Belgium is a small European country that is known for its delicious chocolates, waffles, beer, and fries. However, Belgium has a lot more to offer than just food. The country is dotted with charming cities that are filled with history, culture, and architectural wonders. In this article, we will take you on a tour of the 15 best cities to visit in Belgium.
Brussels
Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and is located in the central part of the country. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. The city is home to many famous attractions, including the Grand Place, the Atomium, and the Manneken Pis. If you are a chocolate lover, then you should definitely visit the Chocolate Museum, which showcases the history and culture of chocolate in Belgium.
Bruges
Bruges is a charming city that is often referred to as the “Venice of the North”. It is known for its romantic canals, stunning architecture, and rich history. The city has many famous attractions, including the Belfry of Bruges, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Groeningemuseum. If you are a beer lover, then you should definitely visit the De Halve Maan Brewery, which offers tours and tastings.
Ghent
Ghent is a vibrant city that is located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is known for its medieval architecture, rich history, and cultural events. The city has many famous attractions, including the Gravensteen Castle, the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Ghent Altarpiece. If you are a foodie, then you should definitely visit the Graffiti Street, which is known for its trendy bars and restaurants.
Antwerp
Antwerp is a bustling city that is known for its fashion, diamonds, and art. It is home to many famous attractions, including the Antwerp Central Station, the Cathedral of Our Lady, and the Rubenshuis. If you are a fashion lover, then you should definitely visit the ModeMuseum, which showcases the history and culture of fashion in Belgium.
Leuven
Leuven is a charming city that is located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant student culture. The city has many famous attractions, including the Town Hall, the St. Peter’s Church, and the M-Museum. If you are a beer lover, then you should definitely visit the Stella Artois Brewery, which offers tours and tastings.
Mechelen
Mechelen is a hidden gem that is located between Brussels and Antwerp. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural events. The city has many famous attractions, including the St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, the Toy Museum, and the Technopolis. If you are a nature lover, then you should definitely visit the Planckendael Zoo, which is home to many exotic animals.
Namur
Namur is a picturesque city that is located in the Wallonia region of Belgium. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful scenery. The city has many famous attractions, including the Citadel of Namur, the St. Aubin’s Cathedral, and the Belfry of Namur. If you are a nature lover, then you should definitely visit the Jardin Félicien Rops, which is a beautiful botanical garden that is named after the famous Belgian artist Félicien Rops.
Ypres
Ypres is a city that is located in the Flanders region of Belgium. It is known for its rich history, cultural events, and beautiful countryside. The city has many famous attractions, including the Menin Gate Memorial, the In Flanders Fields Museum, and the Cloth Hall. If you are a history buff, then you should definitely visit the trenches and battlefields of World War I, which are located just outside the city.
Hasselt
Hasselt is a city that is located in the Limburg province of Belgium. It is known for its fashion, jenever (a traditional Belgian liquor), and cultural events. The city has many famous attractions, including the Jenever Museum, the Japanese Garden, and the Fashion Museum. If you are a foodie, then you should definitely try the Hasseltse speculaas, which is a traditional spiced biscuit that is made in the city.
Liège
Liège is a city that is located in the Wallonia region of Belgium. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural events. The city has many famous attractions, including the Liège-Guillemins Railway Station, the Prince-Bishops’ Palace, and the Curtius Museum. If you are a foodie, then you should definitely try the Boulets à la Liégeoise, which is a traditional Belgian dish that is made with meatballs and a sweet and sour sauce.
Dinant
Dinant is a city that is located in the Wallonia region of Belgium. It is known for its stunning scenery, rich history, and cultural events. The city has many famous attractions, including the Citadel of Dinant, the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, and the Saxophone Museum. If you are an adventure seeker, then you should definitely try kayaking on the River Meuse, which offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings.
Mons
Mons is a city that is located in the Wallonia region of Belgium. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural events. The city has many famous attractions, including the Belfry of Mons, the St. Waltrude’s Collegiate Church, and the Mons Memorial Museum. If you are a beer lover, then you should definitely try the local beer, the St. Feuillien, which is brewed in the city.
Tournai
Tournai is a city that is located in the Wallonia region of Belgium. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural events. The city has many famous attractions, including the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Belfry of Tournai, and the Museum of Fine Arts. If you are a foodie, then you should definitely try the Tournai mustard, which is a traditional Belgian condiment that is made in the city.
Ostend
Ostend is a city that is located on the coast of Belgium. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and cultural events. The city has many famous attractions, including the Mu.ZEE Museum, the Fort Napoleon, and the Mercator Museum.
If you’re looking for a seaside getaway in Belgium, Ostend is the perfect place to visit. This vibrant coastal city has a lot to offer, from long stretches of sandy beaches to impressive museums and historic sites. Here are some of the top things to do in Ostend:
- Spend a day at the beach: Ostend is known for its long, sandy beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach promenade is also a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the sea breeze.
- Visit the Mu.ZEE Museum: This contemporary art museum is housed in a former department store and features a wide range of artworks by Belgian and international artists. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations.
- Explore the Fort Napoleon: This 19th-century fortress was built to defend the coast against British attacks. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction that offers guided tours and interactive exhibits.
- Discover the Mercator Museum: This maritime museum is dedicated to the history of the Belgian Navy and the life of the famous explorer, Gerardus Mercator. The museum is housed in a 1930s ship that has been restored to its former glory.
- Take a stroll through the Leopold Park: This large park is a great place to relax and enjoy the greenery. It features a large pond, a playground, and several sculptures.
- Visit the Ostend City Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Ostend, from its early beginnings as a fishing village to its role as a popular seaside resort.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Ostend is known for its seafood, particularly its shrimp croquettes and fish soup. There are also many restaurants and cafes that serve Belgian specialties like waffles, chocolate, and beer.
- Attend a cultural event: Ostend hosts many festivals and cultural events throughout the year, including the Ostend Film Festival, the Theater aan Zee Festival, and the Ostend Beach Festival.
Overall, Ostend is a great destination for anyone looking for a mix of seaside relaxation and cultural attractions. With its beautiful beaches, impressive museums, and vibrant cultural scene, it’s no wonder why Ostend is one of the best cities to visit in Belgium.
Conclusion:
Belgium is a country that is filled with amazing cities to explore. From the historic city of Bruges to the vibrant city of Brussels, there is no shortage of places to visit. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, art, or food, Belgium has something for everyone. We hope this article has inspired you to plan your next trip to one of these 15 best cities to visit in Belgium.
FAQs:
- What is the best time to visit Belgium? The best time to visit Belgium is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
- What is the official language of Belgium? Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.
- What is the currency used in Belgium? The currency used in Belgium is the Euro (EUR).
- Is it safe to travel to Belgium? Belgium is generally a safe country to visit, but like any other destination, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
- What are some popular Belgian dishes to try? Some popular Belgian dishes to try include moules-frites (mussels and fries), carbonnade flamande (beef stew), and stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables).