nice places to visit belgium

8 of the best places to visit in Belgium

May 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Explore Belgium with this guide to the country's best places to visit © RossHelen / Getty Images

Travelers often overlook Belgium in favor of neighbors like France and the Netherlands, but it’s one of Europe’s best kept secrets. While its history means Belgium is linguistically and culturally diverse, it’s also small and compact, making it easy to hop between destinations. 

From perfect fries and chocolate to accessible nature breaks, picturesque medieval towns and vibrant art and fashion scenes, there's plenty to experience in Belgium. Here are the best places to visit.

1. Brussels

Best for shopping, museums and street food

Brussels , the capital of Belgium and seat of the EU and NATO, is one of Europe’s most multicultural cities. 

Art lovers can spend a whole day visiting the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium – its six different museums include the must-visit Magritte Museum – along with the Boghossian Foundation at Villa Empain, and the modern-chic Center for Fine Arts, a multipurpose cultural venue commonly referred to as BOZAR .

The city is filled with architectural masterpieces such as the Grand Place , a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, and the illustrious Maison Cauchie , which can be toured on certain weekends with advance reservations.

You can find some of the world’s best and most affordable vintage shopping at the Brussels flea markets, most notably the daily open-air antique market in Place du Jeu-de-Balle, and the shops in the Sablon district.

Planning tip: For food and drink lovers, Brussels is the place to taste all of Belgium’s highlights. Délirium Café is a beloved, always-crowded bar with more than 2000 types of beer, including the country’s famed Trappist beers. Nearby, there are a handful of outdoor kiosks, known as frietkot (snack stands), where you can get your fix of frieten – fries served in a paper cone with your sauce of choice. To satisfy a sweet tooth, try Belgian chocolate at Pierre Marcolini and the fluffy Brussels-style waffles at Maison Dandoy .

Start crafting your Belgium budget with these tips .

2. Namur Province

Best for forts, nature and river views

Known as the “Land of Valleys”, the land-locked province of Namur in the Wallonia region is rich in rivers, cliffs, rolling farm hills and lush Ardennes greenery.

With postcard-perfect aesthetics and a mighty citadel perched atop limestone cliffs, Dinant is the ideal day-trip destination. Stroll around the town, cruise along the river, ride the cable car up to the fortress to take in the sweeping views and enjoy the scenery from a cafe while tasting regional specialties like the Couque de Dinant, a hard biscuit that comes in various shapes. Made of equal parts wheat flour and honey, it can be kept indefinitely, making a great souvenir to take back home.

For a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, head to Liernu, an even smaller town that’s the epitome of tranquility. Here you’ll find L’air du Temps , a fine-dining restaurant in a beautifully renovated farmhouse set on 5 hectares of private gardens. Most of the dishes served are sourced from the garden and often feature highlights of the local terroir, like Wallonia’s most sustainable food source, the Petits-Gris de Namur snails.

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

Best for wandering and romantic escapes 

A visit to Bruges feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Often called the Venice of the North, the city is incredibly charming with an intricate network of tree-lined canals, cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture. To add to the allure, many of the distinctively medieval buildings look like gingerbread houses, thanks to the red Gothic brick. All that and the fact that it’s the birthplace of Flemish Primitive painting led to the entire historic center of Bruges being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bruges is best experienced at a leisurely pace. Wander around the Old Town on foot, soaking up the atmosphere of the city squares, the Markt and the Burg ; hop on a canal boat tour and count all 54 bridges, then bike along the canals to the less crowded places. For the best bird’s-eye views, head to the Belfort , one of Bruges’ most recognizable landmarks, and climb the 366 steps to the top.

Catch your breath with a crisp Belgian beer, which can be found on every corner of the city. Noteworthy destinations are De Halve Maan , a brewery that also offers tours with tastings, and ’t Brugs Beertje , a legendary beerhouse with more than 300 Belgian brews on the menu.

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.

Best for fashion and design 

Home to the world-renowned Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp , Belgium’s second city is also its coolest. Some of fashion’s top creatives, including Martin Margiela and Balenciaga’s Demna Gvasalia, have connections to Antwerp . A few have gone on to open shops here that are worth a visit, such as Dries Van Noten’s Het Modepaleis and Ann Demeulemeester’s sleek, black-and-bone-white flagship store .

There are more trendy shops in the Kammenstraat and Nationalestraat areas that make up the Fashion District, where you can also find the impressive fashion museum MoMu .

Beyond its stylish inhabitants, Antwerp has a visual edge driven by the contrasting architectural styles of contemporary projects and medieval buildings. Make your way down to the port to marvel at late architect Zaha Hadid’s Antwerp Port House and the MAS , home to exhibitions and collections revolving around the city.

5. The Belgian coast

Best for beaches 

The  Belgian coast stretches for 65km (40 miles), meaning you can pack multiple towns into a visit without feeling overwhelmed. Making things even easier is de Kusttram , a coastal tram that’s one of the longest in the world. It starts near the French border at De Panne and travels all the way to Knokke-Heist near the Dutch border, making 67 stops. The complete journey takes 2.5 hours and allows you to admire the coastline in its entirety, jumping off whenever you like without having to worry about parking.  

The two must-visit stops are De Haan and Oostduinkerke. De Haan is unlike other towns in that all buildings must be under five floors, which helps preserve its small-village charm. The low beachfront made up of Belle Epoque architecture and unspoiled grassy dunes is love at first sight for many. Still not convinced? The sweet treats at the retro Wafelhuis Annie or high tea at the vintage 't Stil Genot tearoom are sure to win you over. 

Oostduinkerke, or East Dunkirk, is a protected dune area and the only place in the world where shrimpers still use horse-dragged nets to collect tiny gray shrimp from the sand. This centuries-old tradition is practiced by just over a dozen highly trained locals and takes place at low tide during the warmer months, usually between April and October. In 2013, shrimp fishing on horseback in Oostduinkerke received UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity status. To learn more about this and the other local sea traditions, visit Navigo , a national museum housed in a 19th-century fisher’s cottage.

Best for a quirky weekend break

Located between Brussels and Bruges, Ghent encapsulates the best of Belgian cities: winding canals, medieval architecture, enviable museums and cobblestone alleyways filled with shops and restaurants. The difference is that it’s also home to the largest student population in Belgium – a young, beating heart in one of the country’s oldest urban areas. 

Take a closer look and you’ll find an unconventional creative community, flourishing music scene and so many plant-based menus that it’s often referred to as the vegetarian capital of Europe. 

Since 2009, Ghent has proudly held the title of UNESCO Creative City of Music. There’s a wide range of options for everyone’s tastes, from Belgium’s first silent disco at Abacho to performances at the never boring Vooruit Art Center and De Bijloke Muziekcentrum , and live music on the street and in bars and cafes like Kinky Star , a record-label-owned cafe famous for its Irish coffees and alternative concerts.

Best for thermal hot springs and well-being

Spas around the world take their name from this peaceful and breathtaking Ardennes town. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, Spa is known for its healing thermal springs and lightly sparkling mineral water. The most famous spa in Spa is Thermes de Spa , a modern and surprisingly affordable complex in the hills that’s backed by more than 150 years of knowledge and tradition. With a stunning natural landscape as your backdrop, resting and relaxing feels easy here.

Spa is also home to the world’s first casino , a permanent exhibition of Joan Miró lithographs , and the annual Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix at the world-class Spa-Francorchamps track.

These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Belgium .

8. Hoge Kempen National Park

Best for nature

Hoge Kempen National Park is the only national park in Belgium. A former coal-mining site, it opened in 2006 following the cooperative conservation efforts of businesses, government agencies and environmental organizations.

The 57 sq km (22 sq mile) nature reserve is mostly heathland and pine forest, a lush landscape of evergreen trees – and vibrant purple-flowering shrubs in August and September – next to expansive artificial waterways. Today, it’s inhabited by more than 6000 species of flora and fauna, which is especially impressive considering the area’s industrial history. 

Planning tip:  There are numerous entrances to the park. For those without a car, the park can be accessed through the Kattevennen Gateway , first by taking a train to Genk station, followed by a De Lijn bus ride or a short walk. Once inside, there are different routes depending on whether you’re exploring by bicycle, mountain bike, horseback or on foot. Admission is always free, and the park is open all year long. Rangers offer guided experiences for all ages with advance registration.

This article was first published May 13, 2022 and updated May 5, 2024.

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20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Belgium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Brussels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Eifel Nature Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Chateau de La Hulpe

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

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

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

9. The Sonian Forest

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

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

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

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

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

11. Wallonia

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

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

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

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

13. Hoge Kempen National Park

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

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

14. De Haan

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

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

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

15. La Roche-en-Ardenne

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

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

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

16. Vallee du Ninglinspo

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

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

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

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

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

18. Gaasbeek Castle

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

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

19. Oud-Rekem

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Stay at Indrani Lodge

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

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

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

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

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

Becky Moore - Owner, writer and photographer My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland. Hotel Reviewing Experience - published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Canada Tourist Board , Eviivo , France.fr , Visitoostende.be , Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic , The Times , LA Weekly , Yahoo Travel , Huffington Post , Business Insider , Thrillist , British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur , Daily Express , Wanderlust , Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro . Winner of Travel Blog of the Year . Find me on Linkedin or Facebook .

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

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

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

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

Fantastic looking places!

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

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

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

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

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

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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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. The Hoge Kempen National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Brussels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. The Ardennes

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

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

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

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

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

15. Bastogne

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

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

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

15 Best Places to Visit in Belgium:

• The Hoge Kempen National Park
• The Ardennes

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10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

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

10. Mons [SEE MAP]

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

9. Dinant [SEE MAP]

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

8. Leuven [SEE MAP]

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

7. Tournai [SEE MAP]

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

6. Mechelen [SEE MAP]

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

5. Ardennes [SEE MAP]

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

4. Antwerp [SEE MAP]

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

3. Ghent [SEE MAP]

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

2. Brussels [SEE MAP]

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

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

1. Bruges [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

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24 Beautiful Places in Belgium for Your Bucket List

Author:  Caroline

The Kingdom of Belgium is located in the western part of Europe. Often eclipsed by its well-known neighbors, Belgium is one of the lesser-explored countries in the region. From romantic castles to medieval towns this guide takes you through a handful of the most beautiful places in Belgium.

So, you have decided to branch out and visit  Belgium . Great! I was born and bred right here and have ventured into the various different corners of the country, collecting memories and useful travel tips for fellow travelers. Though small in size, there are a surprising amount of places to visit in Belgium!

From a cultural standpoint, the country is split into three parts: Flanders (northern Belgium), Brussels (central Belgium), and Wallonia (southern Belgium). If your Belgian itinerary allows for it, try and squeeze in a visit to each of the regions to get a true sense of the country.

Please note:  This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).  Learn more .

Beautiful Places in Belgium : Quick Planning Guide

There is a surprising amount of things to see and do in Belgium, especially if you want to split your time across the three regions. This quick overview should help you out if you are short on time.

Tours for Foodies

• Brussels: Hungry Mary’s Beer & Chocolate Tour
• Brussels: Belgian Craft Beer To ur
• Bruges: History and Culinary Tour
• Ghent: Find & taste the best chocolate

Sustainable Accommodation

• Antwerp: ($$$) Botanic Sanctuary
• Brussels: ($$) Cocoon boutique hotel
• Bruges: ($$) Eco-hotel Fevery
• Dinant: ($$) Aqualodge Hôtel Insolite

Public Transport in Belgium : Belgium has a solid infrastructure in place when it comes to public transportation (Bus-Metro-Train). It becomes slightly tricky to figure out which company services the exact part of the country you are looking to travel to as each of the three regions is serviced by different companies. Book online: Find timetables & book tickets online via Omio

Unique Castle Hotels in Belgium

Looking for a truly beautiful place in Belgium that you can also stay in? Why not spend the night in one of the majestic castle hotels dotted all over Belgium. From luxury to budget-friendly, there is a castle for everyone.

24 Places in Belgium to Explore

To help you navigate all the Belgian attractions, the various spots have been merged into four different categories.

• Six Belgian cities that will knock your socks off
• Six little towns to wander through to get a true sense of Belgian culture
• Seven hidden gems to explore Belgium more in-depth
• Five Belgian Abbeys to explore and try Trappist Beer – The Belgian beer aficionado’s holy grail

These 24 carefully selected places in Belgium are but a snippet of what the country has to offer visitors. I might be biased – it is home for me after all – but Belgium truly is a diamond in the rough.

Curious to see where everything is located? Scroll to the end of the article to see the map!

Six beautiful places in Belgium to visit for city lovers

There is nothing like a European medieval city in my humble opinion. Walking around the old town, grabbing a coffee on the – inevitably – magnificent main square while getting lost in the myriad of little alleys is the scenography of many a Hollywood blockbuster.

All of this and more await you in the most beautiful cities in Belgium . The country has a long history of trade; a surprisingly voracious appetite for food and will lure you in one cobblestoned street at a time.

READ MORE: 16 Day trips from Brussels by train

1. Mechelen

Mechelen is a picturesque little city located between Brussels and Antwerp , right in the heart of Belgium.  The inhabitants of the city are called “ Moon-Extinguishers ” after a legend that dates back to the 17 th century which includes mist, alcohol, and the full moon. Their pride and glory is an impressive – although unfinished – Saint Rumbolds Cathedral that towers over the city.

This Flemish town is authentic and down-to-earth. The perfect place to catch a glimpse of the elusive Flemish culture, best observed over a cold beer on the flourishing vism ark t . A former fish market which now houses some of the best bars in Mechelen. As a local, I have spent many a Friday evening on this market.

Must see in Mechelen : Views atop the Saint Rumbolds Cathedral, the UNESCO classified Wintergarden, the colorful Grote Markt (main square), a bite to eat in de Vl eeshallen (a hip food court), and a stroll to the 16th century Haverwerf.

Unique accommodations in Mechelen: Coolest hotel in town: ($) Anker Brouwery Hotel Most romantic hotel: ($$) Martin’s Patershof

Relevant Articles: Things to do in Mechelen

2. Brussels

One simply cannot describe all the prettiest places in Belgium and leave the nation’s capital off the list. Brussels is one of the most underrated capitals in Europe, it is easy to see why – tourist traps galore and a serious lack of sunshine. But, do not let that deter you for fortune favors the brave.

Brussels is small in size – especially compared to other European capitals – making it a very walkable city and what’s more a very safe city. You will not be wanting for museums or unique bars in Brussels. Grab a drink at Cafe Belga on Place Flagey or in the romantic Art Nouveau cafe La Belladone .

Tip : Consider investing in the City Card (valid for 1, 2 or 3 days) which gives you access to museums and the public transport system. Very useful if you are short on time and only spending one day in Brussels .

Must see in Brussels: The Grand Place (main square) – Unesco classified square rife with lavish gold, gabled houses; Art Nouveau – Victor Horta Museum, Solvay House, MIM, The Atomium, hunt down the Comic Strip Murals or hunt down trinkets on the Jeu de Balle flea market on Sunday; Chocolate museum & workshop – you can’t leave Belgium without tasting its most famous product. Time permitting you might want to sneak a peek at some hidden gems in Brussels .

Read on for a detailed overview of the best areas and hotels to stay in Brussels . Unique design: ($) Art Deco Le Berger Hotel Coolest accommodation: ($/$$) Moxy Brussels City Centre Best views of the Grand Place: ($$) Cocoon Boutique Hotel

Relevant Articles: How to spend an unforgettable weekend in Brussels 

Ant werp  is a buzzing city in northern Belgium . The city is known as the fashion capital of the country and the diamond capital of the world! Expect to find world-class shopping, great art museums, and a thriving culinary scene .

If you have time, walk through the Sint-Annatunnel which takes you underneath the river Schelde and right up to the best view over the skyline of Antwerp. Try een bolleke (De Konick beer, a local beer from Antwerp) on the Grote Markt (main square) or in the – ever so slightly odd – Het Elfde Gebod Cafe. Go for dinner in one of the many restaurants in the trendy neighborhood of Antw erpen Zuid .

