Belgium is a charming country that is famous for its chocolate, waffles, beer, and picturesque cities. It is a country of contrasts, with a mix of traditional and modern elements that make it a unique destination for travelers.
One of the most popular cities to visit in Belgium is Brussels, the capital of the country. It is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is lined with historic buildings. The city is also famous for its delicious chocolate and waffles, which can be found in many cafes and shops around the city.
Another popular city in Belgium is Bruges, known as the “Venice of the North.” This medieval city is famous for its canals, cobbled streets, and picturesque buildings. Visitors can take a boat tour of the canals, stroll around the Markt, the city’s central square, or visit the famous Belfry tower for breathtaking views of the city.
Antwerp is another must-visit city in Belgium, known for its impressive architecture and world-renowned diamond district. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, wander through the stunning Central Station, or take a stroll along the Scheldt River.
Outside of the cities, Belgium also offers beautiful natural landscapes, such as the Ardennes Forest, which is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. The country is also home to several charming small towns, such as Ghent, Leuven, and Mechelen, each with its unique history and charm.
Belgium is also famous for its beer culture, with a wide range of breweries and beer bars to visit. Visitors can try different types of beer, such as Trappist beer or Lambic beer, which are unique to Belgium.
Must see Destinations of Belgium are:
Brussels
Brussels is the vibrant and historic capital city of Belgium, renowned for its charming architecture, vibrant culture, and culinary delights. With its world-famous chocolates, delicious waffles, and extensive beer selection, Brussels is a foodie’s paradise. But there’s more to the city than just its culinary scene.
The city is home to numerous landmarks, including the magnificent Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 15th century. This central square is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the impressive Gothic-style Town Hall. The Grand Place is also the site of the famous Flower Carpet, a bi-annual event that covers the square with a stunning display of flowers.
Another must-visit attraction in Brussels is the Atomium, a striking steel construction that represents a molecule’s shape, magnified 165 billion times. Built for the 1958 World Expo, visitors can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.
For art enthusiasts, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts is a must-see attraction in Brussels. The museum is home to a vast collection of Belgian and international art, including works by Belgian artist Rene Magritte.
Beer lovers will find their happy place in Brussels, which boasts a thriving beer culture. With more than 1,000 varieties of beer available, there is something for every taste bud. The Delirium Café is one of the most famous bars in Brussels, with a selection of over 3,000 beers, making it the perfect place for beer connoisseurs.
Finally, a trip to Brussels wouldn’t be complete without trying the famous Belgian waffles. These light, fluffy treats come in a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to decadent chocolate.
With so much to offer, Brussels is a fascinating city that should not be missed. Whether you are interested in history, art, food, or beer, there is something for everyone in this charming Belgian capital.
Bruges
Bruges, the capital of West Flanders in Belgium, is a picturesque medieval town that has become a popular travel destination. The town is also known as the Venice of the North due to its numerous canals and bridges that run through it, adding to its charm.
One of the main attractions of Bruges is its historic center, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to many stunning Gothic buildings, including the Town Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which houses a vial of Jesus Christ’s blood. The Belfry of Bruges is another iconic landmark and offers breathtaking views of the city from its top. Visitors can also take a boat tour along the city’s canals to explore the town from a different perspective.
Bruges is also known for its chocolate and beer. There are plenty of chocolate shops in the city, selling a variety of handmade chocolates, truffles, and pralines. For beer enthusiasts, Bruges has a wide range of local breweries where visitors can try some of the best Belgian beers. One popular spot is the De Halve Maan Brewery, which has been brewing beer since 1856 and offers tours of the brewery and tastings.
The town is also famous for its lace-making, which has a long tradition in the area. There are several lace shops in Bruges where visitors can see lace-making demonstrations and buy lace products as souvenirs.
Another must-visit attraction in Bruges is the Markt, the town’s main square, which is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings and has many cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Belgian dishes such as mussels and fries, waffles, and chocolate.
Finally, Bruges also has a rich art scene, with several museums showcasing Flemish art. The Groeningemuseum houses a collection of Flemish and Belgian art from the 15th to the 20th century, including works by Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Gerard David. The Memling Museum is another must-see, which has a collection of works by Hans Memling, a renowned painter from the 15th century.
Antwerp
Antwerp is a charming city located in the Flemish region of Belgium. The city is known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and thriving fashion and diamond industries. As one of Europe’s largest ports, Antwerp is a bustling city that attracts visitors from all over the world.
One of the most famous landmarks in Antwerp is the Cathedral of Our Lady. This stunning Gothic cathedral was built in the 14th century and is home to several notable works of art, including paintings by Rubens. Another must-see attraction is the Antwerp Central Station. This stunning building is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, with its impressive dome and intricate façade.
Antwerp is also known for its vibrant fashion scene. The city is home to the prestigious Royal Academy of Fine Arts, which has produced some of the world’s most famous fashion designers, including Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester. Visitors can explore the city’s fashion boutiques and attend fashion shows and events throughout the year.
Another major industry in Antwerp is diamond trading. The city is one of the world’s largest diamond trading centers, with over 80% of the world’s rough diamonds passing through the city. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of diamond trading by visiting the Diamond Museum or taking a guided tour of the diamond district.
Foodies will also love Antwerp’s thriving culinary scene. The city is known for its delicious Belgian cuisine, including waffles, chocolate, and beer. Visitors can explore the city’s many restaurants and cafes to sample local delicacies and enjoy a taste of Belgian culture.
Finally, Antwerp is a great destination for shopping. The city is home to several popular shopping districts, including the Meir and the Nationalestraat. Visitors can browse a variety of shops and boutiques to find unique fashion, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Ghent
Ghent, located in the Flemish region of Belgium, is a charming and historic city that is often overshadowed by Brussels and Bruges but is definitely worth a visit for travelers looking for a more authentic Belgian experience.
One of the main attractions of Ghent is its medieval architecture. The city center is home to several impressive buildings, including the Gothic-style Saint Bavo Cathedral, the Castle of the Counts, and the Belfry of Ghent. Visitors can take a walking tour of the city to see these landmarks and learn about their history. Another must-visit attraction is the Gravensteen Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and now houses a museum showcasing the castle’s history.
Ghent is also known for its canals, which are similar to those found in Amsterdam. A boat tour of the canals is a great way to explore the city and see its architecture from a different perspective. Visitors can also rent a bike and explore the city’s many parks and green spaces.
Foodies will love Ghent’s culinary scene, which is a mix of traditional Belgian cuisine and international influences. The city is known for its many excellent restaurants, including Michelin-starred establishments such as Vrijmoed and Chambre Séparée. For a more casual meal, try some of the local specialties such as waffles, mussels, and Belgian fries.
Ghent also has a lively cultural scene, with many festivals and events throughout the year. The Ghent Festivities, which take place in July, are a week-long celebration featuring music, theater, and other cultural activities. Other popular events include the Light Festival, which takes place every three years, and the Gent Jazz Festival, which attracts jazz musicians from around the world.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Ghent is also a great destination for shopping. Visitors can find everything from high-end fashion to quirky boutiques and vintage shops. The city’s markets, including the famous Sunday morning flea market, are also worth a visit.
In Summary, Belgium offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, making it a great destination for travelers of all types. Whether you’re interested in exploring the country’s rich history and architecture or indulging in its delicious food and beer, Belgium has something for everyone.
