Belgium

Belgium Highlights

Belgium, a small country in Western Europe, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and gastronomic delights. Brussels, the capital, is a vibrant city with the stunning Grand Place, the Atomium, and a host of excellent museums. The city is also the de facto capital of the European Union. Beyond Brussels, visit the medieval cities of Bruges and Ghent, known for their well-preserved city centers, beautiful canals, and Gothic architecture. Don`t miss Antwerp for its vibrant fashion and diamond trade or the battlefield sites of Waterloo and Ypres. Belgium is also famous for its cuisine, with dishes like moules-frites, Belgian waffles, and an array of delicious chocolates. Add to this the country`s renowned beer culture, with hundreds of varieties to sample. Whether you`re exploring a historic castle, enjoying a canal-side view, or attending a local festival, Belgium offers a rich and rewarding travel experience.

Top 10 Attractions

Antwerp Diamond District

Antwerp`s Diamond District, also known as the Diamond Quarter, is one of the main centres of the diamond industry worldwide. Visitors can explore the fascinating world of diamonds, with many businesses offering tours and shops selling exquisite diamo... more

Antwerp`s Diamond District, also known as the Diamond Quarter, is one of the main centres of the diamond industry worldwide. Visitors can explore the fascinating world of diamonds, with many businesses offering tours and shops selling exquisite diamond jewellery. This glittering enclave is a testament to Antwerp`s long-standing reputation as the `Diamond Capital of the World`.

Atomium, Brussels

The Atomium is a unique and striking building in Brussels, built for the 1958 Brussels World`s Fair. This giant iron crystal magnified 165 billion times stands 102m tall and represents an atomic unit cell of an iron crystal. Its nine stainless steel... more

The Atomium is a unique and striking building in Brussels, built for the 1958 Brussels World`s Fair. This giant iron crystal magnified 165 billion times stands 102m tall and represents an atomic unit cell of an iron crystal. Its nine stainless steel clad spheres are interconnected, offering panoramic views of Brussels and interactive exhibits on Belgian history. A visit to this symbol of scientific innovation is a must when in Belgium.

Belfry of Bruges

One of the city`s most prominent symbols, the Belfry of Bruges, is a medieval bell tower in the historical centre. Climb the 366 steps for a rewarding view of the city and the surrounding countryside. The carillon, comprising 47 bells, still operates... more

One of the city`s most prominent symbols, the Belfry of Bruges, is a medieval bell tower in the historical centre. Climb the 366 steps for a rewarding view of the city and the surrounding countryside. The carillon, comprising 47 bells, still operates and regular carillon concerts echo throughout the city.

Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp

The Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp is the largest Gothic cathedral in the Low Countries. It houses a fine collection of art, including works by the Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. With its soaring spire, the cathedral dominates the city`s skylin... more

The Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp is the largest Gothic cathedral in the Low Countries. It houses a fine collection of art, including works by the Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. With its soaring spire, the cathedral dominates the city`s skyline and is a symbol of the city`s historical prominence.

Cathedral of St. Bavo, Ghent

The towering and majestic Cathedral of St. Bavo in Ghent is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. It`s renowned for the world-famous altarpiece, "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb", by the Van Eyck brothers. Apart from this masterpiece, the ca... more

The towering and majestic Cathedral of St. Bavo in Ghent is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. It`s renowned for the world-famous altarpiece, "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb", by the Van Eyck brothers. Apart from this masterpiece, the cathedral holds a rich treasury of religious art and artifacts. This grand edifice, with its dramatic interiors and spiritual ambiance, is a highlight of any Belgian itinerary.

Grand Place, Brussels

One of the most iconic landmarks in Belgium, Grand Place is an awe-inspiring historic square in the heart of Brussels. Surrounded by beautifully ornate guildhalls and the remarkable City Hall, it`s truly a gem of architectural elegance. The site, a U... more

One of the most iconic landmarks in Belgium, Grand Place is an awe-inspiring historic square in the heart of Brussels. Surrounded by beautifully ornate guildhalls and the remarkable City Hall, it`s truly a gem of architectural elegance. The site, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an atmospheric spectacle when illuminated at night. A diverse array of cafes and shops further enhance the appeal of the locale, making it a must-visit for any traveler.

