best places to visit belgium in summer

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15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. The Hoge Kempen National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Brussels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. The Ardennes

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

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

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

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

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

15. Bastogne

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

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

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

15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium:

• The Hoge Kempen National Park
• The Ardennes

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Brussels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ever thought you would explore sand dunes in Belgium?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Manuel Zaufl

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To 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Belgium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Brussels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Eifel Nature Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Chateau de La Hulpe

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

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

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

9. The Sonian Forest

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

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

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

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

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

11. Wallonia

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

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

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

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

13. Hoge Kempen National Park

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

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

14. De Haan

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

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

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

15. La Roche-en-Ardenne

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

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

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

16. Vallee du Ninglinspo

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

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

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

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

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

18. Gaasbeek Castle

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

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

19. Oud-Rekem

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Stay at Indrani Lodge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantastic looking places!

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

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

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

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

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

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From Cities To Trails

In pursuit of travel that engages and activities that challenge, summer in belgium – what to know & what to see.

* As destinations begin to  reopen  and  events  resume, hopefully this guide can serve as inspiration and motivation as you plan a future trip. Do check online for the latest information on closures and local measures in place before visiting. *

If you’re planning a visit to Belgium in the summer, this guide on what to know, prepare for, and do is for you! With LONG summer days come festivals, outdoor dining, and the high tourist season. Whether for a brief of extended visit, make the most out of your summer visit to Belgium with insight into seasonal events, bars and cafes to suit your mood, where to find Brussels’ best green spaces, and cycle routes in and outside of the city!

While the country of Belgium is small in size, it’s situated in a region known as the Low Countries that has a long history. If you aren’t as familiar with Belgian history, the high-level overview below, with specifics about Brussels, may be helpful.

• The city of Brussels was  founded in the 10 th  century , but it wasn’t until the 12 th  century that the town’s importance grew on account of it being a stop on the trade route between the port city of Bruges and the prominent medieval city of Cologne.
• The  Grand Place  became the city’s central marketplace where local merchants and tradesmen gathered until the square was bombarded and mostly destroyed by the French military in 1695. It was rebuilt and further restored over time; today it is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.
• The tides would turn against the French in 1815 when Napoleon, the Emperor of France, would finally face defeat during his last stand just south of Brussels in the  Battle of Waterloo .
• A successful rebellion against the Dutch and the subsequent importing and crowning of a German prince led to the  creation of the Kingdom of Belgium in 1830 .
• As the longest reigning king in Belgian history,  King Leopold II  is responsible for initiating the construction of many of the prominent public works you see in Brussels. Not as familiar to people are that some of the darkest moments in Belgium’s history are associated with the atrocities carried out under his control and exploitation of the Congo Free State (see book referenced below).
• Belgium was the site of significant and deadly battles in WWI in  Flanders Fields  to the north of Brussels and in WWII to the south of Brussels in Bastogne at the  Battle of the Bulge . Ypres in Flanders and Bastogne in Wallonia are home to memorials and museums honoring those killed, wounded, and missing.
• Belgium was one of the first countries to join the European Coal and Steel Community in 1951, and subsequently the European Economic Community in 1957, precursors to the European Union (EU). The founding of the EU and European citizenship occurred in 1993 with Brussels considered the de facto capital of the EU. Today, Brussels is one of the seats of the  European Parliament . The city has also been the political seat of the  North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)  since 1967.
• There are  three official languages of Belgium  – Flemish (Dutch dialect) in the Flanders region to the north, French in the Walloon Provinces to the south, and German in the small community residing in the east of the country (bordering Germany).

• King Leopold’s Ghost: A Story of Greed, Terror and Heroism in Colonial Africa  by Adam Hochschild details the impact of the colonialization of the Congo by King Leopold II including graphic details about the atrocities committed as a result of the forced labor system in the Congo Free State. Many of the prominent public works you see in Brussels were funded by this exploitation of people and natural resources in the Congo.
• A Tall Man in a Low Land: Some Time Among the Belgians  is written by Harry Pearson, a British author recounting his first visit to Belgium in 1998. It’s a humorous account of an outsider’s “blunders” in this country and an introduction to the unique customs and cultures of Belgium.
• The movie  In Bruges  is probably best described as a dark comedy with a quirky story set in Bruges, in the Flanders region of Belgium. The film, with Collin Farrell and Ralph Fiennes, provides a good preview of the historic city center of Bruges, which feels all the more enchantingly medieval on an overcast winter day.
• Nothing to Declare (Rien a declarer)  is a Franco-Belgian comedy with English subtitles that humorously depicts a fictional relationship between customs officers at the border of France and Belgium as the elimination of borders goes into effect in the EU.
• Viewing the works of famous artists like the Surrealist Rene Magritte, the Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens, and the brothers Jan van Eyck & Hubert van Eyck, who created the  Ghent Altarpiece  (as referenced in the book and movie  The Monuments Men ), provides perspective on the influence of Belgians in the visual arts.
• You can’t separate Belgium from its beer, but more specifically, its famous  abbey-brewed Trappist certified beers . The three criteria for certification as Trappist are: the beer is brewed within the walls of the monastery, the brewery is of secondary importance and follows business practices in line with the monastic way of life, and the brewery is not a profit-making venture with any residual income remaining after expenses being donated to charity. Belgium can boast that six of the fourteen monasteries producing the Trappist-labeled beer reside within its borders: Westmalle, Westvleteren, Achel, Chimay, Rochefort, and Orval .
• To say hello, use  Bonjour
• If you want to greet someone in the evening use  Bonsoir
• To toast with your drink, use  A santé!
• If you’re looking for the toilet,  Les toilettes?  will get you pointed in the right direction
• Thanks can be expressed with  Merci  while sorry is  Pardon
• If you want to ask someone if they speak English, say  Parlez vous anglais?

• Belgium experiences a higher volume of visitors during the summer months. It’s when you’ll find some of its touristic towns, like Bruges, at their busiest. Also keep in mind that much of Europe does partially shut down during August when most Europeans takes time off of work for their summer holiday season . The beaches of Southern Europe are especially popular destinations. Expect tourist sites to be open, but some restaurants and businesses to be closed for at least a few weeks in late summer.
• From the airport, there is a bus (#12) or Intercity (IC) train that takes you to city center. A bus ticket and train ticket to city center are 4.50 EUR and 9 EUR, respectively (as of February 2020). Alternatively, the Uber pick up point is within the P1 front parking structure.
• From the Midi and Central train stations, there are metro and bus lines connecting you to city center and the surrounding neighborhoods.
• You can easily reach Ghent and Bruges by train within 30 minutes and 1 hour, respectively. These cities are good to visit in early spring when tourist crowds are not yet overwhelming but be aware that by June they will be getting congested.
• Paris, Amsterdam, and London are all reachable by train within two hours. The Thalys train operates to/ from Brussels, Paris, and Amsterdam, while the Eurostar runs between Brussels and London. Purchase tickets well in advance for these trains as prices increase closer to the date of departure.
• The FlixBus offers low-cost and convenient bus travel to/from Brussels, Paris, and Amsterdam as well.
• You’ll find  City Center  within the innermost ring road that is shaped like a pentagon. Sablon, Dansaert around Place Sainte-Catherine, and the Mont des Arts are a couple nice neighborhoods in this area.
• Saint-Gilles  is just outside of City Center. While still conveniently located to the main attractions, you’ll find interesting and less touristic restaurants and cafes.
• Ixelles  is a quieter area with a great weekend market at Place Flagey and Wednesday market at Châtelain. Tram and bus connections make the commute to City Center easy.
• Etterbeek , home to Parc du Cinquanternaire and Place Jourdan, is also outside City Center but again, the tram and bus make the commute to main attractions easy.
• Make dinner reservations  at restaurants, especially if eating outside city center where restaurants don’t necessarily cater to tourists.
• If you ask for a glass of tap water at restaurants and cafes, don’t be surprised if they  only offer bottled still or sparkling water  that is, of course, not free.
• Tipping  in Belgium is not a standard practice as there is a service charge included with the bill, but if you receive excellent service, it’s recommended to leave a few Euros.

Popular Attractions:

The most popular attractions for tourists can be seen in one day with plenty of time to cool off with a cold beverage in between visits.

• The Grand Place is the central square known for its beautiful aesthetic. Surrounded by the former guild houses, the City Hall and the Maison du Roi (King’s House), it’s perhaps even more impressive when lit up at night.

• The city’s emblem and a main tourist attraction, Manneken Pis , is a statue of a little boy peeing that is located just a few blocks from the Grand Place. What started as a fountain dispensing drinking water to the city residents in the 1400s has evolved into this iconic figurine. The original Manneken Pis statue installed in 1619 was replaced with a replica in 1965, but you find the original in the Brussels City Museum.

The “sister” and “pet” statues, Jeanneke-Pis and Zinneke Pis , respectively, are an added bonus.

• The Atomium is another unique symbol of Brussels. Originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World Expo, it is now a museum. Take in the view of the nine connected stainless steel-clad spheres constructed in the shape of a unit cell from the ground or pay admission to tour the interior of the structure. Adjacent to the Atomium is the Mini Europe park where you can stroll through miniaturized towns of Europe. Note that a combo ticket includes this and the Atomium.

Seasonal Events:

Perhaps the most appealing reason to visit Belgium during the summer is to partake in one or more of the seasonal festivals that could coincide with your visit. It’s a good idea to confirm dates, ticket sales, and transportation ahead of time.

• The Tour de France route often passes through part of Belgium when it takes place annually in June and July. In 2019 it even kicked off in Brussels! The timeline and route are announced well in advance so attendees can plan accordingly. For more on my experience watching the 2019 Tour de France, see this blog .
• Gentse Feesten (Ghent Fest) is a multi-day music and cultural festival held in Ghent in mid to late July. Enjoy music and performances at the outdoor stages while walking around this beautiful city.
• Belgium’s National Day is a public holiday commemorated annually on July 21 st . Along with a parade and concert, the celebrations in the past few years have included Resto National Day in which diners can partake in an outdoor meal of Belgium’s national dish – moules-frites (mussels and fries).
• As the administrative residence and main workplace of the Belgian king, the Royal Palace of Brussels is open to the public for touring from July 21st (Belgian National Day) until the beginning of September (closed on Mondays).
• Two very popular and large music festivals, Tomorrowland & Rock Werchter , are held north of Brussels in Boom and Werchter, respectively, in July. Tickets for the electronic dance music festival, Tomorrowland, usually sell out within minutes. Rock Werchter has been held since 1976 and hosts both Belgian and well-known international artists.
• Brussels Summer Festival is a cultural and musical festival held in August in the heart of Brussels around the Mont des Arts and the Place des Palais.
• The impressive Flower Carpet is constructed in the Grand Place every other year in mid-August. You can view the expansive carpet for free from ground-level, or purchase a ticket to access the balcony of Town Hall and take in the colorful pattern from above.

