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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.

Dinant in the Upper Meuse Valley, Belgium

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.

Medieval Bruges

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Canals of Bruges

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.

Aerial view of Markt Square in Bruges

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

Namur Citadel, Upper Meuse Valley

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

Guildhalls on the Grand Place, Brussels

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.

Palais Royale in Brussels

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

Menin Gate Memorial

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

Grand Place (Grote Markt) in Antwerp, Belgium

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

Canal in the old town of Ghent, Belgium

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

Belfry of Mons

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)

Saint Peter's church in Leuven, Flanders, Belgium

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

Beach and dunes at Knokke-Heist

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.

Huts on the beach in Ostend

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.

Meuse river and the Citadel of Dinant

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.

Saint Michael's Church and Bridge, Ghent

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 Top Tourist Attractions in Belgium

By Carl Austin · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Belgium may be a small country in Western Europe, but it packs a lot of history within its borders: knights who went on crusades, the place where Napoleon met his Waterloo and which felt the effects of World War I && II. Because it’s so small, visitors can get to almost any of the tourist attractions in Belgium with three or four hours of train travel. Belgium is also the place that gave the world Belgian waffles, if more incentive is needed to travel there.

10. Leuven Town Hall [SEE MAP]

Leuven Town Hall

The Leuven Town Hall looks more like a cathedral than a seat of government, perhaps because the 236 statues that adorn it are set in religious scenes. These statues are on the hall’s three floors, each floor representing different people who were important to the city’s heritage. Built in the mid-15th century, the Gothic style town hall is very ornate, seeming almost lace-like. It anchors the city’s grote markt, or main square, and sits across from St. Peter’s Church.

9. Mons Belfry [SEE MAP]

Mons Belfry

Mons is a medieval city that today serves as capital of Hainaut Province. It is home to the only Baroque belfry in Belgium. The belfry is located on the highest point in Mons, on a square that once housed a castle; remains of this castle can be seen today. This bell tower is 87 meters (285 feet) high, with a 49-bell carillon at the top; the largest bell weighs in at five tons. The belfry, constructed in the 17th century, is topped by an onion-shaped dome.

8. Bouillon Castle [SEE MAP]

Bouillon Castle

Bouillon Castle sits on a hill overlooking the city of Bouillon. It is believed to date back to the Romans, though it is first mentioned in the late 10th century. One of its early owners sold it to finance his participation in the First Crusade. The castle has three drawbridges, dungeons and a torture chamber that visitors will see as they make their way down from the top. The castle, considered one of the best in Belgium, has a unique, layered defense system designed to protect it from invaders.

7. Grote Markt, Mechelen [SEE MAP]

Grote Markt, Mechelen

The Grote Markt in Mechelen is a large square that is the heart of the city; it is the city’s main square. At one end of the pedestrian cobblestone square stands St. Rombold’s Cathedral, the city’s largest church, while the town hall occupies the other end. Restaurants and shops, that once were private homes, complete the other two sides. When the square was getting underground parking in 2004, remnants of a 13th century road were found. Today, the square hosts a market on Saturday mornings.

6. Antwerp Central [SEE MAP]

Antwerp Central

Centraal Station is the main train station in Antwerp in Flanders. The stone building, which opened in 1905, presents an imposing façade to travelers. It’s topped by a huge dome that is 44 meters (144 feet) high. The station is considered Belgium’s best example of railway architecture. It also is considered one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. Trains depart and arrive on 14 tracks on four levels. Centraal Station is also capable of handling high speed trains.

5. Tournai Cathedral [SEE MAP]

Tournai Cathedral

Catholicism has been an important religion in the Walloon city of Tournai since the 6th century, though construction of the Cathedral of Our Lady(Notre-Dame de Tournai) did not start until the 12th century. It features three architectural styles: Romanesque, Transitional and Gothic. The cathedral has five bell towers with ceilings that reach up to 157 feet high. The house of worship is also home to The Issue of Souls in Purgatory, a painting by the great Flemish artist, Peter Paul Rubens. The cathedral is undergoing renovation after it suffered major damage in a 1999 tornado.

4. Gravensteen [SEE MAP]

Gravensteen

Looking at the 12th century Gravensteen Castle, one can almost picture knights in shining armor riding white horses out the gates. Which wouldn’t be too far off, as the castle was patterned after the ones that the knights saw on the Second Crusade in the Middle Ages. Over the centuries it was used as a prison and factory, with houses built in the courtyard. Scheduled to be demolished, the city of Ghent rescued it in 1885 and renovated it. It is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Belgium. Inside is a museum of torture devices used in Ghent over the ages.

3. Belfry of Bruges [SEE MAP]

Belfry of Bruges

Visitors need to be in good physical shape if they want to climb the Belfry of Bruges as it is 366 steep, narrow steps to the top. Those who complete the climb of this important symbol of Bruges will be rewarded with great views of the city. The medieval bell tower dates back to 1240, built at a time when Bruges was a major player in the cloth industry. It was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire 40 years later, with other fires occurring in the centuries following. Bells still chime out from the tower today.

2. Grand Place [SEE MAP]

Grand Place

The Grand Place (or Grote Markt) is a must-see for visitors to Brussels . Indeed, this central square is the city’s main landmark. Surrounded by the town hall and guildhalls, the square isn’t very big, as squares around the world go but the old buildings that line its sides make it very special. The Grand Place dates back to the 11th century when markets were held. Nowadays, every two years in August, an enormous “flower carpet” is set up in the Grand Place for a few days. A million colorful begonias are set up in patterns covering a large part of the square.

1. Canals of Bruges [SEE MAP]

#1 of Tourist Attractions In Belgium

Because of its canals Bruges is often called ‘The Venice of the North’. In the Middle Ages the ‘Reie’ river had been turned into a network of canals that enabled the traders to bring their products to the large Water Halls at the Market. Nowadays a boat ride on these famous canals provide a great way to see some of Bruges most beautiful sites.

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May 10, 2016 at 11:33 am

wow I would love to visit Belgium.

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22 Best Places to Visit in Belgium & Things to Do

Brussels City Museum Gothic facade, tourists in Grand Place

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Kyle Kroeger

Written by Kyle Kroeger

Belgium should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a European vacation rich in history and culture. This small country is home to some of the most well-known tourist destinations in the world, including Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, and Liege.

Each Belgian city has its unique charm, and the location offers options for all interests to enjoy. In addition to its lively cities, Belgium has many beautiful villages and countryside landscapes.

If you want a more relaxed vacation , consider visiting Mons, Namur, or Dinant. Waterloo and Ypres are both must-see destinations for those interested in battlefield history. Belgian

Looking to make the most of your visit to Belgium? These are the best places to visit in Belgium and the top things to do.

Things to Do & Places to Visit in Belgium

Ghent, best places to visit in Belgium

Ghent is a must-see for any traveler to Belgium . This medieval city is home to a number of well-preserved historic landmarks, including the medieval fortress of Gravensteen Castle and St. Bacos Cathedral, which is home to the wildly famous Ghent Altarpiece.

In addition to its historical significance, Ghent is also a thriving cultural center, with many art galleries and museums to explore . The city is easily accessible by train from Brussels , and Ghent’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the rest of Belgium.

Bruges

Bruges is a small city in northwestern Belgium that is often referred to as the “ Venice of the North .” The city is known for its canals and picturesque architecture and is one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval cities. Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is easy to spend a few days wandering its cobbled streets.

The historic center of this charming city is relatively small, so it is easy to see the main sights in a few days. There are also several museums and art galleries worth visiting.

The local food specialties are worth trying, too. Belgian chocolate and fresh seafood are both excellent. Bruges is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do , but it’s also just a pleasant place to chill. It’s definitely worth a stay if you’re visiting Belgium.

See Related: Belgium Flag vs. Germany Flag

Historic Brabo's Monument and Guild Houses, Antwerp

Antwerp is a large city in Belgium that offers tourists plenty of activities and attractions . The city has numerous art museums, historic cathedrals, and a busy port. Antwerp’s nightlife scene is also lively, with many bars and clubs to choose from right in the heart of the city center.

The city also has several parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and take in the sights. To learn more about Antwerp and the area, visit the Museum aan de Stroom. If traveling with kids, you should stop by the Antwerp Zoo for the day.

Liege

Liege is one of the best places to visit in Belgium if you’re interested in the country’s history. The city is home to a number of well-preserved medieval landmarks , including the Prince-Bishops’ Palace and the Saint Liege Cathedral. 

Liege is also a great base for exploring the Ardennes Forest, a site famous for the battles that raged here during both World Wars. The forest is full of hiking and biking trails , and there are also a number of small towns and villages worth exploring. Liege is a great place to learn more about Belgian history and culture.

See Related: Best Apps & Websites to Book Hotels in Europe ​​

Mons

Mons is a small and picturesque city located in the southern part of Belgium. It’s best known for being the site of the Battle of Mons, which took place in 1914. The battle was the first between British and German troops in the Great War. It resulted in horrendous casualties and acts of extreme bravery that led to at least 3 Victoria Crosses being awarded to British soldiers.

Mons still echoes with memories of World War I. it’s famously home to St. Symphorien cemetery – a joint German and Commonwealth war grave site that contains the graves of the two Commonwealth soldiers believed to be the first and the last Commonwealth soldiers to be killed during the First World War.

Mons is a charming city with plenty of cafes and shops to explore. The central square, Grand Place, is particularly worth a visit. Mons has many interesting museums, including the Mons Memorial Museum, which covers the history of Mons from pre-Roman times until today.

There are also several art galleries and an annual Jazz Festival. Mons is a convenient base for exploring the nearby cities of Brussels and Bruges. By train, Mons is less than an hour from Brussels and about two hours from Bruges.

See Related: Day Trips from Brussels

Namur

Namur is the capital city of Belgium’s Walloon region, and it’s an excellent place for travelers interested in history and culture. The city is home to a number of well-preserved medieval landmarks, including the Citadelle de Namur and the Saint Aubin Cathedral.

There are also plenty of museums and art galleries to explore. If you’re looking for a night out on the town, there are dozens of bars and clubs to choose from.

See Related: Most Famous Historic Landmarks in the Netherlands

Dinant

Dinant is a small city located in the southern part of Belgium . It’s best known for its picturesque setting, with the Meuse River running through the center of town.

Dinant is also home to a number of well-preserved medieval landmarks, including the Notre Dame de Dinant Cathedral and the Chateau de Dinant. If you’re looking for something to do outside of the city, Dinant is an excellent base for exploring the Ardennes Forest.

Dinant is a touristy delight in Namur province, Belgium. It offers fantastic views and is a must-visit destination. The city hosts famous natural caves and caverns from European countries, including the Caves of Han and Grotto of Dinant, as well as Belgium’s best nature park.

8. Waterloo

Waterloo

If you’re interested in battlefield history, Waterloo is a must-see destination. It is best known as the site of the Battle of Waterloo, which took place in 1815. Today, Waterloo is a small city with several well-preserved historic landmarks, including the Hougoumont Farmhouse and the Lion’s Mound Monument.

The former is where men of the British Brigade of Guards and King’s German Legion fought off waves of French attacks for hours. The latter is an imposing memorial erected in the center of the battlefield (to which the Duke of Wellington purportedly commented, “They have altered my field of battle!”).

The Battle of Waterloo was a key turning point in European history, where the Duke of Wellington defeated Napoleon Bonaparte once and for all. The Waterloo Visitor Centre does an excellent job explaining the battle and its significance. There are also a number of walking tours available that take you to key sites on the battlefield.

Even if you’re not particularly interested in history, Waterloo makes for a pleasant day trip from Brussels, the capital of the European Union. The town center is compact and easy to explore on foot, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can stop for a bite to eat.

Ypres

Ypres is a small city located in the western part of Belgium. It’s best known for the bloody battles fought here in World War I. It was the site of several major battles between British, Commonwealth, and Belgian forces against the German Empire . You can learn more about these horrific struggles at the Flanders Fields Museum.

Today, Ypres is a charming city in the heart of the city center with plenty of cafes and shops to explore. It’s famous for its small family-owned chocolatiers.

The central market square, Cloth Hall, is particularly worth a visit. Ypres was heavily bombarded during World War I, but it has been largely rebuilt, and today, it is a beautiful city full of history.

This is your place if you’re interested in World War I history. There are several museums dedicated to the war, as well as a number of monuments and cemeteries.

Even if you’re not interested in history, Ypres is still a lovely city to explore. Its cobbled streets and quaint cafes make it the perfect place to spend a few days. The last time I was here, it was impossible to escape how friendly everyone was.

10. Brussels

Busy Grand Place square with ornate guildhalls and lively crowd in Brussels

Brussels is a great destination for a city break and the largest city in Belgium, making it a top place for first-time European tourists . This is the capital city of Belgium and is also known as the capital of the European Union. It’s very centrally located and a great spot for history enthusiasts.

It’s easy to get around, and plenty of things to see and do. Grand Place is the city’s main square, surrounded by beautiful historic buildings.

The Atomium is another Brussels landmark – a giant steel structure built for the 1958 World Expo. If you’re interested in the fine arts and rich cultural history, Brussels has plenty of museums and art galleries to explore.