Must see in Antwerp : The central station of Antwerp, the opulent Stadsfeestzaal, visit the Plantin Moretus Museum, count gables on the Grote Markt (main square), marvel at the 60 statues outside the St. Paul’s church, take in the fin-de-ciècle townhouses on Cogels Osylei, V elodroomstraat, Transvaalstraat and Draakplaats .

Unique accommodations in Antwerp: Sustainable on a budget: ($) Antwerp City Hostel Unique design: ($$) Citybox Antwerp Unique location & fully sustainable: ($$$) Botanic Sanctuary

Relevant Articles: How to get the most out of Antwerp in two days

READ | Is Bruges worth visiting ; The perfect day trip to Bruges

Bruges is a picture-perfect city in western Belgium . Thanks to a direct link with the sea, it was one of the most important commercial cities in Europe throughout history. The city flourished in the 15th century when merchants poured their hard-earned pennies into the city. Much of this architecture has remained, making the historic center of Bruges the most visited attraction of Belgium.

Bruges is the quintessential medieval town: walk through the cobblestone streets, marvel at the tiny gabled houses, and inviting storefronts filled with mouthwatering chocolates and other Belgian specialties. Spending one day in Bruges is a rare blend of romantic and educational! If you get a chance visit the Christmas Market in Bruges .

Must see in Bruges: Take a romantic boat trip on the canal, stroll around the 12th century Beguinage , learn the Bruges history ath the Historium through a VR experience , visit the Church of our Lady and spot the Michelangelo statue , climb the UNESCO classified Belfry for the best views over the city.

Unique accommodations in Bruges: Adults only historical B&B: ($$) Bariseele B&B Family-run boutique hotel: ($$) Eco-Hotel Fevery Unique location & sustainable: ($$$) Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage Pick your own | 15 Sustainable Boutique Hotels in Bruges

If you fell in love with the medieval architecture and cobblestone streets of Bruges but are looking for less of an open-air museum and more of an actual living, breathing city then Ghent is the right place for you. This city in western Belgium was second only to Paris in terms of size and importance during the Middle Ages.

Stroll around the historical center – be weary of the trams –and observe the very trendy, slightly more alternative locals while you grab a drink on de Vrijdagsmarkt . The keen observer will notice the difference in accent when locals speak Flemish – soft and more melodic – which categorizes this part of the country. Tip: Every July the city holds a free musical festival . During 10 days the city transforms into an open-air stage hosting many national and international artists.

Must see in Ghent : Visit the Gravensteen – one of the coolest monuments in Belgium, try a neuzeke (conical-shaped, raspberry-flavored candy), get lost in the neighborhood of Patershol, visit the majestic St Bavo’s Cathedral, and stroll across the St Michael’s Bridge.

Unique accommodations in Ghent: Sustainable on a budget: ($$) Boutique B&B Graaf Unique location (former post office): ($$$) 1898 The Post Luxurious, family-run and sustainable: ($$$) Hotel Harmony

Dinant is the capital of the Namur province in southern Belgium . The ancient city is guarded by the imposing Dinant Citadel, which stands proudly on top of the limestone wall at the edge of the Meuse River. The bottom of the limestone wall is guarded by the Collégiale Notre Dame de Dinant church.

Have brunch in Solbrun before heading out to explore. Be sure to be back in time for sunset, the sun sets behind the citadel and – if you are lucky with the weather – illuminates the iconic colorful houses lining the Meuse River with a warm orange glow. Dinant can be visited as a day trip from Brussels.

Must see in Dinant: Visit the magnificent Citadel and Collégiale Notre Dame de Dinant church, and explore the nearby Vêves and Walzin castle (requires a car). Dinant is the ideal hub to foray into the Ardennes with plenty of opportunities for hiking and kay aking.

Unique accommodations in Dinant: Family run BnB (nearby): ($) Les petits secrets de nonna Romantic cabins on the water: ($$) Aqualodge Hôtel Insolite Unique location (nearby): ($$$) The Castle of Namur Hotel

Relevant Articles: The best day trips from Brussels 

Six beautiful villages in Belgium to explore and discover Belgian culture

Hidden away on the outskirts of the country – known by locals – you can find some truly beautiful towns in Belgium. Although usually small in size, they are sure to capture your heart and give you a better insight into local life in Belgium – be it Flemish or Walloon.

When you think about nice places in Belgium, the coastline might be the last place you consider. It is true that the lack of pristine white sandy beaches and 30° water might deter you, don’t rule the coast out just yet – at least not all of it.

Steer away from the larger cities with their below-average restaurants and cookie-cutter, utterly uninspiring apartment rises. Instead opt for the lesser-known town of De Haan, with a mere 12.000 inhabitants it is considered one of the prettiest places in Belgium by the coast.

Must do in De Haan : De Haan has some of the country’s stateliest Belle Epoque mansions (be sure to check out the Town Hall and the Hotel Savoyarde). It is located a comfortable 5km away from the nearest town of Wenduine. De Haan is the perfect place if you are looking for some comfortable and relaxed walks, or simply to get away from busy city life.

Unique accommodations in De Haan: Quaint 18th-century farm (rental of whole house): ($) Hoeve Korenzegen Luxury Belle Epoque hotel : ($$) Grand Hotel Belle Vue

Relevant Articles: The best day trips from B russels 

Ypres is a little town located in the western part of Belgium in a province aptly named West Flanders. During the Middle Ages Ypres was most well-known for the textile industry, a remnant of which can still be seen today in the form of the beautiful cloth hall that stands on the main square.

The town is one of the best places in Belgium to see for those interested in WWI. It is during this war that Ypres held a very strategic position: The allies used Ypres as a base to break through German ranks, the Germans, in turn, bombarded Ypres through much of the war. Many millions of lives were lost on both sides and the city was raised to the ground.

Extensive rebuilds were undertaken after the war, and many historical buildings were built exactly according to the original plans. Remnants of the war can clearly be felt when driving near the outskirts of Ypres: Tyne Cot Cemetery, German War Cemetery, and many memorial sites around the Kemmelberg.

Must see in Ypres: Learn all about WWI in the In Flanders Fields M useum or by taking a dedicated tour of the WWI sites. Alternatively, hike around the Menin Gate (Road N345 and N332 contain cemeteries and signposts indicating where the most important battle zones were). Stroll around the historical center and grab a drink on the beautiful Grote Markt (Main Square).

Unique accommodations in Ypres: Locally run boutique B&B: ($) Cocoon Luxury in a historic building : ($$) Main Street Hotel

Hidden away in southeastern Belgium , lies the storybook town of Thuin. As a local, the town took me by utter surprise – having never heard of it before, not even a squeak. Medieval Thuin was completely self-sufficient, having a huge garden spanning 200 terraces wide filled with fruit, vegetables, and even grapes to produce local wine.

A short bike ride away from Thuin will bring you to the ruins of the Aulne Abbey which dates back to the 7th century and is well worth a walk around. It is not uncommon to see local artists painting in the gardens. Bikes can be rented downtown Thuin (4 hours/€18), the entrance to the abbey costs €4.

Must see in Thuin: Visit the hanging gardens – the best viewpoint is from the Chant des Oiseaux , clamber up the UNESCO classified belfry to get views over the little town. Time permitting rent a bike and head out to the Aulne Abbey, stop on the way at the Distiller y of Biercée for a cold drink and/or meal.

Unique accommodations near Thuin: Boutique B&B with spectacular views: ($) Auberge de l’Abbeye Romantic Historical Manor: ($$) Château Lambert

Relevant Articles: Things to do in Charleroi before flying out o f Charleroi Airport

4. La Roche-en Ardenne

La Roche-en Ardenne is located in the southeastern part of Belgium , in the heart of the Luxemburg province. The little town is awash with adventure seekers – locals & tourists – who partake in the many different outdoor activities on offer. Hiking , kayaking,   rafting  and  mountain biking are but a handful of the plentiful adventures you can undertake.

The little village of La Roche-en Ardenne is also a very popular spot for teambuilding events. It is not unusual for companies in Belgium to treat their employees to a day/a weekend outdoor activities in the Ardennes.

Unique accommodations near La Roche-en-Ardenne: Cozy wooden cabin: ($) Holiday home La Roche-en-Ardenne Sustainable hotel in the middle of nature: ($$) Hostellerie de la Claire Fontaine

Durbuy is a little town located in eastern Belgium in the province of Luxembourg. Often heralded as the “smallest city in the world”, a name you will understand upon walking through the tiny streets.  If medieval stone houses and gently winding cobblestones paths are your jam, you are going to love Durbuy.

The village is nestled in the Ourthe valley, with rolling hills forming the perfect backdrop for the town. Grab a delicious bite to eat at the quaint La Canette restaurant before partaking in the many outdoor activities in and around Durbuy.

Tip: If your visit happens to coincide with the summer, you will not want to miss the giant corn maze located 1.2 km outside of town.

Must do in Durbuy: Surprisingly, Durbuy is one of the top places to visit in Belgium for outdoor activities. The Ourthe provides a great spot for kayaking (prices start at €10), alternatively, lace up your shoes and go on one of the many hikes (both beginners and advanced).

Unique accommodations in Durbuy: Romantic boutique hotel: ($$) Hotel Victoria Luxury Castle & Glamping (nearby): ($$) Château de la Chapelle

Torgny is a little village located in southern Belgium in the province of Luxembourg. It has consecutively won the award for the most beautiful town in Belgium for the last couple of years and it is not hard to see why. Stepping foot in Torgny, one could easily mistake it for a storybook village in southern France.

The abundance of limestone houses, an impressive array of flowers and vineyards would be enough to make anyone fall in love. Yes, you read that right, vineyards in Belgium! The village enjoys a micro-climate that allows it to cultivate vineyards.

Must do in Torgny : Be sure to check out the Michelin star restaurant in town: La Grappe d’Or. Taste or purchase some of the local wines in the Poirier du Loup Vineyard nearby.

Unique accommodations nearby Torgny: Quaint Eco B&B: ($$) Cochlea Romantic Castle Spa Hotel: ($$$) Le Château de Mirwart

Seven prettiest places to visit in Belgium for travelers who have been to Belgium before

Aside from beautiful cities and towns, there are a few other very unique places to visit in Belgium. For example, did you know Belgium has over 3000 castles? For the size of the country, that is a feat and a half!

What is not included in this portion is all the 40 uniqu e hikes you can do in Belgium. So perhaps packing hiking shoes to visit Belgium is not a bad idea!

1. Borrekens Castle

With over 3000 castles in Belgium, it stands to reason at least one of them receives an honorable mention as one of the most beautiful places in Belgium. The honor is bestowed upon Borrekens Castle – a fairytale castle hidden in northern Belgium . complete with turrets, a moat and a drawbridge.

This fascinating castle comes with a moat, a drawbridge and a lush forest – nowadays accessible to the public. The castle itself cannot be visited as it is privately owned by the noble family Borrekens.

The original castle dates back to the 12th century and was built on this location to defend the trade route between Cologne and the dukedom of Brabant. Over the various centuries, the castle changed hands and with it underwent continuous renovation. The castle you see today dates back to the 19 th century and is Neo-Gothic in style with a touch of Romanticism – which was all the rage back in the day.

Practical information : The park surrounding the castle is open to the public all year long. Walk around to the left-hand side of the castle, where a clearing in the vegetation offers the best views. – Located 40 km from Antwerp (40 min drive); 88 km from Brussels (80 min drive)

Accommodations nearby Borrekens Castle: Unique design: ($) Art Deco Le Berger Hotel Coolest accommodation: ($/$$) Moxy Brussels City Centre Unique location & fully sustainable: ($$$) Botanic Sanctuary

Relevant Articles: The 10 most beautiful castles near Brussels

2. Doorkijk Kerk Borgloon

Reading between the lines is an artwork by two local Belgian artists located in the province of Limburg in eastern Belgium . By stacking 30 tons of steel wire on top of each other the artists managed to craft a unique structure forming the shape of a church.

Upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that one can see the landscape unfolding through the steel wires. The best time of day to visit is at sunset when the soft light casts a golden glow that pierces through the lines.

Practical information : Park your car on the parking (Pb) located off the Sint-Truidersteenweg. Follow the yellow (12,5 km), orange (9 km), blue (5,5 km) green (4 km) hiking routes to reach the church. The church is not reachable by car.

Accommodations near Borgloon: Cozy (huge) wooden wine barrel: ($$) Helshovens wijnvat Romantic medieval castle: ($$$) Kasteel van Ordingen

3. Bokrijk and surroundings

The open-air museum of Bokrijk can be found in the southeastern part of Belgium in the province of Limburg. The museum is nestled inside an enormous 550-hectare park and contains a collection of 148 historical buildings, depicting the history of rural life in Flanders across the centuries.

Walk around the park and see if you can find them all. Bokrijk is a very unique place to visit in Belgium for children too! Aside from house hunting, you might want to pack your bike to explore the park (bike rental is also available on-site near P1 parking).

The park contains a myriad of different bike paths some of which pass by a little stretch called cycling through water , a 200-meter bike bridge that traverses one of the many ponds in the park.

Practical information: The park is free to visit, parking ( P1 or P2 ) will cost you €5/day. The entrance fee to the open-air museum is €15 and can be purchased online .

Accommodations near Bokrijk: Family run Eco-minded B&B: ($) Hotel Zuid Romantic family-minded castle: ($) Kasteel Pietersheim

4. De Schorre (Boom)

The Provincial Domain De Schorre might sound vaguely familiar to you; every year hundreds of thousands of festival-goers gather in this very park for the iconic music festival Tomorrowland. Located a 15 km ride away from Mechelen in central Belgium , the park can be visited as a day trip from either Brussels or Mechelen.

Head into the thick of the forest, cross the rolling planes and wade through a few little ponds to find 7 giant (handmade wooden trolls). The trolls were created by Thomas Sabo , who envisioned them as 7 friends working together to build a better future for mankind.

Accommodations in Mechelen: Coolest hotel in town: ($) Anker Brouwery Hotel Most romantic hotel: ($$) Martin’s Patershof

Relevant Articles: Restaurants in Mechelen for a wonderf ul dinner

5. Hallerbos

The Hallerbos or Blue Forest is a vast forested area in Halle, not far from Brussels. Come spring (March-April depending on the weather) the forest receives a little makeover as a carpet of bluebells reveals itself. The forest turns into a fairytale and becomes one of the most romantic places in Belgium to visit in spring.

Well, sort of. The beautiful bluebells only bloom for a couple of weeks and are popular amongst the locals. If you wish to enjoy peace and quiet, you might want to set your alarm a little earlier and go in the morning.

Practical information: Aside from spotting bluebells, there are plenty of other hikes and leisurely strolls to be done amongst the ancient giant Sequoia trees in the forest. – Location: Hallerbos is 19 kilometers away from downtown Brussels (roughly 30 min drive)

Relevant Articles: Guide to visiting Hallerbos

6. Museum of the Far East (Brussels)

The Museum of the Far East is located in Laeken (Brussels) right opposite the royal palace. It consists of three buildings: The Chinese Pavilion, the Japanese Tower and the Museum of Japanese Art. All three buildings date back to the early 20th century and were commissioned by King Leopold II.

Due to structural instabilities, the museum has been closed for renovations since 2013 the lack of information on the reopening coupled with the remote location has meant this museum is slowly slipping into obscurity. A real shame! As an architecture buff and China lover, the museum was one of the top things to do in Belgium.

Practical information: The three buildings that make up the Museum of the Far East are closed for renovation until further notice. The park in front of the Chinese pavilion is open and can be accessed freely. – Location: Avenue Van Praet 44 – 1020 Brussels

Relevant Articles: Hidden gems to see while visiting Brussels

7. Villers Abbey

The ruins of the Villers Abbey ( Villers-La-Ville Abbaye ) are located in southern Belgium in the province of Walloon Brabant . The impressive abbey was built around the 12th century and thoroughly renovated around the 18th century. The rebuild was sadly short-lived as the abbey was ransacked during the French revolution and left in ruins.