Outdoor Sipping & Dining:

Grab a seat in a lively plaza, on a rooftop with city views, or at a hidden gem – just make sure you’re able to enjoy the beautiful weather.

• Café Leffe has ample outdoor seating for you to take a break from your touring and enjoy a beer in a pleasant setting.
• Place Jourdan in the Etterbeek neighborhood is a lively gathering place to enjoy frites from Maison Antoine and a local beer at one of the many cafes with ample outdoor seating.
• For panoramic city views at sunset during summer, try the Secret Rooftop Bar at the Warwick Hotel at the Warwick Hotel in City Center (opens late spring and throughout summer).
• For a bite or drink, the Bois de la Cambre park has a couple hidden gems like the charming Le Kiosque tucked behind the lake, the petit Le Flore café, and Chalet Robinson restaurant which sits on the small Robinson Island and can only be reached by ferry.
• PamPam bar in Ixelles is great if you’re travelling with a group as there is plenty of outdoor seating.
• In the Saint-Gilles neighborhood, Kami and Cup 28 are welcoming cafés with both indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for coffee and a delicious breakfast or lunch.
• Delicious ice cream can be found at Gaston and enjoyed on the Quai aux Briques in Sainte-Catherine.

Plentiful Parks:

The many parks of Brussels offer no shortage of space for summer picnics and relaxation.

• The Bois de la Cambre is a spacious urban park on the edge of the idyllic Sonian Forest. It’s ideal for outdoor exercise or an afternoon of rowing on the pond in front of Chalet Robinson, the restaurant from where the boats can be rented.
• The Jardin de l’Abbaye de la Cambre sits on the grounds of a former Cistercian abbey in Ixelles. The picturesque estate and flowering trees in this oasis near busy Place Flagey make it ideal for photography lovers.
• Parc Tenbosch in Ixelles is an urban botanical garden with lush and diverse greenery. Bring a blanket, snacks and beverages for a relaxing picnic in the park.
• Parc du Cinquantenaire  is an attractive urban park whether you want to run laps or sprawl on the lawn. You can also enjoy the view from the terrace at the top of the massive arch known as the  Arcade du Cinquantenaire . To reach the rooftop terrace and enjoy the panoramic view, enter the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, turn left and cross two rooms to the lift at the back near the staircase.
• Parc de Bruxelles in city center is situated on the site of the gardens of the former Palace of Coudenberg and has a view of the current Royal Palace of Brussels. Its informal beer garden is a great place to stop for a beverage in the shade while touring.

Summer Sales:

Brussels offers diverse shopping and sales twice a year (January and July), but it’s helpful to know where to head based on what you’re interested in.

• Rue Antoine Dansaert is a long and lively street in City Center with plenty of local boutiques and larger retail stores.
• Avenue Louise is a major city thoroughfare that offers shopping at plenty of recognizable, upscale retail chains.
• The antique stores of the Sablon quarter are fun to check out even if you don’t have room in your suitcase for a tapestry or chandelier.
• The lively Marolles Flea Market at place du Jeu de Balle is open every morning but your best bet for finding something unique may be to avoid the busy weekends and come on a Friday morning.

Belgium by Bike:

Belgium is intrinsically linked to cycling on account of its early adoption of the bicycle, affinity for small town races and clubs, and of course, its hometown icon, Eddy Merckx. Brussels itself is continually working to improve and further develop its biking infrastructure, but you have many options for bike routes outside the city.

• If you’re looking for inspiration for biking in and around Brussels , refer to my comprehensive post with cycling tips and suggested routes that take you from Brussels to fun destinations outside the city.
• Two unique and nature-inspired routes are found in the province of Limburg. Cycle through the water in Bokrijk (Fietsen door het Water) is at node 91 of the cycle node network in Bokrijk. Cycle through trees (Fietsen door de Bomen) is at node 272 of the cycle node network in the Pijnven nature reserve, which is part of Bosland. More information can be found here . Bring your own bicycle or rent one at a rental store nearby. Find a rental point here , reserve your bike in advance and pick it up on the day of your adventure.
• Another unique experience is the rail bike route in Wallonia . Travel by way of a leg-powered bike wagon on old train tracks from Warnant to Falaën and back (8km), Falaën to Maredsous and back (6 km) or the complete trip of Warnant to Maredsous and back (14 km). In Maredsous there is the abbey to visit as well as eateries. With breaks to eat and rest, expect this adventure to take 5-6 hours. This website has helpful explanations of the routes and sites along the way. The rail bike runs adjacent to the Ravel Ligne 150A paved trail which can be biked without rail bikes as well.

If you’re visiting Belgium during winter or spring check on my posts on  Winter in Brussels – What to Know & What to See and Spring in Belgium – What to Know & What to See . You’ll find plenty of ideas for year-round indoor activities (museums, European Parliament tour, chocolate-making class, etc.), easy day trips from Brussels and where to see gorgeous tulips and bluebells in bloom.

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

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

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

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

So, what are the best coastal cities to visit? 

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

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

But before you go on your coastal adventure...

MY TOP - 5 PICKS

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

Getting to the Belgian coast 

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

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

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

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

Quick overview

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

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

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

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

Atlantikwall Raversijde

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

Ostend Street Art

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

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

Colourful graffiti across the city brings Ostend to life!

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

Watersport Oostende Spuikom

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

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

Where to Stay in Oostende

Budget - Hotel De Hofkamers

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

Mid-range - Upstairs Hotel

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

High-end - Hotel Europe

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

2. Bredene 

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

Bredene Beach

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Bredene

Budget - ANGEL

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

Mid-range - Sea You Soon

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

High-end - Hotel De Golf

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

3. Knokke-Heist

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

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

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

Lakeside Paradise

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

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

Zwin Nature Park

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

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

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

Relax on the beach at Albertstrand

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

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

Where to Stay in Knokke-Heist

Budget - Nomad Knokke

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

Mid-range - ENSO - Boutique Hotel

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

High-end - B&B Maison seki

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

4. De Panne

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

Westhoek nature reserve 

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

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

Dumont Quarter

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in De Panne

Budget - Hotel Montana

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

Mid-range - Hotel Aan Zee

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

High-end - C-Hotels Continental

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

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

Wenduine Spioenkop

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

Concessie Quarter

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

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

Where to Stay in De Haan

Budget - Vakantiecentrum Zeelinde

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

Mid-range - Boutique Hotel Joli Bois

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

High-end - Hotel Astoria

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

6. Blankenberge

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

Goolfy Blacklight Minigolf

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

Huisje van Majutte

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

Sea Life Blankenberge 

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

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

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

Hike the dunes

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

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

Where to Stay in Blankenberge

Budget - Hotel Manitoba

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

Mid-range - Hotel Sabot D'Or

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

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

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

7. Nieuwpoort

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

Surfclub Windekind

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

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

Fish Market 

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

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

Catch shrimp on horseback 

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

For the kids

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

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

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

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

Lighthouse 

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

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

Nature reserve De IJzermonding

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

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

Where to Stay in Nieuwpoort

Budget - A Casa

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

Mid-range - Cosmopolite Hotel Nieuwpoort-Bad

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

High-end - The CORNR Hotel

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

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The first slow travel guide

Antwerp - Belgium

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11 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Written by Lura Seavey Updated May 3, 2023

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

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

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

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

1. Medieval Bruges

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Namur

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Brussels

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ypres

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Antwerp

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ghent

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Leuven

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

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

10. Mons [SEE MAP]

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

9. Dinant [SEE MAP]

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

8. Leuven [SEE MAP]

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

7. Tournai [SEE MAP]

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

6. Mechelen [SEE MAP]

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

5. Ardennes [SEE MAP]

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

4. Antwerp [SEE MAP]

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

3. Ghent [SEE MAP]

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

2. Brussels [SEE MAP]

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

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

1. Bruges [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium – Ranked

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

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

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

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

The Best Places to Visit In Belgium

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

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

Top Things to Do in Ghent

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

2 | Brussels

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Brussels

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Bruges

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Ypres

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

5 | Mechelen

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

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

Top Things to Do in Mechelen

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Leuven

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Dinant

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

8 | Antwerp

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

Top Things to Do in Antwerp

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

9 | Tournai

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

Top Things to Do in Tournai

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

10 | Kortrijk

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

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

Top Things to Do in Kortrijk

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Mons

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

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

Top Things to Do in Namur

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

13 | Durbuy Vieille Ville

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

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

Top Things to Do in Durbuy Vieille Ville

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Spa

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

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

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

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

Top Things to Do in Liège

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

Places to Visit in Belgium Map

How to get to Belgium from the UK

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

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

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

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

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

Is Belgium worth visiting?

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

How many days in Belgium is enough?

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

What is the prettiest town in Belgium?

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

The Best Places to Visit in Belgium

• Durbuy Vieille Ville

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The 12 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

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

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

You might also be interested in reading:

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

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

Our top tips for the best places in Belgium:  

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

1. Meuse Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Flanders villages

Small town vibes in De Haan  

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

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

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

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

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

3. Bruges and Ghent boat canal tours

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

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

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

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

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

4. Gravensteen

My, my, what a great-looking castle  

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

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

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

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

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

Dinant: Too kitsch or just right?  

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Charleroi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is what awaits you @ Antwerpen-Centraal train station  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our hotel tip for Antwerp

Zen vibes @ Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp  

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

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

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

If you use any of our booking.com links to book a hotel (any hotel), we get a small commission at no extra expense to you. All you get is a great feeling for supporting our efforts. Thank you! 

8. Museums of Brussels

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

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

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

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

A little bit of car love @ Autoworld  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our hotel tip for Bruges

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

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

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

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

10. Atomium and Mini-Europe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We “ghent” get enough of Ghent!  

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

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

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

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

Central Ghent = lots to see  

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

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

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

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

Our hotel tip for Ghent

Comfy, cool and chic @ Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof  

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

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

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

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

12. Central Brussels

Soaking in the architecture on Grand Place  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our hotel tip for Brussels

The cool and comfortable Radisson Red  

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

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

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

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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.

Antwerp, is a center of culture, art, history, and diamonds. The options for things to do in a day in Antwerp are almost limitless. But this is my—aka the best—take on how to spend one day in Antwerp. 

Belgium is known for all the fries, waffles, beer, chocolate, and beer. Here are a few pointers and tips that could be useful for your travel to Belgium. Bits and bobs that you’ll only learn through experience.  

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

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

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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The 16 Best Things to Do in Belgium

Despite its small size, Belgium offers memorable experiences to travelers. Home to the European Capital (Brussels), the country has three official languages (French, Dutch, and German), over 1,500 beer labels, medieval castles, and many cities with well-preserved medieval architecture. Belgium has world-class art museums, and they excel in creating the best chocolates in the world, so trying the most famous Belgian sweet is far from an everyday experience.

The best time to visit the country is during the spring and summer when the days are often sunny, and there are many festivals. Although three days are enough to see the main attractions in Brussels, a perfect vacation in Belgium includes traveling beyond Brussels and exploring cities that blend tradition and modernity perfectly. Luckily, most places are connected by its efficient railway, and it's easy to plan a Belgian vacation. 

Appreciate the Grand Place's Architecture in Brussels

Built in the 15th century, the Grand Place was known as an important political center. The place underwent several changes through the centuries, but its well-preserved and impressive architecture turned the square into Belgium's most famous landmark. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the place is surrounded by the former guild houses (used for tax collecting in the past), the City Hall, and the Maison du Roi, the royal household of the King of France.

The Grand Place has excellent restaurants, including Le Cirio, Osteria A l'Ombra, and La Maison des Crèpes. The Delirium Café, a famous bar with over 2,000 brands of beers from across the globe, is just a few meters away. 

Discover the Atomium, Belgium's Most Famous Structure

The Atomium represents an elementary iron crystal cell enlarged 165 times. However, Belgium's most famous structure was supposed to be a temporary monument. The Atomium was built for the world's fair Expo 58, the first after World War II. The design is even more impressive inside, and it's possible to enter five of its nine orbs, where visitors will find exhibitions, light displays, a restaurant, and a gift shop. On top of that, the Atomium has a viewpoint with a panoramic view of Brussels.

The Atomium ticket also gives access to the Design Museum Brussels, which is dedicated to design history.

See All the European Wonders at Mini Europe

Mini Europe is located at the foot of Atomium and allows visitors to discover the whole European Union in a few hours. This open-air park features 350 miniatures of essential landmarks from 80 cities in Europe. The park has recreated spots such as the Grand Place (Brussels), Big Ben (London), and the Eiffel Tower (Paris) at a scale of 1/25.

Although it's a popular attraction for visitors with children, the complexity of details impresses people of all ages. For example, the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral (Spain) was perfectly recreated after 24,000 years of work, while the Town Hall of Brussels has 300 handmade sculptures.

Visit at Least One of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts are six renowned art centers in Brussels, and they display the country's most important collection of visual art. The museums have a collection spanning over 20,000 drawings, sculptures, and paintings from different periods in History. Located in the heart of Brussels, the Museum of Ancient Art is the largest of them, and visitors can admire the work of classic artists, such as Van Dyck and Rubens. The Museum of Modern Art has a collection dating back to the 19th century, and the Belgian Surrealist artists are its highlight.

The Magritte Museum and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum are close to the main buildings. The Constantin Meunier Museum and the Antoine Wiertz Museum are located in another part of the city, allowing visitors to discover those artists' work while visiting their homes and studios.

Walk Along the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert in Brussels are among the first shopping arcades built on the continent and are close to the Grand Place. It features three galleries named after royal titles: the Queen's Gallery, the King's Gallery, and the Princes' Gallery. Tourists and locals visit the place to admire its classic architecture inspired by the Italian Palace covered with a glass roof. The Galeries Royales display an array of luxury boutiques, jewelry shops, cafés, restaurants, Belgian chocolate shops, a cinema, a theater, and a bookshop. It's also possible to stay at the gallery, as there are hotel rooms and flats on the top floor, overlooking the galleries.

Find Out the Secrets Behind the Belgian Beers

Belgium has approximately 1,500 beers and hundreds of breweries scattered over the country. Although they can be easily purchased anywhere, visiting at least a brewery is a true immersion in the traditional beer culture. Located in Bruges, De Halve Maan Brewery is a family business, and they host tours where visitors can see how the beers are made.

Brewery De Koninck in Antwerpen offers an interactive experience and a tapped tasting before and during the tour. Of course, Brussels has a vast array of breweries, and Cantillon is arguably the favorite among tourists. The family business was created in 1900 and features a museum. 

Try the Best Chocolate and Waffles

Besides beer, Belgium is also famous for its chocolate and waffles. The Place du Grand Sablon in Brussels is a paradise for chocolate lovers, featuring a vast array of world-famous chocolatiers. The Artisan Chocolatier Mary ranks among the most popular shops in the area and exudes sophistication. The Frederic Blondeel sells freshly handcrafted chocolates as they roast the cocoa beans, aiming to highlight the flavor. The Wittame shop has a royal warrant, and their chocolate can be found at parties at the palace.

Waffles are another Belgian tradition, and they are traditionally served with butter and confectioner's sugar, but it's also possible to top it with fruits and cream. Maison Dandoy, Gaufres and Waffles, and the Waffle Factory are popular places to try the famous dessert. 

Take a Day Trip to Dinant

Located in the Wallonia region and 63 miles from Brussels, Dinant is a perfect destination for a day trip from Brussels. The picturesque town was built during the Middle Ages along the Meuse River overlooking a cliff. Visiting the 13th-century gothic church and the Maison Adolphe Sax (Saxophone's inventor) are the highlights of visiting Dinant. The Château fort de Crèvecœur stands above the city and has a panoramic view popular among visitors.

Beer fans can also visit Leffe, a village next to Dinant, which is home to one of Belgium's most famous beers. The Maison Leffe preserves the History of the beer named after the city.

Spend a Day Wandering on the Streets in Bruges

Bruges' historic center has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its preserved medieval buildings and Gothic architecture. Tourists are attracted by its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and the famous market square, which has been held every Wednesday since 985. Yet, visitors can enjoy the restaurants on the historic buildings during the whole week. The historic center is turned into a vast Christmas market during the holiday season, featuring dozens of stalls, a giant Christmas tree, and an ice rink.

It's possible to spend the day wandering the streets on foot, taking a carriage, or seeing the city on a boat. The canals offer different angles from Brugges, going around the historic center and other areas.

Enter a Medieval Castle in Ghent

Few cities can claim they have a medieval castle located in the city center. The Gravensteen castle (or Castle of the Counts) in Ghent was built in the 9th century and is intertwined with the complex city's political History. One of the most well-preserved castles in Flanders is open for visitors, and during the tour, people can enter the count's residence, stables, torture chamber, ramparts, and gatehouse.

It's also possible to see the castle on a 40-minute guided boat tour through Medieval Ghent. The tour passes by other important landmarks, such as the St. Bavo's Cathedral and monasteries that date back to the 13th century. 

See the Famous Ghent Altarpiece

The Van Eyck brothers painted the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb in the 15th century, popularly known as the Ghent Altarpiece. The painting consists of 18 panels representing scenes from the Bible, starting with Adam and Eve. The masterpiece is displayed at St. Bavo's Cathedral, a landmark in the city.

St. Bavo's Cathedral is the most famous of the Drie Kerke , three medieval churches near each other, and a famous Ghent tourist attraction, even among non-religious visitors. The Saint Nicholas' Church and Saint Michael's Church also feature a Gothic style and are open to visitors. 

Have a Drink at Graslei and Korenlei in Ghent

Graslei and the Korenlei are quays dating back to the 11th century. Considered one of the most beautiful spots in Ghent, the place is one of the city's postcards thanks to the image of its historical buildings reflecting on the Lys River's waters. Most old houses along the river were turned into cafés and restaurants, where locals and tourists sit for a drink. The place becomes crowded during summer when more people take boat tours along the river.

One of the most famous spots at Graslei and the Korenlei is the Lovely Grasbrug, a bridge connecting Graslei and the Korenmarkt, a popular shopping area. 

Admire the Details at the Antwerp Central

The Antwerp Central Station is often ranked among the most beautiful train stations in the world, and it was inaugurated in 1905. Also known as the Railway Cathedral, the place was inspired by the Roman Pantheon, and it bears a resemblance to a religious building. The combination of glass, stones, and metals has created this unique station, also known for its heritage preservation and modern technologies.

Bars and restaurants surround the station. The Zoo Antwerpen, one of the best in the country, is just a few steps away from the station, and many families with children travel to Antwerp to visit it. 

Hire a Private Tour to Explore the Diamond District

Antwerp is widely known for being home to diamond mining companies responsible for supplying diamond dealers in many countries. The Diamond District is filled with jewelry shops, diamond workers, and merchants. It's possible to visit the area independently or hire a private tour that explains the details of the whole process involving the diamonds. The tours also stop by famous fashion ateliers in the city.

The DIVA, a museum dedicated to diamonds, jewelry, and silver, is essential for understanding the history of Antwerp and diamond dealing. The place is undergoing renovation, but visitors can stop by their atelier and museum shop until they reopen in March 2023.

Visit Pairi Daiza, One of the Best Zoos in Europe

Pairi Daiza, located in Brugelette, is a private zoo and botanical garden spanning over 65 hectares and home to over 7,000 animals from different continents. This award-winning Zoo has been voted the best in Europe, and it's recognized for its work in taking care of endangered species. They offer different experiences to visitors, including being a zoo keeper for one day and a special tour for children (available only in French).

