven's most impressive historic buildings still stand. You will want to start in the center of the old town at the Grote Markt , an area that is still the hub of the city's social activity.

Towering above the head of the square is St. Peter's Church ( Sint-Pieterskerk ), an impressive example of Brabant Gothic architecture that houses the Museum of Religious Art ( Stedelijk Museum voor Religieuze Kunst ). The old City Hall ( Stadhuis ) also sits on the square, showcasing its ornate facades complete with 236 figures.

Since the 15 th century, Leuven's university has had a reputation for being one of the most respected institutions in Europe. It is here on the expansive campus, along the Naamsestraat , that you can find more examples of early buildings that have been constructed throughout the ages. Another fascinating group of historic homes can be found at the Groot Begijnhof , a community that was founded in the 13 th century.

An excellent collection of local crafts and art is housed at the M Leuven , as well as exhibits that include art from around the world, dating from classical times to the present and encompassing all artistic media.

Naturalists will appreciate the Leuven Botanical Garden Kruidtuin , designed in the early 18 th century as a medicinal plant garden for university students.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Leuven

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Leuven

The Belfry of Mons

The city of Mons is located south of Brussels near the French border , acting as a hub for several major routes that converge and spider out in all directions.

Like many other Belgian cities, the city center is the historic Grand-Place, a lively square lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés. This is an excellent place to visit for an afternoon spent admiring the buildings of City Hall (also known as the Hôtel de Ville ), some of which date back to the mid-15 th century.

Not far from here on a hill overlooking the town, tourists can admire the Belfry of Mons (also called El Catiau ), an 87-meter, 17 th -century Baroque tower that houses a carillon of 47 bells.

If you are fascinated by military history, visit the Mons Memorial Museum for an in-depth look at how the city's strategic position affected its history and the lives of its people, especially during WWI and WWII.

Art lovers will appreciate the freshly renovated Musée des Beaux Arts , which focuses on Belgian and French artists, and the Decorative Arts Museum Francois Duesberg has a significant collection of decorative items once belonging to French aristocracy, with an astounding exhibit of clocks.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Mons

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

Namur Citadel on the Meuse River

Namur is a smaller Belgian city that, similar to Mons, was the focal point of many conflicts due to its strategic position.

The crowning jewel of this city is the Namur Citadel , located on an outcropping between the Meuse and Sambre Rivers. If you are short on time, prioritize exploring this old fortification, including its ramparts, barracks, and underground tunnels, and be sure to take advantage of excellent views of the city below.

Some of Namur's most historic buildings house its numerous museums, allowing tourists to be fully immersed in the history and culture. Namur's Archaeological Society is housed in a 1590 meat hall located in the central Old Town near the city's most lively square, Place d'Armes .

The Museum of Ancient Arts (Musée des Arts Anciens du Namurois) is located on the Rue de Fer within the 17 th -century Hôtel de Gaiffier d'Hestroy , displaying regional crafts and art dating back to the Middle Ages. Ecclesiastical artifacts can be found at the treasury of the Church of Notre Dame , a beautiful Baroque church.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Namur

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Namur

The Menin Gate, Ypres

Although a great deal of the city's original buildings were destroyed during World War I, Ypres is still home to many fine historic landmarks. The Grote Markt is still dominated by the enormous Lakenhalle ( Cloth Hall ), a building that was the center of the town's once prosperous industry.

Tourists can climb the tower for breathtaking views over Flanders , and from June through October, visitors can enjoy the sound of the 49 bells ringing out from the Lakenhalle's imposing belfry . Also located in the Grote Markt is the 13 th -century Nieuw Vleeshuis ( Meat Hall ) and the Kasselrijgebouw ( Old Town Hall ).

Unfortunately, a great deal of Ypres' historic significance is due to the tragic WWI battles. The Flanders Fields Museum (located in Lakenhalle) is a good place to learn about the battles and get information about the self-guided battlefield tour. Traditionally, visitors begin their journey as the British soldiers did, embarking from Menin Gate .

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ypres

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ypres

Ostend Promenade

This beautiful seaside city suffered a lot of damage during World War II and is more modern than many other Belgian cities, but it still contains several historic buildings in the old town area.

