Must See Places In Belgium

Belgium, a small country in Western Europe, is often overlooked by travelers, but it has a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture that is waiting to be explored. From the medieval city of Bruges to the vibrant city of Antwerp, and from the stunning natural beauty of the Ardennes to the quirky comic book culture of Brussels, Belgium has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the must-see places in Belgium, and discover why it is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Historic Cities

Belgium is home to some of the most beautiful and historic cities in Europe. Bruges, for example, is a medieval city that has been preserved in its entirety, with cobblestone streets, canals, and stunning architecture. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often referred to as the “Venice of the North”. Visitors can take a romantic boat tour of the canals, visit the Belfry Tower, and explore the city’s many museums and galleries.

Bruges

The Belfry Tower: This 83-meter-tall tower offers stunning views of the city and is a must-visit attraction.
The Church of Our Lady: This beautiful church is home to Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, the “Madonna and Child”.
The Groeningemuseum: This museum is home to an impressive collection of Flemish and Belgian art, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.

Another historic city in Belgium is Ghent, which is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history. The city is home to the stunning St. Bavo’s Cathedral, which houses the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece of medieval art. Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums, galleries, and historic buildings, including the Castle of the Counts and the Gravensteen Castle.

Ghent

St. Bavo’s Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece and offers breathtaking views of the city.
The Castle of the Counts: This medieval castle is now a museum and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
The Gravensteen Castle: This 12th-century castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe and offers stunning views of the city.

Natural Beauty

Belgium is also home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Europe. The Ardennes, for example, is a region of rolling hills, forests, and mountains that is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the region’s many nature reserves, including the High Fens and the Hautes Fagnes, which are home to a wide variety of wildlife and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Ardennes

The High Fens: This nature reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and birds.
The Hautes Fagnes: This nature reserve is known for its stunning scenery and offers many hiking trails and outdoor activities.
The Red Rock Formations: This unique geological formation is a must-see attraction in the Ardennes and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Belgium is also home to a number of beautiful beaches, including the popular coastal towns of Ostend and De Panne. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. (See Also: What Are The Must See Places In Vietnam)

Beaches

Ostend: This popular coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history.
De Panne: This charming coastal town is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including the popular Koksijde Beach.
Knokke-Heist: This upscale coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and vibrant nightlife.

Culture and Cuisine

Belgium is also famous for its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. The country is home to a number of world-renowned festivals, including the Tomorrowland music festival and the Gentse Feesten cultural festival. Visitors can also enjoy a range of delicious Belgian dishes, including waffles, chocolate, and beer.

Festivals

Tomorrowland: This world-famous music festival is held in Boom and features a range of top DJs and performers.
Gentse Feesten: This cultural festival is held in Ghent and features a range of music, theater, and dance performances.
Brussels Summer Festival: This festival is held in Brussels and features a range of music, theater, and dance performances.

Belgium is also famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes a range of traditional dishes such as waffles, chocolate, and beer. Visitors can enjoy a range of delicious meals at one of the country’s many restaurants, cafes, and bistros, or try some of the local specialties at a street food market.

Cuisine

Waffles: These delicious treats are a must-try when visiting Belgium and can be enjoyed with a range of toppings, including whipped cream, chocolate, and fruit.
Chocolate: Belgium is famous for its high-quality chocolate and visitors can enjoy a range of delicious treats, including truffles, pralines, and chocolate-covered waffles.
Beer: Belgium is home to a number of world-renowned beers, including Westvleteren 12 and Chimay Blue. Visitors can enjoy a range of delicious beers at one of the country’s many breweries or beer bars.

Conclusion

Belgium is a country that has something for everyone. From its historic cities and natural beauty to its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you are interested in history, nature, culture, or cuisine, Belgium is a destination that is sure to leave you with lasting memories. So why not start planning your trip to Belgium today and discover all that this amazing country has to offer? (See Also: Must See Places In Cape Breton)