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Regional Population: 10,364,388

Local Currency: EUR

Latitude: 50.5038870

Longitude: 4.4699360

Between France and the Netherlands , Belgium is the crossroads of Western Europe. Most Western European capitals are within 620 miles of Brussels , the country’s capital and home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. From dunes along the northern coast through Flemish lowlands to the forests of the Ardennes hills , Belgium is marked by three distinct regions: Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north, bilingual Brussels and French-speaking Wallonia in the south. A divide between north and south has led to the possibility of the country breaking up, though polls have shown most Belgians want to remain as one federation.

Smaller than Maryland , you can take in a lot of Europe in a little time in Belgium. Cruise the canals of the fairytale town of Bruges and witness the well-preserved medieval architecture; explore a castle in Namur ; shop for antiques at a market in Liege ; take your pick of the many museums in Brussels.

But of course, any decent trip must include the triumvirate of deliciousness: frites (French fries), chocolate and beer. Belgians have been perfecting frites since the 17th century, the misnomer “French fries” apparently derived from old English: “to French” meant “cut into sticks.” More than 2,000 chocolate shops throughout the country indulge the sweetest tooth with pralines, chocolate confections of a sculpted chocolate shell and a center filling. Over 450 varieties of beer are brewed, including at abbey breweries that use centuries-old methods to produce dark ales renowned throughout the world.

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Happy to Wander

20+ Belgium Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: July 6, 2023

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With a reputation upheld by the wonders of excellent beer, fine chocolates, world-class waffles, and most importantly: the invention of fries, Belgium is one of those countries that you (and your taste buds) can adore easily from afar.

But for the lucky ones who have a chance to see Belgium for real – there’s are many, many things you need to know.

While it’s easy to imagine Belgium as a whimsical comic strip of treats and delights, the reality can catch first time visitors off-guard, with many cultural quirks and easy tourist mistakes that can jade even the most optimistic of travellers.

Truthfully, it took me a while to fall for Belgium. With Brussels as my only point of reference on my first ever backpacking trip, I found myself caught in enough common traps that I wasn’t sure I’d ever visit again.

But now, a decade (and six visits later), I can safely say Belgium is an amazing country to visit…. you just need to be prepared.

So, in this post I’ll be sharing all THE must-know Belgium travel tips to ensure you love it on your first try. And first fry. I hope you find these Belgium tips useful!

travel muze belgium

Save this list of Belgium Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Understand Belgium’s two main regions

First thing’s first, it’s important that you understand one of the more unique features of Belgium: the clear divide between its two main areas: Flanders in the North and Wallonia in the South – each with their own language.

Flanders is the Flemish speaking part of Belgium, so this is where they speak Flemish, or the local variation of Dutch… and Wallonia is the French-speaking part of Belgium, with the exception of a tiny part which speaks German.

So, while the official languages of Belgium are Flemish, French, and German, you’ll find that it’s more that different regions have different predominant languages, and not that everybody speaks all three all the time.

Brussels, the capital, is kind of the exception to this – it is officially considered bilingual so French and Flemish are both spoken, although from personal experience people definitely speak more French there.

Why is this important to know as a traveller? Well, you’ll encounter each of these official languages depending on where in Belgium you visit, so be sure to research for your destination so you know which language to say hello and thank you in… although English is also very widely spoken.

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2. Beware that most places have a different name in French and in Flemish

Given these different languages, one of the most important things you need to know as a visitor is that destinations in Belgium will have different names in French and Flemish.

This can get especially confusing when you’re at train or bus stations, because both names be used, plus the names themselves are sometimes different to the English names that we know.

Take Antwerp for instance – we know it as Antwerp in English, but in Flemish it’s Antwerpen, and in French it’s Anvers.

Similarly, Leuven in French is Louvain, Ypres in Flemish is Ieper, and my personal favourite, de Haan is Le Coq.

Now most of the time the names are similar enough that you can logic your way through the situation, but in stressful scenarios like breathlessly running for a train, this additional hurdle can mean the difference of catching your train, or missing it as you stress and cry.

So, remember to learn the names of all your destinations in both Flemish and French. Here is a helpful table for some of Belgium’s more visited cities:

NOTE: This Belgium language tip also applies to train stations, so for example Bruxelles-Midi is actually the same station as Brussel-Zuid.

travel muze belgium

3. Don’t spend all your time in Brussels

One of the most fatal mistakes that first time visitors make in Belgium is they only visit Brussels.

Allow me to indulge in some aggressive through-the-screen shoulder shaking. Do not. I repeat… do not. Limit your Belgium trip to just Brussels.

Brussels is a big city with common ‘big city’ issues to match, from pickpockets and crowds to not-so-desirable areas. While it has a lot of unique museums and attractions to offer those who dig deeper, many first timers (myself included) will find it pretty boring to visit for more than a day or two.

So, I’d recommend adding smaller Belgian cities to your itinerary so that you’re better able appreciate the country’s charm: Bruges , Ghent and Antwerp are all great picks for 2-3 days, while Dinant and Leuven are great one day wonders.

Of course, there’s also plenty of natural beauty in Belgium like around the Ardennes that flies under most tourist radars.

All that to say, if there’s one single Belgium tip that stays with you from this post, let it be that there is MUCH more to see in Belgium than Brussels!

Travel blogger on St Michael's Bridge in Ghent

4. That said, if you do go to Brussels, do it properly

Brussels is often named among the most disappointing cities in Europe, and while I did agree with this claim once upon a time, I now find it kind of unfair.

The issue with Brussels (in my opinion) is that most visitors flock to the wrong places. Manneken Pis for instance is often billed as THE must-see attraction of the city, but in reality it’s a tiny little statue that takes less than 5 minutes to see.

Instead, where Brussels shines is the many, many unique museums and quieter neighbourhoods more removed from the tourist centre.

I do have a full article with Brussels tips if you want more pointers, so be sure to give that a read and see other mistakes to avoid.

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5. Plan your trip for shoulder or off-season

Now in terms of when to visit Belgium, I would recommend going in shoulder season or even off-season, just because a lot of the best places to visit are cities, which are usually enjoyable no matter the weather.

Summer season can get really busy with both international and domestic travellers, so for the least crowded experience, I would avoid the peak summer months from July to August.

Plus, your chocolate won’t melt as quickly, so there’s that too.

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6. Plan your trip for quirky Belgian Festivals

If you’re really struggling to decide when to visit Belgium, I’d recommend looking into festivals and folk events to attend.

One of the most amazing things about Belgium is that it has a ton of unique cultural folk celebrations you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

There’s this one TikTok account I’m obsessed with called @LunaDiscoversBelgium with tons of videos showcasing these, but some of my favourites include:

  • Giant omelette day in Malmedy : Every year on August 15, they literally make a giant omelette out of 10,000 eggs and dish it up for the public so everyone can have a piece.
  • St Niklaas Peace Festival: Every year in the first weekend of September, they release hot air balloons in all sorts of unique shapes from the city centre.
  • Aalst Carnival : An annual three day event in February where they go all out with crazy floats and costumes.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning the Brussels Flower Carpet which takes place every 2 years and covers the main square in a giant carpet made out of flowers. How magical.

travel muze belgium

7. Take advantage of Belgium’s many train discounts

I’m a huge advocate for travelling around Belgium by train over renting a car for a few different reasons – first off, Belgium is incredibly well connected by train, and second, train travel here is astoundingly affordable, largely thanks to a number of enticing discounts.

Here are some to look out for:

Youth Ticket (Formerly Go Pass 1) : A ticket for those under the age of 26 that allows you to buy a single train ticket for €7.10 to any destination in the country. This is way cheaper than paying full-price!

Standard Multi (Rail Pass): Gives you 10 trips to use over the course of a year for €96, and these trips can be transferred to other people in your party, so this can be an easy way to save money if you’re travelling in a group. Also available as the Youth Multi (for those under 26) which is even cheaper.

Weekend Ticket: If you plan your day trips or side trips for a weekend, you can actually save 50% off your fare with a weekend ticket, which is valid for return trips that leave after 7pm on Fridays and return before Sunday.

Discovery Tickets: Give you 50% off your return train ticket, so long as you’re using it to visit an attraction that’s on their list. Similarly, you can use Bravo Tickets which give you 50% off if you’re going to one of the concerts or festivals on their list.

travel muze belgium

8. Take note of Belgium’s most beautiful train stations

Besides the amazing deals, another reason to take the train is simply that some train stations in Belgium are obscenely good looking.

Antwerp station for instance is considered one of the most stunning train stations in the world (can confirm), and Liège also has a cool station that was featured as Xandar in the first Guardians of the Galaxy movie.

travel muze belgium

9. Beware that cities have multiple train stations

Of course, don’t be fooled by the great deals and beautiful aesthetics – the Belgian train system can have its confusing moments too.

For instance, big cities often have multiple train stations, and if you’re not careful, you might get them mixed up (like I sadly have!) and miss your train.

Brussels for instance has three stations: Nord/Noord, Centrale/Centraal and Midi/Zuid, all of which are alternatively known by their French and Flemish names.

Similarly, Antwerp has a Central Station and a South station.

So remember, there’s often multiple stations, and you should research which ones are actually the closest to where you need to go.

travel muze belgium

10. Remember: They’re Belgian Fries, Not French Fries

Alright, now let’s move onto some very important Belgium food and drink tips.

We’ll start with one that may save your life, because Belgians take this one seriously. So repeat after me: always always remember that when it comes to fries (AKA Frites), never call them French fries because they are, in fact…… *dramatic pause* Belgian.

The legend goes that it was actually American soldiers during WWI that mistakenly named them French fries, because they didn’t realize they were in Belgium and not France. We’ve gotten a lot more geographically savvy since then, so don’t make that mistake!

PS: The defining characteristic of these Belgian fries is they’re deep fried twice in animal fat. As such, vegans and vegetarians should know that traditional Belgian fries are not actually vegetarian, although there will almost always be a place where you can find a veggie-friendly option, so be sure to look that up in advance.

PPS: Getting sauce with your fries is non-negotiable. Mayonnaise is a common sauce but most places will have more adventurous options as well, although I’d advise against just getting ketchup because that’s boring.

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11. DIY your own chocolate tour around Belgium

Now another important Belgium tip? Shovel as much chocolate into your mouth as you possibly can.

Belgian chocolate has a tasty reputation worldwide, and when you’re lucky enough to be this close to choco-magic, you have to take advantage.

Now, the cool thing about Belgian chocolate shops is you don’t necessarily need to buy a whole box of chocolates – you can literally just get one or two pieces so this is a super fun way to sample chocolate from a bunch of chocolatiers without committing to a box.

NOTE: While going to different cities, be sure to also look for unique chocolate products in each place. Often chocolatiers will do fun chocolates that pay homage to their city in some way, like in Antwerp where there’s chocolate diamonds because of their diamond industry, along with severed chocolate hands based on a popular local legend.

Chocolate hands being sold in an Antwerp chocolate shop

12. Know the difference between waffle types

Next up – waffles! Of course I would dedicate a whole section of Belgium travel tips to waffles. I’m only human.

Now, while I know that waffles seem like an impossible thing to mess up, there are a few important must-knows to ensure you have the BEST possible waffles of your life during your Belgium trip.

So, here’s what you need to know: in Belgium, there are two main kinds of waffles:

  • Brussels style waffle: Rectangular, fluffier waffles usually served with toppings like whipped cream and fruit
  • Liège style waffle: Round, denser waffles studded with caramelized sugar, best consumed on their own

This is an important distinction because often you’ll come across touristy places that entice you with colourful displays of waffles, including Liège waffles topped with tons of fruit, which is a big waste in my opinion because they’re so good on their own.

So, if you see a place that sells them like that (usually to attract tourist eyeballs), you can deduce it’s probably not the most authentic.

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Another red flag is when they have signs like this:

Sign in Brussels city center with multiple languages saying they have the cheapest prices for waffles

13. Learn the basics of Belgian beer

True story: I used to hate beer until I tried it in Belgium. Beers in this country are unreal, but there’s a few things you should know to enjoy them properly.

First – beware that some Belgian beers can be really strong. Stronger than you’re used to. Indulge accordingly.

Second, know they take their beers so seriously, they’re often served in their own special glass, which I love.

Next, know that Belgian beers are diverse and complex. Unlike Germany where they have a purity law that restricts what ingredients can go in beer, Belgians are always down to experiment, so there’s truly a type of beer for everyone, which is what makes beer tasting in Belgium so much fun. That said, if you haven’t found one you like yet, don’t give up!

Lastly, I would advise prioritizing beers you’ve never heard of. While it’s tempting to go for the big name Belgian beers you already know (e.g. Stella Artois or Leffe) during your trip, the most exciting thing about being in Belgium is you have access to all these unique beers you don’t have back home… so be sure to experiment a bit!

Belgian beers on a bar table in Brussels, Belgium

14. Give regional Belgian dishes a try

And of course, while Belgium is well known around the world for its signature snack foods and beer, we need to give a shoutout to other Belgian dishes as well.

Belgian food done right is comforting, hearty, and irritatingly delicious.

Here are a few of my favourites dishes:

  • Vol au vent: A creamy meat stew served in a crispy pastry
  • Carbonnade Flamande: A rich beef stew made with beer
  • Moules-frites: Mussels with fries, another popular (and self-explanatory) treat consisting of shell-on mussels served in a tasty broth, alongside crispy fries. Plus if you play your cards right you can say you had mussels in Brussels!
  • Boulets à la Liégeoise: Juicy meatballs in a sweet/savoury sauce, served with a hearty helping of Belgian fries.

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15. Carry coins for the bathroom

Another important Belgium travel tip involves public toilets.

Public bathrooms in Belgium are quite rare to be honest, and they usually require a small payment of 50 cents to a euro.

According to this one very angry Reddit thread , you sometimes even need to pay for the toilets at movie theatres (?!??!)

… So, all that said, be sure to have some coins on you so you don’t get caught out.

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16. Be sure to also have at least a 1 euro coin too for museum lockers

I noticed in Brussels especially, a lot of the museums there were really strict about me bringing a regular school-sized backpack in, and said I had to leave it in a locker.

Most of these lockers require a one euro deposit that you get back, so just make sure you have that coin on you.

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17. Look out for museum free days

One of the best ways to save money in Belgium is by scoping out free days in advance for major museums.

In Brussels for example there’s a lot museums free on the first Wednesday and first Sunday each month.

Antwerp has a similar thing for the last Wednesday of the month.

Liège also has some free museums on the first Sunday.

So if you’re looking to save some money, be sure to look into whether your destinations have these deals.

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18. Save money on attractions by purchasing attraction cards or city passes

And if you can’t time your visit to coincide with free museum days, another great way to save big on attractions in Belgium is by purchasing attraction cards that give you access to multiple attractions for one set price.

Now, these are usually only worth it if you plan to visit a LOT of paid attractions, but I do think in museum-heavy cities like Brussels, it’s almost always worth it if you plan to see a lot.

I’ve personally used the Brussels card before and found it to be excellent value. If you’re big into museums like I am, then definitely look into it.

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19. Be wary of Google Maps opening hours

Now ahh, for one of the more frustrating quirks from my Belgium travels.

It may just be bad luck, but on most of my trips in Belgium, I’ve encountered inaccurate hours listed on Google Maps and pretty much once a trip I would show up somewhere just to find it unexpectedly closed.

So, be sure to check on official websites whenever possible rather than just relying on Google Maps for hours.

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20. Beware of bikes & bike lanes

Much like in the neighbouring Netherlands, Belgians travel a lot by bike.

This therefore means many bike lanes, and (if you’re a clumsy, inattentive tourist like me) many opportunities to get run over by an angry Belgian on a bike.

So, while you’re walking, just take note of your surroundings and make sure you’re not accidentally walking in a bike lane. It happens way more often than you think.

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21. Pack a rain/windproof jacket

Belgian weather is notoriously moody, so no matter when you visit, I would advise packing a light rain jacket with a hood, just to ensure you have something in case the weather unexpectedly turns (which it often does).

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22. Prepare for Belgian humour

Lastly, I have to say that Belgians have a quirky and unique sense of humour. The fact that a tiny statue of a peeing child is their #1 tourist attraction is a testament to that. As are the accompanying statues of a peeing dog and girl, as well as the country’s giant intestine shaped hotel.

All that to say, come to Belgium for the beer, the waffles and the fries, but stay for the weird quirky stories and jokes.

The amount of times I’ve come across obscure lore while researching Belgian attractions is numerous, and it always makes visiting places a lot more fun.

Here are a few of my favourites:

  • This infamous turf war involving nose-shaped candies in Ghent
  • The many, many times that the Mannekin Pis in Brussels has been kidnapped then returned
  • This brutal tale behind Antwerp’s name (which in Dutch, originates from the phrase ‘Throwing hands’)
  • This Ghent bar that takes one of your shoes as a deposit for their most coveted glasses because they kept getting stolen

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I hope this list of Belgium Travel Tips was helpful!

Quite frankly, if you made it this far, you deserve some kind of medal! This was a VERY long list of tips for Belgium, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

2 thoughts on “20+ Belgium Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go”

Your review and tips about Belgium were written too late for me. I travelled there June 16 to 21 this year(2023). I enjoyed reading what you wrote.

Interesting insights into Belgium! I never knew that two different languages are used in this country. I am surprised to know that we have to pay to use public toilets in theatres.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Belgium Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

Panoramic view over the red rooftops of the historic center of Bruges with a large stone cathedral in the center, in Belgium

Belgium may be small (it’s one of the smallest countries in Europe) but when it comes to things to see and do it punches well above its weight.

The country boasts over 1,000 breweries and Belgian brewers were some of the first in the world to perfect the beer-brewing process. And the country’s chocolate rivals that of Switzerland , offering decadent sweets that will have you gaining a few pounds during your visit.

On top of that, the country’s mouth-watering frites will make you look at French fries differently for the rest of your life.

And if you’re a history buff, Belgium has countless sites to keep you busy during your visit, including the famous grounds of the Battle of Waterloo, a bloody conflict in 1815 that shaped the face of modern Europe.

More often than not, Belgium gets glossed over by travelers who spend a day in Brussels, Bruges, and maybe a trip to Ghent before they travel onward. However, if you look deeper, you’ll see this country has plenty of medieval towns, historical sites, and parks worth sticking around for.

This travel guide to Belgium will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this incredible country.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Belgium

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in belgium.

A colorful street of old row houses in Bruges, Belgium near a square full of people

1. See Brussels

Brussels is the administrative center of the European Union — and an awesome city to visit. See the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts for its paintings, the magnificent Grand Place and historic Town Hall, sample amazing beer, and more. Spend a few days soaking it all in. It’s worth it!

2. Eat and drink

Though it’s a small country, Belgium has a few culinary aces up its sleeve. Waffles, chocolate, and frites shops dot every street. Beer is produced in massive quantities (there are over 1,000 breweries here, with the most famous being Delirium Cafe in Brussels, which made the Guinness Book of World Records for its selection of over 2,000 beers). Forget the health food, Belgium is a place to indulge in tasty food and hearty brews. If you want to dive even deeper, take a food tour. Discover Belgium has a variety of different food tours offered in all the major cities across the country.

3. Admire Bruges

Bruges is a city not to be missed. It’s one of the most stunning examples of medieval towns left in Europe. BE sure to check out the 14th-century town hall, the Belfry Tower, the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour, its market squares, and canals. While touristy, it’s one of the best medieval towns in Europe and worth seeing up close (at least for a day).

4. Tour Ghent

Ghent is often overlooked compared with other cities in the country, but this university town is charming. To visit the city at its liveliest, come in July when the largest cultural outdoors festival in Europe — known as “Gentse Feesten” — takes place, boasting food, music, and live street entertainment. Just make sure to book your accommodation early!

5. Explore Flanders Field

Flanders was the site of half a million deaths during World War I (over 1 million people were either killed, injured, or went missing here). There are numerous military cemeteries and ‘Missing Memorials’ commemorating those of all nationalities who fell in battle (soldiers from 50 different countries fought here over the course of the war). It was also the site of the first use of poison gas in a major conflict on the Western Front. At the museum in Ypres, visitors can learn about the harsh realities of what it was like to be a soldier in the trenches. Admission is 10-13 EUR depending on which ticket option you choose.

Other Things to See and Do in Belgium

1. visit the castles.

There are more castles per square mile in Belgium than anywhere else in the world. With over 3,000 to explore, it can be hard to know where to start. The Castle of Bouillon in the Ardennes is one of the most historic as it was built in the 11th century. Other must-sees are Beersel, which was built in the 14th century and is one of the best-preserved in the country; Gravensteen, built in the 12th century and centerpiece of the 1913 World’s Fair in Ghent; the 16th-century Gaasbeek, with its lavish rooms and art collection; and 15th-century Freÿr, which is often described as a smaller Versailles.

2. Visit Waterloo

The Battle of Waterloo took place in 1815 and brought a decisive end to the Napoleonic Wars. The battle lasted a full day and involved some 200,000 combatants — tens of thousands of whom died. At the site of the famous battle, there is a memorial in the form of a statue of a lion (looking towards France) on a hill, with 226 stairs, called La Butte du Lion (Lion’s Knoll), which represents the Allied victory. There’s also a nearby visitor center where you can watch films that explain the battle and what it meant for world history (admission is 17 EUR). While here, you can also visit the Wellington Museum (admission is 5.50 EUR). It’s located in the building where Wellington spent the night before the battle and houses maps, an overview of the battle, artifacts, and more. For 23 EUR, you can get the Pass 1815, which includes admission to the Wellington Museum, Battle of Waterloo 1815 Memorial, and Napoleon’s Last Headquarters.

3. Explore Ardennes Forest

Ardennes Forest covers an area of over 11,000 square kilometers and is the place to go skiing and hiking. The area is also famous for wild game like boar and venison, smoked ham, paté, and the world-renowned Trappist beers (beer brewed by Trappist monks). Some popular hiking trails are the Vieilles-Forges Lake Loop (easy, 11 kilometers), The Hautes-Rivières-La Semoy (moderate, 13 kilometers), and Crêtes de la Meuse (hard, 14 kilometers). There are also several multi-day hikes here as well.

4. Visit Cathédrale Notre-Dame

Built in the 12th century, the Cathedral of Our Lady in Tournai is one of the most striking examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral has five towers reaching heights of 83 meters (272 feet), magnificent stained-glass windows. as well as paintings by Rubens and Jacob Jordaens.

5. See Manneken Pis & Jeanneke Pis

These two iconic sculptures can be found in Brussels and are considered by many as a ‘must see’ (there is always a group of people admiring them and taking photos). They are simple, nude male and female children’s figures that are peeing water into a fountain. The male is often dressed up in costumes (and the costumes are saved so you can view previous ones from years past). They are pretty odd tourist attractions but worth a quick photo.

6. Explore the Antwerp Zoo

Located in the center of Antwerp, this zoo is a full afternoon attraction. Open since 1843, it’s one of the oldest and most famous zoos in the world (part of the 1920 Olympics was hosted here). There are several exhibits and unusual garden features to be seen, including some unique animal sculptures. Some of the wildlife here includes sloths, lizards, penguins, elephants, zebras, lions, primates, and more! It’s a great place to take the kids. Admission is 27.50 EUR in the winter and 32.50 EUR the rest of the year.

7. Sample the catch of the day

Ostend Fish Market Visserskaai is an open-air market where the Ostend fishing fleet sells their daily catch (Ostend is just 45 minutes from Ghent, located on the coast). If you’re a fan of seafood, this is an awesome place to check out to eat and take in the local flavor of life on the North Sea. There are numerous restaurants along the seafront and you are guaranteed to get a fresh meal.

8. Wander Parc du Cinquantenaire

Also known as Jubelpark, this park and museum complex opened in 1880 and covers over 74 acres. Located on the southeast side of Brussels, it’s home to the Army Museum, the AutoWorld Museum, an art museum, gardens, and more. It’s a nice place to come in the summer to relax and admire the views after you’ve done some museum hopping.

9. See the Basilique de Koekelberg

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Brussels is one of the largest Roman Catholic churches in the world. In addition to its amazing architecture and impressive art deco, it offers beautiful views of the city and the surrounding area. Completed in 1970, the church is very close to the center of town and is free to see (just dress respectfully as it is a place of worship). Admission to climb the tower is 8 EUR.

10. Explore Antwerp

The country’s second-largest city, Antwerp offers an extraordinary variety of local food and beer for visitors to enjoy. For those interested in art, the Royal Fine Arts Museum houses the world’s best collection of the Flemish Masters’ works, including the largest group of Rubens masterpieces in existence. You can also see Brabo Fountain (a fountain with a weird sculpture of a man throwing his severed arm), the Art Nouveau Little Boat building, and the Whisperer statue (it’s a statue that lets you leave a message that someone else can listen to if they input the right code).

11. See the windmills

Belgium has a long history of using windmills, which were used for cutting wood, pumping water, and grinding grain. There are a number of historic windmills from the 18th-20th century still standing throughout the country, some of which you can visit too. Most are located near Bruges.

12. Visit the European Parliament

Founded in 1952, the EU parliament in Brussels is where all 705 members (from 27 countries) meet to debate the future of the EU. You can watch a parliamentary session in the debating chamber (known as the Hemicycle) or tour the building (with an audio guide) when parliament isn’t in session. Space is limited so book in advance (it’s free). On Mondays at 11am and 3pm, there are in-depth guided tours offered in both English and French.

  For more information on specific cities in Belgium, check out these guides:

  • Brussels Travel Guide
  • Bruges Travel Guide

Belgium Travel Costs

People walking down a pedestrianized cobblestone street in the historic center of Ghent, Belgium

Accommodation – For a dorm bed in a hostel, prices range from 25-35 EUR per night for dorms with 4-6 beds. Larger dorms with 10 or more beds cost around 18-25 EUR. Private rooms cost between 70-150 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels include self-catering facilities. Only a few include free breakfast.

Camping is available around the country for those traveling with a tent. Expect to pay around 13-17 EUR per night for a basic plot without electricity.

Budget hotels start between 75-150 EUR for a basic double room. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and a coffee/tea maker.

Airbnb is popular throughout the country and you can get a private room for as little as 50-60 EUR per night if you book early. An entire apartment costs between closer to 150-200 EUR. Expect prices to double if you don’t book early, however.

Food – Belgian cuisine has been strongly influenced by its European neighbors over the centuries, specifically France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Food here is hearty with chocolate, waffles, fries, and beer being the most famous cultural staples. Steak and fries, mussels (often with fries), smoked ham, stew, and sausages are just some of the common dishes you’ll find here. Portions are large and filling too (the saying goes that Belgian food takes the portions of German cuisine but adds the quality and delicacy of French cuisine).

Light meals at cafes (like a sandwich, soups, salads, or crepes) cost around 7-12 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 9 EUR for a combo meal. For cheap and delicious sandwiches under 6 EUR, check out the nationwide chain Panos Takeaway snacks, like a cone of fries at one of the ubiquitous frite shops, cost 3-4 EUR.

At a casual restaurant serving traditional cuisine, expect to pay 15-22 EUR for a main dish. If you want to splash out, a three-course meal with a drink starts at 40-60 EUR. Chinese food costs around 10-14 EUR for a dish while pizza is around 8-10 EUR.

Beer or a glass of wine are both around 4-5 EUR, a cocktail is 9-12 EUR, and a latte/cappuccino is 3-4 EUR. Bottled water is 2 EUR.

If you want to cook your meals, there are some great markets throughout the country. Expect to pay around 60-70 EUR for a week’s worth of groceries. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Belgium Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Belgium, expect to spend around 60 EUR per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, taking public transportation and walking everywhere, limiting your drinking, and doing most free activities like free walking tours and visiting the markets.

On a mid-range budget of about 150 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, enjoy a few drinks, eat out for some meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, rent a bike, and do more paid activities like visiting museums, taking a canal cruise, and visiting castles.

On a “luxury” budget of 270 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, take more taxis, and do whatever activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Belgium Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Belgium is not a cheap country to visit. Accommodation is expensive and food and drinks can really add up. While it will never be the cheapest country in the world, there are a few ways to cut costs. Here are my tips on how to save money in Belgium:

  • Drink beer – This country has so many breweries (the most per capita in the world!) that beer is the cheapest form of alcohol. A beer will set you back just a few euros so if you’re going to drink, stick to beer.
  • Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to share and share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to save money and have a more local experience.
  • Eat cheap – If you’re going to eat out, stick to things like sandwiches, kebabs, and frites. These meals cost between 5-7 EUR and are your cheapest options (unless you cook your own meals).
  • Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the country for cheap. It isn’t glamorous, but for tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
  • Go on a free walking tour – This is a great way to learn the history behind the places you are seeing and to avoid missing any must-see stops. You can find them in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
  • Get a city tourist card – Local tourism offices have a tourist card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. Available in cities like Brussels and Bruges, this card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money if you’re planning to see and do a lot and you can choose between 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour passes.
  • Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe and affordable. It’s usually faster than the bus — and much more interesting!
  • Have an ISIC Card – To save up to 50% on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Belgium

Belgium has plenty of fun, social, and affordable hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay:

  • Sleep Well (Brussels)
  • Brussels 2Go4 Quality Hostel Grand Place (Brussels)
  • easyHotel Brussels (Brussels)
  • Meininger Brussels City Center (Brussels)
  • Snuffel Backpackers Hostel (Bruges)
  • St. Christopher’s Inn Bauhaus Hostel (Bruges)
  • Lybeer Travellers’ Hostel (Bruges)
  • Boomerang Hostel (Antwerp)
  • Yust Antwerp (Antwerp)
  • Ecohostel Andromeda (Ghent)
  • KaBa Hostel (Ghent)

How to Get Around Belgium

The imposing stone castle of Walzin, located high on a hill in Belgium

Public transportation – Belgium’s cities and towns have excellent public transportation. Brussels has the only metro system in the country but there are trams in all major cities. Public buses also run everywhere. Tickets cost between 2.50-3 EUR.

Most cities have transportation passes too. Brussels has a STIB-MIVB pass that provides unlimited rides for 24 hours for just 7.50 EUR. In Antwerp, you can purchase a day pass for 7 EUR. Multi-day options are also available.

Taxis – Taxis are generally quite expensive, and seeing as how you can get around on foot or by public transit, they’re not recommended. Fares start at 3 EUR but they can also start as high as 8.50 EUR in some places (like Ghent). Each kilometer starts costs between 2-2.50 EUR, depending on the city. Skip them if you can!

Train – Travel around the country by train isn’t that expensive as the country is relatively small. Brussels to Bruges via train costs about 10 EUR for the one-hour trip. Brussels to Antwerp via train costs about 6 EUR for the 45-minute ride.

You can track schedules and fares on the SNCB website.

A Eurail Pass, which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period, might also be a good option if you’re doing some country hopping. For more information, here’s a detailed breakdown of how Eurail passes work and can save you money.

But if you’re staying within Belgium, the SNCB also has some great value passes:

  • Rail Pass Ten – This pass gives you 10 one-way trips anywhere in the country if you’re over 26 years old. The 2nd-class pass is 86 EUR, and it’s 131 EUR for the first-class pass. It’s valid for one year, and if you don’t use the whole thing, you can hand it off to someone else.
  • Go Pass 10 – This is the same as the Rail Pass but for people under 26 years old. It costs 55 EUR.
  • Go Unlimited – For people under 26 years old, you can get a week of unlimited travel during school holidays for 18 EUR, or a month of unlimited travel in July or August for 29 EUR.

Bus – Intercity bus tickets are often under 10 EUR for most journeys. Getting to and from most of the major airports is easy, with buses and trains readily available. Expect to pay 10 EUR (usually less) for a one-way ticket.

There are a few major bus companies servicing Belgium, including:

I recommend Flixbus for the cheapest rates and most comfortable buses. You can get from Brussels to Antwerp for as little as 4 EUR, or Brussels to Bruges for 6 EUR. Research the schedule ahead of time, however, as buses tend to not run every day. You may also need to use a service like STIB-MIVB if you’re venturing off the tourist trail.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Belgium is very safe, though not very common. HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info and tips for Belgium.

When to Go to Belgium

The peak travel season in Belgium is from July to August, when tourism traffic is at its highest (especially in coastal areas). It’s always warm and pleasant, with temperatures rarely going above 22°C (72°F). Rainfall increases slightly during the summer months, so bring some rain gear just in case. Expect crowds and higher prices during this period.

Personally, I think May-June and September-October are the best times to visit. In the spring, the entire countryside blossoms. Temperatures are pleasant, around 14-18°C (57-64°F), and there are fewer crowds. The same goes for autumn when the fall colors in the countryside become a photographer’s dream. Fall temperatures range from 5-19°C (41-66°F). You’ll get a lot of sunshine and better prices everywhere. Just bring a sweater and rain jacket.

The low season is during the winter, from November to March. The average daily temperature is 3°C (38°F) but it can go a lot lower than that as well. It can be very cold during these months but Belgium doesn’t get very much snow. Bruges and Ghent are particularly beautiful during this time of year and you can’t beat a mug of hot Belgian chocolate at a Christmas market!

How to Stay Safe in Belgium

Belgium is a safe place to travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even if you’re a solo female traveler. Violent crime here is very rare, though petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas so always keep your valuables secure and out of reach.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams here are rare, but watch out for random people offering you stuff as this often is done to distract you while someone else swipes your belongings. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Belgium Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
  • BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Belgium Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Belgium and continue planning your trip:

The Best Things to Do and See in Brussels

The Best Things to Do and See in Brussels

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Belgium Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, belgium - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to  terrorism.

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Belgium. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting, music, and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Belgium.

If you decide to travel to Belgium:   

  • Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Belgium.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Brussels’ top 10 museums and attractions

16 February 2022

Are you coming to Brussels and need some inspiration for your visits? Join us to discover the capital's unmissable museums and attractions, thanks to our list of the most popular, in terms of visitor numbers. These sites have been a guarantee of quality since their creation. And, as always in Brussels, there is something for everyone: indoors and outdoors; history, heritage, science, art and culture; traditional and contemporary museums; typical Brussels locations and places of power, etc. You are bound to be won over! So let's go, Brussels can’t wait to show you what it's all about!

1. Art, art and more art at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts!

The most visited group of museums in Brussels, this cultural marvel’s reputation is well-established. The  Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium , or RMFAB, is made up of several locations covering countless periods and artistic movements and genres. Near place Royale, you can visit the Old Masters Museum , the Modern Museum , the Fin-de-Siècle Museum and the famous Magritte Museum . In Ixelles, discover the Wiertz and Meunier museums . They house works by great artists such as Memling, van der Weyden, Bosch, Bruegel, Rubens, David, Alechinsky, Delvaux, and many others, so don't miss them!

2. The emblematic Atomium

The undeniable symbol of Brussels and a national icon , you haven't really visited Brussels if you haven't seen the Atomium . This nine-sphered monument represents an elementary iron crystal magnified 165 billion times! But why did the designers choose an iron crystal? It was a nod to progress and research in the field of science, matter and nuclear energy - in its peaceful use of course. Built for the 1958 World Fair , the building was, like many other buildings, to be dismantled after the event! Inconceivable today...Between 2004 and 2006, the Atomium underwent a full restoration that returned it to its former glory. If you're in the area, it's worth waiting for nightfall: the Atomium is lit up with 2970 LED bulbs!

3. See all of Europe in 2 hours at Mini-Europe

Looking for some playfulness and fresh air, but also fancy stretching your legs? Then  Mini-Europe  is for you! Also on the Heysel plateau , just a stone's throw from the Atomium, you can walk along comfortable paths and discover the most beautiful buildings and sites in Europe, in miniature. Marvel at the miniature Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, Vesuvius and the splendid Grand-Place in Brussels, which took countless hours of work to model! This site is particularly suitable for children , who can enjoy a variety of fun activities !

4. The dinosaurs of the Natural Sciences Museum

Are you curious by nature and love to learn? Then head to the museum attached to the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences ! The many sections of its permanent exhibition –Dinosaur Gallery, Gallery of Evolution, Living Planet, Mineral Room, etc. – not to mention the variety of temporary and themed exhibitions, will satisfy your hunger for knowledge. The institution is housed in an imposing complex of buildings by Leopold Park, in the heart of the European Quarter . So, if you feel like it, you can also enjoy a breath of fresh air in this lovely and historic green space!

5. Understanding Europe and its parliament at the Parlamentarium

Understanding how the European Union works isn’t always easy... thankfully, at the  Parlamentarium , You can travel back through the history of the continent, take a seat in a theatre for a 360-degree panoramic view of Europe and its Parliament, hear testimonies from European citizens, and much more! The Parlamentarium is open 7 days a week and admission is free . Visitors can explore the exhibitions freely and in all 24 of the EU’s official languages ! There's no reason not to go!

6. The ninth art in all its glory at the Belgian Comic Strip Center

Did you know that Brussels is the capital of comic books ? The ninth art is a defining theme of the Belgian capital and has been for almost a century, with countless comic book authors coming from Brussels. Comics are omnipresent and can be found in the streets and alleys of numerous Brussels districts. So what better way to get to know Brussels' comic book heritage than a through a visit to the  Belgian Comic Strip Center , a museum entirely devoted to the subject, housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building in the very centre of the city? Its regularly updated permanent exhibitions and extensive programme of temporary exhibitions invite you to discover the many facets of comics. Join Tintin and Co on an adventure!

7. The birth of Europe at the House of European History

A wonderful green setting in a particularly dense and urbanised area, the Leopold Park is home to some prestigious buildings - the Eggevoord Tower, Solvay Library and the former Georges Eastman Dental Institute, which now houses the  House of European History . As a space for learning, reflection and debate, the museum presents the history of Europe in a way that highlights to visitors the diversity of perspectives and interpretations. Like the Parlamentarium, the House of European History is open 7 days a week and admission is free .

House of European History, as seen from Leopold Park

8. An exhibition or concert at Bozar

As vast as it is unsuspected, this palace of fine arts occupies a building designed by one of Belgium's architectural masters: Victor Horta , the undisputed leader of the Art Nouveau style . It's a multidisciplinary space dedicated to the arts in the broadest sense: exhibitions, dance, concerts, cinema, etc. The  Centre for Fine Arts , known for some years now by its generic name Bozar , is renowned for its famous Henry Le Boeuf concert hall with remarkable acoustics, which hosts the final of the Queen Elisabeth Competition.

9. The history of the Belgian railways at Train World

Opened in 2015 in the old Schaerbeek train station , which remains partially active, this veritable temple to the train boasts a breathtaking and contemporary scenography by François Schuiten . Dedicated to the history of the Belgian railways , the museum is housed in a group of buildings that combine old heritage and new construction. It presents historical vehicles, objects, photos, text and audiovisual archives, etc. Did you know that the history of the railways in Belgium goes back a very long way, it’s almost as old as Belgium itself! It’s time you paid  Train World  a visit, there’s so much to learn!

La Douce, the mythical locomotive at Train World

10. The Art and History Museum, for lovers of ancient civilisations and customs

An institution without which Cinquantenaire Park would be very different, the  Art and History Museum  is part of the larger Royal Museums of Art and History. The museum's collections are astonishingly diverse... At the Art & History Museum, you'll cross the continents from prehistory to the 20th century. Prehistoric flints, Egyptian mummies and other ancient artifacts, impressive medieval tapestries, Buddhas, a collection of Belgian Art Nouveau... come and marvel at this grandiose museum! The surrounding park also offers you the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, and even to visit two more museums —  Autoworld  and the  Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History  - if you fancy it.

Practical information

Royal museums of fine arts of belgium.

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium assemble six different museums: the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Meunier Museum, Wiertz Museum, Magritte Museum and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Halfway between sculpture and architecture, the Atomium was designed and built for the Brussels World's Fair (1958), for which it was the flagship building and emblem. Representing an iron unit cell (9 iron atoms) magnified 165 billion times, the monument with its unique silhouette has, over time, grown to become the symbol of Brussels and Belgium. On the inside the Atomium offers, not just the most beautiful view of Brussels, but also an entirely astounding and surreal ride through its interior spaces and volumes which alone makes a visit worth it. The Atomium ticket automatically includes the entrance to the Design Museum Brussels (150m away).

Atomium

Mini-Europe

The whole of Europe animated in miniature! Be amazed! Mini-Europe is a park featuring all the wonders of Europe, in miniature. Bonsai trees, flowery groves and dwarf trees embellish the 350 monuments which have been reproduced at scale 1/25. Thousands of lifelike figurines and animations! Set off the eruption of the Vesuvius and admire the takeoff of the Ariane rocket. The two hour walk, which is both entertaining and educational, will let you (re)discover the 27 member states of the European Union and the United Kingdom, their historical, architectural and cultural wealth This establishment has been awarded the Brussels Health Safety Label

Mini-Europe

Institute of Natural Sciences

The Institute of Natural Sciences: a great day out, naturally! In the largest Dinosaur Gallery in Europe, you can meet the famous Bernissart Iguanodons, T.rex, Triceratops, Diplodocus, and 34 other species. But that’s not all! The Earth is swarming with life - rediscover it in the new Gallery, Living Planet, through an aesthetic, family-friendly and scientific approach to biodiversity. Learn about the human body and how we evolved in the Gallery of Humankind and go back in time in the Gallery of Evolution. You can also find out about urban species in BiodiverCITY, discover 250 years of the history of Natural Sciences through 14 iconic specimens, beware of the kings of the Cretaceous seas in the Mosasaur Hall or admire the magnificent crystals in the Mineral Hall. And last but not least, don't miss the temporary exhibitions and all the activities of the Educational Service: more information at www.naturalsciences.be.

Institute of Natural Sciences

Parlamentarium

Please note! The Parlamentarium will be closed on 24, 25 and 31 December 2023 and on 1 January 2024. Have you ever wondered how the European Union works and how it affects your daily life? The Parlamentarium has it covered! Thanks to its interactive tools like a 360° cinema, a role play game for students and a giant interactive floor map, you’ll learn everything there is to know about the European Parliament. Discover the path that led to today’s European Union and what Members of the European Parliament are doing to tackle Europe’s biggest challenges. * Free * Available in 24 languages * Book online : see practical information

Parlamentarium

Comic Strip Museum (Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée)

A world full of comics An accomplished attraction located in the heart of Brussels, the Comics Art Museum has been honouring the creators and heroes of the 9th Art for 30 years. The regularly renewed permanent exhibitions and a diversified programme of temporary exhibitions enable visitors to discover the countless aspects of comics art. Famous characters lead the way towards new adventures, an encounter with a world where creativity has no limits. Enhanced by an exceptional Art Nouveau home designed by Victor Horta, the Comics Art Museum is just as much a tribute to the pioneers as a glimpse of contemporary comics art.

Comic Strip Museum  (Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée)

House of European History

Please note! Closed on 24, 25 and 31 December 2023 and on 1 January 2024. Get ready for a journey like no other! The permanent exhibition begins with the myth of the goddess Europa, exploring Europe’s ancient roots and the continent’s heritage of shared traditions, before Europe’s dramatic journey towards modernity in the 19th century and rebuilding process following World War II. A multimedia guide in 24 languages gives you new ways to interact with the exhibition, while special activities and Family Discovery Spaces allow children to grasp the story of Europe. Located next to the European Parliament in a striking Art Deco building in Parc Léopold, the House of European History is an essential part of any tour of the city. * Free * Available in 24 languages * Book online: See practical information

House of European History

Centre for Fine Arts - Bozar

It’s impossible to talk about culture in Belgium without mentioning the Centre for Fine Arts located in Brussels. Whether it comes to exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, movies or projects concerning literature and architecture, BOZAR will always put originality and innovation first. They prove to keep a finger on the pulse with their varied and sophisticated programme. Besides emphasizing the importance of creation, quality and a rich artistic offering, BOZAR is especially concerned about the total experience of the visitors.

Centre for Fine Arts - Bozar

Train World

Train World is a unique railway experience that takes you from the very first steam locomotives to the flashing high-speed trains! It is a universe that appeals to all the senses in order to grasp the many different dimensions of the railways. A visit to Train World is an active and surprising outing. You can walk among locomotives, take a seat in 100-year-old trains, visit a railway house and walk across a real railway bridge. You will even experience how it feels to drive a train!

Train World

Art & History Museum (RMAH)

Embark on a fascinating journey through art and history! Come and stroll among the prehistoric flints and Egyptian mummies, walk between the ancient glasses and stand back to contemplate the impressive medieval tapestries. Immerse yourself in the oriental world as you pass Asian Buddhas and travel to the other side of the world to see a gigantic statue from Easter Island. You still have to admire the magnificent collection of Belgian Art Nouveau... The Art & History Museum is part of the Royal Museums of Art and History (RMAH) that also cover the Musical Instruments Museum (MIM), Halle Gate and the Museums of the Far East (currently closed for renovation).

Art & History Museum (RMAH)

10 must-visit Art Nouveau houses and mansions in Brussels

At the end of the 19 th  century, Victor Horta broke with the dominant, traditional architectural styles in Brussels, giving birth to the iconic Art Nouveau genre. Along the streets of our capital, numerous houses and mansions bear witness to the emergence and blossoming of this unprecedented style.

Belgium Itinerary: 7 Days in the Heart of Europe!

travel muze belgium

If you are about to plan a trip to Belgium, you are lucky my friend! You have just found the best Belgium itinerary there is! I’ve obviously had my humble pie this morning, so let’s get on with it.

How many days to visit Belgium, you ask? Well, in my opinion, one week is the sweet spot . At least, that's what worked for us—we were able to cover all the important stuff and still have some time to indulge in the occasional waffle without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

Belgium is home to amazing monuments, the best museums in the world, and, most importantly, premium-class beer! Already hooked on the idea of spending a lovely week in Belgium?

But before you start frantically packing and searching for cheap flight tickets , take a deep breath and read Belgium Travel Tips: 19 Things That Will Make Your Trip Easier . Once you are an expert on traveling across Belgium, you can look at this itinerary day by day:

Day 1 : Brussels (sleep in Brussels) Day 2 : More of Brussels (sleep in Brussels) Day 3 : Ghent (sleep in Brussels) Day 4 : Bruges (sleep in Bruges) Day 5 : Bruges (sleep in Antwerp) Day 6 : Antwerp (sleep in Antwerp) Day 7 : Leuven (sleep in Antwerp)

You could also be interested in reading:

  • 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)

Day 1 of Belgium Itinerary: Brussels

Map of day 1 Belgium itinerary

See the route of today’s itinerary on Google Maps  

Main sites visited on day 1: Grand Place and Brussels Town Hall + City Museum, Manneken Pis, Mont des Arts, Parc de Bruxelles, Palais de Bruxelles, Parlamentarium Restaurant tips : Nüetnigenough | Wolf Food Market | Le Rendez-Vous des Artistes Hotel recommendations : Radisson Red Further reading : Belgium in a Nutshell |   7 Day Trips from Brussels | 19 Things to Do in Brussels

Day 1—Brussels—stop 1: Grand Place and Brussels Town Hall + City Museum

People walking around the busy Grand Place in Brussels, best place in Brussels

Grand Place in Brussels  

Right off the bat, let's cross the top thing to see in Brussels off your list . The main square of Brussels Grote Markt (Grand Place) is simply overwhelming and gold! The buildings around the square are decorated with golden ornaments and the place just feels too fancy to be there !

The most eye-catching thing and the crown jewel of the square is of course the gothic Town Hall with its insanely detailed facade . The tower will get your attention already before you enter the square, because it's crazy high . And it made its own architect crazy!

Fun fact : Once you're there, focus on the Town Hall's tower. After a while, you'll notice that the tower is not in the center as it probably should be. Legend says when the architect realized that, after it was already built of course, it made him insane, and he jumped from the top of the bloody tower. Well, I probably shouldn’t have called it fun fact ... But you can see a little star on the ground, in the spot where he fell.  

Visiting Grand Place and the Townhall in Brussels—Belgium itinerary

Me before entering the Brussels City Museum  

After you've spent some time spinning around getting dizzy trying to see all the fancy-shmancy buildings on the main square, you can actually step inside one of them. At the Brussels City Museum , you can delve into the city's rich history, or just be astonished again and again by the building's architecture, this time from inside the neo-Gothic Maison du Roi.

  • Brussels City Museum
  • Opening hours : Tuesday to Sunday 10 am–5 pm
  • Tickets : €10

Tip : Do you already fancy eating the most delicious Belgian fries in Brussels ? They are just around the corner! You can get some of the best fries in the city in Fritland —the name, I know. And people know it! So, be ready to wait in line for them. But trust me, it'll be worth it. Don't forget to get andalouse sauce or mayo with it!

Day 1—Brussels—stop 2: Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis statue and fountain in Brussels

Well, there it is, Brussels’ pride and joy.  

You can skip this stop, if you want. I know you probably won't, since you're already in Brussels and he’s like the most important dude in town, I'm just saying that Manneken Pis is a little underwhelming. Pun intended.

It's probably the most famous stop in the city and I just don’t get it. IT'S A BOY WHO PEES , for Christ's sake! And it’s not even the original one. You can see the original in the Brussels City Museum at Grote Markt. And sometimes, like during holidays, you can see him wearing one of his costumes—he's quite the fashionista and gets gifted outfits from state visitors.  

Manneken Pis statue in Brussels wearing various costumes

Here are some of his favorite costumes, all with a convenient pee-hole  

What is so impressive about it? Maybe the fact that it survived all those hundreds of years there . The statue was first installed in 1620 and had a harsh life. It survived bombardments, repeated theft and getting broken into pieces and being re-welded. But that's all.

Equality rules the world, so you can see also a girl peeing !   Jaenneke Pis is a young lady just doing her thing in one of the small streets in Delirium Village—a place with few pubs, where you can stop for a nice pint of delicious Belgian beer . Or would you like to see a Zinneke Pis ? A peeing dog? I mean, Belgians what is this kink about? For real!

Day 1—Brussels—stop 3: Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts in Brussels at sunset

The Mont des Arts (“hill of arts”) is pretty nice at sunset  

Just a few minutes from the Manneken Pis is s omething more interesting than peeing kids and animals—Mont des Arts . The hill of arts (its literal translation) is a huge and beautiful garden bounded by even more beautiful buildings such as the Royal Library or the Congress Palace .

Mont des Arts is an urban complex, that used to connect the guys and gals from lower-class areas with sirs and madams of the upper-class areas. Perfect place to relax for a bit or watch a wonderful sunset.

Day 1—Brussels—stop 4: Parc de Bruxelles + Palais de Bruxelles

Brussels Royal Palace, things to do in Brussels

There’s royal business being discussed in there, psst!  

The Royal Palace is obviously where the monarchy sits and where all royal business takes place. The monarchy does not live there (they reside at the Castle of Laeken out by the Atomium), but all the important royal people have their offices there.

Tip: The oldest royal palace still in use in Europe is the Royal Alcazar in Sevilla, Spain . The monarchy actually does reside there when they are in the city, but when they aren’t, you’re free to visit even some of the bedrooms! Check out our guide to Sevilla to find out more. 

As you can imagine, the interior is fabulously elegant and regal in every manner. It’s like a fairytale castle but within an actual working kingdom . But now as of March 2023, it won't open the doors to public the whole year due to renovations. The opening is scheduled for the next summer of 2024.

When we visited in the rare time the Royal Palace was open, we guided ourselves down the organized path through different rooms. It takes about 45 minutes, and entrance is free .   

Parc de Bruxelles—Belgium itinerary

Parc de Bruxelles  

Nowadays, you can walk around the exterior and enjoy a nice walk through the Parc de Bruxelles right next to it. You’ll be browsing down the cobblestone streets with your head up higher that the Belgium flag waving on the top of the Palace feeling like a true royalty.

  • The Royal Palace of Brussels
  • Opening times: closed for renovation works in 2023! (otherwise open from July 21st until September)
  • Entrance: free

Day 1—Brussels—stop 5: Parlamentarium

Parlamentarium, Visitors’ Centre in Brussels—Belgium itinerary

European Parliament Visitors Center  

As probably everyone knows, the residency of the European Parliament is in Brussels. And when I stepped foot into the visitors’ center of the European Parliament, I was like a little kid in a candy store.

You learn all about the interesting history and milestones of the European Union in the most interesting and interactive exhibitions. I mean I loved the EU before this, but after this visit, I am head over heels. So, if you don’t like the EU, you won't probably enjoy it as I did, and I also think you are stupid . Looking at you, UK.  

Visiting the Parlamentratium at the European Parliament in Brussels—Belgium itinerary

The visitors’ center at the European Parliament is called Parlamentarium . We loved it!  

You have to book your visit time online , it’s quick and easy to do. There is no ticket desk or anything like that, the Parlamentarium is waiting there inviting you in with its arms wide opened . Make sure you have at least 1.5 hours to see it all. I dare you not to like it there. 

It's open daily, fully accessible, free of charge and the multimedia guides are available in all EU languages (including sign languages). Now that’s welcoming . Oh, and the staff are lovely. 

  • Parlamentarium
  • Opening time: Mondays 1 pm–6 pm, Tuesday to Friday 9 am–6 pm, weekends 10 am–6 pm
  • Entrance: free, but you need to book a time online beforehand

Hotel in 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.

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. And the Wi-Fi was surprisingly fast.

This place is overall super cool and what's important for me, has delicious breakfast! I've enjoyed the food there very much. 