The Feestpaleis at the Wapenplein sits in the middle of the old town and was built in 1957 on the former spot of the Old Town Hall. This building houses the Stadsmuseum , which explores local history, as well as the Museum of Fine Art , which features works by prominent Belgian artists, including James Ensor and Constant Permeke.

Ostend is also home to several of Belgium's best beaches and a spa at Westende . The Albert I Promenade is the city's main seaside route and home to the picturesque Ostend Leisure Complex which was built in the 18 th century and restored after the war.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ostend

Grote Markt in Mechelen

Mechelen is a lovely historic city in Flanders conveniently located about halfway between Antwerp and Brussels, only about 20 minutes by train from either city.

The city's most prominent landmark is St. Rumbold's Tower , a 15 th -century cathedral that looms a staggering 97 meters in height. Those who can make it the 500 steps to the top are rewarded with stunning views, but those who can't can still enjoy the beautiful Baroque architecture and artwork by Anthony Van Dyck. Art lovers can also admire the work of Peter Paul Rubens at St. John's Church nearby.

Another major attraction is the Kazerne Dossin , a memorial that honors the 26,000 Jewish people who were transported from Mechelen to Auschwitz during the Nazi occupation.

For more lighthearted fun, visit the Speelgoed Museum (Toy Museum) , as well as Planckendael , a zoo housed on the grounds of a historic castle.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Mechelen

Dinant, Belgium

Another gem of the Upper Meuse Valley, Dinant is located about 28 kilometers south of Namur. Its dramatic limestone cliffs and brightly colored buildings lining the embankment make it a photographer's dream, and the best views are from the water on the Meuse River.

The Dinant Citadel is one of the best places to visit in Dinant, and can be reached via gondola. The grounds are home to a museum, children's playground, and plenty of opportunities to survey the Meuse Valley below. Even if you don't have time to hop off at the top to explore the old fortifications, at least be sure to ride the cable car for stunning views.

If you're based in Brussels, an organized tour is a great way to see this pretty spot and other nearby destinations. The Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels is a full-day option that combines a sightseeing stop in Dinant with a visit to the tiny country of Luxembourg , so that you can get the most out of your time and money.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Dinant

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Visit Ghent on your trip to Belgium

ANTWERP , Belgium , BLOG , BRUSSELS , Destinations , Europe , Travel Guides , WALLONIA · June 4, 2020

10 Best Places To Visit Your First Time in Belgium

In this post I will show you the 10 best places that you should visit during your first time in Belgium! I will also include some of the most unique and cool places to stay in our little country!

Belgium is one of those countries that tourists love to rush through. Not knowing it has so much more to offer than just eating waffles in Brussels and going on a boat tour in Bruges. I have lived here my entire life and can honestly say that Belgium is a beautiful country! From the medieval cities with cobble stone roads to castles that will make your jaw drop on the floor. The land of fries and beer pretty much has it all!

If it’s your first time here of course you don’t want to miss the main sights such as our capital Brussels and the world famous Bruges. But with this post I wanted to show you that you can actually get way more out of your first time visit to Belgium! All it takes is a little planning and you are good to go!

Good to know Language – Flemish and French, but most people speak good English Currency – Euro Best time to visit – April to October / Temperatures are higher and Belgium is famous for it’s many terraces where you can enjoy a meal or have a drink How to get around – By public transport or car. Public transport isn’t always that reliable in Belgium and is often late so if you would choose to rent a car simply make sure to avoid peak traffic hours (7am-9am and 4-6pm) around Brussels and Antwerp

Gravensteen in Ghent, castle of the Counts

1. Visit Hallerbos Forest during Bluebell season

The Hallerbos forest , also known as the bluebell forest, is one of the most magical places in Belgium. Once every year the forest transforms itself into a purple haze where the entire ground is covered with these pretty flowers.

Best time to visit?

The exact timing of the bluebells being in full bloom is a little different every year but generally the second half of April is the best time to go. Plan your visit so that you can be here at sunrise. Once the clock hits 10am the forest will be very crowded!