And if you’re looking for a night out, Brussels has a lively nightlife scene with many bars and clubs to choose from right in the city center. You can choose to make the most of your time exploring Belgium.

See Related: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe to Visit

11. Spa “the Pearl of the Ardennes”

Spa “the Pearl of the Ardennes”

The spa is a picturesque Belgian village worth visiting on your trip. Nestled in woodland, it is often called the “Pearl of the Ardennes.” People have traveled to spas to enjoy the healing waters since the 14th century. However, Spa wasn’t developed as a tourist attraction until the early 1800s.

Spa is known for its casinos built for visitors in the 17th Century, but there is much more to this resort town. Spa is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.

The city of Spa is full of history and culture. A spa is a unique place that has something for everyone. Whether you want to enjoy the outdoors or indulge in gambling , the Spa is the place for you.

12. Aqualibi Water Park

Aqualibi Water Park

Aqualibi Indoor Waterpark is one of the best places to visit in Belgium in the warm summer months. The Action Park can help you relax with the entire family without the distraction of cultural sightseeing.

Many activities will keep children occupied and entertained, even adults! Kids can enjoy endless fun riding the smooth, rapid slide and whizzing down the endless wild water rivers.

Adults may relax or unwind at dreamy whirlpools or jacuzzis. Aqualibi is a place where you can have a unique and fun time with your family or friends.

See Related: Travel Apps for Europe

Genk

Genk is one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities and a great place to spend a few days. It is located in Belgium’s Limburg region near Hasselt and boasts an amazing garden-city design. Peaceful parks and marshland natural areas also surround Genk. You may discover the mines in Genk by visiting a coal mine like André Dumont.

During your visit, you can take a walk in Hoge Kempen National Park. Guests can also explore the distinctive outdoor Sundial Museum in Genk Sundial Park, which provides unique experiences to its visitors.

Some other tourist attractions in Genk include the Bokrijk open-air museum, Hoge Kempen National Park, and the coal mines of André Du Mont.

14. Ardennes

Ardennes

The Ardennes is a hilly and incredibly beloved forested place for adventurous travelers throughout Belgium. Ideal for hiking, camping, and cycling, the Ardennes has thick forests, caves, and mountains and is famous for its lynx, deer, and Wild Bear species.

The Ardennes has many exciting destinations that can be explored by foot or bicycle. It’s an ideal place to visit Belgium in a day. Tourist attractions in the Ardennes include Castle Bouillon, Hansur-Lesse, and Labrovnik.

If you are looking for accommodation, check out The Azur en Ardenne , as it’s a superb option for relaxed lodging in the Ardennes region.

See Related: Best Party Cities in Europe

15. Hoge Kempen National Park

Hoge Kempen National Park

Hoge Kempen National Park is a beautiful Belgium tourist destination covering over 5,000 acres. This park is dominated by large lakes , large pine forests, and purple flowers in the heathlands. The most elevated part of the park provides spectacular views.

In this park, numerous rare and special animal species, including wolves, roe deer, and sandpipers, live in natural habitats. Hoge Kempen National Park also offers tourist attractions such as Information kiosks, caféterias, hiking trails , and bikes.

Durbuy

Durbuy is a hidden gem deep inside a serene valley, surrounded by lush woodland known for its charm, rustic cobblestone roads, and cottages draped with rhododendrons. These ancient streets appear to form woven spiderwebs throughout the town, making Durbuy one of Belgium’s most photographed and artistic spots.

The locals are typically super friendly and may even offer you a nice hot beverage after you enter the village. Durbuy is an excellent spot for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience a charming small town .

See Related: Destination Weddings in Europe

17. Mechelen

Mechelen

Mechelen is a picturesque city near the port city of Antwerp. Mechelen has many advantages. Famous for its boats and brewery excursions , one can climb the massive tower of Saint-Romboud’s Cathedral to have an incredible panoramic view over the port of Anvers.

Mechelen is located in the Flemish region of Belgium, about 20 kilometers north of Brussels. It’s easily accessible by train from Brussels (Direct trains leave every half hour from Central station and take about 25 minutes).

Mechelen is a small town , but don’t let its size fool you – there’s plenty to do here! The old town is beautifully preserved, with cobbled streets and quaint shops lining the square. There’s also an entertaining Toy Museum kids will love.

No visit to Mechelen would be complete without a tour of the St. Rombouts Cathedral tower, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning city views.

18. Tournai

Tournai

Tournai is a bustling city on the Belgium border, home to some incredible attractions. The Tournai Belfry is the city’s oldest building and one of Belgium’s most iconic landmarks.

The Folklore Museum of Nature and Vivarium is a must-see for any nature lover, and the Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most beautiful examples of Baroque and Gothic architecture in all of Europe. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Hotel Cathedral D’ Alcantara and Flor is an excellent choice.

It’s centrally located and close to the city’s best attractions, making Tournai an ideal destination for anyone who wants to explore everything Belgium offers.

19. De Haan

De Haan

De Haan is a picturesque town in north Belgium, near the Netherlands . It is most famous for its 11 km of white beaches and contains some of the best homestays in Belgium. This seaside town is also home to amazing nightlife. Couples love to wander through the streets of Concessie and stop at cafes or streetside pubs.

The beautiful Belle Epoque building and the grand hall will be a treasure you won’t regret if it is your visit. De Haan also offers many opportunities to partake in Dutch culture as it is only a short drive from Amsterdam .

The best time to visit De Haan is during the shoulder season of spring or fall when the weather is cooler, but tourism hasn’t picked up yet. De Haan is the perfect place to relax and unwind, so add it to your travel list.

20. Bastogne

Bastogne

Bastogne is a small city near the Luxembourg border. Tens of thousands of men fought and died here during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, the largest and bloodiest battle the US fought in the Second World War.

Bastogne Grand Place is a Sherman Tank built by the 11th US Armored Division, serving as a reminder. Just outside Bastogne lies a forest of 4,000 trees planted to commemorate the 50th anniversary of historic battles fought in this area. The Bastogne Memorial commemorates Americans who fought in the battle. It is located just outside the city.

This is a monument to American, British, and Belgian troops who fought in the Ardennes and those who perished during the savage winter of 1944. The American Battle Monuments Commission maintains a cemetery in Bastogne.

The site is located on a hill west of the city and includes a chapel and visitor center. Bastogne is a great place to start your research if you want to learn more about World War II.

See Related: How To Book Flights With Longer Layovers

21. Leuven (Louis)

Leuven (Louis)

Leuven is a historic city in Belgium known for its many beautiful and well-preserved structures. Despite being heavily bombarded during both World War I and World War II, Leuven still has a number of historic buildings that are open to tourists. This town also offers a lot of military history that you can’t get anywhere else.

The best place to start a tour of Leuven is at Grote Market, a lively square located in the downtown area and the main City Hall. St. Peter’s Church, which houses the Stedelijk Museum of Religious Art, stands prominently in the center of the square. You can’t miss these gems of the city.

Other notable landmarks in Leuven include the Stadhuis, or town hall, which dates back to the 15th Century and is decorated with 236 sculptures. The Leuven University Library is one of Europe’s oldest and most significant libraries.

22. Charleroi

Charleroi

Charleroi is one of Belgium’s most up-and-coming photography destinations. Its historic city center is surrounded by a beautiful, restored Neogothic monastery, making it the perfect place to snap some incredibly unique shots.

Charleroi’s imposing museum displays photography’s entire history – from 80,000 prints and 3,000 negatives to gallery after gallery of photographic instruments of every era. Charleroi is worth a visit because its many other tourist attractions (like the Glass Museum of Charleroi) make it the perfect place to spend a weekend or more.

What is Belgium famous for?

Belgium is a small Western European country known for its waffles, fries, medieval towns, architecture, and art museums. The country is also home to many charming villages and is famous for being incredibly friendly.

What is the prettiest town in Belgium?

Ghent is often considered the prettiest town in Belgium . Located in the east of the country, it is home to various medieval and Renaissance architecture. The town is also known for its charming canals and cobbled streets.

What is the best place to visit in Belgium?

This question has no definitive answer, as Belgium has many great places to visit. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country include Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, Ypres, and Ghent.

What is Belgium’s most famous landmark?

One of Belgium’s most famous landmarks is the Atomium, located in Brussels. This landmark was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and is a giant steel sculpture that resembles an atom. It is a popular tourist attraction and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Belgium.

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Must-see attractions in Belgium

Officials unveil the restored exterior panels of "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb", an altar piece painted by the Van Eyck brothers in 1432, at Saint Bavo Cathedral in Ghent on October 12, 2016. .The restoration of the exterior panels and frames started in 2012, and constitutes the first phase of restauration which will be followed by two other phases for the interior panels and is set to last until 2020. / AFP / EMMANUEL DUNAND        (Photo credit should read EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)

The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

Art enthusiasts swarm the Sint-Baafskathedraal to glimpse The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (De Aanbidding van het Lams God), a lavish representation of…

belgium best tourist attractions

Museum Plantin-Moretus

The medieval building and 1622 courtyard garden alone would be worth a visit, but it's the world's oldest printing press, priceless manuscripts and…

The museum of musical instruments "Old England", Brussels, Belgium

Old England Building

This 1899 former department store is an art nouveau showpiece with a black facade aswirl with wrought iron and arched windows. The building contains the…

BELGIUM - AUGUST 11: BELGIUM, BRUSSELS, The Grand Place in Brussels. (Photo by Ulrich Baumgarten via Getty Images)

Grand Place

Brussels’ magnificent Grand Place is one of the world’s most unforgettable urban ensembles. Oddly hidden, the enclosed cobblestone square is only revealed…

MIM

Strap on a pair of headphones, then step on the automated floor panels in front of the precious instruments (including world instruments and Adolphe Sax’s…

Musée Horta

Musée Horta

The typically austere exterior doesn’t give much away, but Victor Horta’s former home (designed and built 1898–1901) is an art nouveau jewel. The…

St-Gilles Town Hall facade

St-Gilles Town Hall

One of Brussels’ overlooked architectural wonders, this splendid Napoleon III–style palace

belgium best tourist attractions

Pairi Daiza

Set on the grounds of a former Cistercian Abbey, this 65-hectare park is home to more than 5000 animals (including pandas, koalas, gorillas and lemurs)…

Citadelle de Namur

Dominating the town, Namur's mighty fortress covers a whole hilltop with ramparts, tunnels and grey walls. What you see now is more 19th and 20th century…

Musée Hergé

The inventive and touchingly nostalgic Hergé Museum celebrates the multitalented creator of comic-strip hero Tintin with an engaging, inventive and…

Cathédrale Notre Dame

Dominating Tournai’s skyline are the five spires of its remarkable cathedral, which survived WWII bombs only for a freak 1999 tornado to compromise its…

Hôpital Notre-Dame à la Rose

Founded in 1242, this is Belgium’s only medieval convent-farm-hospital complex to have survived reasonably intact. Laboriously restored, it demonstrates…

Memorial 1815

Inaugurated for the 2015 bicentenary, this showpiece underground museum and visitor centre at the battlefield gives some detail on the background to…

The heart of ancient Bruges, the old market square is lined with pavement cafes beneath step-gabled facades. The buildings aren't always quite as medieval…

In Flanders Fields Museum

No museum gives a more balanced yet moving and user-friendly introduction to WWI history. It’s a multisensory experience combining soundscapes, videos,…

Tournai’s gorgeous triangular main square is ringed with cafes in fine gable-fronted guildhouses merrily flying guild banners. Kids play in ‘dare-you’…

Woman viewing paintings (Hugo Van der Goes - St Hippolyte's Triptich) at Groeningemuseum.