These days nature is reclaiming the grounds, turning the site into a mix of ancient craftsmanship and lush vegetation creating an almost fairy-tale-like ambiance. The abbey is not traditionally on the itinerary for most tourists when visiting Belgium. A visit can be combined with one of the many hikes in the surrounding forests making for a perfect day trip from Brussels.

Practical information : The entrance fee to the abbey is €9, there is free parking on site (250 meters from the abbey).  The bistro Le chalet de la foret (located right next to the parking) serves decent traditional Belgian and has a good selection of Belgian beers on offer. – Location: The Villers Abbey is a 30-minute drive from Charleroi and a 50-minute drive from Brussels.

Accommodations near Villers la Ville: Unique design: ($) Art Deco Le Berger Hotel Coolest accommodation: ($/$$) Moxy Brussels City Centre Romantic Historical Manor: ($$) Château Lambert

Five nice places in Belgium to check out for lovers of Belgian beer

Belgium beer is a synonym for quality all over the world and has put the country on the map. But did you know that there is a type of Belgian beer called Abbey Beers & Trappist Beers?

The name A bbey Beers is a denominator for beers that have a link to an existing or dissolved Norbertine or Benedictine abbey. Trappist Beers are part of the Abbey Beer family, however, they are brewed within the walls of a Trappist monastery (by the so-called ‘Belgian beer monks’).

What does this have to do with nice places to visit in Belgium you might ask? Simple, the imposing nature of the abbeys and the culture of brewing abbey beers provide you an extra insight into the richness of the Belgian culture – one very much worth exploring!

1. Abbey of Saint Sixtus (Westvleteren)

There are a few things Belgium is known for and Westvleteren Trappist beer is most certainly one of them. Located in the far western corner of Belgium lies the Abbey of Saint Sixtus which brews one of the most coveted and (internationally) renowned Belgian Beers – Westervleteren.

Westvleteren XII is consistently ranked among the top beers in the world, yet this has had little to no influence on the traditional brewing methods upheld by the monks: Small batches, brewing within the abbey grounds.

Despite ever-growing (international) demand, the monks refuse to sell their beer in retail chains and instead opt to sell in the abbey itself. The beer can only be purchased upon appointmen t: Be sure to check out their website for more information.

Practical information: The abbey itself is not open for visitors, but the cafeteria on site is! You can try one of the famous Westvleteren beers accompanied with some delicious Paterkeskees (Monks Cheese). – Location: 1h drive from Bruges (70 km )

Accommodations in Bruges: Adults only historical B&B: ($$) Barisee le B&B Family run boutique botel: ($$) Eco-Hotel Fevery Unique location & sustainable: ($$$) Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage

2. Abbey of Our Lady of the Holy Heart of Westmalle

The Westmalle Abbey is home to monks of the Cistercians order. The monks devote their lives to prayer, contemplation and work. This work includes the brewing of the world-renowned Triple Beer: Westmalle! The abbey is located in northern Belgium in the province of Antwerp.

The history of the brewery of Westmalle goes back to 1836 when the monks were allowed to drink beer during their meals.  What started out as a simple brewery, brewing beer for their own use has now turned into the largest Trappist brewery of Belgium.

Practical information: The abbey itself is not open to visitors, however, there is a nice walk around the abbey, which provides you with a 360° view of the abbey itself. As for the Westmalle beer, you can try it in the café across the street from the abbey. The café also has a documentary showcasing the brewing process of the beer. – Location: 40 min drive from Antwerp (31 km)

Accommodations in Ant werp: Sustainable on a budget: ($) Antwerp City Hostel Unique design: ($$) Citybox Antwerp Unique location & fully sustainable: ($$$) Botanic Sanctuary

Relevant Articles: A wonderful weekend in Antwerp

3. Abbey of Maredsous

The spectacular neo-Gothic Abbey of Maredsous is located in southeastern Belgium in the province of Namur . Within the walls live a host of Benedictine monks, which have called the abbey home since 1872.

Inside the vast grounds stands the remarkably well-preserved abbey which can be visited both with or without a guide. Included in the visit is a tour of the Maredsous cheese factory which highlights the production process of the famous Maredsous cheese.

Important to note is that the Maredsous beer is no longer produced inside the abbey itself. That being said, if you do want to do a beer tasting in Belgium this would be the place to do so. The spacious on-site cafeteria offers a tasting menu of three beers & delicious cheese.

Practical information: The abbey and the grounds are free to visit without a guide. Guided tours cost €7 and last 1.5 hours (Only available during the weekends at 14.00 and 16.00 tours are in Dutch or French only). – Location 1h30 hour drive from Brussels (97 km)

Accommodations near the Maresous Abbey Silent retreat in the abbey itself: Book via the abbey website Romantic cabins on the water: ($$) Aqualodge Hôtel Insolite Unique location (nearby): ($$$) The Castle of Namur Hotel

4. The Orval Abbey

The Cistercian Orval Abbey is located in southern Belgium in the Luxembourg province . The first settlement of monks in this region dates back to the 11th century, legend has it the brewing of Trappist beer commenced right at the start of the settlement. The official brewery as it stands today stems from 1931.

As is the case with all Belgian Trappist beers, Orval is brewed within the walls of the monastery. This particular brew bears the name of the abbey and is sold successfully worldwide. Aside from beer the monastery also produces a delicious cheese made with milk collected from local farms.

The good news is that Orval is one of the abbeys in Belgium that you can visit yearlong. The Orval beer and cheese can be purchased in the Abbey shop (no on-site tasting available).

Practical information: Entrance tickets to the Abbey cost €7 and include a visit to the old Cistercian Abbey, the hospitality house and the medicinal herb garden. The brewery itself is open on select days each year be sure to keep an eye out on the website for more information. – Location: 2 hour drive from Brussels (185km)

Accommodations near the Orval Abbey: Rustic wooden chalet: ($) Woodstone Bungalo & tent park – Great with kids: ($) Camping Le Canada

5. The Abbey of Our Lady of Scourmont (Chimay)

The Abbey of our Lady of Scourmont is located in the Hainaut province in southern Belgium . It was established in 1850, with the on-site brewery and cheese farm directly incorporated in the original build. Both are still active to this day – one of the few Trappist monasteries in Belgium to do is in fact – producing Chimay beer and cheese (named after the region).

Visit the abbey a beer tasting can be done with Chimay Experience . A little further down from the abbey, you will find the Chimay Castle, which is also well worth a visit if you have the time.

The unrivaled combination of the abbey, the Trappist beer brewery, and the castle make Chimay the perfect place to get a feel for Belgium.

Practical information : The Chimay Experience visit and beer tasting take around 40 minutes and costs €6.5. The entrance tickets for Chimay Castle cost €9 and can be bought at the entrance. – Located 2h drive from Brussels

Accommodations near Chimay: A quaint 17th century Manor: ($) Tromcourt Quirky family oriented hotel: ($/$$) La Chapelle de Verre Romantic glamping: ($$) Domain de Carnin  

Beautiful Places Belgium Plotted on a Map

Find exactly where all these beautiful places in Belgium are located on this interactive map made especially to help you plan the perfect trip around Belgium. Simply click on the link to start exploring!

Visiting the Prettiest Places in Belgium Travel Tips

When to visit belgium.

Belgium has a maritime climate making summers cool and winters very moderate. Over the last few years, climate change has caused the average summer temperatures to creep up, sometimes reaching 35+ degrees for a few weeks at a time.

Now, what about that rain? If you ask any Belgian, they will tell you it rains pretty much all the time. While it is true that Belgium has a higher-than-average rainfall per year, it most certainly does not rain all year long. The driest months of the year are April to September.

In short, if you are ok with a little crisp weather then April to June are the best months to visit. If you like traveling when it is a little warmer, aim for July to October.

The official language in Belgium

Officially Belgium has three languages: Dutch, French, and German. Each of the languages is spoken in a different region. Flanders (North of Belgium) speaks Dutch, and Wallonia (South of Belgium) speaks French. German is spoken by a very small community in the East of Belgium.

The capital of Brussels is bilingual (French and Dutch) though in practice French is much more widely spoken.

Locals are usually proficient in English, especially if they happen to be working in the tourism industry.

I hope all these places to visit in Belgium have inspired you!

Explore more of Belgium with these in-depth guide s Castles: 16 Castle hotels you can stay in Belgium Brussels: How to spend an unforgettable weekend in Brussels Brussels: An in-depth overview of the various areas and hotels to stay in Brussels Antwerp: A weekend guide including where to eat Mechelen: A local’s 2-day guide to Mechelen Charleroi: Things to do in Charleroi Further afield: 10 Reasons why Luxembourg should be on your bucketlist

Beautiful Places in Belgium: Save It

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Caroline Muller is an award-winning travel blogger. She writes and photographs full-time while oscillating between Sicily and Brussels as a home base.  She has documented over 60 countries across six continents and does not plan to stop any time soon. A staunch vegetarian for over 25 years, she loves exploring local cuisine in search of that perfect (plant-based) mouthful. With this blog, she hopes to help you travel slower, more sustainably and a hella lot more meaningfully. Pack your bags!

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Thanks for dropping in! My name is Caroline , and I am a full-time writer & photographer. With this blog, I hope to harness the power of travel to do good in the world. Think connecting with local cultures, sustainable tourism , and in-depth guides to known and lesser-known adventures. Adventure awaits!

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23 most beautiful places in belgium to visit this year.

4 Jan 2022 | Belgium , Destinations , Europe

Wondering which are the most beautiful places in Belgium for your next visit? Let me help you! I grew up in the east of Belgium, in a small village in Limburg. I then moved to Antwerp, and I’ve now been working and living here for more than 10 years. I feel completely at home here. 

People often ask me if I would ever move out of Belgium, as I love to travel and spend so much time abroad. But Belgium feels like a real home to me, and I love the security and comfort I have here. It’s a mesmerising country, though often underrated – which is exactly why I’m going to take you to the most beautiful places in Belgium to add to your bucket list.

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

23 Most beautiful places in Belgium

Belgium is a small country, so it’s super easy to travel through. Travelling from the north to the south takes no longer than 3 hours by car. Along the way, you’re spoiled with stunning architecture and astonishing scenery. 

Brussels is the capital of Belgium, and from here you can explore more of the country by day trips or on extended road journeys, enjoying stops along the way. 

The cities of Bruges, Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent are without doubt the top cities to visit in Belgium, so definitely add them to your to-do list. You can also opt for a day by the sea, or immerse yourself in our gorgeous natural scenery on bike or foot. Belgium has something to offer everyone and besides the fickle weather, it’s a beautiful country that will charm you instantly.

Belgium is associated with beer, chocolate and football (and of course, everybody knows us for holding the record as the country who’s gone longest without a government). 

Some people tend to make fun of our tiny spot on the world map. But fortunately, Belgium is so much more than just the place where you can eat the best fries and chocolate in the world. If you love modern world history, there is no better place like Belgium to visit many tourist attractions such as Mini Europe, Flanders Fields museum and other World War II sites.

Preparing for your trip to Belgium Travel Inspiration

Public transport in belgium travel guide: getting to the country.

Brussels Airport is one of the most important hubs in Europe, so it’s easily accessible from all corners of the globe. We also have airports in Deurne (Antwerp), Charleroi and Ostend.

When traveling from North America, I recommend flying to Brussels and then connecting to the rest of the country by road (renting a car), or using public transport. 

We have an extensive train network, with direct trains (including high-speed trains) from Brussels to Paris, London and Amsterdam (among others). 

When you’re in Belgium, you can reach all cities by train . Although I have to be honest, our public transport is quite expensive and does not always run punctually.

You can also easily move around Belgium by car. There are good highways that help you move around the country quickly, but just beware of our rush hours. Driving around the major cities between 7:00 – 9:00 am and 4:00 – 6:00 pm guarantees you’ll stumble into a couple of traffic jams.

Belgium overall is a safe country, and you can travel solo, or as a group, without any issues. 

As a European Union member, Euros is our official currency, and we have three official languages. They are Dutch, French, and German. But English is spoken and you shouldn’t have issues in popular cities. However, I do recommend learning a few phrases in Ducth and French – depending on the region you are planning to visit! It will be handy to communicate with the locals or staff in small towns. 

In terms of visa, US passport holders can travel to Belgium visa-free, and stay here for upto 90 days. 

Where to stay in Belgium? Here is my guide to the best places to stay in Belgium

23 Most beautiful places in Belgium to add to your bucket list

Here’s a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium

From the fashion capital Antwerp to hiking around Le Tombeau de Géant or visiting historic castles, there’s never a dull moment in our underrated European gem. Keep reading to find out more about the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium.

DISCOVER THE LOMMELSE SAHARA IN BEAUTIFUL LIMBURG

Yep, you read that right – sand dunes in Belgium.

My favorite spot in Belgium is without a doubt the Lommel Sahara. This is where I grew up, and I still love to visit this beautiful park in the north east time and time again. 

You can enjoy a pleasant hike, indulge in a picnic with friends by the water, or just relax and do nothing in the tranquility. It’s one of the most beautiful natural areas in our country, and I highly recommend it to everyone! 

You can even grab yourself a free hammock on-the-go when you register at the info desk.

Address: De Souverein, Sport Veldstraat 10, 3920 Lommel. The park has a huge parking lot where you can leave your car.

GO FOR A BIKE RIDE IN THE BEAUTIFUL REGION OF MAASEIK  

Did you know that Maaseik is part of a cycle path network of over 2,000 kilometers – most of which are completely car-free and pedestrian-only? 

The unique road system, the convenient cycling map (for sale at Maaseik Tourism) and the handy number plates at each junction help you find your way without a hitch – even if you spontaneously divert from your intended course. You can find more info about Maaseik here.

Hotel tip : For an overnight experience in nature, you should stay at Warredal , Maaseik. Sleep under the stars in a treehouse in the middle of the forest!

Location: Maaseik is 1.50 hours by car, or 2.50 hours by train from Brussels 

read next |  EXPLORE MAASEIK – TWO DAYS OF NATURE AND ADVENTURE

Visit the helixagon in linter.

Helixagon comes from ‘Helix’ and ‘Hexagon’, two figures that occur frequently in nature. The artwork from Frederik Vaes is a playful ode to nature and the bee. A tilted and twisted hexagonal viewing tube on the beautiful landscape.  

Address: Rodestraat 3350, 3350 Linter (about 50 minutes by car from Brussels or 1.25 hours by train).

READING BETWEEN THE LINES CHURCH, BORGLOON

Want to see something truly unique during your trip? The architect duo Gijs Van Vaerenbergh built a breathtaking transparent church in Borgloon. The beautiful landscape is visible through the church, both from a distance and up close. The unique church appears both present and absent from the landscape at the same time.

The construction weighs no less than 30 tons. It’s 10 meters high, and consists of 100 stacked layers of steel plates in the shape of a Loons church. Visit it during sunset to witness the colourful setting sun shining through the church!

Hotel tip: Stay at Hoeve Roosbeek. You can find more details here . 

Address : Grootloonstraat 2, 3840 Borgloon. 

VLOOYBERG TOWER (VLOOYBERGTOREN) IN FLANDERS

This floating staircase is made of stainless Corten steel, with a colour that reflects the iron sandstone heritage of this part of Belgium. The Vlooyberg Tower is over 20m long and 11m high. It was built in 2013. 

It serves as a lookout point, and it’s located at one of the highest locations of the Hageland (around 80m).

Address: Oudepastoriestraat 22, 3390 Tielt-Winge (Travel to Tielt-Winge from Brussels in 45 minutes by car, or by train in 1.25 hours). 

HORST CASTLE (KASTEEL VAN HORST) IN HOLSBEEK 

This water castle can be found in the green valley of the Wingebeek, nestled between the hills of the Hageland. The castle, with its large pond and moat, is home to the famous Belgian cartoon character De Rode Ridder by Willy Vandersteen. 

A beautiful parkland extends around the castle, owned by the Agency for Nature and Forests.  

Address : Horststraat 28, 3220 Holsbeek (Travel to Horst Castle by car in 45 minutes, and by train in 1.25 hours from Brussels).  