What to know

You can only walk on the designated paths ! Don’t step into the fields of bluebells cause you will actually destroy them by doing so! My photo was taken on a little pathway behind a tree and I asked one of the “guards” that was patrolling around if it was okay for me to take a photo here. Always be respectful towards the environment when taking photos in nature!

best places to visit in belgium

2. Marvel at the beauty of Ghent

I lived in Ghent for over 6 years and until this day it remains my favourite city in entire Belgium! So it’s no surprise at all that this city made it into my list of 10 best places to visit in Belgium. Go for a stroll through the Medieval city center and enjoy a lunch at the Graslei, one of the most beautiful places in Belgium .

Ghent is a student city and it’s safe to say that during a regular week day you’ll find a lot of them riding their bikes. So always look twice when crossing the street ;).

Beautiful Places not to miss in Ghent

  • Gravensteen – a 10th century castle surrounded by a moat
  • Vrijdagsmarkt (Friday Market)
  • Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

And the best part? All of these places are within 10 minutes walking distance from each other!

Where to stay in Ghent

1898 The Post – An intimate hotel in a stunning historic landmark in the heart of Ghent. Charme Hotel Hancelot – Elegant rooms in an 1940 mansion. The stately lobby boasts a huge fireplace and a lovely courtyard garden while an abundance of crystal chandeliers light up the rooms and hallways. Hôtel Verhaegen – The perfect hotel if you’re looking for a romantic getaway. The hotel is situated in an 18th-century palace that is listed as a city monument.

Visit Ghent on your trip to Belgium

3. Plan a visit to The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

Every year during spring the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken opens it’s doors to the public. It’s one of the best and most unique places to visit in Belgium. During this time most flowers are in full bloom and you get to witness what hundreds of gardeners work tirelessly on during an entire year.

This event only lasts for 3 weeks so make sure to arrive very, very early!. When I visited 2 years ago I made sure to be there at 8.30am , even that it only opens at 9.30am. And, it’s safe to say that I was very happy that I did cause not long after people started cueing up and a ton of tour busses started to arrive. There was a small rope on the other side of the street in front of the entrance which was pointed out as the designated waiting point. As soon as it opens make sure to go to one of the ticket booths ( 2,5€ , free under 18) and head inside.

Tips for taking photos

You’ll first walk outside in the gardens and you have to follow a pathway up to enter the first greenhouse. Don’t take too long here, you can always go back later once you’ve visited the greenhouses. This way you will leave most people behind you and have this spectacular spot “almost” to yourself.

When to go in 2021

Plan your visit to Brussels accordingly cause they are only open for 3 weeks every year.

This year this should be from 30th of April until the 3th of May 2020 . If you’re planning on visiting during this time you might want to combine it with a visit to Floraliën 2021 , a floral festival that happens every 4 years in Ghent!

best places to visit in belgium

4. Visit the old abbey of Villers La Ville

The Villers Abbey is located in the small town of Villers La Ville, about 30 minutes driving from Brussels. The Villers Abbey was built in 1146 and is a beautiful witness to how the Cistercian monks lived. This site is considered to be one of the most complete ones in entire Europe!

When to visit

Daily opening hours are from 10am – 5pm, in the summer months they stay open until 6pm.

Prices are based on age and cheaper if you’re a student.l

Adult € 9 Senior € 7 Student € 7 Child € 4

5. Go on a boat ride in Bruges

Bruges is a small Medieval city near the West Coast of Belgium and probably one of the most touristic places in Belgium. If you truly want to enjoy your visit make sure to arrive early cause chances are high that once 10am you’ll end up with one of the many selfie sticks against your head.

Beautiful Places to see in Bruges

  • The central Market
  • Belfort of Bruges
  • Church of our Lady Bruges
  • Rozenhoedkaai
  • Minnewaterpark

Where to stay in Bruges

Hotel Dukes’ Palace – Located on the Prinsenhof, this hotel will make you feel like absolute royalty as soon as you set foot inside the door. Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce – Offering breakfast with a view over the canals. Hotel De Tuilerieën – Stay in the same hotel as Colin Farell, David Hockney and many other celebrities that visited Bruges.

best places to visit in belgium

6. Spend a day in Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and a multicultural city. And even that it is located in the Flemish speaking part of Belgium, most people only speak French or English. Since you’re visiting Belgium for the first time I recommend you to spend an entire day here. You can read all about how I spend a perfect day in Brussels here.