Groeningemuseum

Bruges’ most celebrated art gallery boasts an astonishingly rich collection that's strong in superb Flemish Primitive and Renaissance works, depicting the…

Hospital of Saint John in the winter morning in Bruges, Belgium.; Shutterstock ID 384804181; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: Digital Content/Sights

Museum Sint-Janshospitaal

In the restored chapel of a 12th-century hospital building with superb timber beamwork, this museum shows various torturous-looking medical implements,…

Belgium, Antwerp, garden in Peter Paul Ruben's house

This delightfully indulgent 1611 mansion was built as a home and studio for celebrated painter Pieter Paul Rubens. It was rescued from ruins in 1937 and…

Interiors of Notre dame d'Anvers cathedral, Anvers, Belgium

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal

Belgium’s finest Gothic cathedral was 169 years in the making (1352–1521). Wherever you wander in Antwerp, its gracious, 123m-high spire has a habit of…

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM - August 09, 2014: General view of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels, one of the most visited museums in Belgium with its large art collection.; Shutterstock ID 586734455; Your name (First / Last): Daniel Fahey; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts POI

Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts

This prestigious museum incorporates the Musée d’Art Ancien (ancient art); the Musée d’Art Moderne (modern art), with works by surrealist Paul Delvaux and…

Belgium, Ghent

Gravensteen

Flanders’ quintessential 12th-century stone castle comes complete with moat, turrets and arrow slits. It’s all the more remarkable considering that during…

Triumphal Arch at Parc du Cinquantenaire in the EU Quarter.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Parc du Cinquantenaire was built during Léopold II's reign. It's best known for its cluster of museums – art, history, military and motor vehicles – which…

TO GO WITH AFP STORY BY Laurent Thomet.A picture taken on July 28, 2011 shows stuffed rhinoceros at the Brussels Royal Institute for Natural Sciences Museum. It was a daring daytime robbery at the natural science museum. The two thieves snuck into the rhino gallery and ripped a stuffed head off the wall. They carried it to a restroom, opened a window, and dropped the 30-kilo trophy two-stories down to an accomplice waiting in a van. The museum had never been robbed until the July heist, when it became the latest of a rising number of science museums in Europe targetted by thieves for rhino horns, which can fetch tens of thousands of euros on the black market.  AFP PHOTO / GEORGES GOBET (Photo credit should read GEORGES GOBET/AFP/Getty Images)

Institut des Sciences Naturelles

Thought-provoking and highly interactive, this museum has far more than the usual selection of stuffed animals. But the undoubted highlight is a unique …

Lace making in Bruges, 2014. The intricate lace patterns in Belgium are unmatched in any other country. The lace trade rose during the early Renaissance. Emperor Charles V decreed that lace-making should be a compulsory skill for girls in convents and beguines throughout Flanders. Lace became fashionable on collars and cuffs for both sexes. Trade reached a peak in the 18th century. Lace makers are traditionally women. Hundreds of craftswomen still work in Bruges and Brussels, centres of bobbin lace, creating intricate work by hand, often using over 100 threads per bobbin. (Photo by: Universal History Archive/UIG via Getty Images)

Musée Mode & Dentelle

Lace making has been one of Flanders’ finest crafts since the 16th century. While kloskant (bobbin lace) originated in Bruges, naaldkant (needlepoint lace…

belgium best tourist attractions

Musée Art & Histoire

This astonishingly rich collection ranges from ancient Egyptian sarcophagi and Meso-American masks to icons to wooden bicycles. Decide what you want to…

Our Lady of Sablon Church, Brussels, Belgium.

Église Notre-Dame du Sablon

The Sablon’s large, flamboyantly Gothic church started life as the 1304 archers’ guild chapel. A century later it had to be massively enlarged to cope…

TO GO WITH AFP STORY BY PHILIPPE SIUBERSKI .A figurine of cartoon character "Spirou" is seen in the "Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinee" (Belgian Comic Strip Center) on October 3, 2014 in Brussels, as it marks its 25th anniversary. The museum, one of the largest worldwide dedicated to comic strip art, marks its 25th anniversary with a series of special exhibitions and happenings. Spirou has been written and drawn since 1938 by a succession of artists, as Rob-Vel, Jije, Franquin, Yoann, Vehlmann, Schwartz and Bravo for comics publisher Dupuis. AFP PHOTO/ EMMANUEL DUNAND == RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE, MANDATORY CREDIT OF THE ARTIST, TO ILLUSTRATE THE EVENT AS SPECIFIED IN THE CAPTION ==        (Photo credit should read EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)

Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée

This centre offers a definitive and enjoyable overview of the country’s vibrant comic-strip culture. Even if you’re not excited by the ‘ninth art’, do…

Verbeke Foundation

Northwest Belgium

Occupying a 12-hectare former industrial site, this is one of Europe's largest private contemporary-art initiatives. The indoor-outdoor interactive…

Flagey building from across the pond

This marvellous 1938 ‘liner’ building originally conceived as the national radio building, is now the centre of an up-and-coming nightlife area. With its…

Château de Bouillon

The Ardennes

Slouching like a great grey dragon high on Bouillon's central rocky ridge, Belgium’s finest feudal castle-ruin harks back to AD 988, but it's especially…

Planetuin Meise

Belgium’s 93-hectare national botanic garden is located in the village of Meise, 12km north of Brussels. Home to 18,000 plant species, it’s based around…

Collégiale Ste-Gertrude

This 11th-century church was part of one of Europe’s foremost abbeys, founded in 648. It's 102m long with a soaring multilevel western facade topped with…

Bastogne War Museum

This highly recommended modern museum takes you into the heart of WWII, with an audio guide featuring four imagined voices of civilian and military…

Mons Memorial Museum

This superb museum mostly covers Mons' experience of the two world wars, though the constant sieges of this town's turbulent history are also mentioned…

Blégny Mine

For one of the best industrial-experience tours you'll find anywhere, don a hard hat, jump in the cage lift and descend through a pitch-black moment into…

Far and away Leuven’s most iconic sight, the incredible 15th-century stadhuis is a late-Gothic architectural wedding cake flamboyantly overloaded with…

St-Romboutskathedraal

Northeast Belgium

This soaring, Gothic-vaulted cathedral features a 1723 monumental pulpit, a 1630 Van Dyck crucifixion scene in the south transept, and dozens more fine…

Strépy-Thieu Boat-Lift

The world’s tallest ship lift (completed in 2002), raising or lowering gigantic ‘baths’ 73 vertical metres, is on a pharaonic scale, as was the €150…

La Chocolaterie Darcis

Playing a 21st-century Willy Wonka, one of Belgium’s foremost chocolatiers has turned his modern factory into a superb interactive museum experience. Walk…

More destinations you need to see

Woman enjoying the lavender fields in Provence. France. Aerial view.

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The canal - Bruges - Belgium

The 21 best things to do in Belgium

If you want to do more than eat chocolate and drink world-class beer, check out the best things to do in Belgium

Is Belgium the most underrated country in Europe? That is another discussion for another day, but this small but perfectly-formed charmer makes a strong case. From the Art Nouveau splendour of Brussels to the medieval cities of Flanders and the undulating hills of Wallonia, there are so many great things to do in Belgium that it can be difficult to know where to start. Luckily, we are on the case. What can visitors expect from Belgium? Fabulous museums and galleries, picture-perfect towns , delicious food (Michelin stars seem to be everywhere) and the best chocolate on the planet. Not enough? Okay, how about the best beer on the planet too? There we go. We’ll see you there.

RECOMMENDED:  💐 The best   things to do in Brussels 🍻 The best   things to do in Bruges 🚢 The best things to do in Ostend

Think you'd like to stay in Bruges? Check out the city's best hotels . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Belgium

1.  enjoy the silence on trappistenroute, a dawn bike tour of holy breweries.

Enjoy the silence on Trappistenroute, a dawn bike tour of holy breweries

Cycling is an obsession in Flanders, the flat, northern, Dutch-speaking part of Belgium. Make like a local on an early-morning bike ride that starts and ends at the Westmalle brewery, where the Trappist monks have been living, praying and brewing their eponymous beer in contemplative silence for centuries. Quench your thirst on the terrace of the Café Trappisten once you’ve completed the  scenic 44km circuit .

2.  Lose yourself in one of Europe’s most mesmerizing paintings at the Fine Arts Museum

Lose yourself in one of Europe’s most mesmerizing paintings at the Fine Arts Museum

Ghent is home to one of the world’s earliest oil paintings: The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, also known as the Ghent Altarpiece. Painted by the Van Eyck brothers in the fifteenth century, the 18-panel work is one of the great European masterpieces – and one of the most frequently stolen. Visit the Fine Arts Museum to watch experts painstakingly restoring sections of the work before getting the bigger picture at Sint-Baaf’s cathedral.

3.  Enjoy the view from the highest spot in Belgium at the Hautes Fagnes Wetland Nature Reserve

Enjoy the view from the highest spot in Belgium at the Hautes Fagnes Wetland Nature Reserve

The Hautes Fagnes wetland nature reserve contains the highest point in Belgium, at a scratch under 700 metres above sea level. The land here is boggy and crisscrossed with boardwalks, and the park is a wild, faintly eerie place where you can walk for miles without seeing another soul (just be sure to take a map). It’s rich pickings for nature lovers, too: keep your eyes peeled for wild boar, roe deer, hen harriers and black grouse.

4.  Discover Charleroi, a defiant city being reborn after hard times

Discover Charleroi, a defiant city being reborn after hard times

Much-maligned Charleroi is slowly reinventing itself after years of post-industrial neglect to become a centre of alternative and contemporary art. An ironic urban safari takes you to the places other tours gloss over: slag heaps, abandoned factories, burnt-out cars and the tracks of a deserted metro station, but the city’s smart Photo Museum in a converted convent is one of many spots demonstrating that things are moving in the right direction.

5.  Hang out with the cool kids in Antwerp, Belgium’s most stylish city

Hang out with the cool kids in Antwerp, Belgium’s most stylish city

Antwerp and fashion have been synonymous since the 1980s when six local designers took London Fashion Week by storm. The fashion museum is closed for a makeover, but in the meantime, you can download the app to explore the city’s stylish side. Visit the beautifully renovated Festival Hall, check out the designer boutiques, then splash out on dinner with a view at ’t Zilte, a Michelin-starred address atop the riverside MAS museum.

6.  See the pearl of the Ardennes from a different point of view

See the pearl of the Ardennes from a different point of view

Bucolic Bouillon sits in a forested valley in Belgium’s deep south, combining Ardennes wilderness and natural charm with French-style sophistication. While others hike its hilly streets to enjoy the panorama from on high, you’ll get a different perspective from a paddle board along the meandering Semois river. In summer, explore the town’s darker side with a torchlit night-time tour of the castle’s dungeon and torture chambers.

7.  Indulge in the finest frites and chocolate in the world

Indulge in the finest frites and chocolate in the world

You can’t come to Belgium and not try the frites and the chocolate. Marcolini and Mary are the names to remember when shopping for the latter, but when it comes to frites, expect to wait in line for ages no matter the kiosk you end up at—they’re all good. The lakeside Frit Flagey is a scenic spot to stroll as your arteries slowly harden, or you can tuck into your fries from Maison Antoine on the terraces of the surrounding bars.

8.  Get naked in the North Sea

Get naked in the North Sea

Belgium’s short North Sea coast is charming. Brave the crowds at Knokke, Blankenberge and Ostend, let it all hang out at Bredene’s nudist beach, or have a breather at the Zwin nature reserve . In the evening, stroll the dunes of Duinkerke before enjoying an aperitif at elegant De Haan.

9.  Spend the day in the living museum that is Bruges

Spend the day in the living museum that is Bruges

Bruges is overrun with tourists, but with good reason: it’s stunning. Its medieval houses, cobbled lanes, charming cloisters and meandering canals add up to a must-see city that’s easily explored in a day or two. There’s no such thing as an off-the-beaten-track here, but follow Potterierei north along the canal for a bit of respite from the crowds, then tour the brewery at De Halve Maan, where they pump their precious beer through pipes beneath the streets.

10.  Pay your respects at one of Menin Gate’s Last Post ceremonies

Pay your respects at one of Menin Gate’s Last Post ceremonies

The western corner of Belgium will forever be remembered as the bloodiest theatre of World War I. More than a hundred years after the armistice, the area still honours the war dead at dozens of military cemeteries and memorials large and small, with the city of Ypres at the centre of commemorations. Begin at the In Flanders Fields museum, where the battles are brought vividly back to life and don’t miss the moving Last Post ceremony held every evening at the Menin Gate.

11.  Soak at Thermes de Spa in the town of… Spa

Soak at Thermes de Spa in the town of… Spa

A stone’s throw from the German border, you’ll find Spa, the original spa town known for its healing thermal waters. The Pierre le Grand spring in the centre pumps out thousands of litres of mineral-rich sparkling water every day; ride the cable car up the hillside to soak in a copper bath of the stuff at  the modern Thermes de Spa  or laze in the outdoor pool with a view of the surrounding valley.

12.  Crack open a kriek, one of Belgium’s unique speciality beers, at Cantillon

Crack open a kriek, one of Belgium’s unique speciality beers, at Cantillon

Beer is a way of life in Belgium, but only a handful of breweries remain in Brussels. Cantillon is one of them, and beer doesn’t get more Bruxellois than this – its specialities, gueuze and kriek, can only be brewed in this area, and though their sour flavour might take some getting used to, it’s a real taste of the capital. The brewery is open to curious visitors, and you can sip brews in the cosy bar afterwards.

13.  Marvel at Grand Place, one of Europe’s finest marketplaces

Marvel at Grand Place, one of Europe’s finest marketplaces

Brussels isn’t overly blessed with must-see landmarks, but the Grand Place is one of them: lined on four sides by majestic guild houses and approached by narrow cobbled lanes, it’s a medieval masterpiece. Visit at least twice; once during the day and once in the evening, when the surrounding buildings are illuminated. The city museum here is free of charge on the first Sunday of the month and worth ducking into.

14.  Explore a dark chapter in European history at the Kazerne Dossin Museum

Explore a dark chapter in European history at the Kazerne Dossin Museum

In the cathedral city of Mechelen, a short train ride from Brussels, the Kazerne Dossin museum is a chilling reminder of a dark chapter in European history. At the former army barracks, thousands of gypsies and Jewish people were held before being transported to Auschwitz and other concentration camps. Through haunting exhibitions and personal Holocaust testimonies, the museum stands as a memorial to the victims while exploring the wider issues of human rights and mass violence.