Day 2 of Belgium Itinerary: More of Brussels

Map of day 2 Belgium itinerary

Main sites visited on day 2: Atomium, Mini Europe, Sacre Coeur Restaurant tips : Nüetnigenough | Wolf Food Market | Le Rendez-Vous des Artistes Hotel recommendations : Radisson Red Further reading : 19 Belgium Travel Tips |  7 Day Trips from Brussels | 19 Things to Do in Brussels

Day 2—Brussels—stop 1: Atomium

The exterior and staircase of the Atomium, top thing to do in Brussels

The escalator even has a light show going on. It’s like a trip to Space Mountain!  

The Atomium is a notoriously known monument on the outskirts of Brussels. The famous giant steel atom became an iconic symbol of the city and from the temporary main pavilion for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair it is now a permanent mark on the travel map.

You can visit the inside of the atom, but honestly, I think the outside is the main draw. Entrance is allowed into 5 of the 8 spheres containing exhibits , a restaurant, a gift shop and a light & sound display. The very top orb is a viewing platform 92 m (300 ft) above ground accessible by an elevator. There are escalators inside the bonds that move you around the structure, it's all so futuristic and sci-fi like ! I've felt like Darth Vader wandering around Death Star.

To check it all out, half an hour should be enough.  

Visiting the Atomium in Brussels—Belgium itinerary

I loved the Atomium!  

But more than the interior the actual structure is the main attraction there . For me it was extraordinary as I was standing next to it, one of the top 5 modern structures in Europe for sure.

Its popularity only means one thing— lines so long that you visibly age to the point young people start offering you their seat on the bus after standing there. Save your soul and buy your tickets online before you go. If you want to buy a combination ticket for our next stop, Mini Europe, as well, you unfortunately can buy those only on the spot. Enjoy the line!

  • Opening times: daily 10am–6pm
  • Tickets: €16 online , combination ticket with Mini Europe €29.40

Day 2—Brussels—stop 2: Mini Europe

Mini-Europe in Brussels—Belgium itinerary

Mini-Europe  

Right next to the Atomium is an attraction I like even more! Mini-Europe is exactly that, small version of Europe . Have you ever wanted to travel all across Europe? You can do that in a matter of hours!

In Mini-Europe you can see miniature models of important monuments and popular places from European countries. Some more than others. My favorites were Nyhavn (Denmark), Dinant and the Grand Place (Belgium) and Dover Castle (UK). Speaking of which, yes, the UK is still represented, but nicely divided with a line showing that you are leaving the EU. Clever and sarcastic, my favorite way of telling people how dumb they are .

There are plenty of gardens, bridges and rivers you’ll discover on your walk feeling like a giant visitor to a regular-sized continent with all the little people there. It just can't get old! We visited without kids and spent 4 hours there.

Tip: If little worlds are your thing, get your behind over to Hamburg in Germany. Their Miniatur Wunderland was my favorite place in the entire, cool city! See photos and a description of my excitement in my Hamburg article .

The models are true works of art. But be careful where you step! The miniatures are way more expensive than you would think—€70k+ per structure! Just Brussels Grand Place came to a total of €350k. You don’t want to stumble over one of the towers, that would turn your stay in an expensive vacation in a second.

  • Mini-Europe
  • Opening time: daily 9:30 am–6 pm (until 7 pm in July and August)
  • Tickets: €17.30 online or combination ticket with Atomium €29.40

Day 2—Brussels—stop 3: Sacre Coeur

Sacre Coeur in Brussels—Belgium itinerary

Sacre Coeur  

The churches in Brussels are all beautiful . Unfortunately, they're also all pretty similar. At least to me, a church is a church. You can admire more of them on your walks through the city, but right now I want to show you this specific one.

The Sacre Coeur is the national basilica, a 1-hour walk or 30-minute subway ride from Mini-Europe (or, you know, taxi’s are a thing). It’s huge and absolutely overwhelming. There is a spacious park next to it with a Godiva Chocolate Outlet on the other end of it. Just sayin’ .  

Sacre Coeur Panorama view—Belgium itinerary

Sacre Coeur Panorama view  

You can pay €8 to enter the Panorama, a viewing platform located right under the dome. Then you can look towards the center of Brussels down the green avenue of the basilica’s park and it’s pretty amazing. Without the Panorama, there is no entrance fee.

Tip : If you have some spare time after today's trips and still enough energy, you can visit one of many museums in Brussels . Belgians really know what they are doing, their museums are perfect! I'm a huge museum geek so you can take my word for it! More of an art and galleries fan? Check out BOZAR art center.

Day 3 of Belgium Itinerary: Ghent

Map of day 3 Belgium itinerary

Main sites visited on day 3: St Michael’s Bridge and Church, Graslei, Vridajmarkt, Ghent Town Hall, St. Nicholas Church Restaurant tips : ‘t koningshuis | Chapeluur | Bridge Hotel recommendations : Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Further reading : 12 Things to Do in Ghent | 7 Day Trips from Brussels | 12 Best Places in Belgium

Ghent is a perfectly-sized city for a one-day visit. In a few hours, you could see all the important and noticeable tourist attractions. To get there is even easier. As everywhere in Belgium, you get there quickly, comfortably and cheaply by train .

From Brussels it’s a swift 30-minute trip; you’ll arrive at Ghent Sint Peters train station. You can leave your luggage at the station , unless you decide to spend the night in one of the hotels around the the city center . I think it’s better to treat Ghent as a day trip from Brussels .

Day 3—Ghent—stop 1: St Michael’s Bridge and Church

St.Michael’s Church and the bridge in Ghent—Belgium itinerary

Interesting building of St. Michael's Church and me in front of St. Michael's Bridge  

The best thing to do in Ghent is strolling through the city with waffles in one hand and a phone or camera to take pictures with in the other. Our walk starts at St. Michael’s Bridge.

It's a perfect spot to check out what is ahead of you today. You get a fantastic view and even better photos of the city from the bridge as you see Graslei, the old fish market and St. Michael’s Church. In the distance, you’ll even catch a glimpse of Gravensteen. And it’s apparently the only spot from which you can take a photo with all three of Ghent’s towers in it.

Don't stare at the St Michael's Church only from the outside. Go in and check out a bunch of art in there. Entrance is free, so why not?

Day 3—Ghent—stop 2: Graslei

The buildings of Graslei with people hanging out by the river

There’s nothing to do in Graslei but chill out by the river, and that’s fine by me  

The next stop is an area and not one particular place. Graslei (Grass Market) is a street running alongside the river . The perfectly preserved old port houses serve as restaurants or cafés. This was my favorite place in Ghent, and you can take a boat tour there. You can check out the city from different perspectives on you 40-minute sightseeing cruise with beautiful views as bonus!

Ghent is a university city, so there is no doubt you'll see a bunch of young people just sitting there right on the pavement enjoying a nice talk with beers or something good from a local frituur . Feel free to do what the locals do!

Tip : Frituur Bij Filip serves the best fries with stew in town!

Day 3—Ghent—stop 3: Vridajmarkt

The statue at Vrijdagmarkt in Ghent Belgium

To the market!  

You can probably guess what Vridajmarkt means—ust use your linguistic imagination a little bit. It's literally “the Friday Market”, and it has been taking place on the square since the 12 th century!

It used to be the center of the city for both joyous celebrations and dark executions. Don’t worry, you won’t see any chopped off heads there nowadays. You can buy yourself some nice souvenirs instead!

Day 3—Ghent—stop 4: Ghent Town Hall

The two types of façade of the Ghent town hall

Believe it or not, both of these photos are of the same building  

As you will travel through Belgium, you will notice that in every city, the most ostentatious and noble buildings are town halls. The one in Ghent is no different. However, there is something extraordinary about it.

I’ve never seen a more schizophrenic place than Ghent Town Hall on Botermarkt. It just can’t make up its mind! Is it Gothic, is it Renaissance? It's both! The two wings of the Town Hall are built in different architectural styles and different decades of the 16th century. But it sounds more dramatic if you pretend it’s just one building that can’t decide who it is.

You can visit the Town Hall as part of a guided tour only. We just stared at it from the outside , which was just enough.

Day 3—Ghent—stop 5: St. Nicholas Church

St. Nicholas Church interior and exterior, top place in Ghent Belgium

Saint Nicholas Church  

The dominant of the city is waiting for you on Korenmarkt. Saint Nicholas Church is built out of Tournai bluestone. If you try really hard and focus, you’ll maybe notice the slight blue tint of its façade .

It is one of the three towers of Ghent (the other two are the Belfry and Saint Bavo's you can check them out too). When you get inside, the interior is beautiful and... churchy . Not much to keep you there for more than a few minutes.

Day 3—Ghent—bonus stop: Gravensteen

Gravensteen castle

Look at that handsome castle  

If you still have a minute to spare while visiting Ghent, go admire this extremely cool castle. It's 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.

You can buy tickets in advance and visit the inside of it. If you don’t, you can’t go in. And that’s what happened to us. But you are smarter than us and thanks to my on-point advice you wouldn’t make the same mistake.

  • Gravensteen official website
  • Opening times: daily 10 am–6 pm, last entrance at 4:40 pm 
  • Tickets: €12, buy them in advance  

Day 4 of Belgium Itinerary: Bruges

Map of day 4 Belgium itinerary

Main sites visited on day 4: Grote Markt, Bruges City Hall, Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges Beer Experience Restaurant tips : De Gastro | Otto Waffle Atelier | Bistro Christophe Hotel recommendations : Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce Further reading : 9 Best Restaurants in Belgium | Best Food and Beer |  13 Best Places in Bruges

To Bruges, you will get once again handy by train. Its station “Brugge” is located on the edge of the center that is bordered by a river ring. My recommendation is that you take a walk from the station to the northern part of the water ring, where Lovers' Bridge is, and start your sightseeing there.

The canals flowing around the city center give the place a very romantic and movie-like atmosphere . And of course, very Instagram-friendly. The sightseeing you will do today should be documented under all circumstances !  

The facades of the buildings in Market Square in Bruges Belgium

Grote Markt delightfulness  

Day 4—Bruges—stop 1: City center + Belfry

The Belfry in Bruges from far away and close up

Bruges’ pretty bell tower  

The tour starts in the center of the center Market Square (Grote Markt) and Burg Square and continue with their fantastic buildings—like Belfry, that stands out amongst.

It's a medieval bell tower, which is one of the UNESCO sites and is a very popular place to visit in Bruges. You know what that means, Ghent Gravensteen mistake happening all over again! We haven't booked our tickets in advance and were left outside. Boohoo! The lesson here? Under any circumstances, don’t forget to book the tickets in advance.

  • Belfry official website
  • Opening times: daily 9 am– 8 pm
  • Tickets: €14 and need to be bought in advance  

The Bruges City Hall, Belgium itinerary

The breathtaking Bruges City Hall  

The Bruges City Hall with its impressive Gothic Hall is again one of many breathtaking Belgian city halls and one of the oldest in the Benelux countries. You can admire its gothic-ness inside and out—there is a museum in the City Hall with original artifacts and paintings depicting the administrative history of Bruges.

  • Stadhuis official website
  • Opening time: 9:30 am–5 pm
  • Tickets: €7

Day 4—Bruges—stop 2: Basilica of the Holy Blood

The Basilica of the Holy Blood exterior in Bruges Belgium

The outside of the basilica is more interesting than the inside. I’m not even going to mention the stained cloth that is supposedly holy.  

Basilica of the Holy Blood is a small church with a “real” bit of Jesus’ blood-stained cloth (yeah sure, like the man-size Jesus print on another old and revered piece of fabric in Turin ). Just reading the stories and the attempts to prove if it's real or fake is quite amusing.

You can probably guess I’m not buying into the mumbo jumbo . But the basilica itself is quite nice, more from outside rather than inside, honestly. You can come see the holy blood cloth or whatever that is for free every Friday around lunch and then again in the afternoon.

Anyway, thanks again to the Catholic Church for letting us admire some nice architecture for free . They never disappoint.

Day 4—Bruges—stop 3: Bruges Beer Experience

What you should know about Bruges is that they know their beer ! I’m a huge beer enthusiast, as I should be, coming from Czechia. When I learned about Bruges Beer Experience there was no doubt, I was doing that!

The Bruges Beer Experience was surprisingly interactive and so fun. You get a tablet and headphones and can be on your way. It tells you all the stories of various types of beers, their history and how they are made. There’s even a kid’s version available !  

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

Left: Smell some hops and become a beer expert! Right: Taste some beer and become a beer expert! @ Bruges Beer Experience  

The first beer that comes out is, in fact, much fruitier. And then there are a myriad other different types and tastes that are superb quality , all trumping the poor lager. Something that a typical Czech beer drinker wouldn’t even dream of being true.

Just make sure you always drink the right beer from the right glass, otherwise you’ll be publicly humiliated and shunned from Bruges. Not really, but the looks you get would feel like that for sure. At the end of the tour, you get a tasting of 3 (strong!) beers , which, if you hadn’t been in a good mood before, will solidify your good experience of the Beer Experience.

It’ll all take about 3 hours. 

Get your tickets online in advance . Lockers are available.

You can visit the tasting room even if you don’t take the tour. 

  • Bruges Beer Experience
  • Opening times: daily 10 am–6 pm (last entry 1 hour before closing)
  • Tickets: €12 without a beer tasting, €18 with a tasting  

Hotel in Bruges

photos of Realis Bourgondisch Cruyce in Bruges

This one sits right on the calas 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.