Beautiful Places to see in Brussels

  • Market Square
  • Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
  • Mont des Arts
  • Law Courts of Brussels
  • Place du Grand Sablon

Where to stay in Brussels

Visit the Grand Place - The Market Square of Brussels

7. Visit the world’s smallest city Durbuy

Durbuy is located in the province of Luxembourg and is supposed to be the smallest town in the world . With it’s cobbled streets and timbered houses it’s also one of the cutest towns in the world. If you plan on visiting Durbuy stay clear of Sunday afternoons, they tend to get very busy. You’ll much more enjoy your visit during a week day.

Where to stay in Durbuy

best places to visit in belgium

8. Go shopping in Antwerp

Antwerp is located in the North of Belgium and often referred to as the Diamond City. If you want to go shopping in Belgium, this is the place to do it. If you arrive to Antwerp by train make sure to not just walk out of the train station but take a good look around cause Antwerp Central has been voted as one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world!

Beautiful Places to visit in Antwerp

  • t’Zuid: my favourite neighbourhood
  • ‘t Mas
  • Antwerp Central railway station
  • Cathedral of Antwerp
  • Brabo fountain
  • Port Authority
For more details about these places make sure to check out my blog post on the 12 stunning places in Antwerp that you should visit.

Where to stay in Antwerp

Hilton Antwerp Old Town – When its comes to location, you can’t go better than the Hilton! Located in the heart of Antwerp on the Groenplaats this hotel is so spectacular and hosts a few impressive ballrooms that are perfect for hosting a wedding. Rosier10 – This small B&B only has 4 rooms available and each one of them is decorated completely different! Hotel Diamonds and Pearls – This tiny hotel is tucked away in one of the many side streets in the heart of Antwerp. All rooms have period furnishings so you’ll feel like you’re staying in a historic house.

The Best Places to Visit in Belgium

9. Visit Château de la Hulpe

Did you know Belgium is the country with the highest amount of castles per square kilometer? This beautiful castle is only 20 minutes driving from Brussels and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium. It is located within a beautiful nature park. It’s the perfect place for an afternoon stroll and if you want to escape the busier Belgian cities.

If you want to visit more castles during your time in Belgium you can find the most beautiful castles in Belgium here .

Château de la Hulpe in Belgium

10. Pay a visit to Adolphe Sax in Dinant

Dinant is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the South of Belgium, located by the river Meuse and with steep cliffs as it’s back drop. Go for a walk alongside the Meuse of enjoy a river cruise. Once you’re in town there is no need to worry on how to get around, you can pretty much walk through it in less than an hour!

Where to stay in Dinant

best places to visit in belgium

I hope all of these beautiful places in Belgium will make you want to explore my country! If you have any questions simply drop them in the comments below!

best places to visit in belgium

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The Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Charlotte Lint is the founder of Charlies Wanderings. Charlotte has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing efficient travel guides and finding unique places to stay. Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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September 27, 2019 at 5:55 pm

I appreciate that you included which montha to visit each attraction! Really helps for my Europe planning next year!

Charlotte says

September 27, 2019 at 5:56 pm

My absolute pleasure Kay!!! Which countries will you be visiting???

September 28, 2019 at 8:27 am

Love the pictures in this post! hope to visit soon 🙂

September 28, 2019 at 8:28 am

Thank you so much Daria!!

Whitney Reynolds says

September 28, 2019 at 9:06 am

Your pictures are incredible. Saving this as inspo for my next trip to Belgium. Thank you!

September 28, 2019 at 9:14 am

Thank you so much Whitney! Let me know if you need any more tips! 🙂

September 28, 2019 at 11:17 am

Love the suggestions! The greenhouses sound amazing and I did not know about them.

Pauline says

September 28, 2019 at 11:45 am

Your pictures are so beautiful as always really! You always find the best spots for them! I had no idea Belgium looked this pretty, thank you for opening my eyes about this! I’d love to visit all these places!