CYCLE THROUGH THE BLOSSOMS IN HASPENGOUW

Haspengouw guarantees stunning sights all year round, but April is by far the best month to explore this region. Make sure you’ve got your camera handy – all the trees are in bloom at this time of year, so you’re guaranteed a wonderful one-of-a-kind floral display! 

The trees only bloom on average around 10 days per year and it’s difficult to predict exactly when this will happen, so do some research before visiting to avoid disappointment. 

Hotel tip : Stay at B&B Maison Mairie Hasselt . You can find more details here .

Address : An hour away by train, or drive from Brussels.

STROLL THROUGH THE INNER STREETS OF GHENT

When it comes to the best cities to visit in Belgium, Ghent is a super fancy city for both architecture and shopping. You’ll find plenty of boutique shops in a gorgeous authentic setting. 

Be sure to sit and enjoy a drink or a snack taking in the beautiful view over the water, or take a boat trip through the city center.

When in Ghent, you must try their local sweet, the cuberdon! A cuberdon is a traditional cone-shaped Belgian piece of candy from the East Flanders Region. It’s hard on the outside but gelatinous on the inside – and it has a really short shelf life. Because of this, it’s only available in Belgium, making it a delicious exclusive treat.

Address : 45 minutes by car from Brussels or less than 40 minutes by train.

GRAVENSTEEN GHENT

A visit to the mystical castle ‘Het Gravensteen’ absolutely cannot be missed on your to-do list of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium. 

This important sight in Ghent is a castle with a very turbulent history, closely intertwined with the complex political and social history of the city. It’s the only remaining medieval moated castle with an (almost) intact defense system in Flanders. Your visit to the Gravensteen will give you a complete picture of knight culture in the 12th century in Belgium.

Address: Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Ghent  

VISIT THE CENTRAL STATION IN ANTWERP

Antwerp is definitely one of the best cities to visit in Belgium – but did you know we have the most beautiful train station in the whole of Europe ? Whether you actually need to take a train or not, you definitely need to check out this amazing station when visiting Belgium. 

If you want to snap some Insta pics in the station, make sure to be there around 6:00 am – the station becomes extremely crowded in the early mornings!

Hotel tip : De Gulde Schoen, you can find more info and details here .

Address: Koningin Astridplein 27, 2018 Antwerp. 45 minutes by car from Brussels or less than 40 minutes by train.

TOMORROWLAND FESTIVAL (BOOM)

Many visitors worldwide flock to Antwerp every year for this world-famous festival. Is it really worth the trip? 

The short answer is yes! It’s simply a phenomenal festival that will blow you away. Not just because of the music, but also through all breath-taking details like the podium constructions, mystical signalizations, unique lighting concepts and much more. 

Tomorrowland is truly a fairytale. The festival takes place each year in July, with different types of tickets going on sale far in advance.

Address: De Schorre in Boom. 30 minutes from Brussels by car, or 1.25 hours by train. 

ON A TROLL HUNT IN BOOM

Missed out on your chance to grab a ticket for the festival? No worries – the De Schorre domain is a beautiful slice of nature in Belgium. It’s also a great day out with children. 

You can do a pleasant walk here in search of trolls that are hidden deep in the forest. There’s also a barefoot path that the kids will love – I highly recommend a visit!

Address: Schommelei 1, 2850 Boom. 30 minutes from Brussels by car, or 1.25 hours by train. 

ASTONISHING LITTLE ALLEY IN BELGIUM 

Discover the most beautiful alley in the country: De Vlaykensgang in Antwerp. The alley used to be home to shoemakers who had to sound the cathedral’s bell, and the poorest people in the city used to live here. 

It’s now filled with antique shops, galleries and even an exclusive restaurant, Sir Anthony Van Dyck. 

The alley dates back to the year 1591 and connects the Hoogstraat, the Oude Koornmarkt and the Pelgrimstraat. When you step through the gate at Oude Koornmarkt 16, you imagine yourself in another time. You can find a more detailed blog post about Antwerp here .

Address : Vlaaikensgang 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium. 45 minutes by car from Brussels or less than 40 minutes by train.

read next |  ANTWERP TRAVEL GUIDE

Gallery saint- hubert brussels.

If you are spending a weekend in Brussels , you need to visit the Gallery Saint Hubert. Initiated by the architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer, the spectacular Galeries Royales project took shape in the 1830s. 

The works began in 1846 and were (almost) completed in time for the official opening on 20 June 1847. The gallery includes several shops, auditoriums, cafes, restaurants and apartments. 

Right away, it became the place to be seen for the fashionable. Instantly the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert drew a wide audience attracted by the many luxury brands, elegant cafes and cultural hotspots. 

Address: Galerie du Roi 5, 1000 Brussels. 

GRAND PLACE BRUSSELS

Brussels is without a doubt one of the top cities to visit when in Belgium. Stroll around the Grote Markt, enjoy the famous landmarks and most spectacular historically-preserved architecture in our country! 

You’ll also find plenty of nice souvenir shops, and the finest chocolate from the world’s most famous chocolatiers. Brussels City Hall is also located at the complex, and its museum is worth a visit.

Hotel tip : Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Place Rouppe .

LA HULPE CASTLE IN LA HULPE

La Hulpe Castle is located in the heart of a vast domain classified as an exceptional Walloon heritage. This castle is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium. It was once owned by Count Solvay and the architecture is based on the French castles. 

It is a beautiful area to enjoy a pleasant walk, they even welcome dogs in the park!

Address: Chaussée de Bruxelles 111, 1310 La Hulpe. ( 30 minutes by car and train from  Brussels).

VISIT THE WALZIN CASTLE IN DINANT

Walzin Castle is located in Dréhance, which is a part of the greater area of Dinant, in the province of Namur. This neo-gothic castle stands on a steep rock above the right bank of the Lesse, where the river flows over into the Maas. It’s a beautiful castle, definitely worth a visit from afar. 

Though as it is a private domain, unfortunately it’s not possible to visit the castle itself. Despite this, the castle is still one of the most beautiful places in Belgium to visit.

Address: Rue de Walzin 1, 5500 Dinant. ( 1.25 hours by car from Brussels or 2 hours by train).

WANDER THROUGH THE BEAUTIFUL CITY OF DINANT

Dinant is without a doubt one of Belgium’s most hidden gems. Historically speaking, its location on the water and along multiple trade routes supported the economic development of this charming town. 

Dinant is located in the French-speaking municipality of Namur, and is known for its colorful scenery. What makes the city so picturesque is the lovely Meuse river that flows through it. 

It also has a perfect blend of culture, adventure and nature. I have to admit I only discovered Dinant recently! 

Because of coronavirus, I was unable to travel abroad – so I was ‘forced’ to explore my own country a bit more. It was a real pleasure to tick this city off my Belgium bucket list.

Address: Located 1.25 hours by car from Brussels or 2 hours by train.

PARK FURFOOZ NEAR DINANT

A place for both young and old to enjoy! The park of Furfooz near Dinant invites you to enjoy its archaeological, natural and geological heritage. You can discover it to the fullest during a pleasant walk, around 4 kilometers long, along the edge of the river Lesse.

Entrance fee is 5 euros. 

Address: 79 Rue du Camp Romain, 5500 Dinant. ( 1.25 hours by car from Brussels or 2 hours by train).

FONDRY DES CHIENS IN VIROINVAL

Close to Nismes lies Fondry des Chiens, a protected and unique place in Belgium (occasionally referred to as the Belgian canyon). Millions of years of reclamation in the limestone have created this huge canyon, which reaches up to 20 meters! In short, a unique piece of nature in Belgium and definitely worth a visit.  

Address:   Located 1.30 hours by car from Brussels or 3.50 hours by train.

GO HIKING NEAR LE TOMBEAU DE GÉANT

Belgium’s nature at its finest! Hidden in the most southern point of our country is without a doubt one of the windiest places in Belgium – you will be blown away by its pure beauty! 

This place helps you forget all your worries while enjoying the sweeping panoramic view and a wonderful hike through the Belgian Ardennes .

Address: Moulin du Rivage, 6833 Bouillon. Located less than 2 hours by car from Brussels, or a 4 hour train ride away.

ROCHER DU HAT IN CHINY

Without doubt one of the most beautiful sights in Belgium is Rocher Du Hat. Located in the picturesque village of Chiny and hidden deep in the forest, you’ll stumble across the perfect place to get away from all the stress and bustle of our everyday lives with your whole family.  

Address: 6810 Chiny, Belgium (2 hours by car from Brussels or 4 hours by train). 

DISCOVER MONS

A unique historical gem that reminds us of our important role in industrial history. This city is a model for the respectful conservation of our heritage. It is no coincidence that Mons was proclaimed the European Capital of Culture in 2015. Read all about the sights in Mons here .

Address: An hour by car or train from Brussels. 

read next |  HIKING IN BELGIUM – DISCOVER THE BELGIAN ARDENNES

Go to the fairy tale old town centre of brugge .

The fairytale old town of Brugge must not be missed from your Belgium bucket list. Home to the beautiful market square, and one that is filled with historic buildings including a 13th century Belfry tower, Brugge makes for a great visit at any time of year, but it is particularly magical in the winters!

Do make a stop at the Burg square, a 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall), and go on a romantic canal tour to enjoy the city from the waters! 

Address: It takes 1.25 hours by car from Brussels or 1.25 hours by train. 

HOGE KEMPEN NATIONAL PARK IN MAASMECHELEN

If you are craving some time outdoors, then look no further than the Hoge Kempen National Park. This is the first recognized National Park in the region of Flanders, and is located in the province of Limburg. 

The national park is home to pine forests, with a gorgeous landscape of ponds, and lovely flora covering it all. There are hiking trails of all difficulty levels, and you can also go cycling, horse riding or more! You can also see  rare animals and other fauna that live inside the park in a natural setting.

Located only an hour or so away from the capital city of Belgium, Hoge Kempen National Park is perfect for a weekend trip. You can book overnight accommodation at the park, and relax and rejuvenate soaking in the views of the mountains. 

Read about hiking trails in Flanders here

Address: 3630 Maasmechelen, Belgium (It takes 1.25 hours by car from Brussels). 

Visiting Belgium

So there you have it. These are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium, and also my personal favourites. Belgium is home, and if you are planning a trip here, I say – do it! You won’t regret it – there is nature, history, and who doesn’t love chocolates? I know I do!

Pin: 23 Most beautiful places in Belgium to visit 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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2. Brussels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your mission here is to be a responsible traveler and protect the beautiful nature around you. The easiest thing you can do is reduce your plastic footprint.

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

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

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

Here at The Broke Backpacker , we love freedom! And there’s no freedom as sweet (and CHEAP) as camping around the world.

We’ve been camping on our adventures for over 10 years, so take it from us: the MSR HUBBA HUBBA is the best damn tent for adventuring…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ever thought you would explore sand dunes in Belgium?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

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

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

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

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

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

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

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

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

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

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

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

Beautiful travels stay that way insured

And don’t forget to take out travel insurance for your trip! Belgium is safe, but if you’re anything like me, you WILL need insurance. Stay protected and get insured for maximum peace of mind.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Manuel Zaufl

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• The 10 Most Beautiful National...

The 23 Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Belgium

Beyond the big cities of Brussels and Bruges, Belgium is home to a scattering of scenic small towns. We take in the country’s most beautiful urban spaces from Durbuy, the smallest town in the world, to Dinant, the fairytale town on the Meuse River.

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque towns in Belgium’s Wallonia region, the winding river valley and beautiful buildings of Dinant look like they are straight out of a fairytale. Nestled in a cliff face on the Meuse River, the picture-perfect town dates back to the Middle Ages. Dinant is also known as the hometown of Belgium’s most famous beer, Leffe, and the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone.

Architectural Landmark

In the heart of Wallonia lies chocolate-box Durbuy; a Belgian Ardennes town that claims to be the smallest town in the world, and with its charming architecture and winding cobbled streets, one of the most beautiful too. A walk through Durbuy’s streets reveals quaint shops and plenty of opportunities to sample a Belgian beer or two. Look up on banks of the Ourthe River and you’ll see the stately 17th century Durbuy Castle.

Serving as the setting for some of the worst battles between the Germans and the Allied forces during World War I, Ypres is a rural town with a huge history that can still be seen in its landscape today. While there, you can visit the Flanders Fields museum and a great number of WWI sites and cemeteries on foot or by bike. Historically, Ypres played a major part in the textile industry during the middle ages and even had a market for its textiles in Russia. Its significant Cloth Hall still stands, now functioning as the Flanders Fields museum. Recommended by Kristina Camilleri-Grygolec.

5. Bastogne

Historical Landmark

Located near the Luxembourg border, Bastogne is the place where thousands of soldiers lost their lives during World War II in the Battle of the Bulge, a battle that is often described as the most intense of World War II. The informative Bastogne War Museum offers the opportunity to learn about this famous battle. You can also explore the Wood of Peace, which is made up of 4,000 trees planted for the 50th anniversary of the battle in dedication to American veterans, along with the Mardasson Memorial and a Sherman Tank. Recommended by Nick Cook.

6. Waterloo

Located on the outskirts of Bruges, the beautiful medieval port town of Damme rests on the banks of Damse Vaart, a scenic, tree-lined canal that flows through town and continues into the neighboring Netherlands . Quite the ‘literary town’, Damme is home to a monthly book market and a number of bookshops and notable residents include Jacob van Maerlant, a 13th century Flemish poet whose statue is in the town square.

Nestled amid the rolling hills and verdant forests of the Belgian Ardennes, Spa is the location of warm spring waters whose healing powers have seen people flock to the area since the 1st century. Often called the ‘Pearl of the Ardennes’, Spa became a haven for intellectuals in the 19th century, with literary greats including Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas said to have sought sanctuary here earning the town the nickname ‘Café of Europe’.

Sitting on the banks of the Semois River just a few miles from the border with France, Bouillon is famed for its imposing castle located on a rocky bend in the river overlooking the town. Parts of the castle date back as far as the 8th century. Beyond Château de Bouillon, miles of footpaths allow visitors to explore the lush forests of the Semois Valley.

Voted one of Flanders’ most beautiful villages, the town of De Haan is one of the Belgian coastline’s most scenic spots. While parts of De Haan date back to the Middle Ages, much of the town today was formed when King Leopold II commissioned the construction of the resort town in the late 19th century. De Haan’s meandering streets are filled with beautiful Belle Époque buildings and the town was once home to Albert Einstein who lived there for a number of months before emigrating to the USA .

Located in rural West Flanders, Veurne is an idyllic market town whose stunning buildings have made it a must-see in Belgium for architecture buffs. Grote Markt, the town square, is the main hub of Veurne and home to many of its signature sights from the town hall. Behind Grote Markt, located in the small and pretty Walburga Park, is the impressive St. Walburga Church, parts of which date back to the late Middle Ages.

A pastoral idyll on the banks of the River Lomme, Rochefort is a medieval town that has retained much of its beauty and charm, despite being the site of frequent conflicts, notably during the French Revolution and Second World War. Rochefort’s Rue de Behogne is the main hive of activity in town and leads up to the ruins of Chateau Comtal, a medieval hilltop castle. Ale fans will delight in Rochefort’s rich brewing history; beer has been brewed in town since as early as 1595 and Rochefort is renowned for its Trappist beer.

Not far from the border with Germany lies Malmedy, a lovely town dating back to the early medieval period that has maintained its charm and a number of historic buildings including the beautiful Cathedral of Malmedy, built in the 1770s. Cwarmê; a four-day festival held during Carnival and hosted in town for centuries, is one of Belgium’s best-known festivals and a must-do while in Malmedy.

Belgium’s southernmost town Torgny is located in Gaume and thus enjoys a much warmer climate than the country’s northern reaches. The picturesque village is widely considered one of the most beautiful towns in Wallonia, and its location on the banks of the charming Chiers River, as well as its winding streets and pretty houses topped with Roman tiles make it a romantic destination.

In Belgium’s Limburg province, near its eastern border with the Netherlands, is the small city of Borgloon, also known as Looz or just Loon. With its surrounding orchards of apple and pear trees, Borgloon produces the typical thick apple-pear syrup of the region. Among its orchards and surrounding fields Borgloon houses several large-scale installation artworks that have moulded themselves to fit within the rural setting. Recommended by Kristina Camilleri-Grygolec .