Visitors can also have an immersive experience by spending a night at the Pairi Daiza Resort, which gives guests access to the Zoo one hour before it opens to the public. 

Spend a Day at Villers Abbey Ruins

The Villers Abbey, situated at Villers-la-Ville, was built in the 12th century and destroyed during the French revolution. The bucolic location kept attracting visitors, including the writer Victor Hugo. The ruins are open year-round, giving a glimpse of life back then, as they offer guided tours and walks and host open-air concerts, theater plays, and art exhibitions.

The ruins are located 20 miles from Brussels and can be reached by train or bus. Locals mainly visit the place, so it's an excellent activity for travelers trying to skip the crowds. The best time to see the site is during the spring and summer. 

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Top Destinations To Check Out In Belgium This Summer

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

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

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

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

La Roche-en-Ardenne

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

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

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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The 25 Best Things to do in Belgium

One of the most fascinating countries in Europe, Belgium has it all. From ancient medieval cities to cool fashion districts, from velvety-smooth chocolate to mussels caught that very morning, and from high-octane festivals that last for days to family-run breweries that haven’t changed in centuries, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Belgium!

Visit during summer, and you can while away your days wandering in romantic old towns, cycling in the flower-dotted countryside, digging into fresh seafood by the sea, and attending some of the best music festivals in the world. 

Or plan your trip for winter, and have a magical time exploring Brussels’ Christmas markets , taking a tour around CERN, checking out world-class art galleries, and keeping warm in romantic bistros. 

It doesn’t matter which time of year you visit or even who you travel with. There’s always something new and exciting to experience here.

With so many incredible things to see and do, it can be tricky to know where to get started. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Belgium. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Belgium bucket list, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring this remarkable country!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

25 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Belgium

1. party with thousands of people at tomorrowland.

For an experience you’ll be telling people about for years, grab tickets to Tomorrowland . A larger-than-life music festival that attracts people from all corners of the globe, this incredible festival is an absolute must for any electronic music fan.

The festival began back in 2005 in the town of Boom and has been getting bigger and better ever since. Spread out over the course of three weekends in June, the festival showcases the most popular and talented musicians and performers from all over the world.

Tomorrowland isn’t just about the music. With smoke machines, colorful lasers, pyrotechnics, and loads more, the festival always puts on a stellar show and generates an incredible atmosphere that you’ll get swept up in! 

There are tiny stages set up for intimate gigs with a small number of guests all the way up to giant stages with space for hundreds of thousands of party people.

2. Snap a Pic of the Iconic Manneken Pis

You’ll find one of the most popular Belgium attractions in the capital city, Brussels . Despite its small size, Manneken Pis is visited by thousands of people every day and is loved so much that you’ll find it featured on all kinds of souvenirs and mementos.

If you speak Dutch, you’ll know that the name means “Little Pissing Man,” which is exactly what Manneken Pis is – a tiny statue on a fountain with a well-placed stream of water coming out of it! No one’s quite sure why the statue is loved so much. But it’s such a big deal that you’ve got to include it on your Belgium bucket list.

The original statue was built in 1618. Although the one that currently stands in the fountain is a replica, it’s identical to the one built 400 years ago. The original was moved to the City Museum years ago to keep it safe after students kept trying to steal it. 

3. Wander Around Ghent’s Charming Old Town

A compact spot that’s easy to get around on foot, Gent’s Old Town is a wonderful place to explore. The town retains a lot of its character and looks almost exactly the same as it did in the 1500s when it was one of the most important and influential cities in Europe. 

Korenmarkt (Grain Market) is a great place to start. From here, take a walk to St. Michael’s Bridge, where you’ll find the very best 360-degree panoramic views in all of the city. Look below, and you’ll see countless boats transporting visitors all over the place. Move away from the river, and you’ll find yourself at the bustling market hall with a spectacular rooftop inspired by medieval Ghent.

Close by, you’ll spot the city’s belfry, which has stood proudly since the 14th century. A neo-gothic top spire was added in 1913 for the World’s Fair. On the other side of the belfry, you can see one of the biggest attractions in the city, St. Bavo’s Cathedral.

Book a Ghent Guided Walking Tour

4. Discover the Hidden Secrets of Atomium

Brussels is home to countless cool things to do in Belgium and Atomium is certainly no exception. An eye-catching futuristic building that was created in 1958 for the Brussels World’s Fair, this unusual attraction is tucked away in a large public park in the northern suburb of Laeken.

Atomium is made up of a number of spherical atom-shaped platforms, some of which stand more than 328 feet off the ground. Each sphere is themed, and the bottom one invites you to understand the attraction a little better and how it came to be. It’s full of fascinating info about the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, too.

Most of the spheres are home to constantly-changing art exhibitions and galleries that local and international artists can use to show off their skills and talents. The final sphere is where you’ll find an excellent restaurant and an amazing panoramic viewing gallery that boasts unbeatable vistas. 

Get Your Atomium Entry Ticket

5. Take a Boat Trip Along Meuse Valley

If you need a break from Belgium’s cosmopolitan cities, head for Meuse Valley. Located just south of Brussels, the Meuse Valley invites you to immerse yourself in the rural heartland and let all your cares drift away.

While there are plenty of walking, hiking, cycling, and horseback riding opportunities in the area, one of the best ways to get around and take in the sights is to hop on a boat. The towns of Dinant and Namur are both great places to get started. Here you’ll find a number of places offering boat trips along the Meuse Valley.

One of the most beautiful trips you’ll ever take, the scenic boat ride takes you past dense forests, lush fields, craggy hilltops, ruined castles, and peaceful waterfront towns with limestone cliffs providing the perfect backdrop. When the sky is clear and the sun is shining, you’ll feel like you’re sailing through the pages of a fairytale book!

6. See All of Europe In a Single Day at Mini-Europe

Take a trip to Laeken in the north of Brussels, and you’ll find one of the most unique things to do in Belgium – Mini-Europe ! This family-friendly attraction gives you the chance to explore all of Europe in miniature, with a giant park dedicated to tiny versions of iconic European landmarks. 

Have a look around, and you’ll discover more than 350 different miniature attractions scattered throughout the park. Some of the most fascinating ones include London’s Big Ben, Paris’ Eiffel Tower, and Rome’s Colosseum. There’s even a recreation of Mount Vesuvius erupting!

All the models in the park are built on a scale of 1:25, and the details are almost too incredible to believe. Look closely, and you’ll see tiny people walking their dogs, tourists taking photos, and all kinds of cool stuff. 

If you can, try and visit in the run-up to a major holiday. In the weeks before the big celebrations, such as Christmas, Halloween, and Easter, the streets of Mini-Europe are covered in mini decorations. 

Get your Entry Ticket to Mini-Europe

7. Try the Best Fries In the World

Did you know that fries were most likely invented in Belgium? The golden, starchy sticks of deliciousness are hugely popular throughout the whole country – and it’s no surprise why!

Unlike the standard fries you’re probably used to, Belgian fries are fried twice. This gives them the most incredible light and fluffy interior while keeping the outside perfectly crispy and crunchy. Most places serve fries with a huge choice of sauces, from ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard to samurai, andalouse, and joppiesaus.

Belgium takes its fries so seriously that there’s an annual competition for the stall or restaurant that makes the best fries!

Maison Antoine is one of the best places in the whole of Belgium for fries. Established in 1948, this casual hut serves the most drool-worthy and addictive fries you’ve ever had in your life. They’re shockingly cheap and come with the choice of more than 30 different sauces.

8. Tour the World’s Largest Belgian Chocolate Museum 

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, a visit to the Chocolate Nation is one of the must-do things in Belgium. The biggest chocolate museum in the whole world, Chocolate Nation teaches you all about why chocolate is so important to the country and why people around the world can’t get enough of it!

Here you can find out how chocolate is transformed from tiny beans into delicious bars. The fascinating exhibit flows through 14 themed rooms that follow the humble cacao bean on its journey. Through interesting displays, you can watch it as it moves from exotic plantations to chocolate-making shops in Antwerp.

The best part about Chocolate Nation is that you get to try plenty of samples. There are more than 10 different kinds of chocolate to nibble. If you want to get a bit more hands-on, you can also have a go at making your own chocolate creations. 

9. Be Mesmerized by the Ghent Light Festival

The Ghent Light Festival only takes place once every three years. So if it’s happening during your visit, you’ve got to check it out. This phenomenal festival takes over the whole town, with innovative light installations set up throughout the city.

Take a walk around at night, and you’ll be left in awe as artistic creations in every size, shape, and color you can imagine dazzle in the dark. There are more than 50 unique installations set up along a 5-kilometer path that takes you all over the city. The outdoor art gallery is completely free to enjoy, too. 

As well as the stunning installations, the Ghent Light Festival also includes a huge number of amazing performances themed on light and color. Keep your eyes open for posters throughout Ghent advertising the dates, times, and locations of the performances.

There’s no set date for the festival. Your best bet is to check online when planning your vacation.

10. Explore Rubens House

If you’re a fan of the artist Peter Paul Rubens, you’ll be excited to hear that you can visit the home that he once lived in. One of the top things to do in Brussels, spending a few hours in Rubens House gives you the chance to see a new, more personal side of the artist that few get to experience.

The artist resided and painted some of his most famous masterpieces in Rubens House (now known as Rubenshuis) for 30 years in the 17th century. After he purchased the building, he completely renovated it until it was just how he wanted it. Today, the property features a grandiose Italian palazzo style and has a beautiful courtyard. 

Many of his great works of art are on display inside the house, as well as a number of pieces created by his contemporaries and his students. Rubens House hasn’t always been a home. It was a prison for a short while after the French Revolution! In the 20th century, Antwerp took over the building and restored it to make it look like it did when Rubens lived there.

11. Walk In the Footsteps of Napoleon at Waterloo

If you love visiting historical spots, you’ll be spoiled for things to do in Belgium. One landmark you’ve absolutely got to visit is Waterloo, the place where Napoleon was defeated in the infamous Battle of Waterloo. 

The countryside looks like an entirely different place today. Instead of being ravished by battle, the ground is put to good use and is covered with agricultural fields. But there is a small nod to what went on there centuries ago.