Day 5 of Belgium Itinerary: More of Bruges

Map of day 5 Belgium itinerary

Main sites visited on day 5: Boat tour, Choco Story Museum, Sint-Janhuismolen, De Halve Maan brewery Restaurant tips : De Gastro | Otto Waffle Atelier | Bistro Christophe Hotel recommendations : Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce Further reading :  13 Best Places in Bruges | 7 Day Trips from Brussels | 12 Best Places in Belgium

To experience Bruges without day trippers, you've stayed overnight. Smart choice! Now all well-rested and excited about what's ahead of you, let's start the second day in Bruges.

Day 5—Bruges—stop 1: Boat tour

Sceneries from the boat canal tour of Bruges, including the back door of the hospital

And here on the left, the cholera door  

And I have an ideal activity ready for you. Want to see Bruges being woken up by the rising sun ? Hop on board and take a boat tour through the city!

A little boat takes you through the canals of Bruges and the multi-language guide tells you all about the history and interesting stories of Bruges. Like cholera door in St. John's hospital . You see, they used to throw dead bodies in canals... People who died from disease like cholera. Were thrown into the river flowing through the city... Never mind .

The boat tour will take you about 35 minutes . Every company does the same route, so don’t overthink it and just get on any one you happen to like the departure time of. Prepare €12 per person and enjoy the ride .

Day 5—Bruges—stop 2: Choco Story Museum

Woman demonstrating chocolate production in Choco Story Museum in Bruges

You pour the chocolate here and then press this button here…  

Now a stop that’s a little yummier than a cholera door, are you ready? We visited Choco Story Museum in Brussels , and we LOVED it. So why not again in Bruges? There is never enough chocolate! Your life can't be that sweet.

You can buy your ticket in advance , but beware it is not a fast pass. You still have to stand in line with the ticket-less folks since you all need an audio guide anyway. You just save time for paying for your tickets. I noticed that this got a few people a little frustrated , especially since the lines do tend to get long, especially over the weekends. So, buy them or don’t, it makes not that much of a difference.

There’s a one-way trail through the museum that’ll take you about 1.5 hours to complete. 

  • Choco Story Brugge official website
  • Opening time? daily 10 am–5 pm (last ticket sales at 4 pm)
  • Tickets: €11

Day 5—Bruges—stop 3: Bruges windmills

The windmills of Bruges, Belgium itinerary

Sint-Janshuismill  

The wooden windmills of Bruges are all located between the Dampoort and the Kruispoort , which is a roughly 1 km (0.6 mile) stretch along the ramparts in the north east “corner” of the Bruges town circle. 

But only one of the four windmills is in its original spot—Sint-Janshuismill, and only one is a cute pink color with a parrot on its roof—Nieuwe Papegaai. And only one, again the Sint-Janshuismill is accessible inside as well and serves as a museum. Oh, and one more! Only one of the mills is still used to grind flour. Yep, you guessed it, it’s Sint-Janshuismill. 

The windmills are tiny, so if you are up for a little walk, accept them as a welcome anomaly that you don’t see in your everyday life. Nothing more, nothing less. 

  • Sint-Janshuismill official website
  • Opening time: Tuesday to Sunday 9:30 am–12:30 pm and 1:30 pm–5 pm
  • Tickets: €4

Day 5—Bruges—stop 4: De Halve Maan brewery tour

From the De Halve Maan brewery tour in Bruges Belgium

The unfiltered Brugse Zot, the beer pipe and part of the brewery tour  

And let's end the day pleasantly again, alright? In a nice historical building with historical building smells, narrow winding staircases and old production secrets waiting to be told.

You can take a 45-minute tour through the brewery to learn some of them. Most importantly though, you’ll learn about the history of this family business .

We enjoyed the tour so much. I'm a simple man. When I'm entertained and get a free beer, I'm happy. Simple as that. Our guide was entertaining and informative at the same time. The tour ends on the brewery roof where you get not only a free beer, but a fantastic view of Bruges, and—you guessed it (if you read the previous item on the list)—the Belfry.  

A view from the roof of the De Halve Maan brewery, Belgium itinerary

Tip: The unfiltered Brugse Zot can only be bought at De Halve Maan brewery. It was fab. Book in advance. There are 4 English language tours per day . 

  • De Halve Maan Brewery official website
  • Opening time: daily 11 am–5 pm, Saturdays 10 am–6 pm. Tours in English run 4x a day. Check times in the online reservation tool . 
  • Tickets: €15 for the standard 45-minute tour, €24 with an additional beer tasting at the end . Book online in advance to secure a spot.  

Day 6 of Belgium Itinerary: Antwerp

Map of day 6 Belgium itinerary

Main sites visited on day 6: Antwerp Centraal, Grote Markt, Het Steen, MAS Restaurant tips : The Jane | Sir Anthony Van Dijck Hotel recommendations : Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp Further reading : 19 Belgium Travel Tips | 7 Day Trips from Brussels | 12 Best Places in Belgium

Day 6—Antwerp—stop 1: Antwerp Centraal

Antwerp Centraal Train Station is a destination in itself!  

Today, you’ll pack your bags and take a 1.5-hour train ride from Bruges to Antwerpen-Centraal. It is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world , at least from what I've seen! When you step out of a train, you will be astonished by the golden details, huge clock and a big, weird silver thing.

At first, I thought it was a dove, but then I realized it was a hand ! Once you know that the hand is a symbol of legend of how Antwerp was founded, you will see it everywhere. Antwerp Centraal is right in the city center , so you can just walk out and start sightseeing when you’re done taking too many photos of the domed ceilings.

Day 6—Antwerp—stop 2: Grote Markt

Antwerp is a super-rich city, which you will pick up on during your walk seeing all the houses in all the squares covered in gold .

For example, you get to Grote Markt after 20 minutes of walking from the station. The City Hall— here we go again —with its elaborate façade and beautiful decorations once again star of the show. But this time, something else tries to steal the spotlight.

Brabo's Monument in the middle of the Grote Markt is iconic fountain/statue which made think for a while and then ask myself a question “What the hell is that?!” It's the legend again! Brabo—the naked jacked fella —is throwing a hand, it took me a while. Maybe because of the three beers I had in one of the cafés while staring at the fountain. Who knows...

Right around the corner is the Cathedral of Our Lady . It’s a church with a spectacular white interior, that tower you can see from all over the city, and Rubens’ works on display. That’s because Antwerp is also where famed artist Peter Paul Rubens lived and created. Go pay his old digs a visit at Rubens House , which he apparently built himself. It is now a museum and gallery. 

Day 6—Antwerp—stop 3: Het Steen

Het Steen in Antwerp—Belgium itinerary

Don’t forget to make a short stop at Het Steen. The centuries-old fortress is one of the oldest monuments in Antwerp. Nowadays, it serves as a museum and visitor center. You can also get one of the best views of Antwerp from its panoramic terrace. It can be visited for free, so don’t hesitate to climb it up and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Day 6—Antwerp—stop 4: MAS (Museum aan de Stroom)

Museum aan de Stroom in Antwerp—Belgium itinerary

Museum aan de Stroom, better known simply as MAS , is a museum in an iconic building that opened its doors in 2011. Compared to other monuments in Antwerp, it's definitely one of the newer sights, but it ain't no underdog ! It swiftly became one of the most visited and known places in the city.

MAS offers exhibitions, both permanent and temporary, with diverse collections. You can see Belgian art, learn about history and different cultures.

In case the exhibitions are not exactly your pint of beer— you see what I did there —you should visit MAS anyways. You can explore the 10 floors of the museum for free, comparing the views of the city on every one of them. You need a ticket only to enter the exhibitions.

Just wait until you get to the roof—you can see all of Antwerp from there! But don’t just stare out into the distance and focus on the ground in front of MAS—look for the hidden artwork in the shape of a skull. Cool right ?  

Hotel in Antwerp

Interior of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp

One look at the photos of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp and I'm immediately in zen again.  

In a nutshell, Antwerp is super cool . You’d be missing out if you only spent part of a day here, because, unlike, say, Bruges, there is fantastic nightlife in Antwerp. Stop by at De Muze , have a glass(es) of beer, listen to some good live jazz music and call it a night. Where?

If you can stay at the 5-star Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp , you’ll be doing yourself a favor. The word ‘sanctuary’ in its name is there for a reason! The indoor pool oozes tranquility and there is a gym and a fantastic spa with numerous treatments available. Not only that—it has not one but several Michelin-recognized facilities and chefs on site.  

Day 7 of Belgium Itinerary: Leuven

Map of day 7 Belgium itinerary

Main sites visited on day 7: Stadhuis, St Peter's church, M Leuven, Groot Begijnhof, Arenberg Castle & Park Restaurant tips : Taste | dewerf Further reading : Belgium in a Nutshell | 19 Belgium Travel Tips | Top 15 Museums in Belgium

After a busy week in Belgium, the last day trip won't be as exhausting as the previous ones might have been. To get to Leuven, just hop on the train and you're there. Only a 1-hour ride from Antwerp will get you to this famous university town.

Leave your luggage at the train station’s left luggage facilities and you’re as free as a bird!

Day 7—Leuven—stop 1: City center

Leuven city center, Belgium itinerary

Leuven townhall  

The most iconic building in Leuven is once again its town hall. It's the finest work of gothic art with very detailed façade and stonework with turrets. The dominant of Leuven Grote Markt is historical Stadhuis with more than 230 statues all over the walls. The inside of the Town Hall is no less astonishing. You can visit it on a guided tour.

Just a few steps from Stadhuis another fancy gothic building decided to rise in front of you—St. Peter's Church is there to mesmerize you, show off its art collection, and leave a mark. Feel free to drop your jaw both outside and inside of the church.

Day 7—Leuven—stop 2: M Leuven

: The M in Leuven museum, Belgium itinerary

M in Leuven  

I'm not sure if I stressed this fact enough in this Belgium itinerary, but the best museums I've ever been to are basically all in Belgium . We museum–ed the hell out of this country , so now we are smarter than ever—didn't even know that's possible. Even though I'm mostly a history museum geek, the M art museum in Leuven deserved my attention.

The museum's collection is diverse and includes old pieces of art as well as a few contemporary art exhibits. On top of this art experience that will appease the desires of your inner snob , you get panoramic views of the city from its freely accessible rooftop.

  • M Leuven official website
  • Opening hours: Friday to Tuesday 11 am–6 pm, Thursday 11 am–10 pm
  • Tickets: €12 can be purchased online

Day 7—Leuven—stop 3: Groot Begijnhof

Groot Begijnhof district, Belgium itinerary

The Groot Begijnhof district  

Once upon a time there was this little district of the town, where only nuns and other women devoted to God lived. You won't probably come across any of them today in Groot Begijnhof, you still can feel the calm and divine atmosphere as you walk around and wonder if the time has stopped in the old streets.

The area of Groot Begijnhof is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, and you can visit the premises for free. I strongly encourage you to, it's only 15 minutes from the M, but you will feel like you have walked into a different century .

Day 7—Leuven—stop 4: Arenberg Castle & Park

Arenberg Castle in Leuven, Belgium itinerary

Arenbergkasteel  

Take a 20-minute walk and visit a 14 th century renaissance castle. Nowadays, it serves Leuven university as a Science and Technology Campus, so it's mostly classrooms and offices inside. But I think it's more suitable for a nice walk around and admiring it from the outside .

A huge park surrounds the castle, that makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a nice sunny afternoon and to relax for a bit after walking around the city. It's not far from the center, so go there and take some stunning photos. Success on Instagram guaranteed!

After your Leuven visit you can say goodbye to the lovely time you had in Belgium and take a direct train to Brussels Airport from train station that will take you only about 15 minutes . See you next time at our next destination!  

This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps keep this blog free, thank you!

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About me

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! 

My goal with this blog is to provide you with complex and practical information so that you can plan your own vacation, complete with insights you’d only get if you visited the place. I also put together itineraries that are fully planned out trip guides.

Another aspect that drives this platform is my curiosity about the history, geography, politics, and economy of each country I visit, so I try to include this information in my articles, too. It’s always great to get the bigger picture, right? 

And just to be clear, I am not trying to compete with backpacking blogs or provide hacks for an economical and affordable experience. My vacations follow the standard pattern of traveling by plane, staying in good hotels, and renting a car on the spot to get around. I’m also always up for a fantastic meal, though I don’t shy away from local delicacies and street food, either.  

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Coming soon, subscribe here to be the first to know when we launch this, belgium’s 17 most unusual & fun museums you just have to see.

Belgium’s 17 Most Unusual & Fun Museums You Just Have to See

Our favourite 17 fun museums you need to see in Belgium. 

Museums are some of the best things to do in Belgium ! We’ve gathered up the quirkiest places Brussels has to offer, plus Antwerp and nearby cities so you can find the most unique museum just for you to start planning your next trip. Whether you’re hiding out on a rainy day or just looking for the next hidden gem, Belgium is the place to be. 

We find new quirky museums everyday! Sip a drink at the Jenever Museum or play games at the Pixel Museum. Whatever you’re looking for, Belgium has a cool place to go for you. 

You can also find all of these museums and more on our map of Belgium !

1. Drink up at Jenever Museum

Colorful glass display of all the components making up jenever at the jenever museum in Hasselt, Belgium

Make a toast to your travels at the Jenever Museum in Hasselt . As far as museums go, maybe this isn’t what you’d expect. No looking through dusty exhibits for you! Nope. We’re here to learn all about Jenever. Forget about the busy streets of Brussels and head over to Hasselt for a taste of Belgian culture…

Gin drinkers and even whiskey enthusiasts will find their match with Jenever. It’s a special type of gin from Belgium and the Netherlands . Why go to a regular city museum when you can have a drink instead? It’s a museum these days, but this place started as a distillery. The spirit of spirits is still going. 

