Belgium, a charming European gem, offers a captivating tapestry of rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes. From its bustling cosmopolitan cities to its tranquil medieval towns and lush natural reserves, Belgium presents a wealth of travel destinations for every kind of explorer. This guide will take you through 20 of the most breathtaking places in Belgium, ensuring your travel journey is filled with unforgettable experiences, from savoring world-famous cuisine to exploring ancient historic places.
1. Brussels
Brussels, the capital city of Belgium and often referred to as the “Heart of Europe,” is a vibrant and multicultural metropolis. It’s a must-see destination that blends grand architecture, world-class museums, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it one of the best places to visit in Belgium.
Location: Central Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region.
Best time to visit: May-September for warm weather; December for Christmas markets.
Activities on offer:
Marvel at the Grand Place (Grote Markt), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s most exquisite squares.
Visit the iconic Atomium, a futuristic structure offering panoramic city views.
See the famous Manneken Pis statue, a quirky symbol of Brussels.
Explore the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, one of Europe’s oldest shopping arcades.
Accommodation:
Hotel Amigo, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Stanhope Hotel by Thon Hotels
The Hotel Brussels
2. Bruges
Often called the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a fairytale city renowned for its perfectly preserved medieval towns charm, picturesque canals, and stunning historic architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s arguably one of the most romantic and scenic places in Belgium.
Location: West Flanders Province, Flemish Region.
Best time to visit: April-May (spring blooms) and September-October (autumn colors) for pleasant weather; December for Christmas markets.
Activities on offer:
Take a romantic boat trip along the Canals of Bruges, admiring the gabled houses.
Climb the Belfry of Bruges for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a notable historic place.
Stroll through the Markt Square and Burg Square, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Accommodation:
Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges
Hotel Orangerie
Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage
3. Ghent
Ghent is an enchanting city that perfectly combines medieval history with a youthful, modern vibe. Often considered Belgium’s hidden gem, it boasts stunning landmarks, a lively atmosphere, and a thriving arts and cuisine scene, making it one of the most captivating travel destinations.
Location: East Flanders Province, Flemish Region.
Best time to visit: April-June and September-October for mild weather; July for Ghent Festival.
Activities on offer:
Explore the imposing Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress offering insights into Belgium’s past.
Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral to see the famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” altarpiece.
Relax along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei quays, lined with historic guild houses.
Enjoy a boat tour along the canals to see Ghent’s landmarks from a different perspective.
Accommodation:
Hotel Harmony
Ghent Marriott Hotel
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent
4. Antwerp
Antwerp is a dynamic city famous for its diamond district, thriving fashion scene, and world-class museums. This major port city is a hub of culture and architecture, offering a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern dynamism, making it a key Belgium travel destination.
Location: Antwerp Province, Flemish Region.
Best time to visit: April-May and September-October for mild weather, ideal for city exploration.
Activities on offer:
Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, home to masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens.
Explore the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) for insights into Antwerp’s maritime and cultural history.
Wander through the Diamond Quarter and the vibrant fashion district.
Admire the stunning Antwerpen-Centraal railway station, often called a “railway cathedral.”
Accommodation:
Hotel Julien
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp
Hyllit Hotel
5. Dinant
Dinant is one of the most picturesque towns in Belgium, dramatically set along the Meuse River and backed by towering cliffs. Its most famous landmark is the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, set against a stunning rocky backdrop, making it a truly breathtaking place and a charming travel destination.
Location: Namur Province, Wallonia Region.
Best time to visit: May-September for pleasant weather for river activities and exploring the citadel.
Activities on offer:
Take a cable car ride up to the Citadel of Dinant for panoramic views of the town and Meuse Valley.
Visit the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, a striking Gothic cathedral.
Explore the Caves of Dinant or the nearby Caves of Han-sur-Lesse, offering a natural adventure.
Discover the House of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone.
Accommodation:
Hotel La Merveilleuse
Castel de Pont-à-Lesse
Hotel Aquatel
6. Leuven
Leuven is a charming university city known for its historic architecture, vibrant student life, and rich brewing tradition. Its magnificent Town Hall and lively Old Market Square make it a delightful destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and good times.