Among Belgium’s eastern countryside, where the low hills are rolling and cows and sheep are grazing, where even a wild deer or two can be spotted, is the town of Herve. The rural landscape is what makes this place remarkably beautiful, and standing at the top of one of the hills you can have an outstanding view of of life far away from the city. Herve is best known for its creamy and pungent yellow soft cheese which is often added to soups to enrich their flavor, or simply placed on a slice of fresh or toasted bread. Recommended by Kristina Camilleri-Grygolec.

La Roche-en-Ardenne

With its charming spires and Medieval castle ruins, it’s no wonder that La Roche-en-Ardenne is one of the most visited towns in the Belgian Ardennes. Settlements from Neolithic times have been found at La Roche, as well as a Celtic archaeological site dating back to between 850-520 BCE. For centuries La Roche has been producing a liqueur made from blackthorn fruit, honey and gin. Just a few kilometers north of the town you can visit the natural caves of Hotton which take you 75 meters underground into the deepest of the Ardennes’ cave systems. Recommended by Kristina Camilleri-Grygolec.

Mons was the European Capital of Culture for 2015. One of its main exhibitions, Van Gogh in the Borinage featured the early works of the artist at the moment when he decided to change careers from preacher to painter. The works depict scenes from the coal-mining area of the Borinage, near Mons. As its names suggests, Mons is a hilly town and is rather quiet except for its accents of vibrant cultural life. Besides the changing program of exhibitions and events, you can feast your eyes on the recently built convention center designed by the renowned architect Daniel Libeskind . Recommended by Kristina Camilleri-Grygolec.

Ostend offers a unique gateway in Belgium to the sight and smell of the North Sea. Its long coast line and sandy beach, despite it being strung with a wall of apartment buildings each fighting to get even the smallest view of the sea, offers a relief from the more common sight of the countryside meadows and forests. Ostend was home to the expressionist painter James Ensor and the city was the object of such works as Baths of Ostend (1890) and Rooftops of Ostend (1898). The former work is still representative of the crowds that rush to the beach even today to enjoy the seaside when the weather permits. Recommended by Kristina Camilleri-Grygolec.

Situated in Flanders, Oud-Rekem is the typical charming Belgian village. It is then no surprise that it was named the Most Beautiful Village in Flanders by Tourism Flanders. The village itself is not very big, but there are many lovely winding streets and picturesque buildings. What makes Oud-Rekem interesting for visitors is the nature that surrounds it. There are bike routes where people of all ages can take in the tranquillity and serenity. Recommended by Nick Cook .

Crupet is one of the most picturesque villages in Wallonia, with its central area dominated by the impressive Grotto of Saint Anthony of Padua. Designed by Father Gérard, the local curate, and inaugurated in the summer of 1903, the grotto features 22 religious statues, many of which depict scenes from St Anthony’s life. The village’s 13th-century medieval castle is also a must-see. Recommended by Nick Cook.

Located in Wallonia, Aubechies is one of the most beautiful villages in the area. Aubechies is home to the Archaeosite and Museum of Aubechies, which is dedicated to the historical period ranging from pre-history until Roman times. It’s the biggest archaeological open-air museum in Belgium. Aubechies is also home to a Romanesque church, a village town hall and a school. Recommended by Nick Cook.

Ath is most known for its Ducasse festivities, which take place every summer. On the fourth weekend in August, gigantic figures representing Samson, Goliath and a couple of other allegoric figures parade through Ath’s streets, and a reenactment of the wedding of Goliath and the fight with David are performed. The town is also home to a beautiful 12th-century tower, a 17th-century town hall and stunning Gothic-style churches. Recommended by Nick Cook.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belgium

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 30, 2022

Belgium may be small but it's packed full of sights.

UNESCO-acclaimed sites in the capital city of Brussels range from 14th-century guildhalls surrounding the elegant Grand Place to the early 20th-century Art Nouveau townhouses of Victor Horta.

Bruges is a major attraction for tourists, with its perfectly-preserved medieval streets rimming tranquil canals that lure flocks of travelers each year.

Although Bruges is by far Belgium's most popular place to visit, plenty of other towns in the country – particularly Ghent and Mechelen – retain excellent architectural examples from the Middle Ages as well.

This small nation has been right at the forefront of Europe's history, with many of the continent's most important events played out across its countryside.

It was in Belgium that Napoleon met his match at the battle of Waterloo, and during both the First and Second World Wars, Belgium found itself thrust into the frontline.

The World War I battlefields of Ypres are now important pilgrimage sites and today are among the country's top things to do.

Whether you're here for the ancient or modern history, Belgium provides a huge chunk of European heritage within a bite-sized piece of land.

Find out what to do while you're here with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Belgium.

1. Grand Place, Brussels

2. the canals of bruges, 3. the battlefields of flanders, 4. the belfry of bruges, 5. ghent's gravensteen and old town, 6. basilica of the holy blood, bruges, 7. meuse valley, 8. mechelen old town, 9. ghent's canals, 10. waterloo, 11. grand place (grote markt), antwerp, 12. semois valley, 13. mons old town, 14. st. peter's church, leuven, 15. castle of vêves, 16. raversyde atlantikwall, 17. cathedral of saint bavo, ghent, 18. antwerp's art museums, 19. horta museum and town houses.

La Grand Place (also known as De Grote Markt), is rimmed by finely preserved guildhalls and other grand buildings that showcase Belgium's vernacular architecture at its best.

One side is dominated by the ornate medieval town hall, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Grand Place was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding representation of late 17th-century architecture.

The square is busy with tourists and locals at all times of year, but especially in August of alternate years, when the center is filled with the 75- by 24-meter flower carpet, made up of more than 700,000 cut begonias.

Tip: You'll get the best full view of the beautiful designs from the balcony of the town hall.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brussels

Bruges began on the banks of the river Reie, and as it grew, so did a series of waterways connecting it to the Zwin estuary and the North Sea.

Today, the canals are beautiful reminders of Bruges history, and taking a sightseeing cruise along them is one of the most popular ways to explore the city.

Sightseeing boat trips, departing from five docks, dotted along the main canal in the central city, run half-hourly from March to November (and less frequently in the depths of winter) with trips winding down the length of the main canal.

This is one of the best opportunities to get photos of both Bruges' famous canal-side terraced house architecture and some of its finest buildings.

Tours run rain or shine, and umbrellas are provided by the tour boat operator when it's raining. No reservations are taken for the public sightseeing boat tours – you simply turn up at the dock and buy your ticket as you board.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bruges

For many visitors, Belgium's role on the front line of World War I, and in particular the Battlefields of Flanders around Ypres are the main reason for a journey here.

Not only important historically, the battlefields are a major pilgrimage site. The preserved trenches run for kilometers around the town of Ypres, while this area is also scattered with vast cemeteries for the thousands of soldiers who died here.

The Tyne Cot Cemetery (British) and Langemark's German War Cemetery are both solemn reminders of the brutal fighting that took place here during the Great War.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ypres

Among the most recognizable sights in Belgium, this beautiful belfry (officially known as Belfort met Beiaard) dominates the main square of Bruges.

Dating from the 13th century, this medieval era tower is attached to a building that once functioned as the main town market hall and has been wonderfully preserved, allowing visitors a real taste of the architectural might of the Middle Ages.

Climbing the 366 winding and narrow steps of the belfry to the observation deck, which sits at 83 meters high, is one of the most popular things to do for tourists in Belgium.

Once at the top, the views of church spires and steeple-roofs provide one of the country's best-known panoramas.

Official site: https://www.museabrugge.be

This hugely impressive fort was once the grand home of the counts of Flanders, who took their inspiration for castle-building from the bulky castles the Crusaders built in Syria.

Today, Gravensteen is one of Europe's best surviving examples of a moated fortress and has been incredibly well-preserved.

Its strong and impressively thick and high walls soar up from the waters of the river Lieve right in the middle of the old town of Ghent, rising above the rooftops of the surrounding streets.

Inside, the vast arched halls and chambers contain exhibits of medieval life, but it's the castle's architecture itself that is the real star of the show. Climb up the staircase to the roof for panoramic views across town before strolling through Ghent's charming stone-paved streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ghent

If you're only going to visit one church in Bruges make it this one. The Basilica of the Holy Blood is not only impressive for its blending of Romanesque and late Gothic architecture but also for the sacred relic kept inside.

The upper chapel is home to the famous vial for which the church takes its name; said to contain a drop of Jesus Christ's blood that was brought back to Belgium after the Second Crusade.

The interior of the church is a dazzling riot of gild work that was completed in the 16th century and provides ample reason for a visit even if you're not interested in holy relics.

The Meuse Valley , south of Brussels, is one of the best places to get a feel for Belgium's rural heartland.

The Meuse River offers Belgium's most scenic river trip opportunities, with dense forest countryside interspersed with hilltop craggy castle and fortress ruins, and little waterfront towns backed by limestone cliffs.

Head to either the towns of Namur or Dinant to plan your river trip. Both these small centers act as gateways to this region.

The Meuse Valley is also home to a host of hiking and cycling trails for travelers who want to add some activities into their holiday.

Its monuments may not be as famous as those in visitor favorite Bruges, but Mechelen's old town area is a great place to capture a sense of medieval Belgium, with plenty of gabled architecture and fine old buildings still in situ.

The central Grote Markt is bordered by some exceptionally fine buildings including the Town Hall and Lakenhall, while the impressive Sint-Rombouts Cathedral with its tall clock tower rises up just behind.

Away from the main square, a stroll through the center will also reveal plenty of typical guild house architecture that history fans are sure to want to see.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antwerp

For easy sightseeing while in Ghent, simply take to the water.

Several companies offer sightseeing trips (both public and private options) upon Ghent's waterways, which wind through the city's medieval old town district, passing by the famed guildhall facades that line the canals, its medieval harbor, and some of Ghent's monasteries and churches.

Most canal cruise options are either 40 minutes or one hour. Departures are regular throughout the day, from approximately March through November, with fewer departures during winter.

As well as the sightseeing cruises, a couple of companies offer kayak rental, so you can explore the canals at your own speed.

Yes, history fans, it is that Waterloo; the place where Napoleon was defeated in the famous battle.

Today, the countryside where the battle once roared is a bucolic landscape of agricultural fields, but an artificial hill rises up from the surrounding flatlands with a memorial lion sculpture atop the summit to commemorate the day when Napoleon's army was finally stopped.

From the top, there are excellent views across the countryside. For anyone interested in the history of Belgium and of greater Europe, Waterloo remains an important stop on the itinerary.

Right in the core of Antwerp, sits the town's wonderful Grand Place (also known as the Grote Markt), which contains some of Belgium's finest examples of guild house architecture with their typical steeple-roofed shape.

The Town Hall here is a well-preserved example of 16th-century construction, and the interior is worth viewing for its collection of paintings that show Antwerp's history.

The guild houses that still rim the plaza are the major reason to visit the Grote Markt though.

Among the best facades are the Coopers' House and Grocers' House but all of them are well-preserved examples of this Belgian-style of architecture.

A nature-lover's delight, the Semois Valley provides a needed dose of lush countryside after all that historic rambling through Belgium's cities and towns.

Here, in the southern corner of the country, the winding Semois River cuts through farmland overlooked by gently undulating forest-clad hills. It's Belgium's prime hiking territory and also a good place for riverboat trips following the sinuous curves of the river.

Villages such as Membre, Laforet, and Alle offer good accommodation options, from mid-range guesthouses to camping within the region.

To see the valley at its prettiest come in spring, when the wildflowers bloom.

The old town of Mons is a delight to explore.

At the center is the Grand Place, a main square graced by a variety of typically ornate buildings that span a 400-year period, dating from between the 15th and 18th centuries, yet still retain a sense of symmetry.

In particular, the Toison d'Or House (1615) and the Chapel of St. George (1604) are architectural highpoints.

Away from the Grand Place, the old town hides many more sightseeing opportunities.

The UNESCO-listed bell tower on the hill above town and the Church of Sainte-Waudru with its interior crammed full of artistic and religious relics are two of the most important attractions.

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

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.

As well as the church's splendid 15th-century architecture, inside, art-lovers will find an extra treat. The choir and the ambulatory are home to a museum dedicated to religious art, where some of the finest Flemish paintings illustrating biblical scenes are shown.

In particular, the Baroque carved pulpit and Dirk Bouts' painting of the Last Supper are worth a visit.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Leuven

This fairy-tale-style medieval castle, flanked by round towers and with interiors decorated in a sumptuous 18th-century style, is one of the Namur province's top tourist attractions .

The architecture of the present-day Castle of Vêves (Château de Vêves) dates back to the 15th century, as the previous 12th-century castle was destroyed by fire. This hilltop position, though, which easily guarded the main route between Dinant and Rochefort, has been the site of a fortified building since 670 CE.

The castle is renowned as Belgium's most well-preserved example of medieval castle architecture.

The castle is on the edge of the village of Celles and is easily accessed from both Dinant and Namur.

Official site: https://chateau-veves.be/en/

In Ostend, the historic site of Raversyde Atlantikwall is set amid a large nature park of woodland, grassland, and coastal dunes.

Inside is the Atlantikwall war bunker complex. It is one of the best preserved segments of the German defensive line, which ran along the coast of occupied Belgium during WWI and WWII.

The Atlantikwall complex here consists of the WWI Aachen Battery and the WWII Saltzwedel-neu Battery with a series of tunnels, passageways, and artillery positions set amid the coastal dunes.

Also within Raversyde Atlantikwall is the archaeological site of Anno 1465, which includes reconstructed houses from the medieval fishing village of Walraversijde and a museum about the history of the site.

Official site: www.raversyde.be

This majestic cathedral with its high Gothic choir and Romanesque crypt showcases the best of religious architecture in Belgium and is Ghent's most outstanding tourist attraction.

Although the soaring building, with its harmonious stained glass windows, is a highlight in itself, most people come here to see the famous artwork that graces the interior; specifically the Flemish masterpiece known as The Altar of Ghent.

Once you've viewed the painting though, don't miss the mammoth crypt under the cathedral, which contains important tombs and some beautiful wall paintings.

Once home to the acclaimed painter Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640), the port city of Antwerp is a major destination for art fans.

The palazzo-style house where Rubens lived and worked from 1610 onwards is now the Rubenshuis museum, which contains both a large collection of paintings by the artist and exhibits on his life (which also included several stints of serving as a diplomat) and his artistic style.

The house is a tourist attraction itself with its tranquil manicured garden; courtyard; and ornate Italianate facade.

As well as the permanent Rubens collection, the Rubenshuis also hosts a program of temporary exhibits.

The Antwerp Museum of Modern Art is also in the city and holds a world-class collection of contemporary art from both Belgian and international artists.

Victor Horta was the most influential architect and designer of the early 20th-century style known as Art Nouveau.

Several of his stunning buildings survive in Brussels and now constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Begin at the Horta Museum, located in his former home and studio, which have been preserved as he designed them, with the original stained glass, mosaics, wood work, and decorations.

Horta was a pioneer in this artistic revolution that maximized and diffused natural light and incorporated themes from nature in its sinuous curves. Horta's aesthetic included attention to every detail of construction and decoration, from the design of the house to its furniture and even the decoration on hinges and doorknobs.

The two joined buildings of his house and studio show Art Nouveau at its height, and his four major town houses – Hôtel Tassel, Hôtel Solvay, Hôtel van Eetvelde, and Maison & Atelier Horta – are also included in the UNESCO site.

Address: 23-25 rue Américaine, Saint-Gilles, Brussels

Official site: www.hortamuseum.be/en

More on Belgium

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

23 Mar 2023

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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 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, 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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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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Brussels   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Getty Images |

19 Best Things To Do in Brussels

Updated Feb. 2, 2023

Discover your inner child at the Belgian Comic Strip Museum , take a whirlwind tour of the continent at Mini-Europe or tickle your taste buds at a chocolate shop ( Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a good place to start). The Grand-Place is another

• All Things To Do

Grand-Place Grand-Place free

Whether you're just passing through Brussels or here for a week, you can't miss the Grand-Place. This square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits in the heart of Brussels and is renowned for its many Gothic and Baroque-style buildings. The Grand-Place is close to many of the city's main attractions, including the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral and the beloved Manneken Pis . At Christmas, enjoy the Winter Wonders light show at night along with a massive Christmas tree, and every August, admire an enormous carpet made of flowers inside the Grand-Place.