September 28, 2019 at 12:45 pm

Thank you! Yes I didn’t know about them either 😀 But they’re really nice to visit!

Thank you so much Pauline!! <3

September 28, 2019 at 2:32 pm

Oh my gosh your photos are incredible. I have to go back to Brussels so I can visit Château de la Hulpe, I mean GOALS. Thanks for a great guide 🙂

September 28, 2019 at 2:35 pm

Ghent was our favorite when we went back in 2013. We had zero expectations and it blew our minds. Beautiful photos!

Kelsey says

September 28, 2019 at 4:38 pm

I LOVE Belgium and think it’s so underrated! I’m lucky enough to have visited half the places on your list (Brussels, Bruges, Durbuy, Ghent, Dinant) but the other places look gorgeous! I’ve always especially wanted to visit Hallerbos – it (and your photos!) look so magical!

September 28, 2019 at 6:47 pm

Thank you so much Tina!!! <3

September 28, 2019 at 6:48 pm

Hi Jenia! So happy you visited Ghent and that you had a great time! It’s by far my favourite city in Ghent!

September 28, 2019 at 6:49 pm

Hi Kelsey! Yeah! So happy you already visited so many cities here! Hallerbos is soooo beautiful! If you ever plan on visiting make sure to go early in the morning! Otherwise you might think you’re in Disneyland :p

Nicole Claesen says

September 28, 2019 at 10:37 pm

Beautiful pictures and love the contrast against your wardrobe. I’ve only had the opportunity to visit Brussels and I loved the Grand Place. Going to use your list for the next time I visit, so many gorgeous places to see. Thanks for all the great tips!

Coline says

September 30, 2019 at 12:29 pm

Love your article ! It indeed shows some pretty stunning Belgian spots !

Colleen says

July 6, 2022 at 5:46 am

Thank you so much for your informative post. I’m visiting Belgium next April and will take all of your wonderful suggestions! Your photos are beautiful and I now cannot wait to get there.

July 6, 2022 at 5:47 am

Thank you so much Colleen!

July 12, 2022 at 1:47 pm

This was so helpful. I plan to visit several countries when I come to Europe and I was initially going to just spend time in Brussels. Now I will definitely spend more time in Belgium.

July 12, 2022 at 7:13 pm

Thank you so much!

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17 of the best experiences in Bruges

Dec 16, 2023 • 9 min read

Young woman tourist sits on a bridge in the old city in Bruges in the morning in Belgium and waves a hand passing by a tourist boat with tourists.; Shutterstock ID 1400041118; your: Claire Naylor; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online editorial; full: Bruges things to do

From touring the city by canal boat to eating the tastiest fries, here are the best things to do in Bruges © LALS STOCK / Shutterstock

Bruges is one of the most picturesque cities in Northern Europe, with photo opportunities awaiting you around every corner.

The medieval city center survived multiple invasions and wars over the last 500 years, yet miraculously kept its 15th-century architecture intact – an achievement that won it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2000. 

Beyond the picturesque Gothic facades, you can go sailing through the canals, learn about the Flemish Masters, or visit one of the many museums (perfect for a rainy day, of which there are many). Here's our pick of the very best experiences in Bruges .

1. See Bruges on a canal boat tour

Experience the sights and sounds of Bruges on a boat tour along the picturesque canals for just €12. Doing it on the day you arrive will help orient you in the city while the guide gives you a potted history of your surroundings. You'll pass under  Bonifacius Bridge , a popular 20th-century stone arch crossing usually thronged with snap-happy tourists, as well as the 18th-century Nepomucenus Bridge, watched over by a statue of John of Nepomuk – the patron saint of bridges.

Save some smartphone storage for Rosary Quay, though. Its name comes from the rosary bead sellers that used to dominate the area, but that's not what draws tourists here in their droves. It's the photogenic kink in the canal and the crooked, forward-leaning facades that make for incredible pictures. The boats, formerly all diesel engines, are being replaced by a fleet of fully electric vessels . 

