What to See and Visit in Belgium?
Belgium is a country in the heart of Europe that is home to many world-renowned attractions. From picturesque medieval towns to world-famous comic books, there is something here to suit the tastes of all kinds of travelers. No matter your taste or budget, here’s a list of the best places to see in Belgium.
Medieval Cities
Bruges and Ghent
The two medieval towns of Bruges and Ghent are a must-visit when you’re in Belgium. Both Bruges and Ghent are situated in the Flemish region and are a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site for their stunning architecture and cobbled streets. In Bruges, you can explore charming spots like the Old City Centre, which has canals and lakes, and the Belfry of Bruges – a magnificent bell tower. Ghent also boasts a gorgeous old city centre with plenty of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, as well as the beguinage area, a collective of old almshouses, whose origin dates back to the 13th century.
Antwerp
Another Belgian city full of medieval charm is Antwerp. The historic city of Antwerp is home to a rich heritage that is visible in its cobblestone squares, stunning architectural buildings, ancient almshouses, and more. Each district has its own face and character – from the Baroque look of the Groenplaats to the innovative art and design at the Het Eilandje. Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums and art collections, like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Rubens House.
Coastal Resorts
Knokke-Heist
If you’re looking for a seaside escape, Knokke-Heist is the perfect getaway on Belgium’s coastline. Known as the “gastronomic pearl of the Westhoek”, Knokke-Heist offers an extensive range of seafood restaurants, luxury hotels, and recreational activities, like riding the park tram to explore the sand dunes. While here, visitors can also take some time out to enjoy the beach or explore Knokke’s famous Zwin Nature Park.
De Haan
The small coastal town of De Haan is a much-loved destination for visitors looking for both relaxing beach days and a variety of activities. Its charming town centre has plenty of local cafés and shops, and visitors can take advantage of its lovely sandy beaches or explore the nearby nature reserve, the Singravenwand. Other popular attractions include the De Haan Pier, the Doll & Miniature Museum, and the nearby Boudewijn Seapark.
Ostend
Ostend is another excellent beach resort in Belgium. It is frequently dubbed the “Queen of the Belgian Coast”, and its coastline offers beaches and seaside promenades that are ideal for sun-seekers. There’s plenty to explore in the city itself, with attractions such as the biggest port of Belgium, or the Marine Artist Museum. Ostend is also known for its lively nightlife and hosts many summer festivals, including the EU Music Festival and the celebrations of Ostend’s biggest patron saint, Saint Peter and Paul.
Cultural Attractions
Belgian Comic Strips
Belgium is home to a wide variety of comic strips, including “The Adventures of Tintin” and “The Smurfs”. These comics are internationally renowned and are even used in parts of French-speaking Brussels as educational material. The Belgian Comic Strip Center in Brussels is an excellent spot to learn more about these comic strips, and there are plenty of comic-related attractions scattered across the country, like the comic strip murals in the City of Charleroi.
Museums
Belgium also has several world-class museums, such as the King Baudouin Foundation Museum in Brussels, which houses artworks from the Middle Ages to modern times. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium in Antwerp is a must-see for its paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Other prominent Belgium museums include the Belgian National Program Museum in Leuven, the Royal Museums of Art and History in Brussels, and the Museum of the City of Brussels in the city’s Grand Place.
Festivals and Events
Belgium has an exciting calendar of events and festivals all-year-round. Perhaps the most well-known is the Gentse Feesten – the Folkloristic Festival of Ghent – held every July. Other popular events include Tomorrowland, the world-renowned music festival held in Boom each year, and the Brussels Jazz Marathon, the largest jazz festival in Belgium. Other Belgium events to keep an eye out for include the Ieperfest in August, the Zomiros Festival in June, and April’s Bruges Beer Festival.
Chocolate
Last but not least, Belgium is famous for its delicious chocolate. The country is renowned for its craftsmanship in making fine chocolates and producing chocolate in many varieties. While in Belgium, consider visiting some of the country’s famous chocolate shops, like La Belgique Gourmande or Neuhaus. You can even visit one of the many Belgian chocolate factories that offer chocolate-tasting sessions and tours of chocolate-making process.
Belgium is an incredibly diverse country that’s packed with attractions. From the cobbled streets of its medieval cities to the vibrant music festivals, there is something for everyone here. Whether you’re a beach goer, foodie, or culture lover, Belgium has something for you. So, make sure to add some of these attractions to your list of places to visit in Belgium.