Travelers love the Grand-Place for its stunning architecture. Recent reviewers suggested visiting during the day and night; during the day to see the details of the architecture, and at night to witness the vibrant life that takes over the square. However, a common complaint among tourists was the constant crowds (and higher prices), but that's to be expected at such a big attraction. 

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral free

Built in the Brabantine Gothic style and so named for its chapel dedicated to St. Michael and for housing the relics of St. Gudula, this cathedral's current structure dates back to the 11th century and took some 300 years to build. Inside, you will find stained-glass windows, statues, paintings, a new Grenzing organ and a crypt that may contain the remains of St. Gudula with ancient Roman graffiti on it. Below the current church are the remains of a 10th-century Romanesque church. Outside the cathedral is a square where you can sit on benches under the shade of honey locust trees.

Past visitors appreciated the architecture of the church, with some noting the beauty of the stained-glass windows in particular and described it as "amazing" and "stunning."

Musical Instruments Museum Musical Instruments Museum

A former Old England department store built in the 19th century, the Musical Instruments Museum, also known as the "MIM," is housed in an Art Nouveau building located about a half-mile from the Grand-Place . Inside you'll find more than 1,200 instruments from around the globe displayed across four galleries. The museum gives visitors the opportunity to hear what these instruments sound like, as well. Inside, a restaurant touts fantastic views of the city.

Recent visitors were impressed with the variety of instruments inside the museum, as well as with the building itself. Some advised that there are few signs in English, so it can be a bit confusing. Many suggested parting with a few more euros to take advantage of the audio guide. Travelers also recommend taking a trip to the cafe, which offers great views of Brussels.

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Parc du Cinquantenaire Parc du Cinquantenaire free

Meaning "50th anniversary," Cinquantenaire Park was built in 1880 in honor of the 50th anniversary celebration of the independence of Belgium. It is a large French-style park inside the city surrounded by museums and filled with gardens with a large triumphal arch. The park also hosts a variety of festivities throughout the year, including concerts, fireworks and sporting events.

Past visitors said the park is a relaxing and peaceful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Brussels. They also recommend checking out the car tunnel that runs underneath the park.

Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert free

Want to get in a little shopping while visiting Brussels? Make time for a visit to Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a Renaissance-style arcade built in the mid-1800s. With a glass roof once known as the "umbrella of Brussels," the building is worth seeing whether or not you want to indulge in any retail therapy. Around 6 million visitors come to the Galeries every year to enjoy stores selling everything from clothing to chocolate to diamonds. The Galeries Royales also house restaurants, art galleries, a cinema and theaters. Victor Hugo even once enjoyed hanging out here.

Past visitors said it makes a great place to see on a rainy day and described the building as stunning. Many also recommended checking out the extensive chocolate shops.

Horta Museum Horta Museum

Art lovers should not pass up the chance to see where Victor Horta – one of the founders of the art nouveau movement – lived and worked. The home, which was built between 1898 and 1901 features murals, stained glass and mosaics that are largely intact from its original construction. As you walk through, keep your eyes open for Horta's influences, from the wing-like skylights to the winding banisters to the overhead lights stemming down from the ceiling like vines.

Recent travelers said the museum is a must-see attraction for architecture aficionados, but warned that you cannot take photos inside the museum and that lines are sometimes long.

Cantillon Brewery Cantillon Brewery

When it comes down to it, a trip to Brussels isn't complete unless you've sampled the beer. Cantillon has been brewing traditional Belgian beers, including lambic, gueuze, faro and kriek, since 1900. During your tour, you may learn about brewing, bottling or even how barrels are cleaned, and if you plan ahead, you can even attend a public brewing session to see the action first-hand.

Recent visitors said they enjoyed exploring the brewery and learning how the beer is made. Others enjoyed sampling the unique taste of lambic beer. Reviewers recommended signing up for a guided tour to make the most of your visit.

Mini-Europe Mini-Europe

This theme park north of central Brussels features scale models of more than 350 of Europe's most famous landmarks, from Athens' Acropolis and the canals of Venice to London's Big Ben and Paris' Eiffel Tower. Each replica comes complete with visual and sound effects. Be sure to bring your kids: Many of the park's miniature attractions are interactive, such as Naples' Mount Vesuvius and the Berlin Wall. 

Many past visitors agreed that Mini-Europe is a great place to bring children. They described it as adorable, cute and informative and recommended adding it to your itinerary.

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Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in Brussels' historic center, is a group of six different art museums: the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Meunier Museum, Wiertz Museum, Magritte Museum and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum. Together, they offer a collection of 20,000 works, dating from the 15th century to modern day. Walking through the halls, travelers will be able to see works from Rubens, Rodin, Gauguin, Magritte and many more. There's also an impressive collection of works from the Flemish school, including Pieter Bruegel.

Past travelers were impressed with the museum's vast collection of art. Considering the size of the collection, many suggested allotting 2 1/2 or more hours to not just see the works, but to appreciate and enjoy them.

Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

For those interested in military history, this museum makes for a great afternoon. Located within Cinquantenaire Park , the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History traces the world's military history over the last 10 centuries, displaying weaponry, uniforms and airplanes from various points in time. Spend a fair amount of time in the airplane hangar, which features some 130 aircraft, including zeppelins, F-16s and more. 

Recent visitors said this museum is well worth a visit and recommend seeking out the view of the city atop the terrace of the triumphal arch. Some warned that no cash is accepted and advised allotting several hours to spend in the museum.

Museum of Natural Sciences Museum of Natural Sciences

Set aside plenty of time to spend at this museum, which will delight the science and dinosaur lovers of all ages. With some 38 million specimens on hand (only a fraction of which are on display), this museum has the largest natural history collection in Europe behind those in Paris and London. Don't miss the dinosaur gallery, the largest room in Europe devoted to dinos, to see a replica of the largest and most complete male T. rex known today, along with 30 complete iguanodon skeletons that were discovered in Belgium 1878. 

Past visitors said the museum is a great activity for kids, with many praising the dinosaur collection. Some reviewers advised visiting a weekday to avoid crowds.

Atomium Atomium

The most popular tourist attraction in Brussels, the Atomium is a depiction of an iron crystal magnified more than 100 billion times that was originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels. Today, it houses multiple exhibitions, a panoramic view over the city and a restaurant with excellent views, and is considered to be a symbol of both Brussels and Belgium.

If there's one reason to head to the Atomium, it's the spectacular views of the city, according to many recent visitors. Travelers advised that it is far from other attractions, however, and that there can be long lines.

Église Notre-Dame du Sablon Église Notre-Dame du Sablon free

Just south of the Grand-Place , the impressive  Église Notre-Dame du Sablon – which dates back to the 14th century – is worth a visit, according to recent travelers. The church's interior features two chapels dedicated to saints and decorated with marble statues. There are also statues of St. Paul and St. Augustine inside.

Past visitors said they were impressed by the statues and stained-glass windows in the church and used words like "stunning" and "magnificent" to describe the interior.

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Belgian Comic Strip Center Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgium is the birthplace of many legendary comic characters, including Tintin and the Smurfs, and is also home to more than 700 comic strip artists. So it's no wonder the city pays tribute to the comic art in the form of a museum. The Belgian Comic Strip Center tells the story of European comics from their beginnings to modern day through a variety of permanent and temporary collections and a Comic Strip Library boasting more than 60,000 works.

Recent visitors enjoyed their experience at the Belgian Comic Strip Center with many feeling nostalgic to learn about comics they recall growing up. Past travelers were also impressed with the beauty of the art nouveau building, which was designed by architect Victor Horta (you can learn more about him at the Horta Museum).

Manneken-Pis Manneken-Pis free

This little boy has become a renowned Brussels landmark. The Manneken Pis (which translates to "little man pee" in Dutch) is a bronze statue of a child relieving himself that also serves as a public fountain. Though the original statue dates back to the 17th century, the statue on display is actually a replica. Located just south of the Grand-Place , the statue has been the recipient of about 800 different costumes, many of which you can see at the Museum of the City of Brussels. He's even been kidnapped and returned multiple times. The statue's origin story is a bit disputed, but wherever it came from, its allure has endured.

Recent travelers were torn over Manneken Pis. Most agreed they were surprised by the boy's small size, and some maintain it's a must-see, while others say to skip it. Past visitors also warned that it is crowded at most times of the day.

Train World Train World

Train enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at Train World, which sits about 3 miles north of the Grand-Place . Inside you can see restored train stations, dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s, learn about the history of Belgium's railway, see the oldest remaining steam engine in Europe, explore the reasons people use trains from travel to commuting and more.

Past visitors said they loved the interactive exhibits and that their kids did not want to leave. They also recommended a visit to the on-site restaurant.

Parlamentarium Parlamentarium free

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Mont des Arts Mont des Arts free

Brussels Discovery Tour: Belgian food, chocolate, waffles, beer, sightseeing

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12 Reasons to Visit Belgium

I asked myself and others the question a few years ago, “is Belgium boring?”, before finally deciding to travel there to see for myself. I have since been asked the very same question by other travellers wanting to know if I enjoyed Belgium, what I did when I was there, and would I go back again? All this prompted me to pen this article, on the 12 reasons to visit Belgium – because yes, you absolutely should!

1. Picturesque Towns: Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp

The first and most obvious reason to visit Belgium is for the incredible architecture, scenic small towns on lakes, and even a large city such as Antwerp that has so much to offer despite its larger size. The town of Bruges is undeniably the biggest tourist drawcard in Belgium. It is picturesque, charming and impossibly quaint – making it my favourite town in all of Belgium. While the streets are filled with tourists in the warmer months, the colder months at the beginning of the year (December is impossibly busy thanks to Christmas) are some of the best months to visit, as the streets are much quieter. But don’t just come to Belgium to visit Brugge! Just a short 20 minute train ride back towards Brussels is the equally gorgeous town of Ghent – a popular student city with an incredible amount of charm (pictured above). My third favourite in Belgium is Antwerp – a much larger city and constantly referred to as the fashion capital of Belgium. Antwerp is much nicer to visit than Brussels, with a great coffee culture, small boutiques and great local designers to match. This is perhaps the hotspot for 20s-30s year olds to kick back and spend a few days.

Read more: 48 hours in Ghent ; 48 hours in Antwerp ; 5 Things you Must Do in Bruges

2. Taste the real Belgian Waffles

If a picture could tell a thousand words… this one would be breaking the quota. If you haven’t tried a Belgian Waffle at least once in your lifetime, where have you been hiding!? Belgian waffles are popular throughout Europe and the rest of the world, but nowhere do they taste better than in Belgium itself. One of the most underrated points to be made about Belgium is the food… and it doesn’t stop at waffles!

3. But don’t forget about the Frites

Lets not forget about the national comfort food: Frites (fries). Now let me say this once and once only (if even just for effect), but you will not for the life of you find better fries in the world than those you will eat in Belgium. Yes, they’re likely to be double-fried. Yes, they’re even more likely  to be triple fried. But the most important part is yes, they taste damn good! One more tip: don’t skip out on either the ketchup or the mayonnaise. This is what makes them as fantastic as they are. Go for both or don’t bother at all!

4. Take a step back and let life pass you by

There’s a longstanding stigma that Belgium has worn for years: that it is boring. Indeed, when considering Belgium for the first time on my travels (it was strategically between France and the Netherlands by train), I thought to myself  “What is even in Belgium!?”  Sure, it gets a bad wrap for its weather and slow pace – but that is precisely what makes it so enjoyable! Belgium is the perfect chance to stop, relax, and let life pass you by. It is the perfect break between Paris and Amsterdam, just as long as you don’t spend that break in Brussels! (Read more: Is Brussels boring?)

5. Incredible Architecture

The architecture throughout Brussels is incredibly impressive and among some of the most intricate in Europe. The main squares (known as Grote Markt) are an absolute must visit and often feel like a time warp into a former era.

6. Comic Culture

If comics are your thing, then you just might have a reason to visit Brussels – home to an array of clever murals featuring the famous (and famously Belgian) cartoon, Tin-Tin.

7. To try Belgian Beer

…Because you’ll need something to wash down those frites. Beer is an institution in Belgium and it is here where you will find plenty of tasty delights to keep you busy or ladies, if you want to take a moment or two to yourselves to take advantage of the Euro, you can send your boyfriend/partner/husband to the local nearby.

8. To discover diversity at the heart of the European Union

One of the most fascinating parts of Belgium is its diversity. The country is technically split in two – with the Dutch-speaking Flemish in the North and the French-speaking Wallonians in the South. In Brussels this is even more diversified, as it is the capital of the European Union and thus full of migrants from all over Europe. It is truly as diverse as they come!

9. To visit the Christmas Markets

Sure, they’re nearly everywhere in Europe (nowadays even on the Champs Elysees), but some of the most gorgeous Christmas Markets are in the small Belgian towns, just waiting for you to come, eat, drink, and be merry!

10. Visit the Vegetarian Capital of the World

When I first heard of a self-dubbed “Vegetarian capital of the world”, I knew I had to find out more. As it turns out, the small town of Ghent in Belgium is extremely vegetarian friendly and even has a “Veggie Thursday”, where it encourages non-vegetarians to eat veggie for one day a week, every week! If you do go to the vegetarian friendly city of Ghent, see here for the best vegetarian restaurants in Ghent .

11. Ease of train travel

Belgium is a relatively small country and thankfully has great train connections throughout. From Brussels you can reach Ghent in under one hour and Bruges in just over one hour, with bigger cities like Antwerp also only an hour away from the capital. Belgium is also well connected with the rest of Europe, closeby to the likes of Paris and Amsterdam.

12. Because Belgium isn’t Boring!

And so we conclude on the fact that no, Belgium is not boring and yes, you should stop by on your European travels. Belgium is a great country to stop in for a few days if travelling on popular train routes, especially if travelling from Paris through to the Netherlands and beyond. Be sure to make it a quick stop in Brussels, as the best of Belgium is arguably outside of the capital – a short train journey into the countryside (Brugge and Ghent) or further on towards Antwerp. There are many reasons to visit Belgium, these are just our favourites. Why do you love Belgium?

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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7 Fantastic Places To Visit In Belgium For Families

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When it comes to a vacation in Europe, these places in Belgium for families should be at the top of your list! Known for its Medieval cities, beautiful countryside, and abundance of art and culture, this small country in Western Europe is a wonderful place to take kids. From the fascinating castles of Bruges to the Grand Place in Brussels, there are endless museums, historical landmarks, and other family-friendly attractions to add to your itinerary. Families can also enjoy Belgium’s delicious food, from waffles to chocolate to fresh seafood. Plus, not only is it a gorgeous country with plenty of activities for the entire family, but it’s also very safe, clean, and walkable. Next time you’re planning a trip to Belgium with kids, consult our list of the best places in Belgium for families! 

Best Places in Belgium for Families Who Love History & Culture

Belgium is a country with a rich history and culture. From the art galleries and museums of Brussels to the historical buildings of Antwerp and everything in between, there are a ton of different options for families who want to learn something new. Keep reading to find out the best places in Belgium for families who love history and culture! 

Ghent is a beautiful city in Belgium that’s perfect for exploring with kids ! Located in the country’s northern Flemish region, this Medieval destination is filled with historical landmarks, family-friendly museums, parks, and plenty of other things to do. No wonder it’s one of the best places in Belgium for families! Ghent even has a child-friendly app  ‘Fosfor the dragon’ , designed for families with young children.

Things to Do in Ghent with Kids

Since the city center is walkable and extremely easy to navigate, it’s possible to roam at your own pace. Kids will love taking in the ancient architecture, browsing the cute cafes and boutiques, and learning about the Flemish culture. The Gravensteen Castle is a great option for families who want to learn more, as it’s also an interactive museum. Kids can wander the different rooms and enjoy seeing the armor and weapons! If your kids are interested in art, be sure to check out the Museum of Fine Arts , Design Museum Ghent (temporarily closed for renovations until 2024), or Museum of Contemporary Art. Or, for a truly unique experience, take them to see the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb painting at St. Bavo’s Cathedral . Get a great view of the city from the top of the Ghent belfry if you’re feeling brave! 

Kids who want a more outdoorsy activity will also enjoy taking a stroll through one of the city’s many parks, like Citadel park . Or, go for a boat ride on the canal to see Ghent’s colorful waterfront. Seasonal activities include visiting the Ghent Christmas Market . And, of course, no trip to Ghent would be complete without a stop at one of the city’s many chocolate shops!

To learn more about the city, GetYourGuide offers a Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip.

A trip to Bruges is a vacation that your family will remember for years to come! Located in northwestern Belgium, this scenic city is the capital of West Flanders, making it perfect for a getaway with kids. Many of the best things to do in Bruges with kids are free, so it’s great for budget travelers too. Plus, the city is full of historical landmarks and attractions that will be sure to fascinate your little ones. 

Vrbo has many homestay options in Bruges! Reserve today1

Things to Do in Bruges with Kids

Walk around the old city center, where families can see the picturesque canals and buildings. Don’t forget to visit one of the most photographed spots in the city, Rozenhoedkaai, or the ‘Quay of the Rosary.’ Enjoy a lovely view from a nearby restaurant or cafe while dining on a Belgian waffle or other local delicacies and plates . Plus, you can take a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective.

Then, head to one of the city’s many museums or art galleries, like The Groeningemuseum . Families can easily spend a day exploring the Historium Bruges , where kids will adore the interactive exhibits and dressing up. This living history museum tells the story of Bruges. Afterward, a play area with reflective questions is available to children. Alternatively, if a farm visit is more your style, head to the outskirts of Bruges to visit Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes (Children’s farm) . Here, meander through beautiful meadows, visit the stables, and meet an array of farm animals like horses and chickens.

Of course, kids will delight in visiting The Chocolate Museum and learning all about how chocolate is made. They can even make their own! Don’t forget to visit Market Square , where you can find many more delicious Belgian treats (don’t miss trying a waffle on the stick!).

Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll through one of the parks with playgrounds or go for a ride on one of the city’s many horse-drawn carriages. The Begijnhof is a beautiful outdoor courtyard that’s perfect for a picnic lunch. Meanwhile, Minnewater Lake , tucked in the southern end of Bruges, is also a perfect place to cool down in the shade and see swans. 

Book your Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Bruges through Viator today!

If you’re looking for a fun and kid-friendly place to visit in Belgium, Antwerp is a great option! There’s plenty to see and do in this vibrant city in the northern Flemish region, from exploring its many historical landmarks to enjoying its delicious food. And, best of all, Antwerp is very welcoming to kids, making it one of the best places to visit in Belgium for families! 

Things to Do in Antwerp with Kids

Begin by exploring Antwerp’s old city, where families can walk the cobblestone streets and appreciate the extravagant Medieval architecture of famous landmarks like the Cathedral of our Lady. Grote Markt, the main city square, has a towering statue with which kids will want to take a picture! Or, visit Steen Castle, then ride the adjacent Antwerp Eye for an epic view of the city. Chocolate Nation is a must-stop for kids of all ages. As the largest Belgium chocolate museum in the world, you will be able to sample at least 10 different flavors of chocolate!

Zoo Antwerpen , one of the oldest zoos in Europe, is another wonderful place to bring kids. If your kids are into art, then a visit to the Rubens House is a must (soon to be renovated, check the website for updates before going). They can see how the famous painter lived and worked, and even try their hand at painting themselves! For something unique, take them to the Plantin-Moretus Museum . Here, they can learn about the history of printing and see old printing presses in action. Then, teens will love this underground tour of The Ruien , where they can learn about Antwerp from a different perspective.

Families searching for something a little more outdoorsy can go for a walk or bike ride in one of Antwerp’s many parks, like Nachtegalen Park or ​​ Rivierenhof . If your kids are into sports, there are also several kid-friendly sports facilities in Antwerp too. And of course, don’t forget the delicious Belgian chocolate!

Get active with an Antwerp Highlights: 2-Hour Bike Tour through GetYourGuide! 

Take an exciting trip to Brussels, the capital of Belgium! Famous for its kid-friendly museums, delicious restaurants, and a mixture of Flemish and French culture, this charming city is perfect for a family vacation. Besides abundant activities for all ages, Brussels is also easy to navigate. It’s extremely walkable, too, so you won’t have any trouble getting around with your little ones in tow. 

Things to Do in Brussels with Kids

Start your trip at Grand Place , a stunning medieval square filled with ornate buildings. Kids will also love exploring the chocolate shops and markets around the historical city center. The Royal Palace is another must-see, as it is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings (open end of July to the end of August). Brussels also has several interactive museums for little ones, including the Brussels City Museum , the Musical Instruments Museum , and the Comics Art Museum. The Museum of Natural Sciences is also a great place for kids to see dinosaurs. Families who want to learn more about Belgium can head to Mini-Europe , showcasing miniature versions of famous European landmarks. Another popular attraction is the Atomium , a giant steel structure built for the 1958 World’s Fair. For something truly unique, don’t miss the Manneken Pis statue of a little boy peeing – it’s a local icon!

If your kid has a sweet tooth, take a chocolate-making workshop. Or, visit Choco-Story Brussels , where kids can learn about the history of chocolate and watch live demonstrations. For a break from sightseeing, head to one of the many playgrounds or take a ride on the Maelbeek metro line, which has its own cartoon characters. There are also several parks in Brussels where kids can run around and explore, such as the Parc du Cinquantenaire and Parc de Bruxelles.

GetYourGuide also offers a Brussels: 1-Hour Belgian Chocolate Workshop and a ​​Brussels: Guided Walking Tour.

Families looking for small-town charm with big-city adventures will love Dinant in Belgium’s French-speaking Wallonia region. As one of the best places to visit in Belgium for families , it’s filled with fascinating history, hip breweries, cute cafes, and a vibrant arts scene, there are plenty of things to do and see with kids. However, since Dinant is small and compact, it’s also an ideal day trip from Brussels, around an hour away. 

Things to Do in Dinant with Kids

Your first stop should surely be the Citadel . This imposing 19th-century fortress offers great views of the town and the river. Kids will love exploring all the nooks and crannies, plus there’s also an interactive museum. After, take a walk through the picturesque old town and enjoy the views from the numerous bridges. Remember to venture to the Church of Notre Dame de Dinant to see the amazing rock formations against the landscape. Then, climb to the top of the belfry for breathtaking views of the cityscape. Families can also go on a boat ride down the Meuse River. You’ll enjoy gorgeous scenery and might even see some wildlife! The city is also home to several interesting museums, like the Maison Adolphe Sax , which has interactive exhibits about the history of the saxophone. 

For a more active day out, head to Parc Dinant Adventure . Kids can burn off some energy climbing, zip-lining, and playing in the tree houses. A half-hour away, families can visit one of Belgium’s best geological wonders, Les Grottes de Han. This natural complex of caves is brimming with incredible stalactites and stalagmites. Lastly, Dinant is one of the best places in Belgium for families because of its tasty cuisine. Try the local specialty, couque de Dinant , a sweet cookie famous for its hard texture.

Book a homestay in a charming cottage in Dinant here through Vrbo!

Get into the holiday spirit at one of the Best Christmas Markets in Europe For Families ! 

Leuven 

Enjoy an unforgettable adventure to one of Belgium’s oldest university towns, Leuven ! Located a half-hour east of Brussels, this adorable town is perfect for day-trippers who want to escape the city. From outdoor green spaces to weekly outdoor markets, experience one of Belgium’s lesser-known towns and take in some scenic views in the process. If you’re staying in Bruges, it’s also less than an hour and a half away. 

Things to Do in Leuven with Kids

You’ll notice Leuven’s grandiose Town Hall (Stadhuis), one of the city’s most iconic architectural marvels in the historical city center. Kids will love people-watching in the square, looking at all the ornate statues, and seeing the old universities on Naamsestraat. Families can also visit the nearby St Peter’s Church , home to a famous Last Supper painting. Or, relax in one of the cafes lining Oude Markt. If you’re looking for something more educational, take kids to the ​​ Museum of Zoology KULeuven, a natural history museum with cool artifacts and a giant whale. Art lovers can admire the extensive collection at the M-Museum and learn more about Leuven through stunning masterpieces. For a fun family outing, you can also take a boat cruise on the Leuven-Dijle canal.

To get out in nature, take a lovely stroll around the Botanical Garden Kruidtuin and appreciate the flowers. Kessel-Lo, a small town northeast of central Leuven, houses the well-known Kessel-Lo Provincial Domain park. It features free and fun outdoor activities for all ages, from a small zoo with a petting area to swimming pools, playgrounds, and more. Visiting Leuven in the winter? Stop by the Leuven Christmas Market. It’s over 600 years and is a great place to find unique gifts! 

Here are the best Mild Weather European Destinations For A Family Summer Vacation ! 

Best Places in Belgium for Families Who Love Outdoor Adventures

Looking for an outdoor adventure in Belgium? You may be surprised to discover this European country also has hiking, biking, and other outdoor sports. Here are the best places in Belgium for families who love outdoor adventures! 

The Ardennes

Belgium isn’t exactly known for its outdoor adventures – unless you’re vacationing in The Ardennes ! Thrill-seeking families who adore hiking, biking, kayaking, and immersing themselves in nature will love this region in southeast Belgium. Extending into Luxembourg, it’s home to three different rivers: Lesse, Ourthe, and Semois, making it quite popular in the spring when water levels rise. Families visiting Belgium in the summer can also take advantage of everything exciting The Ardennes has to offer!

Things to Do in The Ardennes with Kids

For families in search of idyllic hiking, look no further than Rochehaut . With verdant green hills, lush forests, and views of the Semois, it’s the ideal place to take a peaceful stroll. Route 43 , a 2.7-mile hike that starts at the Church of Rochehaut, isn’t too difficult for kids and has nice views of the Belgian countryside. Since the Semois features beginner rapids, Rochehaut provides the perfect terrain for kayaking or canoeing down the river. Rentals from local providers are usually available near the river.

Or, try something different and descend into the mysterious Cave of Lorette . Other towns of interest in The Ardennes include Liege and Boullion. In Theux, animal lovers will be impressed by Forestia , a wildlife park featuring bears, wolves, deer, and other animals. There’s also zip lining and a treetop adventure course for children feeling adventurous! 

One of the most remote (and smallest!) towns in Belgium, Torgny, is also located in The Ardennes. Reminiscent of Southern France, it boasts a Mediterranean charm, colorful houses, and fields filled with pretty flowers. It may be a little out of the way, but it’s worth the trip and surely one of the best places in Belgium for families! 

Planning a trip to Europe with little ones? Read about the 10 Best Places to Travel with Kids in Europe ! 

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this list featuring 7 Fantastic Places To Visit In Belgium For Families! From art museums to historical city centers, scenic canals, and of course, delicious chocolate, Belgium is surely a wonderful country for your next European vacation. Enjoy Belgium with your kids! 

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*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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12 Reasons to Visit Belgium in 2024

If you’re asking yourself the question “Is Belgium worth visiting?”, you have come to the right place. This post includes 12 good reasons to cast prejudice aside and visit B e lgium on your next European trip.

Belgium is a small country that’s often overlooked on a trip to Europe. It’s overshadowed by other European destinations and it even has the reputation of being pretty boring.

Although it’s true that Belgium is quite petite and you probably won’t spend weeks exploring this country, it does have a lot to offer.

From fairytale-like towns to historic battlefields and a huge number of beers , there are plenty of things Belgium is famous for .

Is Belgium worth visiting? Reasons to visit Belgium

So, let’s dive into it, you will find 12 good reasons why you should visit Belgium below. I hope this will convince you to include this little country on your European trip.

1. Picturesque towns

There are many romantic towns with beautiful architecture to discover in Belgium.

The medieval city of Bruges is probably the most famous one and it’s also one of my favourite cities in Belgium. It can be quite touristy during the summer months, but if you visit it off-season, the streets will be much quieter.

Bruges is not the only Belgian city that’s worth visiting, though. Don’t forget to visit the charming city of Ghent , Antwerp, which is Belgium’s fashion capital and Brussels , the capital, too. There is a lot worth seeing in these cities as well!

It’s good to know that Bruges and Ghent can be visited in one day if you’re short on time.

2. Wallonia & The Ardennes

Wallonia and the Belgian Ardennes are situated in the south of the country, and they’re completely different from the north.

If you’re a lover of the outdoors, this is probably the part of Belgium that you will love the most. Beautiful valleys, small villages, lush green forests and mysterious caves mark this region.

The Ardennes is the part of the country that you will want to visit if you would like to go hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking and more. This is where you will find some of the most beautiful hikes in Belgium .

On top of that, the Belgian Ardennes also have some beautiful villages that you can explore.

3. Castles and ruins

One of my favourite things about Belgium is its large amount of castles and citadels. It’s said that Belgium has more castles per capita than Fran c e !

I won’t name them all, as the list would be too long, but some of the castles I think are definitely worth a visit are Bouillon Castle , Gravensteen Castle , Walzin Castle , Vêves Castle and Montaigle Castle . The latter is a great place to head to if you would like to see ruins.

Speaking about ruins, another beautiful place is the ruins of the 12th-century Villers Abbey in Villers-La-Ville.

It’s good to know that you can also stay in a castle in Belgium as the country is full of enchanting castle hotels!

Tip: Vêves Castle and Walzin Castle are perfect to combine with a trip to Dinant , the city where the saxophone was invented.

4. The comic book culture

If you’re into comic books, you will LOVE Belgium.

It was here that The Smurfs , The Adventures of Tintin , Spike and Suzy and many other comics were born. In fact, Belgium has more comic book artists per square kilometre than any other country in the world!

You can visit comic book museums, shops and bars, see comic book statues or go on a comic strip walk in the capital during your visit to Belgium. After all, one of the fun facts about Brussels is that this city dubbed itself the “Comic Book Capital of the World”, and it lives up to its title.

Brussels’ Comic Strip Walk follows a route that will take you along buildings that are covered in large murals of comic scenes.

5. Historic battlefields

Belgium has seen a fair share of battlefields for a small country. Due to its location between Germany, France and Britain, it always had tactical importance.

If you’re a history buff, you will love learning more about the famous battles that took place in Waterloo and Ypres. These are the most famous ones.

If battlefields aren’t enough, you can also visit places like the Langemark Cemetery and the Passchendaele New British Cemetery or head to one of Belgium’s interesting war museums. Some of the most famous ones are In Flanders Fields Museum , Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917 , the Battle of Waterloo Museum and the Bastogne War Museum .

6. French fries, waffles & chocolate

As I am from Belgium, one of the things I miss the most when I’m abroad is the food.

There’s no better place to try French fries (which are actually Belgian) and waffles than in Belgium. Although these might be available throughout Europe and the rest of the world, Belgium is where they taste the best.

Make sure to try both Brussels and Liege waffles while you’re here, you won’t be disappointed! Belgian food is simply delicious, and I didn’t even mention the Belgian chocolate yet… it’s EXQUISITE .

7. Belgian beer

Did you know that Belgium has over a thousand original beers and more than 200 active breweries? From bitter to sweet and from strong to non-alcoholic, Belgium has a beer for nearly any taste!

The Belgian beer culture was even inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Lis t .

My favourite Belgian beers are Corsendonk, La Chouffe and Kriek Lindemans but it’d be impossible to try them all… or it would take quite some time .

One of the best things to do when you’re visiting Belgium is to go on a beer tour and learn more about this brew. There are plenty of great beer tours in Brussels and other Belgian cities.

Fun fact: In Belgium, each type of beer is served in a unique glass, which is considered to improve its taste.

8. Surrealism art

Although surrealism art was born in Paris , Belgium was the first country outside of France to establish a surrealism scene.