2. Break for a Belgian beer at a Bruges bar 

Beer is a big part of Flemish culture, and there's no shortage of places to have a pint, so take a break from sightseeing to try a local specialty. Tucked away in a little alley near the city center, De Garre is a quirky bar with over 140 varieties of beer. Advertised as "possibly the oldest pub in Bruges," Café Vlissinghe has been pouring beers since 1515. It's still a beloved spot for tourists and residents of Bruges alike. If you're looking for a lively bar scene, head to 't Zand Square  –  Villa Gerard is popular with students and residents. 

A person holds a takeaway tray containing a waffle covered in chocolate sauce outside in a medieval square.

3. Indulge your sweet tooth with waffles, pastries, and chocolates

If you have a sweet tooth, get ready to indulge in Bruges – there are chocolate, pastry, and candy shops on every street and the sweet aroma of freshly toasted waffles follows you through the city. For a beautiful and delicious waffle, go to Otto Waffle Atelier where they're made with an intricate pattern. 

Aux Merveilleux De Fred  serves exquisite pastries in an equally stunning tea room. Order a Vergeoise waffle to go with your coffee. Round out your indulgence with chocolate truffles at one of the most popular chocolate shops, Chocolatier Dumon .

4. Go on an architectural walking tour of Bruges 

Pack your comfortable shoes because Bruges is a place for walkers. A wander through the beautiful city center is one of the best ways to admire the Gothic and Flemish architecture. Keep your eyes open for the many treasures such as the emblematic 't Zand's 21st-century  Concert Hall , which looks like a giant, half-submerged goldfish ducking beneath the pavement; the cherry-red Barge Bridge that seemingly twists like the track on a roller-coaster; and the 13th-century Church of Our Lady , with its enormous 115m (377ft) spire. Inside you'll find Michelangelo’s serene Madonna and Child statue from 1504.

Planning tip:  Bruges Tourism Office offers free maps for self-guided walking tours .

5. Visit independent shops along Langestraat 

Take a 10–15 minute walk from Markt, the heart of ancient Bruges, to Langestraat, a street with independently owned restaurants, cafes, and shops. Stop by Cherry Picker Cafe for its unique selection of vinyl records with a bar in the back of the shop before browsing for rare finds at Brocante Cafe , an antique shop and cafe. If you're looking for the perfect made-in-Bruges gift, stop by  Atelier Twee , featuring leather goods made in-house and items created by regional artisans. 

6. Tour a Belgian brewery 

Belgium produces some of the best beers in the world – even those that don't usually enjoy a pint can be converted after a sip. For Belgians, beer is more than a beverage, it's a tradition, with most brasseries serving beers in distinct glasses representing the breweries. Brewery De Halve Maan offers brewery tours and tastings in the heart of Bruges. Sip your chosen brew in the beer hall or catch the elusive Belgian sun on the cozy terrace. 

Planning tip:  Be sure to bring your camera on a sunny day. The tour guide (weather permitting) will take you to the brewery's rooftop, which offers splendid city views. 

People walk through a huge medieval square dominated by a tall Gothic tower

7. Take in the magnificent Markt, one of Europe's finest squares

A medieval masterpiece, few European plazas outdo this glorious, car-free square for sheer good looks. A poster child for Belgium, Markt has a bit of Hollywood pizzazz to it – all tall, step-gabled guild houses, glinting neo-Gothic facades, and slow, clip-clopping horse-and-carriage rides. True, some of the buildings may not be as timeless as their restored glory suggests, but little has changed since the first market here in 958 CE.

Just look to the Belfort in the northwest of the square. Finished in 1486, this 83m-high (272ft) octagonal tower was the dominating skyscraper of its day – and so it remains. Grab a coffee from one of the nearby terrace cafes and admire it all from there, or...

8. Climb Belfort for the best views of Bruges

To preserve Bruges' charm, there are no tall modern buildings in the city center. Get the best panoramas over red-tiled rooftops all the way to Zeebrugge – and a workout from climbing the 366 steps – at the top of  Belfort . This 13th-century belfry is one of the tallest points in the historic center. 

Planning tip:  Numbers are limited to 70 visitors at a time for safety reasons. The queue can get quite lengthy at peak times, so arrive early to avoid them.