An artificial hill rises up above the flatlands. Take a walk up the incline, and you’ll discover an impressive lion memorial at the top, commemorating the day that Napoleon’s army was defeated. From here, you’ve also got fantastic views of the surrounding countryside. 

If you want to find out more, step inside the visitor’s center at the bottom of the hill. Here you’ll find loads of displays and a 3D movie on the events that led up to the battle.

Book a Waterloo Private Battlegrounds Tour

12. Go Window Shopping For Diamonds

For some of the best Belgium sightseeing opportunities, head to Antwerp. This trendy district is known for being an incredible place for fashion, but it also has a well-deserved reputation as being the diamond capital of the world. It all started in the 15th century when Lodewyk van Bercken created an innovative tool that was perfect for polishing gemstones.

Antwerp’s Diamond District is just to the west of the Central Station. Whether or not you’ve got any money in your bank account, you’re free to take a walk around and gaze in the windows of the hundreds of diamond workshops and stores which line the streets. Here you’ll find everything from rough diamonds mined from the ground to sparkling polished diamonds and priceless diamond jewelry.

Not only can you shop for precious gemstones here, but you can also see how the jewelry is made. Some craftspeople polish rough diamonds and make remarkable diamond jewelry in the front of their stores, so you can see them at work.

13. Get Back to Nature in Semois Valley

Hidden away in the southern part of the country, Semois Valley is one of Belgium’s best-kept secrets. Shrouded in natural beauty, the valley is covered in lush grass, towering trees, and the quaint sound of birdsong.

The winding Semois River cuts through the green fields and is overlooked by undulating hills dotted with all kinds of beautiful flora, whichever time of year you visit. Here you’ll find some of the very best hikes in the country, and you never have to worry about crowds.

Even during summer, when the valley is most popular, there are still off-the-beaten-track trails to discover that invite you to explore Belgium’s countryside alone. If that sounds like way too much work for you, a riverboat ride may be more your style. 

Hop on, and you’ll sail over the sparkling lake, enjoying all the beautiful views without any of the hard work!

14. Fall In Love With Belgian Chocolates

When you’re in the mood for a treat, one of the top things to do in Belgium is to indulge your sweet tooth with the country’s world-famous chocolates. Belgium has been making chocolate since the 17th century, and you’ll find chocolate shops every few steps in the cities. 

Passion Chocolat is one of the best places in Belgium to fill up on chocolate. This hugely popular chocolatier has multiple locations throughout the country, each of which boasts 80 different varieties of chocolate.

Here you can fall in love with pralines, ganaches, truffles, and chocolate bars. There’s also a number of fantastic specialties, such as lightly-salted peanut-shaped pralines and super-thin chocolate bars flavored with rosemary and pepper.

If you’re not much of a chocolate lover, Passion Chocolat is still worth a visit. Pick up some treats for friends and family back home, and they’ll love you forever!

15. See Art Come to Life at Saint Peter’s Church in Leuven

One of the most unique Belgium attractions, Saint Peter’s Church in Leuven isn’t like any other church. This religious building invites you on a journey back in time for the chance to see spectacular works of art come to life. 

In 2020, the church introduced top-end tablets and high-tech HoloLens headsets that make a visit to Saint Peter’s absolutely fascinating. Strap on a HoloLens headset, and 3D images will be projected onto the artwork, along with special effects and audio, for a truly unique experience.  

That’s not the only way you can visit Saint Peter’s Church. For a traditional day out, sign up for one of the visitor guides or follow a self-guided family tour to see the highlights of the building. 

One of the highlights of the church is The Last Supper by Dieric Bouts. Created by a Flemish Primitive artist that lived in Leuven, this painting was completed almost 600 years ago and is brimming with intricate details. 

16. Become a Museum Lover at the Historium

You’ll find one of the most fun things to do in Belgium at the Historium . A fantastic place to spend a day, whether you’re traveling as a grown-up couple or a family with kids, this attraction is part medieval movie and part museum. 

Tucked away inside a neo-gothic building in Bruges , the museum invites you on a journey to discover what the city was like during the medieval era. To appeal to people who aren’t usually into museums, the Historium shuns facts and figures in favor of modern tech. 

VR headsets, special effects, and lively music combine to give you a great idea of what it was like to live in the city hundreds of years ago. Here you’ll find seven history-themed rooms to work your way through, as well as a tower that reaches 114 feet into the sky and a panoramic terrace with some of the best views in the city. 

Get Your Historium Bruges Story Ticket

17. Go Back to the 16th Century With the Binche Carnival

If you’re planning to travel to Belgium at the end of February, you’ve got to make time for the Binche Carnival. For a few days at the end of February or the beginning of March (the exact dates change according to when Easter falls), the city of Binche comes to life with one of the most fascinating Carnivals in Europe.

Taking weeks of preparation to organize, the festival sees the small town return to the 16th century. It’s so remarkable that it was declared an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2003.

During the three-day celebration, loads of music parades take place throughout the town, with all the locals dressed in fantastic period costumes. The highlight of the event is when 1,000 Giles (people dressed up as unusual clowns) appear on the Grand Place on Shrove Tuesday. 

The funny characters dance to the sound of beating drums to ward off evil spirits. They then proceed to march down the street, throwing oranges at everyone watching. Don’t worry if you get hit by one. It’s said to be good luck!

18. Get Tipsy at the Bruges Beer Festival

The Bruges Beer Festival is definitely one of the top Belgium activities. Held during a single weekend in spring or summer, the festival sees 80 individual breweries come together to share their best products with the city. 

Take a look around, and you’ll find over 500 different types of beer to try, as well as a number of rare and exclusive varieties made especially for the Bruges Beer Festival. A lot of breweries launch new beers at the festival, giving you the chance to try all kinds of beer you’ve never even heard of.

If you need something to soak up the alcohol, you’ll be spoiled for choice. There are food trucks dotted throughout the venue, serving up all kinds of local and international dishes. There’s also a raffle stand where you can buy tickets for the chance to win beer-related memorabilia and free drinks!

19. Discover the Fairytale Castle of Veves

If you find yourself in Namur, you’ve got to check out the Castle of Veves . Known as the Château de Vêves in Belgium, this romantic medieval castle boasts dreamy round towers and peaked cupolas, making it look like something from a fairytale.

The original foundations of the castle date back to the time of Pepin de Herstal (670-714). The building was completely destroyed in 1200, and it wasn’t until 1230 that it was rebuilt. However, the castle was devastated by fire at the start of the 15th century and restored once again. Most of the structure that you can see today dates back to the 15th century.

Take a tour of the castle, and you’ll discover grandiose galleries, magnificent staircases, a charming chapel, and luxurious lounges where the wealthy and powerful would socialize. The views from the outside of the castle are just as stunning as the ones inside. From the castle’s hilltop location, you’ve got the perfect view of the surrounding verdant valley.

20. Go Skinny Dipping In the North Sea

If you’re feeling brave, one of the most fun things to do in Belgium is to let it all hang out at Bredene’s nudist beach. The only official naturist beach in Belgium, Bredene Beach is quiet and remote, so you don’t have to worry about spectators!

Although the beach is relatively small, around 820 feet long, it’s never crowded. Because it’s a little out of the way, it’s not covered in souvenir stalls, boat trip kiosks, and seafood restaurants. Instead, the rugged beach flaunts a natural beauty, with flat, soft golden sand backed by small grass-speckled dunes. 

The beach is very well signposted and just a short walk from the Bredene Renbaan coastal tram stop. Rarely calm and still, the sea is always a little choppy. But if you’re a confident swimmer, the waves are great fun to jump and splash in.

21. Dig Into All the Moules-Frites You Can Handle

Belgium is known for its exquisite seafood, and moules-frites is one of the most spectacular dishes. This local favorite is made from tender mussels that are cooked in a light white wine with vegetable broth or flavor-packed Belgian beer. The mussels are served with thick and chunky fries, which are perfect for dipping into the sauce after all the mussels are gone.

What makes mussels and fries so much better in Belgium than anywhere else in the world are the ingredients. The mussels in Belgium are caught in the North Sea and are significantly bigger and plumper than the ones caught in the sea around France.

The fries are different from fries in other places, too. Belgian fries are fried twice, giving them perfectly light and fluffy insides, while keeping the outsides crispy and crunchy. The contrast in flavor and texture of the mussels and fries makes this iconic dish incredibly addictive! 

Poules Moules in Bruges serves amazing moules-frites . There are loads of different types to choose between – plain, with white wine, with Bruges beer, with Pernod, and with fresh basil. 

22. Enjoy an Early Morning Bike Ride Along Trappisteenroute

For some of the best sights in Belgium, rent a bike and cycle along Trappisteenroute. Known as the Trappist Route in English, this wonderful cycling route passes by some of the most beautiful scenery in Flanders and even includes a visit to the Trappist Abbey, founded in 1794.

The route begins and ends at the Westmalle Brewery , where Trappist monks have been praying, living, and brewing beer in silence for hundreds of years. Here you can take a much-deserved break and enjoy one of their locally-brewed beers, along with some traditional Belgian food.

The complete route covers a staggering 27 miles, making it best left to cycling enthusiasts comfortable with long journeys. Because it is so long, we recommend you set off first thing in the morning and set aside an entire day to complete the Trappist Route.

23. Soak Up the View From the Highest Spot In Belgium

When you want to get back to nature and escape the crowds, one of the best things to do in Belgium is to visit the Hautes Fagnes . This wetland nature reserve is home to the highest point in Belgium, standing at an impressive 2,300 feet above sea level. From up here, you can literally see for miles across immaculate, unspoiled nature.

While the viewing point is definitely one of the highlights of Hautes Fagnes, there are plenty of other things to do in the area, too. The nature reserve is very boggy, but crisscrossing boardwalks allow you to explore and check out the sights without getting your feet wet.  

Because the place is so huge and few visitors know about it, you can walk for miles and miles without seeing a single person. Cell service can be a bit hit-and-miss, so it’s a good idea to take a physical map with you or make sure you’ve got one downloaded on your phone for offline use.

Depending on the time of year you visit, you could spot everything from black grouse and hen harriers to wild boar and roe deer.