Location: Flemish Brabant Province, Flemish Region.
Best time to visit: April-June and September-October for mild weather, and a lively student atmosphere.
Activities on offer:
Marvel at the intricate Gothic architecture of Leuven Town Hall, a true masterpiece.
Stroll through the Old Market Square, often called “the longest bar in the world,” packed with cafes and bars.
Visit the Great Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a peaceful historical experience.
Take a tour of the Stella Artois Brewery, a key part of Belgium’s cuisine and beer culture.
Accommodation:
Martin’s Klooster
Begijnhof Hotel
Hotel The Fourth – Tafelrond
7. Mechelen
Mechelen is a charming city that often goes unnoticed by tourists, yet it offers some of Belgium’s most beautiful historic places and a tranquil atmosphere. Its towering cathedral, picturesque canals, and rich heritage make it a delightful travel destination for those seeking authentic Belgian culture.
Location: Antwerp Province, Flemish Region, between Brussels and Antwerp.
Best time to visit: April-June and September-October for mild temperatures, ideal for city walks.
Activities on offer:
Climb St. Rumbold’s Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Take a peaceful boat trip along the River Dijle for unique perspectives of the city’s architecture.
Visit the Grote Markt (Main Square) and admire the historic buildings.
Explore the Royal Manufacturers De Wit Tapestry Factory, showcasing traditional Belgian crafts.
Accommodation:
Martin’s Patershof
Hotel Elisabeth
Vixx Hotel
8. The Ardennes
The Ardennes region is a natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. This densely forested area, with its rolling hills, vast forests, meandering rivers, and charming villages, offers a wilder side of Belgium perfect for adventure and nature lovers.
Location: Southeastern Belgium, spanning parts of Wallonia.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for hiking and outdoor activities; winter for snow sports.
Activities on offer:
Hiking and mountain biking through extensive trails in vast forests.
Kayaking on the Semois or Lesse rivers, offering scenic adventure.
Exploring famous natural caves like the Caves of Han-sur-Lesse.
Visiting quaint villages like Durbuy and La Roche-en-Ardenne, with their medieval castles.
Accommodation:
Château de Vignée
La Petite Merveille (in Durbuy)
Domaine de Villers Sainte Gertrude
9. Ypres
Ypres is a city steeped in solemn history, serving as a powerful memorial to the events of World War I. While a poignant destination, its beautifully rebuilt medieval center and numerous memorials offer a profound cultural experience and a vital look into Belgium’s past.
Location: West Flanders Province, Flemish Region.
Best time to visit: April-October for milder weather for visiting outdoor memorials.
Activities on offer:
Attend the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate Memorial, held nightly.
Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum for an immersive experience of WWI.
Explore the various battlefields of Flanders and war cemeteries in the surrounding area.
Walk around the rebuilt historic market square.
Accommodation:
Main Street Hotel
Novotel Ieper Centrum Flanders Fields
Hotel Regina
10. Spa
Spa is a chic town renowned for being the original “spa destination,” giving its name to all other health resorts. This elegant town in the Ardennes is famous for its historic thermal pools and charming 19th-century architecture, offering relaxation and well-being.
Location: Liège Province, Wallonia Region.
Best time to visit: Year-round for thermal baths; May-September for outdoor activities.
Activities on offer:
Relax and rejuvenate in the thermal baths at Thermes de Spa.
Visit the Pouhon Pierre le Grand spring, a historic mineral water source.
Explore the Casino de Spa, one of Europe’s oldest casinos.
Drive or visit the iconic Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, a famous Formula 1 racetrack.
Accommodation:
Radisson Blu Palace Hotel, Spa
Hotel La Villa des Fleurs
Hotel l’Auberge
11. Hallerbos (The Blue Forest)
Hallerbos, famously known as the “Blue Forest,” is a magical woodland that transforms into a carpet of vibrant bluebells each spring. This natural phenomenon creates a truly breathtaking landscape and a serene escape, making it one of Belgium’s most enchanting natural wonders for photographers and nature lovers.