9. Learn about the Flemish Masters at Groeningemuseum

Given its long history, Bruges is a city of rich culture, and nowhere showcases this like the rich collection of Flemish Primitive and Renaissance works at Groeningemuseum . The art gallery features works by Flemish Masters such as Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, Hugo van der Goes, and Gerard David, and is the perfect rainy day activity.

10. Enjoy an eclectic program of events at Concertgebouw 

Another treat for a rainy day is the eclectic programming of exhibitions and performances at the Concertgebouw , the modern concert hall of Bruges. You can also book a tour of this stunning 21st-century architectural gem.

The exterior of the Museum Sint-Janshospitaal against the canal on a calm, blue-skied winter morning in Bruges, Belgium

11. Admire the works of Hans Memling at the Museum Sint-Janshospitaal

This impeccably restored chapel , which sits at the heart of a wonderful 12th-century hospital building, is home to six masterpieces by the revered 15th-century devotional artist Hans Memling. Undoubtedly Bruges' finest painter, certainly in his lifetime, it wasn't really until the late 19th century that interest was piqued in the innovative portraitist with shows across the world.

Here, you can admire his delicate oil work on the panels of the splendid, gilded reliquary of St Ursula, which is said to hold some of her relics. But don't miss the large triptych of St John the Baptist and St John the Evangelist either. It was originally the church's altarpiece.

Planning tip:  Your ticket also gives you access to the restored 17th-century pharmacy through a door at the rear of the chapel.

12. Immerse yourself in history and myths at Burg

Imagine being a square this beautiful and interesting and still not being the most-talked-about square in the city. Anywhere else in the world and the Gothic turrets of the 15th-century Stadhuis (city hall) , the charcoal-colored facade and gilded statues of the Basilica of the Holy Blood – purportedly home to a cloth stained with the blood of Jesus Christ – and the light clip-clop of the horse-drawn carriages would make Burg an unmissable banquet of medieval architecture. Here? It plays second fiddle to Markt. But is still well worth a few hours of your time.

13. Grab a budget meal around 't Zand

There are several universities in Bruges, most notably the College of Europe and the Catholic University College of Bruges, which means plenty of places to find a meal on a budget. The area around 't Zand Square has several student-friendly restaurants, cafes, and bars.

HAP Takeaway Bites uses locally sourced ingredients to make delicious sandwiches, salads and freshly pressed juices. An excellent spot for breakfast or lunch, most items cost around €5–8. For lunches less than €10, try the burgers, croquettes, and fries at Frituur-Bistro 't Bootje or dine on Syrian-style falafel, shawarmas, and wraps at Taboulé .

Pastel-colored tall buildings line a square with cafes and restaurants at the base. A cyclist whizzes by.

14. Rent a bike and go beyond the historic city center

Bruges is relatively flat, making it ideal to explore on a bike. There are several good  bike rental outfits  located around the city. Start your ride at the Kruispoort Gate, one of Bruges's four preserved medieval gates, where a bike trail leads the way to photogenic windmills such as Bonne-Chière and Sint-Janshuismolen.

If you want to go on a longer ride, consider the 90-minute roundtrip to Zeebrugge, approximately 15km (9.3 miles) each way, for a view of the choppy North Sea and lunch at a seafood restaurant.

15. Find inner peace at the begijnhof

Ah! Pure silence. Or as close as you're ever going to get in a city that swells with bus-loads of tourists each day. Built in the 13th century as a place for religious women to live piously but with the freedom to go into the city itself, this gabled, white-washed begijnhof still retains a reverent calm among its trees. 

16. Take your fries seriously with frietjes at a frituur

No trip to Belgium is complete with having a cone (or three) of frietjes (fries). Belgians take their fries seriously and Bruges has plenty of frituurs –  small restaurants specializing in fries – around the city. A large portion of fries with sauce is usually around €4. Belgians love a dollop of mayo on their crispy, thick-cut fries and sometimes tuck in with unique condiments such as curry ketchup or samurai sauce (spicy mayo).

