the best places to visit in belgium
Belgium is known for it’s medieval-style cities, historic sites and delicious chocolate and waffles. This guide will discuss the best tourist hot-spots for travelers visiting Belgium, and what to do when you get there.
As well as this, some useful information on how to get from city to city will be available.
Best time to visit:
April-October
1) bruges
Bruges is located in the north-west of Belgium, and is widely agreed on to be the most beautiful city in Belgium. Scenic canals run through the entire city whilst the long-standing gothic architecture runs across the side of the cobblestone streets. It is one of, if not the best city to experience the culture of Belgium in its fullest.
Things to do:
Climb the 366 steps up to the very top of the Belfry of Bruges, visit the beautiful main market square (Markt), take a canal boat tour, see the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and simply just walk around and take in the staggering old streets and paths of the city.
How to get there:
Bruges is connected via train services to every almost every major city in Belgium.
FlixBus is always a cheaper option from surrounding cities and towns.
You can easily book tickets through Omio.
2) brussels
Belgium's capital and most populated city is Brussels. It's a city where modern architecture coexists with historic buildings. The buildings in the main square are adorned with an abundance of gold ornaments. The European Parliament is recognized to have its headquarters in Brussels, meaning the city is filled with international culture.
Things to do:
You must visit Brussels' Grand Place, the stunning main square that is home to the city's breathtaking Town Hall. Another famous structure in Brussels that is worth seeing is the Atomium, which is adjacent to the fun theme park "Mini-Europe." It's also worthwhile to visit Brussels' EU Quarter and Royal Palace. Make sure you try some of the traditional Belgian cuisine that is available around the city.
Bonus: Pass by and have a look at the ‘Manneken Pis’ statue.
How to get there:
Brussels is the main hub for trains all around Belgium, and its easily accessed internationally by direct trains from both Paris and Amsterdam.
FlixBus from surrounding towns and cities is easily accessible
You can easily book tickets through Omio.
3) ghent
Ghent is found in the Flanders region of Belgium, and is one of Belgium’s main cities, featuring a vibrant atmosphere and a rich history. The city dates back to the middle ages, and is now a great student city. If Bruges is not the most empowering city in Belgium, it is definitely Ghent. Going to Belgium but skipping Ghent would be a huge mistake.
Things to do:
St. Bavo's Cathedral, Gravensteen Castle, and the Belfry are just a few of the major buildings you should visit as you stroll through Ghent's breathtakingly gorgeous streets. The city is dotted with canals, just like Bruges. When you visit the Belfry, you will discover Korenmarkt, the center of Ghent's life.
How to get there:
Ghent is connected by train to all the major cities, and due to its location it shouldn’t take more then an hour from most places in Belgium.
FlixBus from surrounding towns and cities is easily accessible.
You can easily book tickets through Omio.
4) leuven
Leuven is home to Belgium’s top rated university (KU Leuven), because of this, the city as a lovely dynamic atmosphere throughout, which really adds to the vibe when you pair it with the amazing buildings in the main city areas. Almost half of the whole population in Leuven are students. You’ll find great bars and cafes here in Leuven. Due to its proximity to Brussels, it can easily be done as a day trip.
Things to do:
The main thing you have to do in Leuven is visit the lively Old Market Square, and the Leuven Town Hall. Of course, checking out the University Buildings is worthwhile too, as the library is an important building in the city. Spend your time here soaking up the atmosphere.
How to get there:
A 30 minute train from Brussels is the best and most obvious choice.
5) waterloo
Waterloo is a small town in Belgium just south of Brussels. It is famously known for being the site where the Battle of Waterloo took place, which is one of the most historic and important battles in all of European History. You can find all the information on it at the various memorials and visitor areas in the city. Its a perfect destination for history lovers.
Things to do:
See the Lion’s Mound statue, and walk around to see all the exhibitions and displays related to the war. The visitor center is a good place to head to for this.
How to get there:
A 20-30 minute train from any of the major stations in Brussels.
6) the high fens
Belgium is known for being a small, flat country. Luckily, there is an advantage to it, which is that you can walk a trail in the High Fens, Belgium’s largest nature reserve. It offers views of a vast, unique landscape.
Whilst the High Fens features ‘walks,’ rather than hikes, there is lots of marked signage all through the region for hikers. It is, however, forbidden to venture off the legal tracks. Prepare for different kinds of biomes and weather.
The time and length depends on which trail you want to take, there is many options.
Where is it:
A good option for travelers is to start in the town of Eupen, which is right by the German border. From there, you should be able to find signage to lead you to access points to the hike. If not, you can always ask a local.