Location: Halle, Flemish Brabant Province.
Best time to visit: Late April to early May for the peak bluebell bloom.
Activities on offer:
Walking and hiking through the enchanting bluebell-covered forest.
Photography of the unique and vibrant floral display.
Enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this natural spectacle.
Birdwatching and spotting local wildlife.
Accommodation:
(Often visited as a day trip from Brussels; no direct accommodation in the forest.)
Van der Valk Hotel Brussels Airport
Tangla Hotel Brussels
12. Mons
Mons is a historic city in Wallonia, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its belfry and neolithic flint mines. It offers a captivating blend of charming cobbled streets, impressive architecture, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a fascinating travel destination.
Location: Hainaut Province, Wallonia Region.
Best time to visit: May-September for pleasant weather, especially during the Doudou festival in June.
Activities on offer:
Explore the Grand Place of Mons and its beautiful Gothic-style Town Hall.
Climb the Mons Belfry (UNESCO site) for panoramic views.
Visit the Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church, a masterpiece of Brabantine Gothic art.
Discover the Neolithic Flint Mines of Spiennes, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
Accommodation:
Martin’s Dream Hotel
Infotel
Van der Valk Hotel Mons Congres
13. Namur
Namur is the charming capital of Wallonia, majestically situated at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers. Dominated by its impressive citadel, it offers a blend of medieval history, riverine beauty, and vibrant urban life, making it a scenic and historically rich destination.
Location: Namur Province, Wallonia Region.
Best time to visit: May-September for ideal weather for river cruises and exploring the citadel.
Activities on offer:
Explore the Citadel of Namur, one of Europe’s largest medieval forts, with stunning views over the Meuse River.
Take a cable car ride up to the citadel.
Stroll through the charming Old Town and visit St. Aubin’s Cathedral.
Enjoy a river cruise on the Meuse or Sambre rivers.
Accommodation:
The Royal Snail Hotel
Hotel Les Tanneurs
NE5T Hotel & Spa
14. Tournai
Tournai is one of Belgium’s oldest cities, with a history stretching back to Roman times. A UNESCO World Heritage site for its magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral and ancient Belfry, it offers a deep dive into Belgium’s rich past and stunning architecture, providing a profound cultural experience.
Location: Hainaut Province, Wallonia Region.
Best time to visit: May-September for pleasant weather for walking and sightseeing.
Activities on offer:
Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning Romanesque and Gothic masterpiece with five towers.
Climb the Tournai Belfry, the oldest belfry in Belgium, for city views.
Explore the Museum of Fine Arts, designed by Victor Horta.
Wander through the charming old streets and discover hidden gems.
Accommodation:
Hotel Floreal Le Panoramique
Hotel Cathédrale
Floreal Le Panoramique
15. Ostend
Ostend is Belgium’s largest coastal city, known for its wide sandy beaches, vibrant promenade, and a blend of urban buzz and seaside relaxation. It offers a classic Belgian coast experience with maritime history, art, and plenty of entertainment, making it a popular travel destination.
Location: West Flanders Province, Flemish Region, on the North Sea coast.
Best time to visit: June-September for beach weather; year-round for coastal walks and city breaks.
Activities on offer:
Relax on the expansive beaches and swim in the North Sea.
Stroll along the bustling promenade, admiring coastal architecture.
Visit the Mercator, a three-masted training ship that’s now a museum.
Explore the Fort Napoleon, a well-preserved Napoleonic fortress.
Accommodation:
Hotel Bero
Andromeda Hotel
Thermae Palace
16. Knokke-Heist
Knokke-Heist is an upscale coastal resort town on the Belgian coast, renowned for its fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and wide, clean beaches. It’s a sophisticated destination for those seeking luxury travel and high-end coastal relaxation, with beautiful natural surroundings.
Location: West Flanders Province, Flemish Region, on the North Sea coast.
Best time to visit: June-September for peak beach season; year-round for shopping and art galleries.
Activities on offer:
Enjoy the pristine beaches and promenade.
Explore the high-end shops and art galleries.
