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Must-Visit Places in Belgium

Belgium might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to travel experiences. From medieval towns to breathtaking natural beauty, you’ll find a mix of history, culture, and stunning architecture here. Whether you love exploring lively cities or quiet villages, Belgium should be on your list of must-visit countries.

Brussels: The Heart of Europe

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and also the political center of the European Union. You can easily spend a few days wandering its streets and discovering every corner of this vibrant city.

Grand Place

The Grand Place is often considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Surrounded by elaborate guildhalls, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a top spot for tourists. Make sure to visit both during the day and at night; the square lights up beautifully in the evening.

Atomium

The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most unique landmarks. Originally built for the 1958 World Expo, it’s a giant atom-shaped structure. You can go inside and visit the museum, or just admire the unusual architecture from below.

Manneken Pis

No trip to Brussels is complete without a visit to Manneken Pis. This small statue of a boy peeing into a fountain is a quirky part of the city’s culture. Plus, the outfits and costumes he’s dressed in change regularly, giving you a new surprise each time.

Bruges: Step Back in Time

Bruges is like something out of a fairy tale. Its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming canals make it a favorite for tourists looking for that Old World feel.

Market Square

The heart of Bruges is the Market Square, surrounded by colorful historic buildings and overlooked by the iconic Belfry Tower. Climb the tower’s 366 steps for a panoramic view of the city.

Canal Tours

One of the best ways to see Bruges is from the water. Take one of the many canal tours to get a feel for this beautiful city from a different perspective. The views of the bridges and the gothic architecture along the way are unforgettable.

Choco-Story Museum

No visit to Belgium is complete without indulging in chocolate. You can dive into the world of Belgian chocolate at the Choco-Story Museum in Bruges. Learn about the history of this sweet treat and, of course, indulge in some free samples!

Ghent: A Mix of Old and New

Ghent is often overlooked in favor of Bruges, but it has just as much history and charm with the added bonus of fewer crowds. This student city has a vibrant atmosphere, especially in the evenings.

Gravensteen Castle

Gravensteen Castle is a medieval fortress right in the heart of the city. You can explore the impressive rooms, climb the tower, and learn a bit about Ghent’s long history.

St. Bavo’s Cathedral

This cathedral is home to the famous painting “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers, considered one of the most important works of art in Europe. After admiring the painting, be sure to look around at the cathedral’s stunning interior.

Patershol District

Ghent’s historic core is lovely to wander, but don’t miss the Patershol district. It’s full of narrow cobblestone streets, lined with restaurants and cafes. It’s a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing. Try some local dishes like “waterzooi” or “stoofvlees.”

Antwerp: A Paradise for Art Lovers

Known as the country’s fashion hub, Antwerp is also full of historical landmarks and world-class museums. It’s a lively blend of old and new, making it one of Belgium’s most dynamic cities.

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Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady houses some of the greatest works by the painter Peter Paul Rubens, whose artwork can be found all over the city. Even if you’re not an art lover, the cathedral is worth visiting for its sheer grandeur.

MAS Museum

The Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) focuses on Antwerp’s history as a port city. It’s one of the newer museums in the city, but already very popular. Climb to the top for some spectacular views over Antwerp.

Diamond District

If you like shopping—or even just window shopping—the Diamond District is a glittering neighborhood filled with stores selling some of the most beautiful diamonds in the world. Antwerp has been known for diamonds for centuries, and this part of the city is living proof of why.

Leuven: Belgium’s Best-Kept Secret

Leuven is a vibrant university town located just half an hour from Brussels by train. The energy here is youthful, and the city’s historic center is charmingly beautiful.

Grote Markt

The Grote Markt of Leuven is stunning, dominated by the Town Hall. The building is one of the finest examples of Brabantine Gothic architecture in Belgium. It’s an essential stop while exploring Leuven’s old town.

University Library

The Leuven University Library is not just a place of study—it’s a symbol of resilience. The library was destroyed twice, once during each World War, and has been beautifully rebuilt. You can visit and even climb its tower for a great view of the city.

Old Beguinage

The Beguinage is a tranquil neighborhood where lay religious women once lived. It’s like stepping into a peaceful, quiet village within the city. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a wonderful place to go for a walk and take in the serenity.

Dinant: Nature Meets History

Dinant is a small town but makes up for its size with stunning landscapes and a rich history. Located alongside the Meuse River, it’s great for anyone who loves scenic views and outdoor activities.

Citadel of Dinant

Perched high above the city, the Citadel offers amazing views over Dinant and the surrounding area. You can either climb the 400 steps to the top or take the cable car. Inside, you’ll find a museum dedicated to the city’s military past.

La Merveilleuse Caves

Nature lovers will appreciate the La Merveilleuse Caves, which date back millions of years. You can explore the incredible rock formations and underground rivers during guided tours.

Saxophone Museum

Dinant is the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone. Don’t miss the small but fascinating Saxophone Museum where you’ll learn about the instrument’s history and its contribution to music worldwide.

Spa: Relax in the Original Spa Town

Located in the Ardennes region, Spa is the original health resort that gave its name to spas everywhere. It’s a peaceful town surrounded by natural beauty, perfect for anyone looking to unwind.

Thermes de Spa

A trip to Spa wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Thermes de Spa. You can soak in the thermal waters that have drawn visitors here for centuries while enjoying the views of the lush landscape.

Spa-Francorchamps Circuit

If you’re a racing fan, you can’t miss out on visiting the Spa-Francorchamps Circuit. One of the most famous race tracks in the world, it hosts the Belgian Grand Prix annually. Even if you’re not into F1 racing, you’ll be amazed at the scenic backdrop as the track winds through the hilly Ardennes countryside.

Ardennes: Outdoor Adventures Await

In the southeast of Belgium, the Ardennes region is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll find rolling hills, dense forests, and flowing rivers, all offering a wide range of activities.

Hiking and Biking

The Ardennes has tons of hiking and biking trails. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced adventurer, there’s something for everyone. Some of the best paths take you through charming villages and isolated forests. The Ourthe Valley is especially popular for its natural beauty.

Château de Bouillon

History and adventure come together at the Château de Bouillon. This medieval castle dates back over a thousand years. Explore its passageways and towers, then take in the views of the scenic Ardennes countryside.

Kayaking on the Lesse River

For thrill-seekers, kayaking on the Lesse River is a must. It’s one of the most popular outdoor activities in the Ardennes. The route takes you through peaceful wooded areas, and if you’re up for it, you’ll hit some rapids along the way to spice things up.

Final Thoughts

Belgium may not be as big as some of its European neighbors, but it has enough to keep any traveler busy. Whether it’s architecture, history, art, chocolate, or outdoor adventures, Belgium has something to offer for every type of traveler. Don’t overlook this small gem when planning your trip to Europe!

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