24. See How the Other Half Lived at the Kasteel van Loppem

You’ll find some of the very best things to see in Belgium inside the Kasteel van Loppem . Located on the outskirts of Bruges, this powerful fortress looks more like an opulent mansion than a castle and has been one of the city’s most popular attractions for years. 

Kasteel van Loppem was built in the 19th century and was the home of the Belgian king for a short while following the end of WWI. During this period, it was also a command center for Belgium’s army. 

Take a self-guided tour around the castle, and you’ll discover magnificent furniture, hand-woven carpets, grandiose fireplaces, and glittering chandeliers that once adorned the home of the royal family. Inside the marvelous building, you’ll also find a spectacular artwork collection consisting of sketches and sculptures. 

When you need a break from trinkets and treasures, step outside and get lost in the hedge maze. It’s trickier than it looks and is great fun!

25. Swap Beer for Jenever

Belgium is well known for its world-famous beer, but jenever is a lesser-known alcohol that’s been made in the country for more than 500 years. You’ll find it under many different names, including peket , genever , and Hollands. More of an acquired taste than beer, jenever is juniper-flavored and is the drink that gin originated from. 

There are many different types of jenever with various distinct tastes. Jonge jenever tastes a bit like vodka, while oude jenever is smoother and maltier. The type of grain used to make the drink is what gives it its unique flavor. 

You’ll find jenever in pretty much every bar throughout Belgium. To make it appealing to more palates, a lot of places serve it in fun flavors like passionfruit, apple, chocolate, and vanilla. Most supermarkets also sell it, so you can grab a bottle of your favorite flavor and take it back home with you. 

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Belgium. What’s your favorite thing to do in Belgium?

Planning a trip to Belgium? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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What Is the Best Time to Visit Belgium? Weather, Events & Travel Tips by a Local

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I might be a little biased, but Belgium is a beautiful country that offers something for everyone , no matter the time of year.

Whether you are looking to see the changing leaves fall from the trees or want to enjoy an ice skating rink in winter, Belgium has it all!

We’re not a typical summer destination nor are we good for winter sports. But, you visit Belgium’s cultural cities and the gorgeous nature at any point of the year which makes it a great destination all year round!

This blog post will cover the best time to visit Belgium in four different seasons and what they offer.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Belgium?

Like other European countries, Belgium has four seasons : spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

The best time to go to Belgium depends on what you want to do and your budget for the trip . Each season offers different things so it’s tough to give one definitive answer about the best time to travel to Belgium. 

Belgium in Spring

Belgium in spring is a time to enjoy the beautiful flowers in bloom , and smell tulips and daffodils. It is also a perfect time for those who love outdoor activities such as hiking or biking – Belgium has plenty of great trails to explore! 

If you’re visiting in early spring, it’s a good idea to wear layers of clothes that you can quickly wear or take off depending on the weather conditions. It could get breezy and cool at times.

There’s also a big chance of a rain shower, so make sure to always bring an umbrella with you . For those looking for places to visit in Belgium in spring, spend some time checking the weather forecast and pack accordingly .

Belgium in March

March is the start of the spring season in Belgium. At this time, the days are getting warmer and longer.

The average temperature in March starts at around 4,5°C to 9°C towards the end of the month, which isn’t too cold but definitely not hot either.

While March is famous for its “rain showers of March” amongst the Belgians, it’s actually a pretty dry month if you look at the numbers. The average is 50 to 130mm.

March is a great time to visit Belgium because not too many tourists are around and the weather is perfect.

Festivals & Events in March

There aren’t any big festivals or events going on in March though, so if you’re looking for something that’ll keep you entertained all day long, this might not be the right season of the year for you.

Belgium in April

The weather in Belgium in April is hard to predict . It might be cool and wet or it can already be quite warm and sunny.

The average Belgium temperature in April is around 7,5 to 12 degrees Celcius , but we often have days of almost 20°C too. On the other hand, extreme cold weather is also possible and it all just switches back and forth this month. 

When it comes to rain, it’s a pretty dry month with an average of 40 to 90mm.  

It’s a great time to visit Belgium as there aren’t many other tourists because people tend to stay away from Brussels and other bigger cities during this cooler month due to the weather conditions. 

Festivals & Events in April

There are quite a few festivals happening in Belgium including the Brussels Short Film Festival.

It’s a good time to visit Belgium because you’ll be able to see great art and experience some of their best food , such as waffles for breakfast or frites with mayonnaise.

It’s also the only month in which you can see the Belgian bluebells !  Plan your visit to Bluebell Forest here .

🏨✿ Where to stay to see the bluebells? In Brussels, our favourite place is the Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre .

Belgium in May

May is an awesome month to visit Belgium. The average Belgium temperature in May is around 12 to 15,5 degrees Celsius and the rainfall during this month is about 60 to 100 mm.

It usually rains one out of every two days. However, the sun already gives plenty of warmth, so, hopefully, you’ll get to enjoy wearing T-shirts rather than sweaters or rain jackets days! 

You might also get great deals with hotels and B&Bs , as most tourists tend to visit Belgium during the summer months.

Festivals & Events in May

There are a number of festivals going on all around the country, for example: 

• The Floralies , an annual flower show in Ghent. It usually takes place from the end of April to the middle of May. 
• The Gay Pride is held every year around the 18th of May in Belgium’s capital.  
• The Brussels Jazz Festival , which is one of Europe’s finest jazz festivals and it’s usually happens in May.
• The Kattenstoet  (Procession of the Cats) in Ypres.
• Les Nuits , also held in Brussels, is seen as the kickstarter of the festival season. 

Belgium in Summer

The Belgium summer generally offers sun-soaked days perfect for refreshing watermelon treats. Likewise, Belgium’s summer temperatures can be unpredictable.

Some years (like the summer of 2019), we have heat waves of 35+ degrees Celcius and other years (like the summer of 2021), there’s lots of rain and temperatures around 20-22 degrees Celcius.

The Belgium summer weather is a time to enjoy the great outdoors . It’s the perfect time for camping, hiking and kayaking, as well as partying at some of Belgium’s best festivals like Rock Werchter or Tomorrowland!

Belgium in June

It’s a great time to visit Belgium in June if you love water sports. The sun shines and the water is warm, so it’s perfect for swimming (the sea will still be pretty chilly though) or sailing. Discover the Belgium beaches that are perfect for the summer season here.

June is also a great time to visit if you’re into cycling. The weather conditions are perfect for this sport and the country’s many bike paths offer plenty of scenic routes. 

June is a great time to visit Belgium because the weather is usually nice and mild. The average temperature in June is around 15 to 18 degrees Celsius and the rainfall is about 60 to 110 mm . This is another month where it usually rains 1 out of every 2 days, however, there is plenty of sunshine too! 

Festivals & Events in June

The most famous festival in June is  Graspop , a metal event. Other festivals during this month include the Brussels International Film Festival and Bear Rock Festival.

Belgium in July

The Belgian school holidays start on the first of July and all the way until the 1st of September. This means that July is the first month of the high season when just about any Belgian will be travelling themselves.

The North Sea coast can get crowded. The bigger cities are nice places to visit because many of the residents are away . Nowadays, those cities often have summer bars or even man-made beaches to pull the summer feeling all the way into the city.

The average Belgium temperature in July is around 17,5 to 20 degrees Celsius and is considered the hottest month of the year. The temperatures are usually a bit higher than average and heatwaves (28-32°C) are common.

The average rainfall is 60 to 120mm but it happens mostly during intense thunderstorms. July is the month with the largest amount of sunshine. 

Festivals & Events in July

Famous festivals during this month are the  Gentse Feesten  (which takes place in Ghent), and the Antwerp Jazz Festival .

Rock Werchter  is held every year at the beginning of the month, while world-renowned Tomorrowland is held at the end of the month.

For those looking for family-friendly festivals, we can recommend Sfinks Mixed! Get to know other festivals and reasons to visit Belgium here .

Belgium in August

August is the second month of the high season . The Belgium weather in August is usually hot, resulting in warm waters by the seaside, vibrant festivals, and some of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever see!   

August is one of the hottest months in Belgium , with average temperatures around 15,5 – 19,5°C . The heatwaves can be quite intense and it’s not unusual to have many days with very little rain or clouds.

However, sometimes things will cool down towards the end of this month when a wetter and cooler air mass arrives from the Atlantic Ocean. The average rainfall is 65 to 115mm . There’s still plenty of sun to enjoy during this month . 

Festivals & Events in August

Belgium has many festivals going on throughout the year, but most of them are held during the summer months.

One that is organized in the province of Limburg and features a lot of international music acts is  Pukkelpop  which generally takes place halfway through the month.

Belgium in Autumn

Autumn in Belgium typically brings cool temperatures , which will be more comfortable than the heat during summer days.

The ideal months to visit Belgium are September and October when the leaves turn yellow, orange or red. It’s a very colourful season with some days being cold while others are warm – so you can enjoy both sunny and rain-soaked days!  

In this period of the year, it’s also easy to find accommodation because the high season is over. We don’t have very cold nights but it can get chilly if you’re camping out or doing outdoor activities.

Belgium in September

The weather in September is generally pleasant as it’s not too hot or cold.  

The average Belgium weather in September is around 13,5 to 16°C. Even though you can clearly feel that autumn has arrived – often with lots of rain and windy days – warm and sunny days aren’t out of the picture either.

The average rainfall during this month is 60 to 120mm depending on the location. Thunderstorms occur less frequently, but sunshine hours have reduced drastically too compared to the summer months. 

Festivals & Events in September

There are still plenty of festivals to celebrate the end of summer and the start of the new school year. Laundry Day in Antwerp, Belgian Beer Weekend in Brussels, and  Crammerock  are a few of them. Discover the best beer while in Belgium .

Belgium in October  

October is the month of colours  when you can feel the days getting shorter. The temperatures will also drop quite drastically towards the end of the month. 

The average Belgium temperature in October is around 14°C at the beginning and 9°C at the end of the month.

Nonetheless, Belgium still has a lot to offer for those who enjoy hiking or cycling through nature. You’ll see different shades of the fall colours but hopefully, you’ll be able to enjoy some warm days with clear blue skies as well.  

The average rainfall in October is 60 to 130mm depending on the location. Although not frequently, winter storms and (melting) snow might already happen.