17. And then learn why fries are part of the national dish

The quirky Frietmuseum  starts with a detailed history of potatoes and their journey from Peru to Europe and helps you understand why fries became such an important part of Belgian cuisine. Bring your appetite – the museum serves crispy fries made to order with a wide selection of sauces from its own frituur . 

This article was first published March 2022 and updated December 2023

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  1. 8 of the best places to visit in Belgium

    Discover the best places to visit in Belgium, from Brussels with its cultural and gastronomic attractions to the medieval town of Bruges with its charming canals and cobblestone streets. Explore the nature and wildlife of the Belgian coast, the art and fashion scenes of Antwerp, and the historic and cultural diversity of Namur.

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    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 ...

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    1. Grand Place, Brussels. Grand Place, Brussels. La Grand Place (also known as De Grote Markt), is rimmed by finely preserved guildhalls and other grand buildings that showcase Belgium's vernacular architecture at its best. One side is dominated by the ornate medieval town hall, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

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    Atomium. Unavoidable icon of Brussels and Belgium, unique creation in the history of architecture and emblematic vestige of the World Fair in Brussels (Expo 58); the Atomium is the most popular tourist attraction of the Europe's Capital. 8. Luc Vanlaere Harpist - Mini Harp Museum.

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    8 of the best places to visit in Belgium. Dec 4, 2023 • 8 min read. From cultured city breaks in Brussels or Bruges to relaxing in hot springs or on the beach, here are the best places to visit in Belgium. National Parks. Belgium's best national parks and nature reserves: a short guide to its wild side.

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    7. Dinant. Dinant is a small city located in the southern part of Belgium. It's best known for its picturesque setting, with the Meuse River running through the center of town. Dinant is also home to a number of well-preserved medieval landmarks, including the Notre Dame de Dinant Cathedral and the Chateau de Dinant.

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    2. Enjoy the beach in Ostend. 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.

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    GRAVENSTEEN GHENT. A visit to the mystical castle 'Het Gravensteen' absolutely cannot be missed on your to-do list of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium. This important sight in Ghent is a castle with a very turbulent history, closely intertwined with the complex political and social history of the city.

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    View on the river Leie from the Graslei - a popular hang out spot for locals. 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.

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    Marvel at the architecture in Brussels. The bustling capital of Brussels is unsurprisingly one of the most popular places to visit in Belgium. Filled with wonderful architecture, great museums, and luxury shops, the city is a great place to explore for a day. If you're an avid foodie, you'll be in paradise as the city is known as one of Europe's gourmet centers.

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    If you stray from the Meuse and go a bit east, you can wander around one of Belgium's cutest villages, Celles. Then, take a peek at the Disney-esque Vêves Castle stopping to see what some consider Belgium's most beautiful limestone rock mass —Aiguilles de Chaleux. 2. Flanders villages. Small town vibes in De Haan.

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    Gîte Wellness "Le Poirier". La Chambre Rose. Definitely one of the most beautiful towns in Belgium in my opinion, Durbuy charms visitors with its rich history, beautiful landscape and its wending cobblestone streets. I love that it boasts an impressive castle as well as a mishmash of other sights and monuments.

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    Mons. Mons is one of the lesser-known places to go in Belgium and a city that has a surprising amount to offer. The Grand Place is the cobbled central square in the city, which is full of cafes and the impressive Town Hall. Spending an hour or so relaxing in a cafe and enjoying the historic buildings is a must.

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    11. Mechelen. 12. Dinant. Map of Cities to Visit in Belgium. 1. Antwerp. Brabo Fountain on the Grote Markt, Antwerp. The Dutch-speaking city of Antwerp has long been known as a center for craftspeople and artists, as well as an active trade port.

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    3. Plan a visit to The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken. Every year during spring the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken opens it's doors to the public. It's one of the best and most unique places to visit in Belgium. During this time most flowers are in full bloom and you get to witness what hundreds of gardeners work tirelessly on during an entire year.

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    4. Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. 10,131. Historic Sites. Wander through the Les Galeries Saint Hubert, a gorgeous glass roofed arcade in the center of Brussels. Lined with cafes, theaters and luxury stores, the Les Galeries Saint Hubert also has the distinction of being the first covered shopping arcade in Europe.

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