Visit the Zwin Nature Park, a famous birdwatching destination.
Play golf at one of the prestigious courses.
Accommodation:
Hotel La Reserve
Hotel Manoir du Dragon
Hotel Terranova
17. Durbuy
Durbuy charmingly claims the title of the “world’s smallest city,” nestled in the heart of the Ardennes. With its narrow medieval streets, ancient castle, and picturesque setting along the Ourthe River, it offers an idyllic and charmingly compact travel destination for relaxation and adventure.
Location: Luxembourg Province, Wallonia Region.
Best time to visit: May-September for pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring the town.
Activities on offer:
Wander through the charming cobbled streets of the medieval city center.
Visit Durbuy Castle (private, but views from outside are impressive).
Explore the Topiary Park, featuring intricate plant sculptures.
Enjoy outdoor adventure activities like kayaking on the Ourthe River.
Accommodation:
Le Sanglier des Ardennes
Les Tanneurs de Durbuy
Hotel Côté Cour Côté Jardin
18. La Roche-en-Ardenne
La Roche-en-Ardenne is a picturesque town set on a bend of the Ourthe River, dominated by its impressive medieval castle ruins. It’s a popular destination in the Ardennes for history, nature, and outdoor adventure, offering a blend of historic charm and natural beauty.
Location: Luxembourg Province, Wallonia Region.
Best time to visit: May-September for ideal hiking and outdoor activities.
Activities on offer:
Explore the dramatic ruins of the Medieval Castle of La Roche-en-Ardenne.
Kayaking and canoeing on the Ourthe River.
Hiking and cycling in the surrounding forests and hills.
Visiting the Battle of the Bulge Museum (if interested in WWII history).
Accommodation:
Hotel Le Florentin
Hotel Les Arcades
Hostellerie La Claire Fontaine
19. Hoge Kempen National Park
Hoge Kempen National Park is Belgium’s only national park, a vast area of forests, heathlands, and large lakes. A former coal-mining region transformed into a natural wonder, it offers incredible opportunities for hiking, cycling, and immersing yourself in Belgium’s diverse nature and scenic landscapes.
Location: Limburg Province, Flemish Region.
Best time to visit: Spring (for heathland blooms) and Autumn (for fall colors); generally good year-round for hiking.
Activities on offer:
Extensive hiking and cycling on well-marked trails, including unique cycling bridges.
Wildlife spotting, including roe deer and various bird species.
Exploring diverse landscapes from pine forests to purple heathlands and sand dunes.
Enjoying the tranquility and vastness of the park.
Accommodation:
Terhills Hotel (at the park’s gateway)
EuroParcs Hoge Kempen (Holiday park near the park)
Carbon Hotel (in nearby Genk)
20. Bastogne
Bastogne is a small town in the Ardennes, forever etched in history as the site of a pivotal siege during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. It’s a significant historic place and a moving travel destination for those interested in military history and remembrance, offering a profound cultural experience.
Location: Luxembourg Province, Wallonia Region.
Best time to visit: April-October for comfortable weather for visiting outdoor memorials and museums.
Activities on offer:
Visit the Bastogne War Museum for a comprehensive overview of the Battle of the Bulge.
Explore the Mardasson Memorial, honoring American soldiers.
Walk through the Bois Jacques (Wood of Peace), where many soldiers fought.
See the Nuts Cave, where General McAuliffe famously responded “Nuts!” to a surrender demand.
Accommodation:
Hotel Leo Station
Merceny Motel
Hotel Giorgi
Belgium truly is a charming European gem, offering a diverse array of breathtaking places for every traveler. From the iconic Grand Place of Brussels and the romantic canals of Bruges to the vibrant culture of Antwerp and the natural adventure of the Ardennes, this country promises unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking historic places, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, or serene natural landscapes, these travel destinations showcase the very best of what Belgium has to offer.
Ready to explore these incredible destinations for yourself? Let Hourglass Expeditions craft your perfect Belgium travel adventure, tailored to your dreams and interests. Contact us today to start planning your bespoke journey to this beautiful country!