15.  Explore underground caves and sleep among the bears at Grotte de Han

Explore underground caves and sleep among the bears at Grotte de Han

Deep beneath the Walloon countryside is the Grotte de Han, a major cave complex of spectacular galleries, chambers, stalactites and an underground river. It’s part of a UNESCO-recognised wildlife domain with some offbeat accommodation: spend the night in the trapper’s log cabin, and you’ll get dinner, drinks and a chance to give the park’s bears their breakfast the next morning.

16.  Relive your student days in the university town of Leuven

Relive your student days in the university town of Leuven

Home to Europe’s oldest Catholic university, Leuven is Belgium’s answer to Oxford. Come for the culture – the intricate facade of the town hall is a masterpiece of Gothic craftsmanship, while Museum M has an outstanding collection of old masters and contemporary art – but stay for the nightlife. Het Depot is the place to catch international acts and up-and-coming local bands, while M hosts a rooftop cocktail bar throughout the summer.

17.  Start the day with an early-morning trip to Abattoir market

Start the day with an early-morning trip to Abattoir market

Brussels has an excellent choice of markets—from the crowded, functional Gare du Midi on Sundays to the eclectic Marolles flea market or the chichi Chatelain affair every Wednesday evening. The daddy, however, is the sprawling Abattoir alongside the canal. Housed in a former slaughterhouse, it’s a riot of fruit, spices, fish, flowers and more. Once a month, chefs take visitors on a site tour before cooking and eating their fresh produce together.

18.  See what the future looked like 60 years ago at the Atomium

See what the future looked like 60 years ago at the Atomium

Built for the 1958 World’s Fair, the giant Atomium has just turned 60 and remains one of Brussels’ most distinctive landmarks. Its design represents an iron crystal multiplied several billion times to signify the post-war faith in science and progress. A short metro ride from the city, it’s unlike anything else you’ll see on your travels and is well worth a look, even if you don’t shell out on a ticket to see the exhibitions hosted in its silver spheres.

19.  Take to the streets for Carnival, Belgium’s best party

Take to the streets for Carnival, Belgium’s best party

The Belgians are serious about Carnival, the festival that brings many towns grinding to a halt for several days. Not only is it an excuse for a week-long letting off of steam, with elaborate outfits and centuries-old rituals, but it is also an important part of local cultural identity. One of the best places to join is Binche, where the townsfolk don wax face masks and ostrich-feather hats to storm the town hall while drinking champagne and throwing oranges into the crowds.

20.  Read all about it in Redu, a tiny village devoted to literature

Read all about it in Redu, a tiny village devoted to literature

With its handful of streets filled with dozens of bookshops, stationers and bookbinders, little Redu is one for fans of the printed word. Its annual Book Night brings visitors from far and wide for calligraphy workshops and author talks, but it’s a must-visit for book lovers throughout the year. When you’re done reading, head out on horseback through the countryside or visit the Framboiserie, where you can harvest raspberries and pick up farm-fresh jams and liqueurs.

21.   Sleep inside a Trojan horse at Balade des Gnomes hotel

 Sleep inside a Trojan horse at Balade des Gnomes hotel

With rooms christened Monk’s Despair and Legend of the Trolls, you know straight away that Balade des Gnomes isn’t going to be your standard holiday home. Dreamt up by an architect with a love of travel and mystery, the inventive accommodation includes a treehouse, a caravan and a Gaudi-inspired suite with a hot tub and sauna. This must be Belgium’s most magical place to spend the night; the on-site restaurant is equally creative in design and menu.

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The 16 Best Things to Do in Belgium

belgium best tourist attractions

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

15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

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

Bruges, Belgium

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

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

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

Ghent

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

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

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

Durbuy

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

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

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

Antwerp

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

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

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

Ypres

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

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

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

6. The Hoge Kempen National Park

Hoge Kempen National Park

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

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

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

Leuven

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

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

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

8. Brussels

Brussels

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

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

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

Mons

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

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

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

Spa

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

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

Namur

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

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

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

Liege

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

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

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

13. The Ardennes

Ardennes, Belgium

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

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

Ostend

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

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

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

15. Bastogne

Bastogne

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

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

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

15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium:

  • The Hoge Kempen National Park
  • The Ardennes

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  • 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

18 Must-Visit Attractions in Belgium

belgium best tourist attractions

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

The atomium.

Architectural Landmark

The Atomium View From Mini Europe, Brussels, Belgium

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

Brussels' Grand Place

Facade Of The Grand Place Guilds, Brussels, Belgium

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

Victor Horta’s Major Town Houses

Museum, Architectural Landmark

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

Saint Bavo's Cathedral and the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

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

Belfry of Bruges

Belfry Of Bruges, Belgium

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

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Flanders Fields

The basilica of the holy blood.

Bruges City Hall And Basilica Of The Holy Blood, Belgium

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

The Hallerbos or Blue Forest

Natural Feature

Billions Of Bluebells Wildflowers Blooming in The Hallerbos, Belgium

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

The Beaufort Project's Permanent Pieces

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

The High Fens

Panoramic Landscape Of High Fens During Springtime, Belgium

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

The Grand Curtius Museum

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

The charming town of Durbury

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

The Rubens House

House Of Peter Paul Rubens, Antwerp, Belgium

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

Antwerp's MAS and neighbourhood Het Eilandje

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

The Plantin-Moretus Museum

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

The Carnaval de Binche

Amusement Park

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

Doel, Belgium

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

The abandoned IM cooling tower

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

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Best things to do in Belgium

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updated 02.02.2023

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

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

2. Enjoy the beach in Ostend

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

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

Travel ideas for Belgium

Created by local experts

The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

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

Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

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

Taste of Three - Belgium, France and Switzerland

Taste of Three - Belgium, France and Switzerland

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

1. Immerse yourself in Belgium's legendary beer culture

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

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

beer-belgium-shutterstock_624298955

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Ostend:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Ostend

ostend-beach-belgium-shutterstock_416301760

Ostend beach, Belgium © Illya Kryzhanivskyy/Shutterstock

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

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

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

frahan-village-river-semois-wallonia-ardennes-belgium-shutterstock_302955749

Frahan village in Ardennes, Belgium © trabantos/Shutterstock

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

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

Where to stay in Ghent:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Ghent

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Brussels with our guide to the best area to stay in Brussels .

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Grand Place in Brussels © Galina Savina/Shutterstock

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

The Rough Guides to Belgium and related travel guides

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

The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Antwerp:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Antwerp

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Cathedral in Antwerp © Pigprox/Shutterstock

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

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

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

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Binche carnival © Alexander Narraina/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Where to stay in Bruges:

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

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bruges

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Bruges © thesixthfloor89/Shutterstock

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

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

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Moules © NeydtStock/Shutterstock

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

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

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

art-nouveau-brussels-shutterstock_186798551

Art Nouveau building © E. Pals/Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Belgian chocolate, pralines © Shutterstock

Belgian pralines © Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

Top image © Sira Anamwong/Shutterstock

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25 Famous Landmarks in Belgium

Located in the heart of Europe, Belgium is covered with amazing destinations and attractions. Brussels is the capital, the biggest city, but also where you’ll find a huge number of Belgian Landmarks. Yet, cities like Brugges, Ghent, and Mechelen have lovely historical centers with some major landmarks. And then, there’s Leuven with its unbelievable city hall! Here, we will cover these and other famous landmarks in Belgium !

Planning a trip to Belgium? Have a look at the 50 things you need to know before traveling to Belgium!

We have invited some of our fellow bloggers to pitch in and get you the most complete and informative list of Landmarks in Belgium .

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Famous Belgium Landmarks – Brussels

#1 grand place.

La Grand Place, or De Grote Markt is the central square of Brussels, where people gather to celebrate or simply to meet each other. Considered by many one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, it’s one of the most remarkable landmarks in Brussels. Consequently, it’s always bustling with life, crowded with tourists and locals alike.

With roughly 110 by 68 meters, the Grand Place is surrounded by luxuriant guild halls and two larger edifices, Town Hall and the King’s House (today contains the Brussels City Museum). UNESCO recognized its importance in 1998 when it declared it a World Heritage site.

Obviously free to explore, the Grand Place is more than a mandatory destination in Belgium , it’s where you should start your trip. You’ll be able to explore some of the most imposing buildings in Brussels and then take a break while eating a famous waffle, chocolate, or drinking a Belgian Beer.

Famous Landmarks In Belgium

#2 Manneken Pis

Only a 5-minute walk from the Grand Place, the Manneken Pis is located on the corner of Rue de l’Etuve and Rue du Chêne. Yet, if it wasn’t for the crowds surrounding it, you could easily miss it.

Manneken Pis literally translates into “little boy peeing,” and that’s exactly what it is – a bronze statue of a naked little boy peeing into the fountain’s basin. The Belgians simply adore this statue, it’s almost a national symbol as it represents their sense of humor and independent thinking. They even dress it with a variety of clothes, from Halloween costumes to pop culture and historical references.

The Manneken Pis is a weirdly bizarre landmark in Belgium and the world, which is why it became so famous. Though you should know that the statue is very small, so you won’t get disappointed when you get there.

The original statue dated back to the 17th century and was designed by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder. The statue seen on the street is a replica of the 1960s, while the original is in the Brussels city museum.

Well known landmarks in Belgium

Located on the Heysel Plateau in Brussels, the Atomium was built for the 1958 Brussels World Fair. This Belgian Landmark stands 102 meters tall and has nine balls 18 meters in diameter. As a whole, it forms the shape of a unit cell of an α-iron (ferrite) crystal magnified 165 billion times. So, it’s fair to say that’s a unique building and clearly one of the most famous landmarks in Belgium .

Curiously, and similarly to the Eifel Tower, the Atomium was supposed to be temporary, but it quickly became part of the city’s landscape. Its popularity made the city’s authorities decide to keep it, and in 2004-2006 it was fully renovated.

Today it works as a museum, and on top, there’s a restaurant with panoramic views of Brussels. This is an attraction that’s worth mainly from the outside and its unique shape, the interior can be a little disappointing. There’s nothing very attractive in the interior.

Landmarks to visit in Belgium

#4 EU Parliament

By Džangir Kolar from Dr Jam travels

European Union has a parliament in two locations, and one of them is in Brussels (the other is Strasbourg). So when you are in the city, don’t miss a chance to visit this temple of European democracy. The entrance to the parliament is close to Station Europe at Place du Luxembourg. You can arrive at the EU Quarter – Espace Léopold by bus 12, 95 or metro 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, taxi (basic fee is €2.40, the kilometer price is €1.80) or intercity train.

Tours to the buildings complex built from 1989 to 2004 can be started with a visit to the Parlamentarium, a permanent exhibition containing hundreds of multimedia components explaining the EU institutions in the 24 official languages of the EU. But the highlight of the visit is the European Parliament Hemicycle, a semicircular-shaped debating chamber plenary chamber with more than 700 seats.

From the balcony, you can even listen to their session for an hour. Visits are free of charge, but booking is required for groups and individual visitors. There is also a smartphone app where you can find info and multimedia about this place. After the visit, you will understand the importance of this parliament, where decisions made shape the lives of almost half a billion people.

Famous monuments of Belgium

#5 Halle Gate

By Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best landmarks of Belgium is the Halle Gate in Brussels. It is located very close to Bruxelles-Midi railway station and you can easily walk there. Also, there is a metro station next to it called Porte de Hal/Hallepoort. Moreover, it is close to the Palace of Justice, so you can combine visiting the two. The Halle Gate was created in the 14th century and is an old city gate that was part of one of the old city walls of Brussels. The other city gates and city walls of Brussels were removed, but the Halle Gate was kept to serve as a military prison.

Throughout the years, it was also used for several other purposes, such as a church. Nowadays, you can visit a museum inside of the Halle Gate. This museum is about the building itself, the city of Brussels, and the defense of the city. The Halle Gate is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, it is a very interesting place that you should definitely visit! Also, because it is very interesting and very centrally located, it fits well if you would only go to  Brussels for one day .

Best landmarks in Belgium

#6 Royal Palace of Brussels

By Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the Belgian Monarchy’s administrative residence. It is the official worksite, from where the monarch works daily alongside the staff members. Belgium is a constitutional monarchy with a hereditary head of state, titled King or Queen of the Belgians. 

The Royal Palace is located on Rue Brederode 16, in Bruxelles, Belgium. It is just a short walk from the Brussels Tourism Office and the popular Grand Place. 

The construction of the palace took decades to be built, more than a century in fact. Construction began in 1783, and the palace was only completed and opened in 1934. The palace was designed in beautiful neoclassical architecture, and it has four official architects contributing to the work – Alphonse Balat, Tilman-François Suys, Henri Maquet, and Ghislain-Joseph Henry. 

Although not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Palace’s architecture and its close proximity to the Grand Place makes it a wise addition to your itinerary, even if you have just one day in Brussels .  

At the Brussels palace, the King receives the representatives of heads of state, ambassadors, and other guests, so it is not open all year round. During the summer months, visitors are allowed to explore the palace’s interiors. At other times of the year, tourists can only explore the palace’s exteriors. 

The Royal Palace of Brussels is not used as a royal residence, as the monarchy lives in the Royal Palace of Laeken on the outskirts of Brussels. This palace is solely used as a work/administrative building.