The Belgian surrealist movement became the second-largest after the French movement, and its most famous artist was the Brussels painter René Magritte .

Being an avid lover of surrealism and of Magritte, the Magritte Museum in Brussels is one of my favourite museums in the world.

There are many more great surrealist artists from Belgium though. Some examples are Paul Delvaux , Marcel Mariën and Paul Nougé .

9. The Blue Forest

The Hallerbos , also known as the Blue Forest, is a fairytale-like forest that turns blue for a few weeks every year.

Somewhere around mid-April, millions of blue hyacinths bloom, forming a beautiful carpet of blossom. The forest looks magical during this period and walking on the paths between the flowers is a wonderful experience.

As this forest is not far from Brussels, heading here is a great way to escape the city for a few hours.

10. Ease of travel

Belgium is a small country with great train connections throughout the country. It’s easy and doesn’t take too long to get from one place to another.

You can get from Brussels to Antwerp in just 40 minutes, or from Brussels to Bruges in 1 hour, for example. As this city is located right in the middle of the country, it’s easy to visit the rest of Belgium as a day trip from Brussels .

In addition to this, other European destinations are also easy to reach from Belgium. You can get to Amsterdam, Paris or London by train in just 2 to 3 hours, for example, or combine a visit to Belgium with Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Check out my itinerary for the Benelux if this is something you’re interested in.

11. Famous festivals

If you like music festivals, Belgium is a country you will love! There are plenty of famous festivals here.

The most famous one is probably Tomorrowland but there are plenty of other great Belgian festivals . Rock Werchter, Graspop, Pukkelpop and Dour are just a few examples.

It’s good to know that Belgium is home to many free festivals too if you’re on a tight budget.

12. Unique landmarks

There are many unique landmarks in Belgium . The most famous example is Brussels’ statue of a peeing little boy – Manneken Pis – but did you know that Belgium’s capital is also home to the statue of a little peeing girl ( Jeanneke Pis ) and a peeing dog ( Zinneke Pis )? In fact, Brussels alone is home to some amazing landmarks .

Besides peeing statues, you will also find some unique architecture in Belgium. Some examples are the Atomium in Brussels and Reading Through the Lines , a see-through church in Borgloon (you can see this church in the picture below).

Reasons to visit Belgium: FAQs

What makes belgium interesting.

Some of the things that make Belgium interesting are its comic book culture, historic battlefields and abundance of castles and ruins. This is a country that has a lot to offer to history buffs.

Where is the prettiest place in Belgium?

Bruges is one of the most famous and beautiful places in Belgium. This country has got a lot more to offer, though. From beautiful castles like Walzin Castle and Vêves Castles to unique places like Reading Through the Lines, there are plenty of amazing places to visit in Belgium.

Reasons to visit Belgium: Final thoughts

If you’re asking me, Belgium is not boring and there are plenty of good reasons to visit this country! And I’m not saying this because it’s my home country.

I think Belgium has a lot to offer for such a small country. It might not be a place to explore for weeks on end but I do think it is worth visiting during a Eurotrip. You will also be able to reach plenty of other destinations in Europe from here!

If you’re not convinced yet, you might want to check out my post featuring the most beautiful places in Belgium . I visited many, many places in this country during COVID-19 and was surprised to find plenty of stunning ones!

Are you planning a trip to Belgium? Check out my Belgium itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 days to make the most out of your trip.

Last but not least, here are some final pictures of what Belgium has to offer:

• Is Brussels Worth Visiting? 15 Reasons to Visit Brussels
• Is Bruges Worth Visiting? 14 Reasons to Visit Bruges
• Is Ghent Worth Visiting? 9 Reasons to Visit Ghent

Belgium travel planning guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Belgium on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🚗 Rent a car in Belgium with  Discover Cars   to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa  to visit Belgium.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post full of reasons to visit Belgium helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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The Smurfs really? How cool is that! 🙂

I always look forward to your new posts! You’re awesome…, awesome! Yes!

Haha yes, The Smurfs are Belgian 😀 Thank you so much for the lovely comment, I appreciate it! 🙂

Im using this for a project but i might jusy have to visit belgium myself

Nice concise article. We were going to go to Bruges this spring, but the pandemic stopped that. Hoping for next year with some new ideas you shared here.

Thank you! Oh I’m sorry to hear that 🙁 We just heard today that Belgium will be opening up to tourists again soon, so that’s something nice to look forward to 😉

I’ll never understand why some people consider Belgium boring! I might like it even more than my own 😉

Ooh I’m happy to hear that 😀 I don’t know why either, maybe because it’s so small 🙁

I’m happy to hear that! 😄 It has some nice places and then there’s the chocolate 🙊

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25 places other than France where speaking French is helpful

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

Speaking another language is always helpful, especially if you love to travel. And French, commonly thought of as one of the most beautiful in the world, is also more useful than you might realize. Here are 25 destinations outside of France where you can put your French language skills to good use!

Home to delicious beer, chocolate, waffles, and fries (no, they actually didn’t originate in France), Belgium is also a French-speaking country. The language is one of three officially spoken in the country; the other two are Dutch and German. French is mostly spoken in the capital, Brussels, and in the south of the country.

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Another multilingual state that borders France, the Grand Duchy has French, German, and Luxembourgish as official languages. However, French is one most commonly used on signs and in written communication in the country. You’ll also find it most helpful for small talk and chatting with residents.

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Switzerland

Yet another European country with French as one of the official languages (the others are German, Italian, and Rhaeto-Romance). You’ll find French most useful in Geneva and the surrounding area, although it’s used throughout Switzerland.

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Many people make the mistake of assuming that this tiny state is a part of France. And while Monaco is surrounded by its’ much larger neighbor and uses the French language, it is a sovereign city-state with a monarchy. There is also a Monégasque language that has official status.

Aosta Valley

This region of Italy is located in the northwest of the country, near France. Latin was replaced by French as the official language after the fall of the Roman Empire and then, in the 19th century, was replaced with Italian. Today, the region is bilingual, and you’ll see French and Italian written on road signs and hear the two spoken by locals.

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The French Empire had a strong presence in North Africa, and thus many nations in the region still use French as an official language. Morocco is one of these, and French is widespread along with Arabic and various Berber dialects. As a visitor, you’ll find it extremely useful when speaking to locals or reading signs and menus.

Algeria’s official languages are Arabic and Berber, but French is also commonly understood. While not as widely used as in neighboring Morocco, it will be your best bet if you don’t speak one of the official languages. 

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Another former French colonial outpost, the language is used and understood throughout the country in addition to Arabic and Tunisian. It’s estimated over half the population speaks French, and it’s the teaching language of high schools in the country.

Cameroon was a colony of both the UK and France in the early 20th century. So, English and French are spoken in the country. However, French is the most prevalent, with eight of 10 regions considered Francophone. Locals also speak numerous other indigenous languages.

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Ivory Coast

Known as “Côte d’Ivoire” in French, this coastal nation uses the old colonial language as the official one. Additionally, numerous indigenous languages also have recognized status in the Ivory Coast.

Senegal has six recognized indigenous languages, the most well-known and commonly spoken is Wolof. However, French is still the official language of the country despite Wolof being more widely used and understood.

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Yet another multilingual former French colony, Burundi has three official languages. In addition to French, Kirundi, and Swahili are recognized by the government. In 2014, English also gained status in the country.

Republic of the Congo

Also known as the Congo or Congo-Brazzaville, it is not to be confused with its neighbor, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Formerly known as the French Congo, due to colonization, the language is still the official one of use to this day. The local Bantu language, Kituba, Lingala, and numerous other indigenous languages are also widely spoken.

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The DRC has four main languages: Kikongo (Kituba), Lingala, Swahili, and Tshiluba. However, as a former Belgian colony, French is still widely used and understood.

Togo is a very multilingual country, and in addition to the official language, French has over 40 in use throughout the country. Many signs will be in French, and most locals speak some.

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Yet another former French colony, visitors to Mali will find the language very useful in most interactions. Additionally, the country is home to more than 80 other local languages.

The British and French fought over Canada, with the former finally winning out, but the Francophone portion of the population remained influential. So much so that the country has two official languages: English and French, with over 70 indigenous languages in existence. And the province of Québec only has French as the official language (and frequently threatens to secede from Canada). Its neighbor, New Brunswick, is the only officially bilingual province.

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When the U.S. purchased Louisiana territory from the French in 1803, it probably wasn’t considered how long the language would stick around. In the 1960s, efforts were made to revive the language in the state after decades of suppression and Americanization. Now, French is spoken by an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 residents, ranging from traditional and Cajun (Louisiana) French.

The Spanish colonized this Caribbean island before the Brits and French arrived. Then in 1763, France took over, and in 1943, it became semi-autonomous before gaining its current status as an Overseas Department in 1946. French is the official language, and visitors will find it helpful to know basic phrases, but Martinique Creole is unofficially the local language of communication.

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Another current French Overseas Department first colonized by the Spanish, Guadalupe has French as its official language, but like Martinique, Creole is widely used by locals.

French Guiana

This small section of the South American continent, located between far northeastern Brazil and Suriname and Guyana, is a former colony that housed a penal colony of France. Today, it is a French Overseas Department. Thus, French is the official language, but Creole is the language of use by many residents.

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French Polynesia

Colonized by the French, the islands received the name “French Polynesia” after being designated a French Overseas Territory in the '50s. Then, in 1977, the country received autonomy and is now considered an overseas country of the French Republic, with French as the official language.

New Caledonia

The British initially colonized these islands in the South Pacific before the French took over in 1853. Recent years have brought referendums for independence, but a slim majority of the population has voted in favor of remaining part of France. French remains the official language of the territory.

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This Pacific country is very multilingual, with French, English, and Bislama all considered official languages. However, it doesn’t stop there, as over 100 languages are spoken on the island. After centuries of colonization, independence was finally declared in 1980. 

Wallis & Futuna

Made up of the Wallis, Futuna, and Alofi islands, all three were French protectorates and colonies until 1961. Then, the islands became a French Overseas Territory until 2003, when they received status as an Overseas Collectivity. French has been the official language throughout all the status changes.

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Didn't see the Northern Lights last night? There's a chance they'll be back tonight.

Sky watchers will get another chance to see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin later tonight after a large cloud plasma erupted into space, according to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center .

Particles from a coronal mass ejection arrived at Earth this weekend, causing this geomagnetic storm. As of Saturday afternoon, the sunspot still remains quite active and produced two or more flares in the past 12 hours, according to NOAA.

Here's what you need to know if you're trying to see the lights this weekend:

Can I see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin on Saturday night?

Northern lights may become visible over much of the northern half of the country again on Saturday night, according to NOAA.

For those in the Milwaukee area, afternoon clouds will thin out as the sun goes down and the evening skies will be mostly clear with some scattered clouds in the overnight hours, said Tim Halbach, local meteoroglist with the National Weather Service.

RELATED: Check out these photos from Wisconsinites who saw the Northern Lights last night

To monitor the aurora forecast, you can use the  NOAA aurora forecast tool , which has a 30-minute forecast window. There's also a tool on the Milwaukee Astronomical Society website at  www.milwaukeeastro.org .

On the tool, you'll see the Northern Lights prediction for 35 minutes ahead. You'll have good odds of seeing the Northern Lights if the color over Wisconsin is yellow, orange or even red.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin?

When northern lights are active, the best time to see them is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.

Where else will the Northern Lights be visible?

This aurora may become visible over most of the northern half of the country, like it did on Friday night, according to NOAA.

Here are some tips on how to see the Northern Lights:

Here are some viewing tips from Gene Hanson, observatory director for the  Milwaukee Astronomical Society :

• Head North:  The Northern Lights get their name for a reason. Hanson says that the aurora is bigger and more vibrant the farther north you go. “Even 60 miles north can make a tremendous difference,” Hanson says.
• Look for the horizon:  The northern horizon, that is. Hanson says that you want the most unobstructed view to the north that you can find. Again, they’re called the northern lights for a reason. The more north you can see, the more of the lights you could see.
• Move away from the light:  Light pollution is often the reason you can’t see stars when you’re in the city. So, get out and away from the city. Rural areas are best, and Hanson says that anywhere you can see the stars well will work, but the darker the better.

Where to view the night sky in Wisconsin:

Here's a list of places in Wisconsin that could offer some of the best views of the night sky:

• Newport State Park , Ellison Bay
• Driftless Wisconsin
• Harrington Beach State Park
• Kettle Moraine State Forest
• Kohler-Andrae State Park
• Parnell Tower

RELATED: Biggest astronomical events in 2024: Eclipses to meteor showers and full moon schedule

RELATED: For the best Northern Lights viewing in Wisconsin, try these places

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How to Observe the Northern Lights This Weekend

The Space Weather Prediction Center said solar activity would be high again on Saturday.

Northern Lights Glow in the Sky Amid Solar Storm

Powerful solar flare activity made the aurora borealis visible unusually far south..

[Laughing] Holy moly. I know. This — I thought it would just be over on the horizon a little — Behind us, too. Yeah. A little green on the horizon. Nothing like this. This is — This is like, ‘Oh, my god.’ Everywhere.

By Claire Moses

Keep an eye on the skies on Saturday night for what could be another dazzling display of nature — or not, depending on your location and weather conditions.

An unusual amount of solar flare activity means that the aurora borealis, or the northern lights, could continue to appear over the weekend.

The solar storm was a level 5 on Friday, which gave some star gazers a clear view of streaks of green, purple and red that arced across the skies. Those conditions are expected to continue, Mike Bettwy, the operations chief of the Space Weather Prediction Center, said on Saturday.

“It should be fairly similar to what we saw last night, maybe not as widespread but fairly close,” Mr. Bettwy said.

“Depending on how everything evolves,” he added, “tomorrow night might actually be better than tonight” for views of the aurora.

In areas with clear skies, the display on Sunday could be similar to what people witnessed on Friday.

If you’re in a place with a lot of bright lights — like a city — it’s going to be hard to see anything. And then there are other complications, like the weather.

Two weather systems on Saturday night could impair viewing of the solar display, said Bryan Jackson, a forecaster at the Weather Prediction Center.

The Northeast is likely to be overcast because of a cloud system that could stretch from the Midwest and center over Pennsylvania. Cloud coverage might also extend as far as Maine, with the potential to clear around New Hampshire.

“This event is strong enough that the Northeast United States pretty much universally has a good shot at seeing it,” Mr. Bettwy said. “It’s just a matter of making sure that the cloud cover is absent.”

A second storm system, which was predicted to produce a fair amount of rain and cloud coverage, is possible over the Southwest.

Mr. Jackson said Michigan was likely to have clear skies between waves of rain. Other regions of the country could have clear views, too.

“In Seattle, it was pretty clear last night and it looks to be pretty clear again,” Mr. Jackson said on Saturday. “Portions of the southern Rockies, portions of the southern Plains are not overcast, but not completely clear either.”

The lights were particularly brilliant over England on Friday, and images of the solar show awed onlookers in parts of Maine and Massachusetts.

A tip: If you are in a clear area, even south of where the aurora is forecast, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone.

The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Why is this happening?

A severe solar storm is brewing.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center on Friday issued a rare warning after a solar outburst reached Earth.

As nuclear reactions occur on the sun, it routinely expels material from its surface.

Officials said that the solar activity could potentially cause electrical outages or interfere with navigation and communication systems.

When is this happening?

The expelled material from the sun could reach Earth’s atmosphere by Friday afternoon or evening, officials said.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen, certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday.

What’s flaring up?

The Space Weather Prediction Center said on Friday night that we were experiencing an extreme solar storm, a level 5 , up from a level 4 earlier in the day .

The last extreme event happened in October 2003 and resulted in power failures in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa, the center said.

The current storm is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Katrina Miller , Emmett Lindner and Judson Jones contributed reporting.

Claire Moses is a Times reporter in London, focused on coverage of breaking and trending news. More about Claire Moses

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

With the help of Google Cloud, scientists who hunt killer asteroids churned through hundreds of thousands of images of the night sky to reveal 27,500 overlooked space rocks in the solar system .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .