Belgium, a country known for its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant culture, offers visitors a plethora of memorable experiences. Among the myriad of things to do in Belgium, exploring its medieval towns and Renaissance architecture stands out as a highlight.
In the heart of Brussels, the Grand Place mesmerizes with its ornate guildhalls and the gothic beauty of the Town Hall. Just a short journey away, the Atomium provides a unique blend of history and modernity, offering panoramic views of the city.
Chocolate enthusiasts and foodies alike will find Belgium’s culinary offerings to be a paradise. The country’s chocolate shops, waffle stands, and beer tours are essential experiences for any visitor.
Venturing beyond the cities, the tranquil countryside of the Ardennes offers a perfect escape with its dense forests, caves, and rivers. This contrast of urban and natural landscapes ensures that Belgium has something to offer every traveler, making it a must-visit destination for those who seek cultural enrichment, gastronomic delights, and natural beauty.
Travel Tip: For travelers seeking internet connectivity, consider opting for the eSim Belgium to ensure a seamless and reliable connection.
Attractions & Things to Do in Belgium
1. Grand Place, Brussels
The Grand Place is a stunning central square in Brussels, surrounded by opulent guildhalls and two larger buildings: the city’s Town Hall and the King’s House. It’s known for its decorative and aesthetic wealth.
Travel Tip: Visit in August during the Flower Carpet event, when the square is covered in a beautiful floral display.
2. Bruges Canal Tours
Bruges is often called “The Venice of the North” due to its picturesque canals. The city offers numerous canal tours that provide a unique perspective on its medieval buildings and beautiful bridges.
Travel Tip: Opt for an evening boat tour to see the city’s lights reflected in the water, offering a magical experience.
3. Antwerp’s Diamond District
Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world, with its Diamond District housing thousands of diamond traders, cutters, and polishers. Visitors can learn about the trade and even shop for diamonds.
Travel Tip: Educate yourself on diamond grading before your visit to make informed purchases.
4. The Atomium, Brussels
The Atomium is an iconic building in Brussels, originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair. It represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times and offers panoramic views of the city from its top sphere.
Travel Tip: Visit at sunset for a spectacular view of the city lighting up.
5. Ghent’s Gravensteen
Gravensteen is a well-preserved medieval castle in the heart of Ghent, featuring a moat, ramparts, and a museum displaying various medieval weapons and torture devices.
Travel Tip: Climb to the top of the castle for stunning views of Ghent’s old city center.
6. The Battlefields of Flanders
The Flanders region was a major battleground during World War I, and today, visitors can tour the preserved trenches, cemeteries, and memorials that pay tribute to the soldiers who fought there.
Travel Tip: Participate in a guided tour to gain comprehensive insights into the historical significance of the sites.
7. The Belfry of Bruges
This medieval bell tower in the center of Bruges offers visitors the chance to climb its 366 steps to the top, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and beyond.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful ascent.
8. Meuse Valley
The Meuse Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic castles, and picturesque villages. It’s a perfect destination for cycling, hiking, and river cruises.
Travel Tip: Rent a bike to explore the riverbanks at your own pace, discovering small villages and scenic spots along the way.
9. The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken
Located in Brussels, these vast greenhouses are a marvel of 19th-century glass and steel architecture, housing a collection of rare plants and flowers.
Travel Tip: They are open to the public for a few weeks each year during the spring; check the exact dates to plan your visit.
10. The Ardennes
The Ardennes is a region of extensive forests, rolling hills, and ridges, offering a plethora of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring its many castles.
Travel Tip: Visit during the fall to see the forest in its full autumnal glory or in winter for a chance to experience its Christmas markets.
11. Dinant
This small town is nestled between the Meuse River and dramatic cliffs, making it one of Belgium’s most picturesque spots. It’s known for its citadel, saxophone museum (honoring inventor Adolphe Sax), and scenic boat tours.
Travel Tip: Combine a visit to the citadel with a river cruise to fully appreciate the town’s beauty from both land and water.
12. Waterloo
The site of the famous Battle of Waterloo, where Napoleon was defeated in 1815, is located just south of Brussels. Visitors can explore the battlefield, memorials, and museum to learn about this pivotal moment in European history.
Travel Tip: Climb the Lion’s Mound for a panoramic view of the battlefield.
13. The Royal Palace of Brussels
Although the Belgian royal family now resides in Laeken, the Royal Palace in the heart of Brussels remains their official palace. It’s a symbol of the country’s constitutional monarchy, and its state rooms are open to the public during the summer months.
Travel Tip: Check the palace’s opening schedule before planning your visit, as it is only open to the public at certain times of the year.
14. Rubens House, Antwerp
Once the home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, the famous Flemish artist, this museum now displays a significant collection of his works, alongside pieces from his contemporaries.
Travel Tip: Visit on a Wednesday for free entry to the museum.
15. The Menin Gate, Ypres
The Menin Gate is a war memorial in Ypres dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soldiers who were killed in the Ypres Salient of World War I and whose graves are unknown.
Travel Tip: Attend the Last Post ceremony held every evening at 8 p.m. to honor the fallen soldiers.
16. Liège’s Guillemins Railway Station
One of the most beautiful modern railway stations in Europe, Liège-Guillemins is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture designed by Santiago Calatrava. It’s not just a transport hub but also a sight to behold.
Travel Tip: Take a moment to appreciate the station’s design and structure, even if you’re not catching a train.
17. Leuven’s Old Market Square
Famous for having one of the longest bars in the world, Leuven’s Old Market Square is a lively place filled with cafes, restaurants, and student bars, making it a central spot for nightlife.
Travel Tip: Try to visit on a weekday when it’s less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
18. The Mardasson Memorial, Bastogne
The Mardasson Memorial honors the memory of American soldiers wounded or killed during the Battle of the Bulge in WWII. It’s located near Bastogne, a key area of the battle.
Travel Tip: Climb to the top of the memorial for a comprehensive view of the surrounding landscapes that were once battlefields.
19. Mons’ Belfry
The only baroque belfry in Belgium, Mons’ Belfry offers visitors insights into the city’s history and panoramic views from its top.
Travel Tip: Consider visiting during the annual Doudou festival in Mons for a vibrant experience of local culture and traditions.
20. The Caves of Han
A major Belgian attraction, the Caves of Han are a series of underground caves in Han-sur-Lesse, known for their impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as the temperature inside the caves can be quite cool.
FAQ About Things to Do in Belgium
What are the must-visit places in Belgium?
Must-visit places in Belgium include the Grand Place in Brussels, Bruges’ medieval city center, the Battlefields of Flanders near Ypres, and the Ardennes region.
Can I explore medieval architecture in Belgium?
Yes, cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp offer remarkable medieval architecture, with well-preserved buildings, castles, and cathedrals.
Is the Grand Place in Brussels worth visiting?
Absolutely! The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ornate guildhalls, the stunning City Hall, and numerous events throughout the year.
What outdoor activities can I do in Belgium?
In Belgium, you can enjoy cycling through Flanders fields, hiking in the Ardennes, and exploring the country’s extensive network of walking and cycling paths.
Are there any famous art museums in Belgium?
Yes, Belgium is home to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels, the Rubens House in Antwerp, and the Groeninge Museum in Bruges, among others.
Can I experience Belgium’s beer culture?
Absolutely! Belgium is famous for its beer culture, with numerous breweries, beer festivals, and bars where you can taste a wide variety of Belgian beers.
What are some unique shopping experiences in Belgium?
Antwerp is known for its fashion and diamonds, Ghent for its artisanal crafts, and Brussels for its chocolate shops and flea markets like the Marolles.
Are there any natural landscapes to explore in Belgium?
Yes, the Ardennes offers dense forests, caves, and rivers, ideal for nature lovers looking to hike, kayak, or simply enjoy the serene landscapes.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/belgium-l169005/
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