Gravensteen Castle, Ghent

The medieval Gravensteen Castle in Ghent is one of Belgium`s most intriguing sights. Built in 1180, the castle features a fortified moat, an impressive keep, and a museum with exhibits about medieval life. Visitors can explore the torturous past of t... more

The medieval Gravensteen Castle in Ghent is one of Belgium`s most intriguing sights. Built in 1180, the castle features a fortified moat, an impressive keep, and a museum with exhibits about medieval life. Visitors can explore the torturous past of the castle in the museum of torture devices or enjoy panoramic city views from the battlements. Its impressive architecture and intriguing history make it a must-see for history buffs.

Groeninge Museum, Bruges

The Groeninge Museum in Bruges houses a spectacular collection of Flemish and Belgian art spanning six centuries. It offers a comprehensive survey of the artistic movements that have flourished in the region, featuring masterpieces by artists like Ja... more

The Groeninge Museum in Bruges houses a spectacular collection of Flemish and Belgian art spanning six centuries. It offers a comprehensive survey of the artistic movements that have flourished in the region, featuring masterpieces by artists like Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch. The museum is a paradise for art lovers and an essential stop in Bruges.

Horta Museum, Brussels

The Horta Museum, located in the private house and studio of architect Victor Horta, is a homage to the Art Nouveau style. Horta is one of the most important names in Art Nouveau architecture, and the museum provides a close look at his work and infl... more

The Horta Museum, located in the private house and studio of architect Victor Horta, is a homage to the Art Nouveau style. Horta is one of the most important names in Art Nouveau architecture, and the museum provides a close look at his work and influence. The building itself is a masterpiece, with its light-filled spaces and intricate details representing the essence of Art Nouveau.

In Flanders Fields Museum, Ypres

Located in Ypres, the In Flanders Fields Museum is dedicated to the study of World War I. Its exhibits utilize modern technology to provide a personal perspective on the war, immersing visitors in the experiences of individuals involved. Named after... more

Located in Ypres, the In Flanders Fields Museum is dedicated to the study of World War I. Its exhibits utilize modern technology to provide a personal perspective on the war, immersing visitors in the experiences of individuals involved. Named after the famous war poem, the museum promotes peace by remembering the atrocities of war.

Leuven Town Hall

The Leuven Town Hall is an architectural masterpiece of the 15th century, boasting a Late Gothic style with a facade embellished with numerous statues. This ornate, fairy-tale building stands as an emblem of Leuven`s historic grandeur and is one of t... more

The Leuven Town Hall is an architectural masterpiece of the 15th century, boasting a Late Gothic style with a facade embellished with numerous statues. This ornate, fairy-tale building stands as an emblem of Leuven`s historic grandeur and is one of the most famous town halls in the world.

Mini-Europe, Brussels

Located at the foot of the Atomium in Brussels, Mini-Europe is a park that features miniatures of famous European landmarks at a scale of 1:25. From the Eiffel Tower to the canals of Venice, this unique park offers a fun, educational experience of Eu... more

Located at the foot of the Atomium in Brussels, Mini-Europe is a park that features miniatures of famous European landmarks at a scale of 1:25. From the Eiffel Tower to the canals of Venice, this unique park offers a fun, educational experience of Europe in just a few hours. A visit to Mini-Europe provides a fascinating overview of Europe`s architectural heritage.

Museum Plantin-Moretus, Antwerp

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Museum Plantin-Moretus is dedicated to the history of printing and bookmaking. Housed in the former residence of the Plantin-Moretus family, it retains the world`s oldest printing presses and a rich collection of manuscr... more

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Museum Plantin-Moretus is dedicated to the history of printing and bookmaking. Housed in the former residence of the Plantin-Moretus family, it retains the world`s oldest printing presses and a rich collection of manuscripts and printed books. This one-of-a-kind museum provides an in-depth look into the early days of the printed word.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts, Brussels

Belgium`s foremost art institution, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels, is a collective of six museums boasting more than 20,000 artworks. Spanning from the 15th to 21st centuries, the collections include works by Flemish masters like Rubens... more

Belgium`s foremost art institution, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels, is a collective of six museums boasting more than 20,000 artworks. Spanning from the 15th to 21st centuries, the collections include works by Flemish masters like Rubens and Bruegel, as well as modern and contemporary art. Whether you`re a die-hard art enthusiast or a casual observer, the vast array offers something for everyone.