Festivals & Events in October

If Germany has Oktoberfest, then Belgium has its beer festivals. One of the many beer festivals is the Modeste Beer Festival .

It’s an annual beer festival held in Antwerp, Belgium and it takes place on the grounds of the De Koninck brewery. Featuring over 300 beers from Belgium and around the world. There are also food stalls, live music, and educational workshops.

Belgium in November

November can either bring lots of rain or cold weather – it’s not easy to predict what will happen during this month! If you’re looking for warmer temperatures, the country is not the best place to be .

The average Belgium temperature in November of around 5 to 9 degrees Celcius . If you’re planning on going to one of the country’s winter festivals, it is the best time to visit.

The average rainfall is again 60 to 130mm depending on your location in Belgium, but a typical occurrence for November is fog . October saw the last of the frequent sunny days, as of November, the weather started to get bleaker winds. 

Festivals & Events in November

Towards the end of the month, many Christmas markets will start opening up, which gives a lively and cosy atmosphere to just about any destination in Belgium.

Belgium in Winter

While this might not be the best season for a visit if you’re looking for sunshine and warm temperatures , Belgium is still worth exploring in the colder months.  

Belgium is a country with many sights to see and in winter, we enjoy Christmas markets, food festivals and Glühwein .  

If you’re not looking for the typical Belgium winter holiday experience – where it’s cold outside and hot drinks are waiting for you at home – then the country might be too chilly for your liking!

In winter, the average temperature in Belgium is around 3 degrees Celsius and rainfall during this season usually ranges between 60 mm to 80 mm .  

It’s hard to predict when snow will fall – if there is some at all! We usually have one or two (brief) periods of snow every two years.

Belgium in December

The average Belgium temperature in December is around 3 to 5°C and rainfall during this month usually ranges between 60 mm to 170 mm.

In general, Belgium’s weather in December is hard to predict , so you could end up with ‘warmer’ days filled with clouds and rain or colder ones with a bright sun and a crisp feeling.

However, the days are short, so there won’t be much sun to enjoy in any case. It’s usually pitch dark by 5 PM.

Festivals & Events in December

December is a wonderful month to enjoy with your family . One of the things to do in Belgium in winter is visit the Christmas Markets and if you stay long enough for New Year’s Eve, you’ll witness fireworks shows in just about any city.  

Belgium in January

After the Holidays, regular life takes over again and there isn’t that much to do in Belgium.

However, if you don’t mind a bit of cold or some rain, January is a good month to explore the big cities such as Brussels , Antwerp , Ghent , Liège or Bruges . 

If you head down into the Eastern part of Belgium – along the German border – you’ll probably find some ski slopes that are open.

However, this greatly depends on the weather! Belgium is not your typical winter sports destination , so if you’re looking for definite ski or snowboarding fun, you can head over to France or Austria!  

The average Belgium January temperature is around 1 to 2°C . It’s the coldest month of the year and days of -5 to -10°C aren’t exceptional. Rainfall during this month usually ranges between 55 mm to 160 mm .

It’s the month with the biggest chance for snow although we can’t guarantee that you’ll see some!

Festivals & Events in January

Winter Wonders (Plaisirs d’Hiver) held in Brussels, is a month-long winter festival featuring a Christmas market, light displays, and various entertainment options. It usually starts in late November and runs through January .

Belgium in February

February is the month of love and Belgium offers some very romantic destinations for a perfect Valentine’s Day. Some of the most popular destinations during this month are Bruges and Ghent .  

While February is the month that signifies the transition between winter and spring, the average temperature is about the same as in January, with a minimum of -3,5 to 1°C and a maximum of 2 to 7°C .

It’s a relatively dry month. The weather in Belgium in February usually has an average rainfall of 40mm (in the West) to 125mm (in the Ardennes) .

You’ll also have the highest chance of snow – however, with an average of 5 snow days, that chance still isn’t that big.

Festivals & Events in February

At the end of the month, you can join in on the Carnaval celebrations that are held in just about any town and city.

If you’re looking for the biggest and most famous one , head over to Aalst ( the Carnaval was even featured in the UNESCO World Heritage ). 

7 Useful Travel Tips From a Local

🧳 Pack for all weather conditions.  Belgium has a temperate maritime climate, so it can be rainy and overcast at any time of year . Be sure to pack a raincoat, umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes. 🌐 Learn some basic Dutch, French , or German.  The official languages of Belgium are Dutch, French, and German. While English is widely spoken , it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn a few words of the local language. ⚠️ Be aware of your surroundings . Belgium is generally safe for travellers. However, like in any tourist destination, be cautious of your belongings, avoid displaying valuable items, and stay aware of your surroundings. 🚇 Take advantage of public transportation.  Public transportation in Belgium is efficient and affordable . You can get around by train, bus, tram, or metro. 🍽️ Have Belgian cuisine.  Don’t miss out on trying Belgian waffles, chocolate, and fries (often served with different kinds of sauces). While you’re at it, you can also try the traditional foods from Belgium like Moules-Frites and Speculoos. 🖼️ Get a Museum Pass . If you’re planning to visit several museums, consider getting a museum pass, such as the Brussels Card, which provides free access or discounts to various attractions. 🏙️ Explore other cities by taking day trips . Belgium is compact, making it easy to explore neighbouring cities like Bruges , Ghent , and Antwerp . Consider taking day trips to these picturesque places.

Frequently Asked Questions

January is usually the chilliest month in Belgium, with an average temperature of 2°C (35°F). But depending on where you are, it can get even colder – dropping under 0°C (32°F) and straight into the negatives. On the coast , winters are slightly milder and have an average temperature of 4°C (39°F), however, days are often still grey and rainy. Iif you head to the Ardennes , winters become much harsher lasting longer than in other parts of Belgium due to its higher elevation.

Rainfall is quite common throughout the year, but the rainy months are usually from October to December , with December being the wettest month. But although Belgium is small the climate is different at the coast, in the center, or in the Ardennes.

The average temperature ranges from 12 to 16 degrees Celsius (54 to 61 degrees Fahrenheit), with cooler evening temperatures. The hottest month is July.

Belgium in winter is one of the best experiences you won’t want to miss . The country has a unique charm this season, with its enchanting Christmas markets and beautiful architecture decorated with twinkling lights. You can have delicious Belgian chocolates, warm yourself up with a cup of hot mulled wine, explore the picturesque streets of cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent, and try some hearty Belgian cuisine, like moules-frites.

Coastal Flanders , the northern Flemish-speaking region, is the warmest part of Belgium, with a maritime climate that regulates extreme temperatures. This region is famous during summer as people flock to the cooling sea. It’s milder than other regions, making it a perfect destination for tourists seeking comfortable weather.

Conclusion: The Best Time To Visit Belgium

Finding out the best time of year to visit Belgium depends entirely on what you like to see and do . If you’re interested in Christmas markets, early December is obviously a great time.  

The summer months can be hot and are usually pretty busy , so unless you like summer festivals and beach bars, we’d recommend visiting Belgium either at the end of spring (late April and May) or in early September when you can still enjoy some pretty nice weather. 

BELGIUM TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The 12 Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Y ou could spend decades-as I have-exploring Colorado's stunning scenery and top attractions and still have more to see and do. No single trip can cover everything that makes the state a traveler's dream destination. AFAR's roundup of things to see and do in Colorado offered 16 tips to get you started, including driving the peak-to-peak scenic byway, visiting Denver Art Museum, and soaking in Iron Mountain Hot Springs. However, if you want to hit the highlights, here are your main targets, divided up by season.

The best places to visit in Colorado in fall

Colorado is spectacular year-round, but autumn's colors and temperatures make it a particularly magical time to visit.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Visiting the dunes typically means overnighting at the park's campground , because few accommodations exist near this remote spot some 230 miles south of Denver. But campers are rewarded with dusk and dawn's light shows on the sand dunes, which ripple beneath the sawtooth Sangre de Cristo mountains. Summers are scorching, but in fall, sand surfaces remain comfortable all day. Scramble across the dunes, or rent a sandboard to surf the slopes like waves.

Dunton Hot Springs

Dunton is the quintessential Colorado getaway for those who can afford it ($1,400 per night is typical). Guests cozy into hand-built log cabins that combine historic patina with western art and worldly comforts like sustainably made beds and linens. Rates include food and drink that make every meal feel special-think roasted pork with charred leek grits followed by poached rhubarb panna cotta-but the steaming springs are this getaway's raison d'être. Views from the rustic yet luxe bathhouse showcase aspen groves that turn amber in autumn, and one guest cabin (Well House) includes its own spring-fed soaking tub.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Most of this park's 4.3 million annual visitors flock here in summer, so I go in September for fewer traffic backups on Trail Ridge Road (a must-do drive traversing treeless alpine tundra). Fall is also mating season for the park's elk herd, and the possibility of hearing bulls' distinctive bugles adds extra magic to any hike. I always glimpse elk along the Moraine Park Loop, a 5.5-mile circuit that can be shortened to preference.

Best places to visit in Colorado in winter

Snow envelopes much of the state in the winter months, turning urban areas into winter wonderlands and promising world-class outdoor activities.

Meow Wolf Convergence Station

In fall 2023, Denver's fun house of immersive art installations launched Sips (With a Z), a cocktail bar and lounge dedicated to providing "a sanctuary of chill amidst the hubbub of quantum travel." Mirrored walls reflect a mashup of classical sculpture and graffiti art, and vintage furniture provides myriad perches for pondering the installation's experiential art. The bar is only open to Meow Wolf Denver visitors and event guests. While the previous art triggered sight, sound, and touch, the new lounge also titillates our sense of taste.

Sure, it's far from major cities, but I wager that the only winter enclaves with mountain vistas that rival Telluride's are in the Alps. These jagged southwest Colorado slopes offer scenery so jawdropping, I always feel dazzled, regardless of the snow conditions. And several mountaintop eateries showcase the splendor. Perched at 11,966 feet, Alpino Vino ranks as the highest restaurant in North America and serves Italian food and wine specialties within a cozy stone and log cabin. More tableside panoramas (and an award-winning wine list) await at Allred's at 10,551 feet.