Landmarks in Belgium- Brussels

#7 The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

By Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue

The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert (“ Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert ” in English) is a historical shopping center you must include in your  Brussels itinerary . 

While the upscale shopping center is only 200 meters long and relatively small by today’s standards, it has made it to UNESCO’s Tentative List in the cultural heritage category for its architectural beauty and historical value. 

The luxurious passage arcade was designed and built by architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer in 1847. It is one of the first shopping malls in Europe. In fact, its charming architecture with twin facades and an arched glass roof has inspired the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan and other 19th-century shopping arcades.

Today, the Royal Galleries houses high-end specialty boutiques, restaurants, and two theaters. If you have an eye on Belgian pralines, it is also a fantastic place to go self-guided Belgian chocolate tasting. The four most notable artisan chocolatiers are right here in one place, which calls for sampling to see which one of the famous names you like the best. 

No matter how many days you are in Brussels or your interests, there is no excuse not to swing by the Royal Galleries, conveniently located in the city center. Get inspired by its gorgeous architecture, savor the world’s best pralines, and shop for some souvenirs! It surely is a destination worthy of your visit.

Well-known landmarks in Belgium

#8 The Cinquantenaire Arcade

The Cinquatenaire Arcade is a triple triumphal arch in the Parc du Cinquantanaire in Brussels. The arc was built by King Leopold II on the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence. Although it was supposed to be built in 1880 at the National Exhibition, it was only concluded in 1905 on its 75th anniversary.

The monumental arcade is impressively big at 45 mt high. On top of the arcade, you will find a statue of four houses with a woman charioteer Raising the National Flag and several sculptures below personification of the Belgian provinces. Beside the Cinquatenaire Arcade are the Military Museum, the Art and History Museums, and the Autoworld pavilion.

Besides the arcade, the Parc du Cinquantanair, or Jubelpark, is a pleasant place to visit and relax. With picturesque gardens, ponds, and waterfalls, it is the ideal spot to walk, so a picnic or run. In Summer, it even hosts a drive-in cinema. On the north-western corner of the park, you can even find a beautiful Great Mosque of Belgium.

The Cinquatenaire Arcade and the park is easily reachable by metro (Schuman stop) or within walking distance from the Royal Palace of Brussels.

Belgium landmarks

Famous Landmarks in Belgium – Flanders

#9 tyne cot cemetery.

By Emma Caldwell from Emma Jane Explores

Located in the Ypres Salient around the infamous  Flanders Fields  of World War 1, the remarkable Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery and Memorial is a must-visit in Belgium to truly grasp the enormity of the sorrows of the Great War. It is, in fact, the largest cemetery housing the bodies of Commonwealth soldiers in the world.  

The cemetery features rows and rows of white headstones marking the remains of soldiers who fought and died in battle– many without names. Horrifyingly, around 70% of the burials at Tyne Cot are unnamed, hence the large stone walls around the cemetery become a memorial to the missing with names of missing soldiers inscribed. 

The biggest nearby town to Tyne Cot Cemetery is Ypres and it is possible to get a bus from there to the cemetery, which will take around half an hour. Alternatively, Tyne Cot can be accessed on a day trip from Bruges either using public transport or via a small group tour – the Flanders Fields Battlefield Daytours is highly recommended and visits several other significant sites from the war. Whilst not a UNESCO World Heritage site like many other places in Belgium, the solemn significance of this part of the country and the sacrifices made by so many during the war years in Flanders makes the Tyne Cot Cemetery an integral part of any history-lovers visit to Belgium.

Best known landmarks in Belgium

#10 Menin Gate

By Ella Moore from Many More Maps

In the historical town of Ypres, you’ll find the Menin Gate , a huge First World War memorial to the missing soldiers of Britain and the Commonwealth. Etched into the stone walls of the Menin Gate, you’ll find the names of over 54,000 missing soldiers.

The Menin Gate is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city and one of the most iconic landmarks of Belgium. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission chose Ypres as the site to erect the memorial in remembrance of the sheer amount of fighting that took place there. There were five Battles of Ypres during the First World War! 

Although the Menin Gate is worth visiting at any time of day, night is the best time to visit. This is because, at 8 pm every evening, buglers from the town play “The Last Post,” a bugle call that used to be played in the British Army to mark the end of the day. This is followed by a series of speeches and sometimes songs to pay respects to the missing soldiers. The Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate happens every night, even on Christmas Day, and is hugely popular with visitors to the city. 

Beautiful landmarks in Belgium

#11 Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges

By Trijit Mallick from   BudgetTravelBuff

Belgium is not all about gorgeous architectural buildings, popular  Belgian chocolates , or other famous things , but also about religious places and beautiful churches. The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a 12th-century chapel in the corner of Burg square.

This Roman Catholic basilica consists of two-level of chapels on top of each other: a Romanesque lower chapel and a Gothic upper chapel. The Basilica of the Holy Blood is just 1 km from the Brugge station. You can take the Line 12 bus or a taxi (takes around 7 minutes) to reach the basilica.

It is a very quaint and sacred church and one of the busiest tourist attractions in Bruges. You can see the colorful wall paintings and stained glass windows while going upstairs to the basilica. There is a holy relic that contains a cloth with the blood of Jesus Christ inside a glass case. Each person gets a few seconds to view the sacred cloth.

There is a myth that after the Crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea wiped the blood with a cloth from Christ’s body and preserved the holy cloth. Whether you are a believer or non-believer, you will surely appreciate the beauty of this religious site.

There is no entrance fee, however, you can give donations to help maintain the chapel. Make sure to dress modestly while visiting this religious site in Bruges.

Interior of the Basilica of the Holy Blood

#12 Belfry of Bruges

By Dave Chant from Dave Chant

Bruges is often described as a “chocolate box” town, popular with tourists since the late 20 th  century – it is also the 7 th  most populated city in Belgium. Probably the most famous symbol of Bruges is its Belfry, which sat in the central  Markt  square of the old town. In fact, you can see the Belfry from almost everywhere in Bruges, and from the top of the Belfry, you can see almost all of Bruges. This alone makes it a fascinating building to visit.

It’s a Medieval tower built in the 13 th  century with an impressive carillon housing 47 bells. Belfries were important buildings to store city documents and to use as watchtowers. They even have different bell sounds for different uses – to signal the start of the day, danger, and so on.

Sadly the history of the Belfry has not been without tragedy. It was destroyed by fire in 1280 and rebuilt. The upper stage was added in 1483, but a lightning strike in 1493 reduced the spire to ashes. Again, in 1741, the rebuilt spire went up in flames and has never been replaced; this means the building is lower than originally built.

There are still 366 steps to the top and though 83m high does not seem like much, you’ll have views across the town. The Belfry and the old part of the city are so beautiful that they have been UNESCO listed since 2000.

Landmarks In Belgium - Flanders

#13 Beguin Houses of Bruges

By Jane and Duncan from To Travel Too

What is a Beguin House? Wikipedia states, “A beguinage, from the French term  béguinage , is an architectural complex which was created to house  beguines : lay religious women who lived in community without taking vows or retiring from the world.”

In Bruges , the Beguin Houses are located at Begijnof 30. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the popular attractions in Bruges. The entrance to the Beguin Houses is via a small bridge and a gatehouse that dates back to 1776.

You can visit on your own, or it is included in a walking tour of Bruges. The 16 – 18th century white Beguin Houses are enclosed in a walled neighborhood.  They are now home to the Monastery of the Vineyard, run by the Benedictine Sisters.

The 17 th  Century Begijnof Church is dedicated to St Elizabeth of Hungary. The Benedictine Sisters conduct daily services in the Church. The Museum is located in one of the 17th-century houses and houses items from the Beguines.

Entrance Fees: Free to visit the houses and the Church, Museum two Euros per person.

Best time to visit: Springtime when the grounds are covered in bright yellow daffodils

Cool landmarks in Belgium

#14 Antwerp Central Railway Station

By Chrisoula Manika from Travel Passionate

Situated in the city’s heart, Antwerp Central Railway Station is also called Middenstratie (Middle Station) and Spoorwegkathedral – the Railway Cathedral. It is an absolutely stunning railway station, one of the most beautiful in the world. If you find yourself in Antwerp, allow time to stop, look up, and marvel at its engineering.

The railway station was built over ten years between 1895-1905 and featured a stone railway building with a 75-meter high glass dome above the waiting room. There is a vast train shed in glass and steel, measuring 285 meters long and 44 meters high. King Leopold II commissioned the station as he felt that the city should have a prestigious railway station.

He chose the local architect, Louis de la Censerie, for the work. The architecture is certainly fascinating as it features 20 different types of marble, Doric, Tuscan, Ionic, and Corinthian-styled columns, and a huge monumental clock in the main hall.

Between 2000- 2009, the station was completely modernized and expanded to accommodate high-speed trains from Paris and Amsterdam.

Lanmarks in Belgium you must visit

#15 St Rumbold’s Cathedral in Mechelen

By Nichola from Family Hotel Expert

St. Rumbold’s Cathedral is one of the great sites in the picturesque city of Mechelen. Completed in 1520 and taking more than 300 years to build, it is an imposing structure that can be seen across most of the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site has a quirky shape on account of the original plans containing a further tower that was never built.

Today you can climb the 538 steps to the top, right into the bell tower for spectacular views across the city. On clear days you can even see as far as Brussels and Antwerp. The tower is the site of one of Mechelen’s most legendary moments when, in 1687, a man emerged from one of the city’s bars and, seeing the moon shine on the tower, believed it to be on fire. Raising the alarm, a chain of townsfolk passed buckets of water along the line until, reaching the tower, it was clear there was no fire. The town has been known for its De Maneblussers, or The moon extinguishers, ever since! If you’re enjoying  family holidays in Belgium  then don’t miss Mechelen and the chance to climb its wonderful St. Rumbold’s Cathedral tower.

Best known landmarks in Belgium

#16 Leuven town hall

The Leuven town hall is possibly the most elegant landmark in Belgium. Luckily, a day trip to Leuven is easy and relaxing, allowing you to see this stunning Belgian landmark and the rest of the city.

The Town Hall is truly an unforgettable building with ornate architecture, crafted in lace-like detail. Constructed between 1448 and 1469 on a Brabantine late gothic, the Leuven town hall is a wonder to look at, covered with 236 statues in canopied niches, and the corbels supporting the statues are carved with Biblical scenes in high relief. The details are astonishing up close, and from afar, we can appreciate how magnificent it is as a whole, with the four corner turrets, two ridge turrets, and a balustrade around the building.

Besides the spectacular architectural design, the town hall has beautiful interiors and cellars as well as a huge number of statues and paintings to explore over the three floors. There are also daily tours to the rest of the building, where the guide will explain to you the details of the construction history of this Gothic gem. For example, the statues representing biblical figures, scholars, eminent citizens, artists, judges, dukes of Brabant, and even Napoleon that ornate the exterior weren’t part of the building until the 19th century.

Best attractions of Belgium

#17 Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts)

By Sarah Vanheel from CosmopoliClan

In the heart of Ghent, the enchanting city between Brussels and Bruges is a fortress that dates back to the 9th century. Its strategic location by the Lys River made the (then wooden) structure an excellent base to defend the city against the Vikings.

Over the next centuries, the counts of Flanders commissioned countless rebuildings. It wasn’t until the 12th century that Count Philip of Alsace, in an attempt to outdo the then-thriving city’s merchants that flashed their wealth, had it transformed into an impressive stone fortress.

After Philip of Alsace moved on, the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen in Flemish) was repurposed into a supreme court and later even an industrial complex. It has stayed surprisingly intact, and, to this day, it counts as one of  Ghent’s most important attractions .

Pick up an audio guide at the entrance and listen to the comedy tour as you marvel at the thick walls, stone ramparts, tower stairs, and battlements of this famous Belgian landmark.

Several collections are on display, such as weapons, armor, and torture equipment (which has recently been moved to the dungeon). Head to the top of the fortress and take in the most amazing city views.

You can find the Castle of the Counts between the stately Veerleplein and the Patershol district’s cobblestone streets. It is perfectly located for a day trip from Brussels to Ghent.

Beautifull attractions of Belgium

#18 Belfry of Ghent

By Cecilie Mortensen from Worldwide Walkers

The Belfry of Ghent, also known as the Belfort Van Gent, is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Belgium’s famous landmarks.

This magnificent bell tower dates back to the Middle Ages. The construction began in 1313 and finished in 1380. With its 91 meters height, it still remains the tallest Belfry in all of Belgium today.

The Belfry of Ghent served many important roles during the years. It kept important records from town, served as a watchtower over the city, and the bells were used as warning signals for the city. There is so much history hidden within this belfry, which you can luckily relive today if you spend  one day in Ghent .

For just €8, you can experience the Belfry of Ghent. First, you get to see the old dragon within the tower and learn about Ghent’s history, then you take the elevator to the top of the Belfry and get amazing 360 views over the city before you end the trip by the impressive Bell Roeland that weighs 6200 kilos.