Get all the details on what to see at the museum below. 👇

2. Enjoy Nostalgia at the Toy Museum 

Toy train set and train station behind glass on display in toy museum, Speelgoedmuseum, Mechelen

Switch up your city trip to Antwerp with a dose of nostalgia at the Toy Museum . Look, we’ve all been to regular history museums and know what to expect. They kinda get boring after a while, you know?

If you want an unusual museum and unique take on history, this is it. Reminisce over the LEGO bricks of your childhood or explore the toys from whole other centuries and countries with the kids. 

Three floors of nostalgia await you over in Mechelen. Get more info below. 👇

3. Indulge at Chocolate Nation 

Chocolate castle sculptures in Chocolate Nation, Antwerp

Chocolate Nation is one of the best museums in Antwerp . I mean, what other museum gives you an excuse to overdose on a sugar high? 

Go to Chocolate Nation in Antwerp’s city centre to discover the history of chocolate and how it’s made. Get interactive; you even get to smell the history of chocolate here…. Is anyone else hungry? 

Get all the details on the Belgian chocolate museum below. 👇

4. Level up at Pixel Museum 

📍 Brussels 

Game consoles in the Pixel Museum, Brussels, Belgium

Unlock the history of video games at this museum in Brussels. Try out tons of different consoles, games and even arcade games. This isn’t your regular run of the mill museum. This is some geeky stuff and we love it!

Whether you’re a retro collector or the biggest Tier 3 viewer on the planet, there’s going to be something for you at the video game museum. Go on an interactive journey to rediscover your fave childhood games and new stuff you’ve never heard of. 

Double dash to our detailed guide to the museum below. 👇

5. Explore history In Flanders Fields Museum

Brussels might have a ton of museums, but you can’t forget about Flanders . Located in the historic city of Ypres, In Flanders Fields is one of the best museums to visit outside of Brussels. 

Inside the museum, you’ll find interactive exhibits all about the tragic and important moments of World War II that happened around Ypres. 

Check out our guide to the history museum below! 👇

Need more things to do around Ypres? In Flanders Fields is close to the fascinating Yorkshire Trench to continue your WWII history museum trip. 

6. Feel creepy vibes at the Bruges Torture Museum

Bruges is known for its beautiful medieval sights and romantic atmosphere. But beneath all that lies Bruges’ hidden dark history… Delve deep into one of the weirdest museums in Belgium! 

Located inside Oude Steen, one of Bruges’ city prisons , the museum contains over 100+ unique torture devices. 

Get full details on the Torture Museum in our guide. 👇

7. Get inspired at the Musée Magritte Museum 

Outside the Magritte Museum in Brussels is an information sign pointing out the entrance and where to buy tickets.

Muse over the surrealist art of René Magritte! Musee Magritte is one of the best museums to visit in Brussels and is an absolute must-visit for art lovers. The museum is packed with three floors of art, with each floor covering a different part of Magritte’s life. Musee Magritte has some hidden gems of his artwork too, not just the well-known pieces. 

Musee Magritte has some of the most unique art in the city. You’ll need about 2 hours to see everything and we recommend taking your time! Check out our full tips and tricks below 👇

8. Munch on strawberries at Musée de la Fraise de Wepion

It doesn’t get more quirky than the Strawberry Museum of Dinant. This place is a hidden gem for now as it’s tucked away in Belgium’s gorgeous Wallonia region. Here’s why you need to go before the crowds pluck all of its strawberries! 

Just over an hour away by car from Brussels, this unique museum is definitely worth a visit. Start your trip with a peek into the exhibits. The museum might be small, but nowhere else in Belgium will tell you this much about all things strawberry related.

The best part of this quirky place is the strawberry tasty stuff at the end. Buy some local food and dig in. Locals say Wepion strawberries are the best in the country and we have to agree! 

Belgium’s quirky Strawberry Museum is located in the gorgeous city of Dinant. Dinant has tons of fun things to do ! 

9. Interact with science at Le Pass 

📍 Frameries, Hainaut

Children exploring the science museum at Le Pass, Frameries, Belgium

Less than a 2 hour drive away from Brussels is one of the most underrated science museums in Belgium! Totally interactive, the museum is super popular with families to teach the kids all about the different parts of science. But, with all the interactive exhibits adults can totally have fun at the museum here too. 

Get our top tips on the science museum below! 👇

10. Get Surreal in the Museum Gallery Xpo Salvador Dali

Indoor art museum with surrealist displays at Xpo Salvador Dalí, Bruges, Belgium

Like the Magritte Museum of Brussels, the Xpo Salvador Dali museum is a unique and surreal place to go. Delve into the world of Dali at one of the biggest art collections in the world all about Salvador Dali. You’ll see work by this famous artist you’ve never seen before… A quirky gem of Bruges, the museum gallery is definitely worth a visit in the city centre. 

Get all the details on the art museum below! 👇

11. See Modern Design at Design Museum Brussels

Orange plastic chair in the Modern Design museum in Brussels

Only a quick walk away from the Atomium , the Design Museum is a totally underrated museum to visit in Brussels. The best part of the unique museum is its plastic collection. Look, nowhere else in Brussels is going to give you the full journey on how we use plastic in everything from furniture to art. The Design Museum is one of the most unique places to go in the capital! 

Check out all our top tips for the design museum below! 👇

12. See modern art at the Wiels Museum 

Unusual aArt gallery in the Wiels Museum, Brussels, Belgium

Do you love contemporary art? The Wiels Museum is THE place to go for you in Brussels. Located outside the city centre, this artsy hidden gem has some of the most quirky and unique contemporary art exhibits around. There are three floors to explore! The temporary exhibits can get ever weirder with absurdist and surreal art so keep your eyes peeled. 

Get our top tips on the museum below! 👇

13. Sip a beer at the MIMA Museum 

Bold illustrations framed on a black wall in the MIMA Museum

Only a short walk from Brussels city centre is one of the most unique art museums in the capital. Located beside the canal, the Millennium Iconolast Museum of Art (aka MIMA) has lots of unique and modern visual art to see. There’s an awesome restaurant and bar here too. This building used to be a brewery! MIMA has some of the coolest vibes in Brussels - don’t miss it! 

Get our top tips on the museum below. 👇

14. Explore the Rubens House 

Tourists looking at art in the Rubens House, Antwerp

Calling all art lovers! Rubens House (Rubenshuis) is one of the most visited museums in Antwerp, but it is one of the most unique too. Where else can you visit a home designed by the artist who once lived there? Peter Paul Rubens was one of the best painters of Flanders in the 16th century and is one of the most well-known artists to this day from Belgium.  You can even visit his art studio at the museum. 

Find out more details below. 👇

15. Visit the unique Museum of Original Figurines 

Smurf figure in the Museum of Original Figures, Belgium

Did you know that TinTin and the Smurfs come from Belgium? Brussels is the best place to go to explore the unique comic history of Belgium. The Museum of Original Figurines (aka Moof Museum) is home to thousands of classic comic book figurines. 

The museum is definitely unique and not as well-known compared to other places in the capital. Plus Moof is right next door to the beautiful and famous Monts des Arts . Don’t miss the comic part of Brussels’ culture! 

16. Get the details on Tintin at Musée Hergé

📍 Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Walloon-Brabant 

The unique entrance to the Herge Museum in Belgium

Take a quick drive from Brussels to find one of the most unique museums in Belgium! This place is all about Tintin and Georges Remi, his creator. If you love comic books or visiting unique places, this museum is a must.

Get more details on all the exhibits below! 👇

17. Napoleon’s Last Headquarters

📍 Genappe, Walloon-Brabant 

Everyone knows the Waterloo song. Waterloo was the sight of Napoleon’s final battle and defeat. While most go to see the famous Lion’s Mound , you get a bit more insight to what actually happened during the battle at Napoleon’s Last Headquarters . Travel back in time to 1815 when Napoleon is planning out the battle. 

Get all the info on the history museum below! 👇

That's it for our unique museum guide to Belgium. Psst! Looking for even more unique things to do in Belgium ? Check out our Brussels city guide and 2 day itinerary ! 

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The best times to visit Belgium for festivals, fun and tripel beer

May 23, 2022 • 7 min read

A young female traveller on a cobbled street in Brussels, Belgium

Belgium's busy festival calendar means there's something to see at any time of year © Somyot Techapuwapat / Getty Images

A rich history of art and architecture, opulent culinary traditions, scenic towns, picturesque canals – Belgium 's best bits can be enjoyed in any season, so long as you bring a raincoat along.

The best times to visit this small corner of Europe are spring and fall, when the weather is mild, and the sights are not overcrowded. These are also the perfect times for nature lovers, who will appreciate spring’s flower fields and fall colors in the forests of the Ardennes.

Here's a monthly guide to what to expect from Belgium throughout the year, and the best things to do, helping you choose the best time for your visit.

The high season (July–August) is the best time for music festivals, beach days, and summer bars

As the hottest months of the year, July and August see locals flock to the coast to escape the summer heat, which can get quite intense in densely-packed cities such as Brussels , where temperatures can rise to 38°C (100°F). Tourists still fill the historic centers of Ghent , Antwerp , and Bruges which are more bearable during the warmest months with rivers, canals, and harbors to keep them cool.

In peak season, Belgium's North Sea beaches come to life, while cities see the opening of guinguettes ( summer bars) galore, and parks brim with outdoor cultural programs. A jam-packed music festival calendar sees events take place all over the country.

The shoulder seasons (April–June & September–October) are the best times for lovers of nature's colors

During the shoulder seasons, crowds and prices plummet. With mild days and cool nights, spring and fall are the best times to visit Belgium. In spring, cities wake up from their winter sleep and cafés and restaurant owners start putting chairs on the sidewalks to greet the first sun rays. The masses take over restaurant terraces, parks fill up, and the concert season is in full swing. There’s promise in the air as the countryside bursts into bloom, and magnolia and cherry trees beautify urban scenes.

The fall foliage shows its best side in the rolling hills of the Ardennes , where the receding summer heat provides perfect conditions for hiking and mushroom hunting. September, when the art season restarts after the summer break, is a perfect month for culture vultures to visit.

The low season (November–March) is the time for foodies and Christmas lights

The winter months are relatively cold, quiet and grey, but snow and freezing temperatures are rare in Belgium. Crowds and prices drop again, except during the Binche carnival in February, and December, when cities lure in travelers with Christmas markets, mulled wine and lovely light decorations. Despite the sometimes unpleasant and rainy weather, the off-season is a great time for low-budget city trips, museum visits without waiting in line, cozy restaurant meals, and warming mugs of Belgian hot chocolate.

Christmas market crowds at the Grote Markt (Grand Place) in Brussels

January is quiet and budget-friendly

January is probably the quietest month of the year, as the country recovers from Christmas and New Year’s festivities and life slowly gets back to normal. It's a perfect time if you’re traveling on a budget and want to avoid the tourist masses. Key events: BRAFA (Brussels), New Year's Dive (Ostend), Brussels Jazz Festival

Carnival arrives in February

February is carnival season, especially in the Belgian countryside. The most famous celebrations take place in Binche near Charleroi, which is home to one of Europe’s oldest street carnivals, with roots in the Middle Ages. Expect over-the-top parades and costumes paired with boozy party vibes. Key events: Carnival in Binche, Bright Brussels

March brings people out into the streets

Prices and visitor numbers are low, and travelers get to witness Belgium waking up from hibernation at the first signs of spring. Locals come out en masse to soak up the sun, even at low temperatures. Cafés and restaurants take over the sidewalks again, and giant bonfires all over Wallonia celebrate the end of winter. Key events: Giant fire of Bouge (Namur), Festival Anima (Brussels), Klarafestival (Brussels)

April brings plenty of culture and blooms

April is a busy month in Belgium and a fantastic time to visit. The magical Hallerbos forest beams with fields of bluebells, the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken open their doors to the public for a limited amount of time, and the international art world meets at the annual Art Brussels fair (hotel rates rise that weekend). At Easter, you’ll find a lot of locals at the seaside or staging outdoor egg hunts. Key events: Art Brussels, Tour of Flanders , Bruges Beer Festival , Floralia (Groot-Bijgaarden Castle)

Flamboyant costumes at the Binche Carnival, Belgium

May is the start of the summer bar season

France’s culture of guinguettes – wooden drinks stalls in city parks – has taken Belgium by storm, and with summer just around the corner, these refreshment stands open up again in May, making for a convivial holiday atmosphere. In picturesque Bruges, the impressive Procession of the Holy Blood attracts history buffs with a parade that goes back to the 14th century. Key events: Kunstenfestivaldesarts (Brussels), Brussels Jazz Weekend , 20km of Brussels , Procession of the Holy Blood (Bruges)

Summer warms things up in June

With the summer heat not yet at its peak, sunny June is a good choice for hikers, cyclists and fans of canal cruises and other outdoor activities. The cultural calendar is crammed with open-air events from the Fête de la Musique , held at various venues, to a reenactment of the battle of Waterloo featuring up to 800 actors. Key events: Fête de la Musique, Ommegang of Brussels , Ducasse de Mons , BRIFF (Brussels)