Silverthorne

Once little more than a refueling stop for motorists traveling Interstate 70, Exit 205 is now an appealing home base for three nearby Colorado ski resorts (Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, and Breckenridge) and a destination in its own right. Stay at Hotel Indigo , the chain's first mountain property housing an upscale tequila bar and indoor swimming pool. Go snowshoeing or Nordic skiing at Raven Golf Club (free to the public; rent gear at Gore Range Sports) and enjoy après at the Bluebird Market food hall , where weekends find live bands entertaining drinkers at the central bar.

Best places to visit in Colorado in spring

Visitor numbers drop during the spring, but Colorado still puts on a show as flowers bloom and the arts scene wows guests.

Casa Bonita

Coloradoans Trey Parker and Matt Stone (creators of the South Park animated TV series) spent $40 million to renovate this Denver icon of Mexican food and carnivalesque stunts. Summer 2023 kicked off its much-anticipated reopening. Diners (up to 2,100 of them, at capacity) still line up with trays for meals, now designed by James Beard–nominated chef Dana Rodriguez. Cliff diving continues in the waterfall-fed pool, and the multi-level dining room delivers more spectacle than ambiance.

Crowds taper but deals abound during this destination's shoulder season. April and May are when Aspen's celebrated restaurants often offer discounted menus and drink specials, and at these elevations (the Snowmass base village sits at 8,104 feet), snow blankets the slopes well beyond the resorts' mid-April closing date, making for prime ski conditions-and rowdy parties. At Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro , the springtime ritual includes uncorking staggering quantities of champagne on the summit-ringed outdoor deck.

Idyllic weather and blooming cactus make spring my favorite time to visit Colorado's canyon country, and Fruita is the best home base. From here, it's a 15-minute drive to the sculpted red rock sandstone spires of Colorado National Monument and 5 minutes to world-famous mountain bike trails. Fruita's walkable downtown includes the Hot Tomato , delivering Jersey-style pizza that's good as gospel. Live music often enlivens the pedestrian block, and for sips, there are wineries in Palisade, 30 minutes east.

Best places to visit in Colorado in summer

Colorado's hiking and biking trails come into their own during the warmer months while road-tripping offers an easy way to see much of the state-in an EV on many of the scenic byways .

Crested Butte

After 25 years in Colorado, I still gape at the beauty of Crested Butte , because in a state that's chockablock with pretty views, this town tops the list. Sheer peaks rise up beside the streets' grid, where colorful, mining-era Victorians line the sidewalks. No highway noise ruins the mountains' quiet, and only merry sounds emerge from main street bars and eateries. The surrounding trails wind through aspen groves and meadows that are deservedly famous for July's display of wildflowers.

Bachelor Gulch

Come summer, the Bachelor Gulch base area of Beaver Creek ski resort becomes the scene of a daily lawn and pool party that encapsulates what's splendid about Colorado. Views include aspen-covered mountainsides, and adventures on foot or bike follow trails leading into wildflower meadows. Play a round of cornhole on the lawn, then relocate to Wyld 's patio for plates showcasing Colorado-grown produce. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch (renovated in 2022) to cool off in its outdoor pool and sip rosé from the surrounding loungers.

Fort Collins

Visit during Colorado State's summer break, and you won't have to elbow your way into this city's esteemed breweries. (Crooked Stave makes some of my favorite sours.) Nationally known New Belgium Brewing organizes the annual Tour de Fat each August, when a parade of 20,000 wildly costumed cyclists pedal the streets. I make the 100-year-old Armstrong Hotel my downtown home base and stroll from its classy-hip rooms to such downtown shops as Scrumpy's Hard Cider Bar, which pours drink made from local homeowners' apple trees.

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

May 23, 2022 • 7 min read

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.

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)

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

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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USA TODAY 10Best

Summer showdown: Vote now for the best things to do and places to go

April 16, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors April 16, 2024

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy activities that celebrate getting outdoors — sometimes combined with taking in some entertainment. Some of the most popular things to do include going to a fireworks show, watching a double feature at a drive-in, going for a leisurely hike, learning about sea creatures at an aquarium, enjoying tunes at an outdoor concert series, setting out on a scenic train ride, and, of course, traveling for a summer vacation.

To find the best of these beloved pastimes, a panel of experts nominated their favorites across seven categories, and now it's your turn to vote. Voting ends on Monday, May 13 at noon ET, and you can vote once per day, per category.

Click on each category below to vote:

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Best Aquarium

Aquariums reveal the hidden wonders of the world's oceans, lakes, and waterways in fun, exploratory settings. The best aquariums also play a vital role in animal conservation by participating in rescue efforts and marine advocacy.

These 20 aquariums, nominated by a panel of experts, represent the best in the country for their high-quality exhibits and visitor interactions.

Which aquarium would you most like to explore?

Vote: Best Aquarium »

Best Drive-In Theater

The first drive-in movie theater opened in Camden, New Jersey, on June 6, 1933, and by the 1950s, there were more than 4,000 drive-in theaters in the United States.

The rise of home entertainment led to the decline of the classic American drive-in, and there are currently fewer than 400 in operation. Still, this great American pastime is undergoing a revival, with many drive-ins converting to digital projection and offering innovative concessions. An expert panel has nominated their top 20 spots to enjoy a drive-in movie, and now it's your turn to decide the winner.

What's your favorite drive-in theater?

Vote: Best Drive-In Theater »

Best Hiking Trail

The United States, with its diverse landscapes, boasts a plethora of easy to moderate hiking trails that are fun for nature enthusiasts of all levels. An expert panel has nominated their top picks for scenic trails that are perfect for leisurely day hikes. These trails not only promote physical well-being but also provide a mental respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Which hiking trail do you think offers the best experience?

Vote: Best Hiking Trail »

Best Outdoor Concert Series

A number of towns and cities across the United States host an outdoor concert series over the spring and summer months. These events are family-friendly, offer diverse genres of music, are almost always free, and are a great way to enjoy being outside in the evening, when temperatures cool off.

An expert panel has nominated 20 of the top outdoor concert series events, and we need your help to crown the very best.

Which outdoor concert series do you vibe with?

Vote: Best Outdoor Concert Series »

Best Place to See Fireworks

Fireworks may not have originated in the United States, but they're certainly a longstanding American tradition. The first 4th of July fireworks display dates back nearly 250 years, and fireworks have long been a mainstay for a wide variety of other holidays and festivities as well.

Beyond being such a feast for the eyes, public fireworks displays are a shared experience that can bring a community together. An expert panel has nominated 20 of this country's most eye-popping fireworks displays, and we need your help to crown the very best.

Which place do you think is the best for fireworks?

Vote: Best Place to See Fireworks »

Best Scenic Train Ride

Sometimes the journey is just as important as the destination. Such is the case for passengers who step aboard these 20 trains — hand-picked by a panel of travel experts for offering the best scenic rides in the United States.

Which scenic train ride would you most like to purchase a ticket for?

Vote: Best Scenic Train Ride »

Best Summer Travel Destination

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches.

An expert panel has nominated their 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, and we need your help to crown the best of the best.

Which summer travel destination is your favorite spot?

Vote: Best Summer Travel Destination »

Remember, you can vote once per day in each category. The 10 nominees with the most votes in each category will be announced on Wednesday, May 22.

• Entertainment

These are the best places for motor-mad people to visit this summer

There is nothing better than sharing the open road with your friends, and these locations may just be the perfect locations for starting those journey

Motor clubs, food and drink go down very well here in the UK. A nice sunset, warm weather, the keys to your pride and joy and having some friends along for the ride provide the perfect recipe for creating unforgettable memories.

In the last decade, we’ve seen more and more venues opening which are aimed directly at the motoring enthusiast and given the thousands of petrolheads across the country, it’s easy to see why.

So, if you’re heading out in search of adventure – and maybe a slice of cake – this summer, check out these great pit stops.

Caffeine and Machine

Originally, it was set in one location – called ‘The Hill’ – in Stratford-Upon-Avon, but recently Caffeine and Machine has started to expand to other parts of the country due to its great success.

Since March this year, there has been a new startup in Petersfield in Hampshire also known as ‘The Hut’, following on from a second location in Bedfordshire, called ‘The Bowl’.

The Caffeine and Machine meetups are very well known in the car community through social media posts with each location a great place for groups and car clubs to meet over a drink and hang out together.

The Ace Cafe was established in 1938 and started as a roadside cafe.

After being destroyed in the Second World War, the cafe was rebuilt and in 1949 was reopened as the Ace and The Heydays Cafe – however, in 1969, the cafe closed its doors due to the expansion of the motorway network and changes in social orders meant the cafe was no more.

However, in 1994, 25 years after the cafe’s closure a reunion was made by a man called Brian Wilsmore who wanted the cafe reopened so that motorcycle enthusiasts could meet and show off their bikes. In 1997, planning permission was accepted and the Ace Cafe made a return – this time in full swing with cars and motorcycles.

Since then, the Ace Cafe has become a popular place to meet with cars and motorcycles – the TV show Fifth Gear using it as a location to present their show back in the mid-00s.

Baffle Haus

Well-known for its burgers and breakfasts, Baffle Haus isn’t exclusive for bikers – it’s open for everyone to attend with multiple themed nights running throughout the summer. If you want to attend on a sunny Sunday, make sure you get there early – it gets busy with hundreds of people wanting to get through the gates.

The Motorist

The cafe is open seven days a week and is accessible to all visitors as well as the restaurant is, too. The Motorist is a great place to hang out with cars, motorcycles and a lot of car shows are held there annually, such as Honda day UK.

Bicester Heritage

As a former RAF base, Bicester consists of 444 acres of land, giving plenty of space for car communities to come together and show off their vehicles.

Also, Bicester Heritage enables motoring enthusiasts of all ages to come together, especially with the base previously being owned by the RAF means a lot of vintage car owners show off their cars alongside more modern machinery to make the whole show have a balanced outlook – with early 20th century vehicles mixing with modern modified 21st century cars.

Bicester Heritage hosts a wide variety of different car shows throughout the year. This year, 2024, will see the likes of Rollhard, a modified car show, The Euros assembly, classic European cars, Tesla owners UK and PistonHead annual service which is a car show featuring an eclectic mix of cars.

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