It’s easy to get to the Belfry of Ghent. From Gent-Sint-Pieters Station, you take tramline 1 into Korenmarkt, from where it’s within walking distance. It’s such an incredible landmark, so make sure you include the remarkable Belfry of Ghent on your next trip to Belgium.

Famoumous landmarks in Belgium

#19 St. Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent

By Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips

Also located in the heart of Ghent, St Bavo’s Cathedral is an impressive, 89-meter-tall Gothic cathedral home to historical works from famous painters. The city tram is a quick and easy way into the city center – home to the massive cathedral.

The landmark’s construction began in the mid-10th century. However, a magical transformation took place when architects ditched the traditional Roman design for a diverse mixture of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles.

St Bavo’s most notable showpiece is The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb—a 24-panel altarpiece completed in 1432 by Jan van Eyck. This masterpiece survived the 1566 iconoclast revolt only to have its center panels swept away to Paris 30 years later.

After returning in 1615, the side panels were sold to the King of Prussia. Despite the work’s questionable past, most of the famous panels have remained peacefully in St Bavo’s Cathedral for more than 50 years.

The cathedral’s crypt offers traces of the original Roman structure and centuries-old books, chalices, scrolls, and other captivating historical artifacts. The dramatic, high-rise ceiling and arches of St. Bavo’s are stunning. Intricate stained-glass windows combine the magnificent Gothic look as they line the church walls.

Famous attractions in Belgium

Landmarks Belgium – Wallonia

#20 lion’s mound.

The Lion’s Mound marks one of the most famous battles in the history of mankind – the Waterloo battle , where Napoleon was definitively defeated. This large conical hill isn’t natural, it was built with earth taken from the battlefield. On the hill’s top is a huge lion statue of 4.5 by 4.25 meters.

This landmark was designed by Charles Straeten at the behest of William I of the Netherlands. It was conceived as a symbol of the Allied victory and it purportedly doesn’t glorify any individual. It is possible to climb the 226 steps to the top of the mound and enjoy the views of the battlefield and surrounding areas.

Landmarks Belgium - Wallonia

#21 Villers Abbey

By Laura Meyers from Laure Wanders

The ruins of the Villers Abbey are located in Villers-la-Ville, a town 40 kilometers from Belgium’s capital, Brussels. The abbey was founded in 1146 and would become one of the most significant Cistercian abbeys in Europe during the centuries that would follow. Many monks lived here, and its territory drastically expanded. However, the abbey started to decline, and when it was pillaged in 1796, it was finally abandoned.

Today, only the ruins of the abbey remain. You can still see its church, kitchen, dining hall, prison, and some more impressive locations. It’s a very beautiful place to walk around and imagine what life was like during the abbey’s golden age. There’s also a small museum that you can visit and if you visit the abbey during the spring or summer months, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent flowers in the abbey’s gardens. On top of that, as there are picnic tables available, these gardens are a perfect place for a picnic!

The easiest way to get to Villers Abbey is by car. It’s also possible to take the train to the Villers-La-Ville train station and then walk to the abbey (2 kilometers).

notable landmarks in Belgium

#22 Montagne de Bueren

Located in the center of Liege, this staircase is one of the most famous landmarks in Belgium and is usually considered one of the world’s most impressive staircases. With 374 stairs, it connects the permitted direct link between the city center barracks at the citadel.

Built in the 19th century to honor the 600 soldiers who died defending Liège from an attack by the Duke of Burgundy in the 15th century. It was named after Vincent de Bueren, the man who lead the defense of the Liège at the time. It’s completely free to enter, and always open to the public.

Montagne de Bueren is a characteristic artwork of the 19th century, constructed with bricks, and sandstone blocks. From the top, we get some marvelous views and from below it just looks magnificent. We strongly suggest you climb it – it’s exhausting but there’s a very nice sense of achievement when reaching the top.

Liege- day trips From Brussels

#23 Spa-Francorchamps

By Lanch Gauld from The Silver Nomad

When you hear the word “Spa”, most people think of relaxing in beautiful, calm surroundings, but a trip to Spa-Francorchamps is a totally different vibe!

Located in Stavelot in Belgium, the 7km long track has been thrilling drivers and fans since the first Grand Prix race was held there in 1925. One of the favorites of many drivers, the Spa circuit and unpredictable weather test the drivers’ skills.

The challenging and undulating track winds through the forest with sweeping bends, long straights, a tight hairpin at La Source, and the famous Eau Rouge, which takes you straight up the hill to Raidillon.

For a high-octane adventure, visit Spa-Francorchamps on a Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix™ day, or one of the other exciting races including the exciting endurance races, the Spa Classic, and the Total 24 Hours of Spa.

For amateur drivers, there is the opportunity to take your own car around the track on the Public Driving Experience days and feel for yourself the exhilaration of driving around the legendary track.

Or go out with a professional for an individual introduction to the track, where you not only get taken around the track but get the chance to drive it yourself.

Close-up to the Spa circuit

#24 Ardennes American Cemetery

By Tom Bartel from Travel Past 50

One of 14 cemeteries for American World War II dead on foreign soil, the Ardennes American Cemetery near Liege, Belgium is a 90-acre (37 hectares) cemetery and memorial. The cemetery contains the graves of 5,329 U.S. service members. Many of these died during Nazi Germany’s final major offensive in the west, the Battle of the Bulge, while others died in the American Army’s advance to the Rhine and across Germany. Three-fifths of those buried in this cemetery were airmen.

This cemetery is unique among all American cemeteries as it served as the central identification point for the entire European Theater of Operations from the last days of the war until 1960. Because of that role, the Ardennes Cemetery is unique in providing a burial ground for casualties of every major WWII battle, including some from the Pacific Theater. In all, there are 5,311 headstones. 792 of those mark the graves of servicemen who could not be identified, and 462 stones are memorials to men who were missing in action. The headstones are arranged in the shape of a cross.

The entrance to the site is marked by a large marble memorial building that includes maps and lists of the units who fought in Europe.

The cemetery is administered by the American Battle Monuments Commission, and the staff will gladly help locate specific graves.

Cool Landmarks in Belgium

#25 The Citadel in Namur

By Joanna from The world in my pocket

The Citadel in Namur is one of the most beautiful in Belgium and can take an entire day to visit. It is one of the largest citadels in Europe and the oldest permanent settlement in the Benelux. Located on a hill at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers. The citadel has 7 kilometers of underground tunnels, some of which can be visited in a tour included in the entry ticket. Visiting the citadel is one of the  best things to do in Namur  to learn about the history of the city.

The easiest way to see the entire citadel and its grounds are by mini-train, which also includes an audio guide. With over 1000 years of history and different occupations, the citadel has a lot of stories to tell.

The citadel of Namur is also the home of a famous golden sculpture created by the Belgian contemporary artist Jan Fabre, inspired by the symbolist artist Felicien Rops, who was born in Namur. The giant turtle with a man on it represents “Utopia” and overlooks the city from its prime spot inside the citadel.

The Citadel of Namur is easily accessible from the city center either by foot or by a special bus – for people who are not fit enough to walk uphill. A ticket to visit the citadel that includes the underground tunnels, the mini train, and the exhibition center costs £15. 

Historic landmarks in Belgium

* Cover photo by [email protected] via Depositphotos

Planning a trip to Belgium? Have a look at some other of our favorite Belgian articles:

  • 50 things you need to know before traveling to Belgium
  • What is Belgium famous for?
  • 15 Day trips from Brussels;

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The 25 Best Things to do in Belgium

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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.

Cool Things to do in Belgium: 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.

Best Things to do in Belgium: Tomorrowland

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

belgium best tourist attractions

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.

Belgium Bucket List: Manneken Pis

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

Belgium Things to do: Gent 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.

Best Things to do in Belgium: Gent Old Town

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

Cool Things to do in Belgium: 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.

Best Things to do in Belgium: Atomium

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

Fun Things to do in Belgium: 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.

Belgium Bucket List: 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

What to do in Belgium: 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!

Belgium Things to do: Mini-Europe

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

Best Things to do in Belgium: Belgian Fries

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.

Cool Things to do in Belgium: Belgian Fries

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 

Best Things to do in Antwerp: Chocolate Nation

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.

Cool Things to do in Antwerp: Chocolate Nation

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

belgium best tourist attractions

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. 

Fun Things to do in Belgium: Ghent Light Festival

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

Belgium Things to do: 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. 

What to do in Belgium: Rubens House

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

Unique Things to do in Belgium: 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.

Best Things to do in Belgium: Waterloo

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

Must do things in Belgium: Antwerp Diamond District

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.

Fun Things to do in Belgium: Antwerp Diamond District

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

Belgium Things to do: 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.

Best Things to do in Belgium: Semois Valley

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

Must do things in Belgium: 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.

Fun Things to do in Belgium: Belgian Chocolates

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

Best Things to do in Belgium: Saint Peter 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.  

Belgium Things to do: Saint Peter Church in Leuven

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

Unique Things to do in Belgium: 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. 

Cool Things to do in Belgium: Historium

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

Fun Things to do in Belgium: 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.

Belgium Bucket List: Binche Carnival

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

What to do in Belgium: 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.

Belgium Things to do: Bruges Beer Festival

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

Unique Things to do in Belgium: 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.

Cool Things to do in Belgium: Castle of Veves

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

Fun Things to do in Belgium: Bredene, Belgium

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

What to do in Belgium: Moules-Frites

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.

Belgium Things to do: Moules-Frites

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

Unique Things to do in Belgium: 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.

Best Things to do in Belgium: Trappisteenroute

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

Must do things in Belgium: Hautes Fagnes

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.  

Belgium Bucket List: Hautes Fagnes

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

Belgium Things to do: 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. 

What to do in Belgium: Kasteel van Loppem

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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Best Things to do in Belgium

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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Places to Visit in Belgium

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Belgium Tourist Places

Here is the list of best places to visit in belgium:.

Mont des Arts, Brussels

A European holiday to cherish its culture and cuisine can never be complete without exploring the splendid tourist places in Brussels, the capital city of Belgium. Being at the crossroads of cultures (the Germanic in the North and the Romance in the South) and playing an important role in Europe, Brussels fits the definition of the archetypal "melting pot", but still retains its own unique character. The bilingual city makes up for a remarkable tourist destination for lovers of history and culture. The city also has a diverse and exciting mix of exhibitions, fairs, and festivals happening every single year. Brussels is becoming a center for art, design, and style with the big names in international fashion opening up boutiques in the city. Brussels attracts a lot of tourists because of number of museums, a thriving nightlife and plethora of shopping opportunities.

There’s lots to see in the city from the bizarre comic strip to enjoying its café culture in the Grand-Place. Tourists can visit the momentous Palais Royal, once home to the Belgian royal family, before climbing to the top of the Palais de Justice. Bring out the inner child at the Belgian Comic Strip Museum, take a whirlwind tour of the continent at Mini-Europe or spice up your taste buds at a chocolate shop. Just don't overlook to pay a visit to Brussels' beloved little fountain, the Manneken Pis, to see what fashion the little statue is sporting. Belgium is to beer what France is to wine, it is home to one of the greatest beer traditions in the world, and Brussels is a great place to sample some of the vast variety on offer. For connoisseurs of food, Brussels is replete with choice plenty of choices for waffles, fries and chocolate. Tourist places in Brussels boasts of its small-town charm and will leave every tourist captivated by their alluring beauty.

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Bruges is an important city in the beautiful country of Belgium, which has been a favourite among tourists for many years. Fondly known as ‘The Venice of the North’, Bruges is mainly famous for the connecting canals it has, with beautiful gothic style buildings and monuments located on its banks. Seeing pretty swans floating on the canal waters is indeed an add-on!

Bruges is a place which is a home to some of the best artworks in the world, displayed at the numerous museums over here. The churches, old buildings of historic importance and monuments here are so beautiful and intricate that you will be stunned to see them. You will feel like you have entered a scene from a fairy tale book when you roam on the streets of Bruges. If you are looking for a break from all the tensions and want to experience a sheer feeling of calmness along with exploring some of the most undiscovered and exceptional monuments and places, there is no other perfect place than Bruges. It is a perfect destination for young travelers but if you are aged physically but still have spirits of a young person, you can totally visit this place.

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Antwerp is one of the most decent places in Belgium which is located in northwestern Belgium and is one of the most prosperous cities in Europe. This city has been considered as one of the most important ports in Europe since medieval times and it’s also a popular shopping destination with lots to see and do. It is one of the great places to visit in Belgium if one wishes to find several exciting museums, theatres, and fantastic restaurants. One can even catch a canal cruise or hop on board one of the city’s many bike-sharing systems. Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world because of all the diamond merchants who make their homes there. It is one of the most famous places in Belgium where one can go on some short or long bicycle tours or even ride a boat down these historic canals. The city is very walkable and there are  plenty of places to sit and enjoy a coffee, beer, or a delicious meal. With a latitude located near the North Sea, the weather is generally mild and temperate in Antwerp in general. The average summers in Belgium are often humid and hot because of the many lakes that line up to form a portion of their coastline. As for wintertime, it can be cold in the north but milder in the southern parts where Brussels is situated. Its weather pattern changes from day to night because during summertime, Antwerp experiences more hours of daylight than any other location on earth besides Iceland's capital Reykjavik.