July is peak season in Belgium

While it’s the high season for tourists, Belgians go on vacation too, resulting in more parking spaces and a refreshing lack of traffic jams in the cities. The coast will be swarming with sunbathers and kite surfers during the hottest month of the year, which also constitutes the pinnacle of the internationally famous Belgian music festival season. Key events: Tomorrowland (Boom), Dour Festival , Belgian National Day, Rock Werchter , Cactus Festival (Bruge), Gentse Feesten (Ghent), Les Ardentes ( Liège)

August sees busy beaches and boisterous festivals

The festival season continues, and seaside towns and tourist attractions remain extremely busy. A popular water-based activity away from the coast is a kayak tour down the Lesse River, leading you through the lush green forests of the Ardennes. Key events: Jazz Middelheim (Antwerp), Procession of the Giants (Ath), Pukkelpop (Hasselt), Medieval Festival of Bouillon , Outremeuse festival

The bright lights of the Tomorrowland EDM festival in Boom, Flanders

September sees a calmer vibe across the country

Back to school vibes pervade as the country wakes up from its summer daze and slowly goes back to normal. Brussels Gallery Weekend kicks off the art season with a bang as the festival season lingers. Key events: Brussels Gallery Weekend, Festival of Wallonia , Belgian Beer Weekend (Brussels), Brussels Design September

Fall colors shine in October 

If you’re lucky, you'll get a golden October, a time to marvel at the Ardennes’ fall foliage drenched in sunlight and shimmering in reds and yellows. This is the perfect time for mushroom hunting, or enjoying seasonal hearty dishes in one of Belgium's many high-quality restaurants. Key events: Ghent Film festival ; La Foire de Liège

November is quiet and cold, and people stay indoors

Mostly cold and grey, November is a quiet month, best enjoyed indoors. Go museum-hopping, take in a live gig, or enjoy a craft beer in one of Belgium's countless breweries. A bowl of carbonade , a Flemish stew with beef and beer, or a cup of hot Belgian chocolate will always warm you up! Key events: Armistice Day in Ypres

December sees spirits pick up for Christmas

Cold and wet December is brightened up by Christmas markets galore, plus ice skating rinks and mulled wine. Although it’s off-season, the streets are buzzing, and Bruges appears especially magical at this time of year. Key events: Plaisirs d’hiver (Brussels), The Christmas Village (Liège), New Year's Eve

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museumPASSmusées: Museum Access Pass in All Belgium

What is museumpassmusées.

museumPASSmusées: Unlimited Museum Access Pass in Belgium

If you’re planning to visit several museums during your stay in Belgium, museumPASSmusées offers unlimited access to most popular museums across the country and you can save money instead of buying individual tickets.

  • Unlimited access to more than 250 museums in Belgium
  • Covers most popular museums in Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent and Leuven.
  • Valid for one year

Museums you can use museumPASSmusées

The list below represents only a portion of the museums available. To see all museums, visit the museumPASSmusées official website .

  • Brussels City Museum (The King’s House)
  • (MIM) Museum of Musical Instruments)
  • Horta museum
  • Belgian Comic Strip Center
  • Art & History museum
  • Jewish Museum of Belgium
  • Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History
  • Villa Empain
  • Plantin-Moretus Museum
  • Rubens House (Rubenhuis)
  • Museum Mayer van den Bergh
  • MAS (Museum aan de Stroom)
  • Het Steen – The Antwerp Story
  • MoMu (ModeMuseum Antwerpen)
  • Belfry (Belfort)
  • Bruges City Hall (Stadhuis Brugge)
  • Brugse Vrije
  • Groeningemuseum
  • Volkskundemuseumm

Who should buy museumPASSmusées?

The pass is great for travelers who may answer yes to All the followings:

  • Adults from 18 years old to 64 years old
  • Visit multiple museums during their stay in Belgium
  • Like to enjoy museums without worrying about purchasing tickets and wait in a long line each time
  • Have plan to visit Belgium several times for one year

Let’s say, if you’re planning to visit more than four museums during your trip or within a year, museumPASSmusées may be worth it.

Who shouldn’t buy museumPASSmusées?

You don’t need museumPASSmusées if you are;

  • Plan to stay for a short time in Belgium
  • Plan to stay only one city in Belgium
  • Children (-18 years old), Student (-26 years old) and seniors (+65 years)

If you are younger than 18 years old, or a student with valid student ID, you can enter most museums in Belgium (and Europe) for free or discounted price . Likewise, If you are over 65 years old, you can enter most museums for discounted price.

Buy museumPASSmusées online (only French and Dutch instruction available)

Other museum passes

If you plan to visit only one city in Belgium, we recommend you to buy discount passes that are issued by each city.

  • Brussels – Brussels Card: Unlock the vibrant capital of Belgium with the Brussels Card, an all-in-one pass providing access to over 40 museums, significant discounts on attractions, public transportation, and a variety of restaurants and shops, making your Brussels experience hassle-free and budget-friendly.
  • Bruges – Musea Brugge : Immerse yourself in Bruges’ enchanting history and art with the Musea Brugge pass, granting entry to more than 15 prestigious museums, including the Groeningenmuseum and the Belfry , allowing you to explore the city’s medieval charm at a reduced cost.
  • Antwerp – Antwerp City Pass: Discover Antwerp’s bustling cultural scene with the Antwerp City Pass, offering free entry to top attractions, exclusive discounts, and unlimited use of public transportation, making it the ideal companion for your exploration of this dynamic port city.
  • Ghent – CityCard Gent: Experience the medieval splendor of Ghent with the CityCard Gent, a comprehensive pass that includes free admission to museums and attractions, guided boat tours, and unlimited public transport, ensuring a convenient and cost-effective visit to this historic city.
  • Leuven – ILUVLeuven Ticket: Explore the vibrant university city of Leuven with the ILUVLeuven Ticket, providing access to must-see attractions such as M-Museum, the University Library, and St. Peter’s Church, along with various discounts, allowing you to delve into Leuven’s rich heritage and culture.

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  • Europe Tours
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  • Tour Operators

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Belgium 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Belgium. Below you will find 12 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Belgium offering in total 34 tours and holidays through-out Belgium. Combined they have received 228 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in Belgium are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife & Food, wine, events and nightlife.

  • Tours in Belgium
  • Belgium Travel Guide
  • Best Time To Visit Belgium

12 Tour Operators in Belgium with 228 Reviews

SegwayBrussels

SegwayBrussels

  • Address 1 Rue marché au charbon, Brussels, Belgium
  • Response Rate 72%
  • Response Time 1 hour

Trafalgar

  • Address Picquet House, St Peter Port, Guernsey, London, England
  • Response Rate 90%

travel muze belgium

  • Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
  • Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
  • Superior Service Top 15% of companies

CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope

  • Address 12 Rue De La Division Leclerc, Nedre Rhin, France
  • Response Rate 87%
  • Response Time 3 hours

Expat Explore

Expat Explore

  • Address 10 Merryweather Place, London, England

Brussels Walking Tours

Brussels Walking Tours

  • Address Brussels Walking Tours, Brussels, Belgium
  • Response Rate 27%
  • Response Time 2 hours

Indus Travels

Indus Travels

  • Address 233, 11951 Hammersmith Way, Richmond, Canada
  • Response Rate 97%

Insight Vacations

Insight Vacations

  • Address 33 Kern Road, Toronto, Canada
  • Response Rate 86%

Tweet World Travel

Tweet World Travel

  • Address 8/587-591, B27, Magill SA, Australia
  • Response Rate 91%

Uniworld

  • Address Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, 600 North Bridge Road #06-06, Parkview Square, Singapore
  • Response Rate 83%

Utracks

  • Address 1B Osiers Road, Wandsworth, London, England

Exodus Travels

Exodus Travels

  • Address Grange Mills, Weir Road, London, England
  • Response Rate 85%

Adventures Abroad

Adventures Abroad

  • Address 2148-20800 Westminster Highway, Richmond BC, Canada
  • Response Rate 53%

Traveling to Belgium? Chat with a local travel specialist in Belgium who can help organize your trip.

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Belgium Tour Reviews

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    Experiencing great moments ... Over ons

  2. Plan a trip to Belgium

    Regional Population: 10,364,388 Local Currency: EUR Latitude: 50.5038870 Longitude: 4.4699360 Between France and the Netherlands, Belgium is the crossroads of Western Europe.Most Western European capitals are within 620 miles of Brussels, the country's capital and home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO.From dunes along the northern coast through Flemish lowlands to the ...

  3. 15 things you need to know about Belgium for a perfect trip

    Oh, and don't expect to chug your Duvel out of any old glass. Belgians love their glassware, and you'll find a dizzying array of options, from tulips and flutes to goblets and tankards. 12. Smoke pot if you like (but be smart about it) In Belgium, adults 18 and older can enjoy cannabis for recreational purposes.

  4. Travel Muze

    Travel Muze, Turnhout. 104,016 likes. Luxe Travel designer Romantische Unlock the secrets of VIP travel..

  5. 20+ Belgium Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

    17. Look out for museum free days. One of the best ways to save money in Belgium is by scoping out free days in advance for major museums. In Brussels for example there's a lot museums free on the first Wednesday and first Sunday each month. Antwerp has a similar thing for the last Wednesday of the month.

  6. Belgium Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Belgium Travel Costs. Accommodation - For a dorm bed in a hostel, prices range from 25-35 EUR per night for dorms with 4-6 beds. Larger dorms with 10 or more beds cost around 18-25 EUR. Private rooms cost between 70-150 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hostels include self-catering facilities.

  7. 8 of the best places to visit in Belgium

    From there, you're a stone's throw from the city of Namur, capital of both the province and the region. This relaxed city is home to one of Europe's largest citadels and also the adults-only Musée Félicien Rops, which exhibits the life and work of the scandalous 19th-century Belgian artist. 3. Bruges.

  8. Belgium Travel Tips: 19 Things That Will Make Your Trip Easier

    3. DON'T rent a car in Belgium. This time I recommend travelling by train . Not only does the parking in popular Belgian cities suck (time limits on central parking, residential-only parking spots) and cost a fortune, the trains are just so good. 4. DO travel by train in Belgium. The train station in Antwerp is one of the nicest in Europe!

  9. Belgium International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  10. The Ultimate Belgium Travel Guide • The Blonde Abroad

    Belgium Travel Guide. Belgium is a travel destination made for history buffs and chocolate addicts. Though the nation is small, it plays a big part in the world's history. There are over 3,000 castles to explore, battlegrounds from the World Wars, and every museum imaginable. After you've had your history fill, you can kick your feet back ...

  11. Belgium travel

    Tips & Advice. 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.

  12. Belgium Travel Advisory

    Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to terrorism.. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Belgium.Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks ...

  13. Brussels' top 10 museums and attractions

    The most visited group of museums in Brussels, this cultural marvel's reputation is well-established. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, or RMFAB, is made up of several locations covering countless periods and artistic movements and genres.Near place Royale, you can visit the Old Masters Museum, the Modern Museum, the Fin-de-Siècle Museum and the famous Magritte Museum.

  14. Travel Muze Company Profile

    Find company research, competitor information, contact details & financial data for Travel Muze of Turnhout, ANTWERP. Get the latest business insights from Dun & Bradstreet.

  15. Belgium Itinerary: 7 Days in the Heart of Europe!

    Just Brussels Grand Place came to a total of €350k. You don't want to stumble over one of the towers, that would turn your stay in an expensive vacation in a second. Mini-Europe. Opening time: daily 9:30 am-6 pm (until 7 pm in July and August) Tickets: €17.30 online or combination ticket with Atomium €29.40.

  16. Belgium travel advice

    Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes: advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks. information for women, LGBT+ and ...

  17. BELGIUM TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS

    Planning to visit Belgium for the first time? In this video, I'm sharing all my best Belgium travel tips for new visitors, from important must-knows for your...

  18. Belgium's 17 Most Unusual & Fun Museums You Just Have to See

    17. Napoleon's Last Headquarters. 📍 Genappe, Walloon-Brabant. Everyone knows the Waterloo song. Waterloo was the sight of Napoleon's final battle and defeat. While most go to see the famous Lion's Mound, you get a bit more insight to what actually happened during the battle at Napoleon's Last Headquarters.

  19. The best time to visit Belgium

    The high season (July-August) is the best time for music festivals, beach days, and summer bars. As the hottest months of the year, July and August see locals flock to the coast to escape the summer heat, which can get quite intense in densely-packed cities such as Brussels, where temperatures can rise to 38°C (100°F).Tourists still fill the historic centers of Ghent, Antwerp, and Bruges ...

  20. museumPASSmusées: Museum Access Pass in All Belgium

    If you're planning to visit several museums during your stay in Belgium, museumPASSmusées offers unlimited access to most popular museums across the country and you can save money instead of buying individual tickets. Unlimited access to more than 250 museums in Belgium. Covers most popular museums in Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent and Leuven.

  21. Sarah V.

    Creator of memories Private luxury travel designer for Travel Muze… | Learn more about Sarah V.'s work experience, education, connections & more by visiting their profile on LinkedIn. ... 15 others named Sarah V. in Belgium are on LinkedIn See others named Sarah V. Add new skills with these courses 1h 6m. Difficult Situations: Solutions for ...

  22. Welcome to Antwerp

    Welcome to Antwerp! Get inspired for a vibrant experience full of fashion, shopping, gastronomy, culture and architecture. Whatever is on your city trip checklist, Antwerp has it all.

  23. 10 Best Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Belgium

    Address 8/587-591, B27, Magill SA, Australia. Response Rate 91%. Response Time 3 hours. We are an leading Australian Tour Operator specialising in tailor-made Asia holidays including School Tours and Luxury & Lifestyle Holidays.