Rubenshuis, Antwerp

Rubenshuis, or the Rubens House, in Antwerp is the former home and studio of the renowned Flemish Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. Today, it serves as a museum dedicated to his life and work. The building is designed in a mix of styles reflecting th... more

Rubenshuis, or the Rubens House, in Antwerp is the former home and studio of the renowned Flemish Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. Today, it serves as a museum dedicated to his life and work. The building is designed in a mix of styles reflecting the artist`s tastes, and the collection includes a number of his masterpieces. Visiting Rubenshuis provides a unique opportunity to experience the world of one of the most influential artists of the 17th century.

The Canals of Bruges

Bruges, often referred to as the `Venice of the North`, is famous for its picturesque canals. A boat trip along these charming waterways offers the best perspective of the city`s well-preserved medieval architecture. The tranquil ambiance, swans glid... more

Bruges, often referred to as the `Venice of the North`, is famous for its picturesque canals. A boat trip along these charming waterways offers the best perspective of the city`s well-preserved medieval architecture. The tranquil ambiance, swans gliding by, and beautiful views of centuries-old houses and bridges make it a quintessential Bruges experience.

The Lion`s Mound, Waterloo

The Lion`s Mound is a large artificial hill in the Waterloo Battlefield. It was constructed at the spot where Prince William II of the Netherlands was wounded during the Battle of Waterloo. Climbing the mound offers a commanding view of the battlefie... more

The Lion`s Mound is a large artificial hill in the Waterloo Battlefield. It was constructed at the spot where Prince William II of the Netherlands was wounded during the Battle of Waterloo. Climbing the mound offers a commanding view of the battlefield. This iconic landmark serves as a vivid reminder of one of the most pivotal battles in European history.

The Menin Gate, Ypres

The Menin Gate in Ypres is a poignant war memorial dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soldiers killed in the Ypres Salient of World War I and whose graves are unknown. Every evening at 8pm, the Last Post is played in a solemn ceremony, a tradi... more

The Menin Gate in Ypres is a poignant war memorial dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soldiers killed in the Ypres Salient of World War I and whose graves are unknown. Every evening at 8pm, the Last Post is played in a solemn ceremony, a tradition upheld since 1928. This tribute to the fallen soldiers is a deeply moving experience.

Tournai Cathedral

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Tournai is one of the most significant religious buildings in Belgium. It combines the Romanesque and Gothic styles, resulting in an architectural design that`s unique in Western architecture. The five bell towers and t... more

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Tournai is one of the most significant religious buildings in Belgium. It combines the Romanesque and Gothic styles, resulting in an architectural design that`s unique in Western architecture. The five bell towers and the stunning rosette window on the transept facade make this cathedral an exceptional monument. It`s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a visit is a step back in time.

Trappist Abbey of Westvleteren

The Trappist Abbey of Westvleteren is home to a small community of monks who brew some of the world`s most coveted beers. This secluded monastery invites guests to enjoy their acclaimed brews in a peaceful environment, while respecting their monastic... more

The Trappist Abbey of Westvleteren is home to a small community of monks who brew some of the world`s most coveted beers. This secluded monastery invites guests to enjoy their acclaimed brews in a peaceful environment, while respecting their monastic way of life. Note that the brewery does not have regular opening hours, and it’s recommended to book ahead to secure a chance to taste their legendary beers.

Waterloo Battlefield

The Waterloo Battlefield is where the Duke of Wellington defeated Napoleon in 1815. Visitors can explore the battlefield site, which remains largely unchanged, and climb the Lion`s Mound for panoramic views of the battlefield. The site`s visitor cent... more

The Waterloo Battlefield is where the Duke of Wellington defeated Napoleon in 1815. Visitors can explore the battlefield site, which remains largely unchanged, and climb the Lion`s Mound for panoramic views of the battlefield. The site`s visitor centre includes an immersive 3D movie experience about the battle, adding a contemporary touch to the historic site.

More