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Liege is located in the heart of Belgium and the city is famous for its unique history, vibrant culture, rich medieval architecture, and fascinating museums. This is one of the great places to visit in Belgium that showcases its rich culture and history. This picturesque city is the second-largest and second-most-populous in Belgium. There is also a wide variety of museums in the area, including the Henri Leys Museum which showcases Liege's 19th-century history. It is a perfect place to visit for anyone who's fond of art and its ethics. It is one of the famous places in Belgium to do things like have a beer at the marketplace, see the city from atop the Citadel at night, and walk around in the old town. Liege has got one of the most famous bars in all of Belgium. The Bar Des Arts is a music venue and restaurant with an art-deco style building with two wide terraces overlooking the river Meuse. The weather is generally mild but If one visits the city in summer then the weather is quite comfortable. The summers are short with mild days and cool nights and the spring and autumn are really enjoyable too, with some cold days, but also warm enough for sunbathing.

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Charleroi is located in Wallonia and it’s the second-largest city in the country. It is a Swiss-French micro-region and is also one of Belgium’s most multicultural cities. It's very popular for its various cuisines like French, Belgian, Italian and more. It is one of the great places to visit in Belgium and the city is located in an important coal-mining region and is the capital of the province. The Grande Place is a symbol of this city and the place is breathtakingly beautiful, filled with a variety of buildings from different periods, including guild houses from various craft professions. It has historic churches that are lined up on its east side which makes the place more beautiful than ever. With its scenic lakes and panoramic view over the valley of the river Cheers, it has been called one of Belgium's most picturesque towns because it offers many opportunities for walks or bike rides along its cobbled streets or forest paths alongside riverside parks with picnic spots and playgrounds. The golf park and the natural area of Charleroi are some of the most famous attractions of the place which are worth visiting. It is one of the best places in Belgium where the weather is neither too hot nor too humid. The climate is mild, while seasonal variations are not very pronounced. The winters are colder than the summers, while rainfall and temperatures are medium throughout the year.

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Mons is one of the best Belgium Tourist places. This city gets its name from Mons Sacraal which means that it is the old city that was built on top of an older historical site. Mons Sacraal became such an important place to live because it was protected by natural barriers which allowed people to live without being attacked by outside forces since there were no natural weaknesses for invaders to exploit unlike other places in Europe. A charming city just a few hours away from Brussels, Mons is full of history and medieval charm. It's the capital of the province of West Flanders, which has been called "the land where French Flanders once was." It is packed with some great places to explore, including the bustling market square which dates back to 1378. One can enjoy great European cuisine at Patisserie Claude Chevre, wander through its many churches and religious buildings - most notably Notre Dame de la Grace - or enjoy some local beer in one of its many cafes. It is also a well-known European holiday destination with a wide range of things to do including a museum, a botanical garden, and breweries. It is one of the nicest places in Belgium where the weather is warm, the people are friendly and cosy, and the atmosphere is relaxed.

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Mechelen is one of the best Belgium Tourist places which is located in the north of the country in the province of Antwerp. Mechelen is also famous for his proximity to European Union institutions like the EU Commission, European Parliament and EU Court of Justice. The place is famous for its medieval city centre and historic buildings and This historic town has lots of fascinating buildings, some dating back to the Middle Ages. It is nice to watch artists at work. It is also home to an art centre called the Bonnefantenmuseum which houses over 150 paintings dating back to the 16th century. The museum’s collection spans many areas of art including Dutch Golden Age painting. There are also many museums, for example, a museum devoted to comic films. The place was originally a Roman Catholic Diocese but now it is the capital city of the Flemish region in Belgium. Mechelen is also one of the oldest cities in Belgium known to have given its name to a family which ruled part of France under an earlier name - Flanders. The place has a huge number of attractions to explore which makes it well worth a visit. Here the weather is good and people are kind, just like its name. It is a small town with a population of 30,000 people situated in the south of Belgium, on the border with the Netherlands.

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Ghent is a great place located in East Flanders and is famous for its 19th-century historical centre, which was a prosperous city in the medieval period. Medieval Architecture houses one of Belgium tourist places most spectacular churches in Europe, it’s a Gothic Mystery featuring a mixture of architectural styles with a predominantly French design. The place is well-known for its sculptures and paintings, even though it has a lot more than just those two things to offer visitors. Ghent has several amazing restaurants which offer delicious meals and have a remarkable ambience. It is one of the famous places in Belgium to do unusual activities like go to a museum, enjoy a view, and eat delicious food. It also includes activities like visiting places where one can learn about nature and how it works, such as the Rodeberg metro, which crosses the water. Also, it is famous for its beautiful buildings which includes the Belfort tower and the Liebfrauenkirche basilica, which are two of the most well-known buildings in town. It has weather like spring all year long and there are many things to do in Ghent including sightseeing and learning about the history of the place. The weather here is pleasant throughout the year but the best time to visit the place is in the months of March and April as the atmosphere is calm and blissful.

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Leuven is one of the great Belgium Tourist places which is located about 30 kilometres from Brussels and about 60 kilometres from Antwerp. People can visit this place because it has a rich Belgian heritage and the city centre is renowned for its many historic buildings that date back from Roman times to Contemporary Art. Leuven is one of the great Belgium places to visit to see the oldest bridge in the country, the Halve Maen. You'll find this bridge in the heart of Belgium's capital during a wonderful walk across the city. There's almost an 8 km long boardwalk which leads past numerous museums and castles to a beautiful place with an 18th-century view over Leuven and its surroundings. Leuven is one of the famous places in Belgium to do things like family trips, day trips or even weekend breaks. There are many other activities to do in Leuven such as going for a drink or trying some beer tasting at one of the several pubs or going see one of the many churches such as Catholic, Renaissance, Gothic or Baroque Notre-Dame Cathedral. Along the cobbled streets are cafes, shops, old churches and big red brick buildings, it is also home to many iconic breweries. The weather in Leuven is cold but not too cold and one feels good walking around. It is the capital of the province of Flanders and is well known for its university. The city has a lot of history and is full of monuments, cafes and restaurants and interesting shops.

Brussels Pub Crawl Experience, Book Now @ Flat 14% off

Ostend is one the best Belgium Tourist places located on the North Sea coast, about 10 kilometres from Bruges, in West Flanders, Belgium at the coast. It is also called "The Pearl of the North" because it has a beautiful coastline. The town has a rich history and is home to many attractions such as Casino Kursaal; the cliff; the end of the pier etc. It has beautiful beaches, oyster beds which are full of life, sea cliffs with seabirds nesting in their nooks & crannies, and plenty of stretches for cycling plus some lovely countryside towards Knokke. It is a beach town in the northern province of West Flanders. The town's main attraction is the Cape of Ostend, an iconic coastal promenade that was once home to Queen Emma, wife of King Leopold II. There is plenty to explore near the cape, including the Casino Kursaal and Beach Tourist Office. The best time to visit the place is between August, September and October when one can go to the beach and visit the grand parks of Brussels. The weather here is always nice and it is not too busy making the place always perfect to plan a vacation.

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 Places to Visit in United Kingdom & Top Tourist Places

Namur is located in the hills and valleys of Wallonia. Wallonia is known for its beautiful landscapes and picturesque cities, such as Namur. Namur has become an important town in Belgium because it is centrally located and there are many things to see and do here. It is one of the great Belgium places to visit to see its cultural heritage as it is located in the heart of Wallonia, Namur is a fairytale city, steeped in history and legend. It is one of the great places to visit in Belgium if one wants to visit museums, such as the Ethnographical Museum, which explains how people lived before electricity was used; the Museum of Fine Arts and the Martyr's Museum. The city also welcomes visitors to enjoy a walk around its old part or enjoy picnics in its parks. The city has a well-preserved historic centre built around a medieval citadel, that offers hidden treasures waiting for those seeking them out: artisanal shops; galleries; craft stores; boutiques or artisans’ workshops. One can go to the Namur Zoo, admire the world’s largest tapestry, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants,  shopping for souvenirs, visiting museums such as Het Paleis and De Schatkamer, watching a women's soccer team compete in the iconic stadium, or even visit the Middelheim Park where there is a large sanctuary of owls. It is one of the most beautiful places in Belgium where the weather is hot and the temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The best time to visit this place is in the months of November and December when the surroundings are more blissful and calm.

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Other Attractions

Huidenvettersplein.

Huidenvettersplein

Huidenvettersplein, situated in Belgium, epitomizes historical charm with its cobblestone streets and picturesque surroundings. This quaint square, named after the leather workers who once inhabited it, exudes a timeless elegance. Lined with charming cafes and artisanal shops, Huidenvettersplein invites visitors to wander its narrow lanes and soak in its old-world ambiance, making it a delightful destination for exploring Belgian heritage.

Top Experiences To Do in Huidenvettersplein

Guided Bruges Walking City Tour

Masons Guild Hall

Masons Guild Hall

The Masons Guild Hall in Belgium stands as a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and architectural prowess. This historic edifice, nestled in the heart of Belgium, showcases intricate stone masonry and exquisite design, reflecting the skill and dedication of its creators. Serving as a hub for masons to gather, share knowledge, and hone their craft, it continues to inspire admiration and appreciation for the art of building.

Top Experiences To Do in Masons Guild Hall

Day Trip to Antwerp and Ghent from Brussels

Ghent City Hall

Ghent City Hall

Ghent City Hall, a Gothic architectural marvel in Belgium, epitomizes the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Completed in the late 15th century, its stunning facade features intricate detailing and ornate spires. As the seat of municipal governance for centuries, it stands as a symbol of Ghent's civic pride and administrative prowess. Today, it continues to awe visitors with its timeless beauty and historical significance.

Top Experiences To Do in Ghent City Hall

Ghent Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App

Cathedral of Our Lady

Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady, located in Antwerp, Belgium, is a majestic Gothic masterpiece that commands attention with its towering spires and intricate architecture. Dating back to the 14th century, it boasts stunning stained glass windows, awe-inspiring vaulted ceilings, and a rich history that draws visitors from around the world. As a symbol of faith and cultural heritage, it remains a cherished landmark in Antwerp.

The Rubens House

The Rubens House

The Rubens House in Antwerp, Belgium, is a cultural gem celebrating the life and work of the renowned Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens. This stately mansion, once Rubens' home and studio, now showcases a rich collection of his paintings, drawings, and personal possessions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the artist's world, exploring the opulent interiors and gaining insight into his artistic genius.

Saint Bavo's Cathedral

Saint Bavo's Cathedral

St. Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It houses renowned artworks, including the Ghent Altarpiece by Jan van Eyck. Visitors are captivated by its towering spires and intricate detailing, making it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts exploring the heart of Ghent.

Belfry of Ghent

Belfry of Ghent

The Belfry of Ghent stands tall and proud, a symbol of civic pride and architectural prowess in the heart of this historic Belgian city. Rising majestically above the medieval skyline, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into Ghent's rich past and vibrant present.

Top Experiences To Do in Belfry of Ghent

50 Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour of Ghent

Musical Instruments Museum

Musical Instruments Museum

The Musical Instruments Museum, located in Brussels, Belgium, is a treasure trove of musical heritage and craftsmanship.

Sablons Quarter

Sablons Quarter

The Sablons Quarter, nestled in the heart of Brussels, Belgium, exudes charm and historical significance.

Horta Museum

Horta Museum

The Horta Museum, located in Brussels, Belgium, is a testament to the genius of renowned Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta.

St. Nicholas Church Ghent

St. Nicholas Church Ghent

St. Nicholas Church, often found in various locations worldwide, is dedicated to St. Nicholas, a revered Christian saint known for his generosity. These churches typically serve as places of worship and community gathering, embodying the spirit of compassion and charity associated with St. Nicholas. 

Top Experiences To Do in St. Nicholas Church Ghent

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Collegiate Church of Notre Dame de Dinant

Collegiate Church of Notre Dame de Dinant

The Collegiate Church of Notre Dame de Dinant, situated in the picturesque town of Dinant, Belgium, is a striking example of Gothic architecture.

Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Brussels

Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Brussels

Immerse yourself in the indulgent world of chocolate at a Belgian chocolate workshop in Brussels.

Top Experiences To Do in Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Brussels

Brussels Chocolate Making Workshop at Choco Story

BOZAR, short for Palais des Beaux-Arts (Centre for Fine Arts), is a prestigious cultural institution situated in Brussels, Belgium.

St. Bavo's Cathedral

St. Bavo's Cathedral

St. Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium, is an architectural marvel and cultural treasure. Dating back to the 10th century, it underwent various renovations and expansions, resulting in a stunning blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. The cathedral houses numerous masterpieces, including the renowned Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. With its towering spires and intricate detailing, St. Bavo's Cathedral stands as a testament to the city's rich history and artistic heritage. Visitors are captivated by its awe-inspiring interior, adorned with splendid artwork and historical artifacts, making it a must-see landmark in Ghent.

Top Experiences To Do in St. Bavo's Cathedral

Medieval Ghent, Ghent

Citadel of Dinant

Citadel of Dinant

The Citadel of Dinant is like a big, old castle sitting high on a cliff above a river in Belgium. It was built a long time ago to protect the town from enemies.

Gravensteen Castle

Gravensteen Castle

Gravensteen Castle, situated in the heart of Ghent, Belgium, stands as a formidable testament to medieval architecture and history. Translating to "Castle of the Counts" in English, this imposing fortress encapsulates centuries of European heritage within its stout walls. Originally constructed in the 12th century by Count Philip of Alsace, the castle served as a symbol of power and authority for the Counts of Flanders.

Rising majestically above the cobblestone streets of Ghent, Gravensteen's robust stone walls and towering turrets evoke a sense of awe and reverence. Its strategic location along the River Lys made it a crucial stronghold during the Middle Ages, offering both defensive capabilities and a vantage point over the surrounding countryside.

Top Experiences To Do in Gravensteen Castle

Gothic church.

Gothic Church

Standing majestically in the heart of Belgium, this Gothic church enchants visitors with its soaring spires, intricate stone carvings, and breathtaking stained glass windows.

Manneken Pis Statue

Manneken Pis Statue

The Manneken Pis statue, situated in Brussels, Belgium, is a beloved symbol of the city's irreverent spirit and sense of humor.

Top Experiences To Do in Manneken Pis Statue

Brussels Walking Tour and Food Tasting

People Also Ask About Belgium

Which are the best places to visit in belgium.

1. Hasselt: It is one of the great Belgium Tourist places of Limburg, and one of the three provincial capitals (together with Leuven and Aalst). It is also the largest city of both the Voeren region and, with a population just under 100,000, of Belgium's east. 2. Kortrijk:  It is one of the great municipal Belgium places to visit in West Flanders, Belgium. The name presumably derives from "Korte rei" which means "short river".Kortrijk was first mentioned by Count Baldwin IV of Flanders in 1040. 3. Beguinage:  It is traditionally one of the great Belgium places to visit since it's a  female area in many Belgian cities. In these areas, women could go about their daily business safe from the prying eyes of men. The only other residents were female members of the order, and outsiders were forbidden from entering without an invitation. 4. Arlon:  It is one of the  international Belgium places to visit which is located in Western Europe. It's split into five major regions, with the Flemish region being on the Northern side of the country, while Wallonia is on its Southern border.

Which are the best places to visit in Belgium for couples?

1. Burg Square: It is one of the most happening places to visit in Belgium and is the perfect spot to sit down and relax. Rows of colourful houses, restaurants, cafes and shops surround the square. The place is serene and astoundingly calm which makes it one of the most romantic places in Belgium. 2. Atomium:  Atomium i.e. one of the best and most beautiful Belgium Tourist places. Atomium is a building shaped like an enormous unit cell of an iron crystal. It was imagined and drawn by the Belgian architect and expatriate to the U.S.A. Joseph Sorel, a very gifted and creative architect who was a Belgian who had a Belgian education and lived in the USA. 3. Train World:  Train World is one of the beautiful famous places in Belgium with a new addition to the metropolitan area of Antwerp and Brussels. With over 20 acres of land and a 40,000 sq ft building, it provides train enthusiasts with a whole new world to explore. 4. Exhibition Hall:  Exhibition Hall Plantin Moretus is yet another one of the amazing places to visit in Belgium, a printing museum and cultural space in Antwerp with an impressive collection of books and prints from before the year 1501

Which are the best Wildlife Parks to visit in Belgium?

1. The Zwin:  Zwin is one of the great wildlife places to visit in Belgium. It is a natural barrier that stretches about 18 kilometres east of Brussels in Belgium. It is an area where the estuary of the river Scheldt meets another river, itself an extension of the Scheldt, that has its source in Eastern Walloon Brabant near Schaarbeek. 2. Eiffel Nature Park:  The Eiffel Nature Park is one of the best Belgium Tourist places which is about an hour away from Brussels. This is a perfect place for a family outing, where one can feel the fresh air and nature around you. 3. Antwerp Zoo:  Antwerp Zoo is one of the oldest wildlife places to visit in Belgium, which opened in 1843. It is home to more than 1,200 animals, many of which are endangered. It is one of those places in Belgium where the terrain spans over 27 hectares with the majority consisting of orchards and natural habitats for animals. 4. Bellewaerde:  Bellewaerde is one of those places in Belgium which feels like a village. The village is about an hour's drive from Ghent, and one's first impression of its interior architecture may be that it is rather insignificant.

What is the best time to visit Belgium?

How to reach belgium, is belgium worth visiting.

Hop on the exciting Wickiebaan roller coaster at famous Plopsa Indoor Hasselt Park

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

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

Places To Visit In Belgium For Best Experience

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

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

1. Brussels: Nightlife And Shopping

The iconic capital city

Image Source

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

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

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

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2. Bruges: Palaces And Canals

Where time has stood still

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

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

3. Ghent: Art And Serenity

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

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

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

Suggested Read: Belgium Nightlife

4. Antwerp: The Food Capital

A buzzing hub of art enthusiasts

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

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

5. Ardennes: Hills, Forests, And Adventures

Heaven for adventure lovers

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

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

Suggested Read: Castles In Belgium

6. Tournai: World’s Most Beautiful Cathedrals

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

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

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

7. Dinant: Caves And Wildlife

The cave city

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

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

Suggested Read:  15 Festivals In Belgium

8. Leuven: Best Belgian Breweries

bis Leuven Heverlee

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

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

9. Mons: Peace And Relaxation

Hear the melodies of Belfry bells

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Best Belgium Beach Resorts

10. Mechelen: Cruises And Picnics

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

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

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

11. De Haan: Picturesque Beaches

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 15 Offbeat Destinations In Europe

12. Durbuy: Blooming Rhododendrons And Poppies

Durbuy village in Belgium

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

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

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

13. Arlon: A Battle-Scarred History

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

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

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

Suggested Read: Safaris In Belgium

14. Beguinage: A Lost World Made By Women

Estonian Design House

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

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

15. Genk: Parks And Nature Reserves

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Places For Shopping In Brussels

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

Eifel Nature Park

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

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

17. Hoge Kempen National Park: Lakes And Pine Woods

Hoge Kempen National Park

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Beaches In Belgium

18. Knokke-Heist: Unmatched Scenic Beauty

people on beach

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

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

19. Kortrijk: A Shopper’s Paradise

kortrijk

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

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

Suggested Read: Belgium In June

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

la_roche

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

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

21. Liege: Hep Nightlife Scenes

liege

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

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

Suggested Read: 12 Indian Restaurants In Belgium

22. Malmedy: Hiking And Biking Trails

malmedy belgium

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

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

23. Zwin: A Birdwatcher’s Heaven

The Zwin Nature Reserve

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

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

Suggested Read: Belgium Travel–Cockpit Of Europe

24. Ostend: Beaches And Gothic Architecture

Ostend beach

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

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

25. Rochefort: World Famous Cafes

rochefort bel

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

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

Suggested Read: Gorgeous Places To Visit In Europe In January

26. Namur: Medieval Forts And Rivers

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

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

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

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

27. Spa: Birthplace Of Thermal Springs

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

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

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

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

28. Bastogne: Home Of The Wood Of Peace

Bastogne belgium

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

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

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

29. Hasselt: A Classic Destination

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 5 Things To Do In Europe In May

30. Ypres: For War Memorials

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

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

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

31. Charleroi: Observe Rich Art

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 8 Spots For Scuba Diving In Europe

32. Meuse Valley: A Lush Place

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Belgium

What is the best city to visit in Belgium?

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

What are the things to do in Belgium?

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

What can you see in Belgium in 3 days?

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

How many days do you need in Belgium?

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

How long do you need in Brussels?

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

Where should I go for a weekend in Belgium?

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

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  1. 19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belgium

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  5. 32 Places To Visit In Belgium: Tourist Attractions & Places To Stay

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  1. Top 5 Places To Visit In Belgium

  2. 10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

  3. BELGIUM Unveiled :: Top 10 Most Beautiful Destinations For Tourists To Visit

  4. 🇧🇪 visit in Belgium #belgium #countrytravel #explore #travelshorts

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COMMENTS

  1. 8 of the best places to visit in Belgium

    Last but not least, no visit to Bruges is complete without a visit to the Groeningemuseum, a fine art museum with an impressive Flemish Primitive collection. 4. Antwerp. Best for fashion and design. Home to the world-renowned Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp, Belgium's second city is also its coolest.

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Belgium (2024)

    4. Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. 10,173. Historic Sites. Wander through the Les Galeries Saint Hubert, a gorgeous glass roofed arcade in the center of Brussels. Lined with cafes, theaters and luxury stores, the Les Galeries Saint Hubert also has the distinction…. See ways to experience (37) 5. Atomium.

  3. 19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belgium

    St. Peter's Church, Leuven. St Peter's Church and Town Hall. With its pointed arch windows and sheaf pillars, St. Peter's Church is one of Belgium's best preserved examples of Brabant Gothic style. The church sits right in the heart of Leuven on the town's main square or Grote Markt.

  4. 11 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

    19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belgium. 18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brussels. 16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Antwerp. 11 Best Places to Visit in Belgium. Written by Lura Seavey Updated May 3, 2023.

  5. 10 best things to do in Belgium

    The land of golden beers, decadent chocolates and fluffy waffles, Belgium tempts you with its culinary delights. And its charm extends far beyond mere gastronomy. The country has more castles per square kilometer than anywhere in the world, a rich and tormented history, and quirky attractions like peeing statues and dinosaur skeletons.

  6. THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Belgium (UPDATED 2024)

    2024. 4. Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. 10,174. Historic Sites. Wander through the Les Galeries Saint Hubert, a gorgeous glass roofed arcade in the center of Brussels. Lined with cafes, theaters and luxury stores, the Les Galeries Saint Hubert also has the distinction…. See ways to experience (38) 5.

  7. 25 Best Things to Do in Belgium

    5. Visit the Grand Place in Brussels. Source: sashk0 / shutterstock. Grand Place In Brussels. The Grand Place in Brussels is absolutely stuning with it's historic buildings. Included in: Brussels Walking Tour. 6. Visit to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels. Source: CapturePB / shutterstock.

  8. 10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium (+Map)

    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 ...

  9. 10 Top Tourist Attractions in Belgium (+Map)

    9. Mons Belfry [SEE MAP] Isabelle + Stephane Gallay / Flickr. Mons is a medieval city that today serves as capital of Hainaut Province. It is home to the only Baroque belfry in Belgium. The belfry is located on the highest point in Mons, on a square that once housed a castle; remains of this castle can be seen today.

  10. 22 Best Places to Visit in Belgium & Things to Do

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

  11. Must-see attractions Belgium, Western Europe

    Portugal. Discover the best attractions in Belgium including The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, Museum Plantin-Moretus, and Old England Building.

  12. 21 Best Things To Do in Belgium Right Now

    Best things to do in Belgium. 1. Enjoy the silence on Trappistenroute, a dawn bike tour of holy breweries. Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Pankaj Kaushal. Cycling is an obsession in Flanders, the ...

  13. The 16 Best Things to Do in Belgium

    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. 12 of 16.

  14. 15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

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

  15. 18 Must-Visit Attractions in Belgium

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

  16. 16 Best Things To Do In Belgium & Places To See

    15. Study cubism and surrealism art at the Musée Magritte in Brussels. 16. Tasting famous Belgian chocolate - one of the best things to do in Belgium. The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg, your essential guide for visiting Belgium. Travel ideas for Belgium.

  17. Top Things to Do in Belgium

    Things to Do in Belgium, Europe: See Tripadvisor's 3,234,587 traveller reviews and photos of Belgium tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend or in October. We have reviews of the best places to see in Belgium. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  18. THE TOP 15 Things To Do in Belgium (UPDATED 2024)

    8,254. Bruges' Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde is one of the most famous and best preserved of Belgium's UNESCO-listed Beguinages. One of the town's most-visited attractions, it offers a glimpse into the European Beguine movement of the Middle Ages. More. #5.

  19. 25 Famous Landmarks in Belgium

    25 Famous Landmarks in Belgium. by traveldrafts. Located in the heart of Europe, Belgium is covered with amazing destinations and attractions. Brussels is the capital, the biggest city, but also where you'll find a huge number of Belgian Landmarks. Yet, cities like Brugges, Ghent, and Mechelen have lovely historical centers with some major ...

  20. The 25 Best Things to do in Belgium

    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.

  21. 35 Places to Visit in Belgium, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

    Belgium Tourist Places. Grand Place ( Brussels), The Canals and Belfry of Bruges, The Battlefields of Flanders, Ghent's Gravensteen and Old Town, Horta Museum and Town Houses and many more places to visit in Belgium. If you are visiting the land of the fusion of German and French cultures, you can be sure of being awarded with a plethora of ...

  22. Places To Visit In Belgium: Tourist Attractions & Places To Stay

    This is the best amongst Belgium tourist attractions. Tourist Attractions: Rare species of flora and fauna, rolling mountains, picturesque villages. Where To Stay: Hôtel des Bains & Wellness, Hostel Malmedy - Youth Hostel and Au Chat'rme des Blanches Pierres. 17. Hoge Kempen National Park: Lakes And Pine Woods