When googling the top European countries to visit, U.S. News Travel lists famous European cities like Paris, London, Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and Santorini. Although those are not countries, they are cities that define their countries. European Best Destination listed 10 of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, and countries like Croatia, Portugal, France, Greece, and Turkey, to name a few, made the list. After researching articles on top European destinations, I had not seen a blog post about Belgium and wondered why. Belgium is the Heart of Europe. It is surrounded by many countries that make the list of top European destinations, yet no articles are raving about its beauty or hidden gems. This article looks to give Belgium its flowers and introduce travelers to 10 must-visit destinations in Belgium, each with its unique cultural and historical significance. Before diving into the top destinations, let’s briefly examine Belgium’s history.
Brief Belgium history
Throughout its history, Belgium has been “flying under the radar” regarding its tourism potential and history. Belgium has one of the most fascinating histories in Europe. Although small, Belgium’s history is immense and has impacted world history and the economy. I, for one, was familiar with one period of its history because of its colonial legacy in my native land, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Although I went to study in Belgium because of its connection to my native country, living there and learning its history opened me to how the complexities of its identities and its fight to reclaim its statehood from the Dutch, French, and occupied Germans had an influenced on their colonial history abroad.
Historian refers to the trilingual country as the “crossroad of Europe” because its central location permits it to connect with different cultures. Belgium has seen many military disputes, from which it also received the nickname “the battlefield of Europe.” It was once part of the medieval Burgundian Netherlands, but after the 80 years of wars, which occurred from 1568 to 1648, there was a split between Northern Netherlands and Southern Netherlands. Today, Northern Netherlands is simply the Netherlands, and Southern Netherlands is present-day Belgium and Luxembourg. In 1795, Belgium became part of France through the French Revolutionary Wars. After 20 years of being under French rule, the Congress of Vienna brought Belgium back under Dutch rule. Fifteen years later, it gained independence and created a constitutional monarchy under King Leopold I, establishing the modern Belgian state.
Belgium importance
Although Belgium saw many occupations from its inception to the World Wars, it has turned around its history to become one of the most influential places in the world. From being known as the “battlefield of Europe” to its diplomatic center demonstrates the turnaround in Belgium’s influence. It is the home to the European Union, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, NATO, the United Nations, and UNICEF. Its capital, Brussels, houses more international organizations than Washington, D.C. Belgium has become a global hub where you will find people of every race, culture, and tradition. Its multicultural history, influenced by the Dutch, French, Romans, and Germans, gives it a unique identity unlike its European counterparts. However, Belgium’s importance is not limited to politics or international affairs.
When you ask an average person what they know about Belgium, they will mention waffles or chocolate, demonstrating that it has influenced other sectors, such as culinary. French fries are one food we love in America, but we don’t know that they originated in Belgium. French fries originated from Belgian villagers’ who fried potatoes during the winter because they could not fish due to the lake freezing during the winters. Aside from gastronomy, Belgium imports and exports heavy machinery. Antwerp is known as the diamond capital because Belgium imports raw diamonds and exports fine pieces of jewelry. Belgium’s historical, social, and cultural importance makes it a strong contender for tourism.
Why You Should Go on a Belgian Tour?
A Belgian tour is unlike any other. When you land at Zaveentem airport, you will automatically notice the difference. Of course, the telecom makes announcements in different languages to accommodate different nationalities at the airports. However, in Belgium, you will realize that the intercom does not speak German, French, or Dutch for international travelers but does so because it is Belgium’s national language. Whereas other European countries have one national language, Belgium has three, signaling its difference from its European counterparts and the different influences that will dictate your experience in Belgium.
On the train on the Wallon side, you will hear French. In Brussels, you will listen to all three languages; in Flanders, you will hear Dutch or English. However, don’t let the regional divide fool you because some cities in Wallon are still Dutch-influenced, like Namur. Taking a Belgian tour means experiencing different histories, cultures, and traditions. No two cities are the same. Belgian cities have a beautiful blend of old and modern. Each city’s characteristics take on a unique adventure, presenting opportunities for various activities and memories. A tour of Belgium gives you a first seat to understanding the history behind the cultural phenomenon it provided that we sometimes do not know about, especially in the comic strip arena with Tintin, the Smurf, and Lucky Luke. This diversity in culture and language is what makes Belgium a unique and fascinating travel destination.
Another reason a Belgian tour should be on your travel bucket list is because the small Belgian state allows you to explore the entire country if you choose to. The train is accessible, and you can visit every corner of the country by train. The SNCB, the national railroad company of Belgium, offers excellent deals that allow you to travel around the country. The Happy Trip ticket, for example, gives you a discount travelers can use to purchase train tickets at a reduced price when they spend a night at one of the partnered hotels in Flanders. Through the Discovery Ticket, travelers can travel to Belgium’s best attractions and return home or to their accommodations with a 50% price reduction on their return tickets. These two discount examples are among the best initiatives Belgium’s transport department has put forth to ensure a smooth experience for locals and visitors to explore the wonders of this country, allowing you to explore Belgium without breaking the bank and worrying about parking traffic. It is also sustainable for the environment. Now that we have gone through Belgium’s history, its significance on the world stage, and why you should tour the European Capital, let’s dive into the 10 popular destinations to explore on your Belgian tour.
10 Belgian Cities to Visit
- Brussels
We cannot talk about the Heart of Europe without talking about its capital. Brussels is the heart of Europe. The city best encapsulates different major European capitals. It is old but new. It is not quite medieval but modern in a European way. The streets do not resemble each other like the streets of Paris do. There is individuality in every corner. From a panoramic view, you will think it is an old town, but when you walk its streets, you will notice that it is pretty modern, like an American city. Although it is a capital city, it does not feel inaccessible like Paris. It is small enough to feel right at home and big enough to have diverse experiences. My first time in Brussels, I felt right at home. Walking from Gare du Nord to Gare Central, I enjoy the spaciousness of its streets and the different architectural designs. I felt as if I was walking in Boston, and when I first visited Washington, D.C., I automatically thought of Brussels. Like Boston and D.C., Brussels is an international hub. If you are interested in international relations, you will enjoy being in Brussels, where you will meet people of every creed and culture. Brussels is a global governance and business center but does not take itself too seriously, making it a great place to live, work, and have fun.
For travelers and tourists, a stop in Brussels allows you to discover its unique cultural sights and indulge in many fun gastronomy events. One of the unique activities you can enjoy in Brussels is the Belgian Beer World. Did you know that Belgium has more beer brands than any other country? At the Belgian Beer World, you enter a place dedicated to all things beer. You have access to Belgium’s history, tradition and culture. Each section of the museum allows visitors to experience beer in a whole new way, from discovering the untold stories and diving into the mind of a Belgian brewer to witnessing the magic of how brewers make beer. You can even explore your taste and enjoy beer tasting on the rooftop of the building. La Bource, which now accommodates Belgian Beer World, offers a vibrant place to eat, drink, and mingle with local and international visitors. The building itself recalls Belgian history. Its neoclassical architecture style was a vital commerce and trading center. It was home to the Belgian Stock Exchange until 1996. During WWI, it was a symbol of resistance against German occupation as it was the place for the press to write and fight back against it. Today, it is an iconic sight where people meet, mingle, and enjoy beer.
Brussels has more to offer than beer or fries. Visiting Brussels is like entering a walking museum. Like La Bource, Brussels has buildings and squares with so much history and traditions. One of the famous landmarks is Grand Place. The Gothic-style town hall is a must-see. You will surely appreciate its grandeur and architectural uniqueness even if you stumble upon it. Famous for its decorative and aesthetic wealth, the Grand Palace is surrounded by guild houses, the city hall, and the home of the King. It holds many events yearly, such as the Flower Carpet, Belgian Beer Weekend, and the Christmas Tree. A few walks away, you will find Manneke Pis, Brussels’ famous pissing mascot. Up the hill past Gare Centrale, you will find the royal palace and the bustling Matonge. In this Congolese business district, you can taste the best African food and shop at grocery stores from different African and Asian sellers. Other places to visit include the EU headquarters, Place de Luxembourg, the Royal Museum of Central African History, and the Museum of the Far East. Plus, no trip to Brussels is complete without a picture of the Attonium.
- Ghent
Whereas Brussels is the capital of Belgium, per the Washington Post, Ghent is the “unsung capital of cool.” When I first arrived in Ghent for my master’s program, I was charmed by the cute street and Saint Nicolas church near the hotel where I had to quarantine. After 14 days of not knowing where I could find my African food and taking an hour train to Antwerp to find food, I was ready to dismiss Ghent as a pointless city. For that, I blame the pandemic! However, after moving out of quarantine, exploring the city at a slower pace, and discovering its charms, I almost kicked myself for rethinking why I decided to move to a town I never heard of.
Ghent, my Belgian hometown, is a city like no other. It is a city rich in history and culture and is the perfect town for young professionals as it is a university town. Visitors will be intrigued by its historic buildings, picturesque sites, and food culture. One of the must-visit attractions is Gravesteen. Gravesteen, also known as the Castle of the Counts, is a medieval fortress with corridors and narrow tower stairs. When I visited, I had to go up and down the stairs sideways because of the narrow pathways. However, a visit to this testament of history will not disappoint. This historical site will teach you a lot about Belgian and Flemish history. This ninth-century fostress resembled the Crac des Chevaliers in northern Syria, which legend says inspired the architecture of the Gravesteen. Although dubbed as the Count’s Castle, it was not a permanent residence of the Count. It stood as a symbol of law as it became the epicenter for justice in Flanders. This monument has undergone many phases aligned with Ghent’s history and development. From being a court, it became a prison, a textile factory, and now a tourist attraction.
However, Gravesteen is not the only historical sight that holds the keys to Ghent’s wonderfulness. While visiting Ghent, you will find history and culture from all its four corners. You can visit Grote Markt, Saint Nicholas church, and Belfy. Another cathedral to see is the Saint Bavo Cathedral. Aside from visiting these sights, explore Ghent’s culinary culture. The “cool capital” loves food and offers visitors unique tastes from various culinary influences. Hang out on each side of the River Lys and grab at any cafes and restaurants in the Graslei. After a meal at any of its delicious restaurants, enjoy a boat ride along the canals or a relaxing afternoon at any green space. Ghent also uses its sizeable public square to host street markets. Whether you’re single or not, take a fairytale stroll along the St. Micheal’s Bridge and enjoy Ghent’s beauty at every turn. Whether you visit for a day or a week, Ghent will keep you occupied.
- Bruges
Speaking of canals, one of Belgium’s must-visit destinations is Bruges. A previous post highlighted why Bruges was Belgium’s best-kept secret, so we will write a short resume for that post here. Bruges’ beauty is something that anyone cannot understate. The charming medieval town invites you to experience your fairytale. Dubbed the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is an enchanting city with canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval buildings. Travelers usually wonder whether to go to Bruges or Ghent since the two cities are similar. I would suggest you go to both because similar does not mean that it is the same.
In Bruges, you will explore the craftsmanship that defines the city. You can enjoy handmade chocolates and visit the Brouwerij De Halve Maan, where you can tour Bruges’ leading brewery. Bruges also houses a Frietmuseum, a museum dedicated to the Belgian dish of fried potatoes, which explains their claims as the founders of french fries. Those who like art and painting can visit the Musea Sculpta. Bruges is great for solo and group travel. Whether alone or with a partner, you will feel like you are in a love story. One of the places that symbolizes Bruges’ romantic attributes is the Minnewater. The Minnewater, also known as the Lake of Love, is the perfect spot for a picnic and a place to catch an outdoor concert. With so much to do and see, there is no question that Bruges is Belgium’s best-kept secret.
- Leuven
If there is one Belgian city with global notoriety aside from Brussels, it would be Leuven. Leuven, 20 minutes away from Brussels, is a mixture of a small town and great intellect, as it houses one of the most renowned universities in the world, KU Leuven. Leuven is a historic city with a strong academic culture. In 2022, Leuven ranked in the top 5 cities to visit in Europe, and that was due to its vibrant culture, art scenes, and gastronomy, and don’t forget the beer culture. A visit to Leuven means you can enjoy its beauty without worrying about big crowds. As a university town, you will surely meet people from different cultures in Belgium, Europe, and worldwide. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring different Belgian cities. Another fantastic point for Leuven is that it is pedestrian-friendly. You can discover the town on foot or by bike. Dining in Leuven is very affordable, and its status as a university town ensures you enjoy free attractions such as free entry to churches, abbeys, and beguinages. Enjoy the M Museum Leuven, which has ancient and contemporary masterpieces. Whether you visit for a day or a weekend, Leuven will surprise you at every corner.
- Antwerp
Speaking of a city with surprises, how would you feel in a town surrounded by sparking diamonds? If you like sparkles, a trip to Antwerp should be at the top of your Belgian destination list. Antwerp, a major port city, plays a significant role in Belgian and European history. It is the center of importation and exportation. Its rich cultural heritage, diversity, and diamond trade make it appealing to tourists. You will notice its beauty when you first arrive at Antwerp Central Station. In 2014, the train station was voted the most beautiful train station in the world, and because of its constant praise, it earned an article in The Sun. Antwerp Central Station has become a tourist hotspot because of its architecture. One person described it as not just a train station but “it’s a masterpiece of art and history. The building is beautiful and majestic, with its domes, arches, and sculptures.” I echoed that sentiment when I first visited the Diamond Capital. Before Antwerp, I liked Monaco’s train station, but everything changed when I visited Antwerp.
However, the masterpiece at the train station is one of many in Antwerp. Antwerp is famous for its fine arts, gothic architecture, and modern design. Antwerp is home to world-class museums, galleries, and art centers. Tourists can visit Peter Paul Rubens’s house, one of Flemish famous artists. At museums like the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp, you will enjoy art from other Flemish artists like Jack van Eyck and James Ensor. When you visit Antwerp, you will notice its diversity. You will find Chinatown, the only one in Belgium, near its train station. As an African, I enjoyed visiting African restaurants to get food on weekends and sit by the port. Visitors can also enjoy Antwerp Zoo, a family-friendly destination where you can enjoy time with family and kids. Shopping lovers can access many shopping centers and diamonds to treat themselves. Whenever planning to go to Belgium, include Antwerp on your travel list. Don’t forget to get a panoramic view of the city of diamonds.
- Namur
Many of the cities on this list are Flemish, so what about the towns in Wallonia? If you want to visit Wallonia, start with its capital city of Namur. Namur holds much of Belgium’s and Wallonia’s history. As a strategic military force, it has been occupied, bombed(by Americans, too!), and rebuilt several times. However, Namur invites tourists to admire its historical sights, museums, art exhibitions, and a cruise ride along its rivers. Although it is the capital of Wallonia, it is very small and allows tourists to enjoy its wonders without worrying about big crowds. Fun activities tourists can do in Namur include taking a cable car to enjoy the city from above, visiting its Citadel for free, and enjoying the view of the two rivers that it sits on. You can visit its famous Felicien Rops Museum, Musee des Arts Ancient du Namurois, where you will see paintings and artifacts from the 13th century. Stroll at the Reine Fabiola park and enjoy chocolate treats along the way. Namur is the perfect place for a day trip or a weekend trip. Make sure to visit the tourist office for a free walking tour to get a complete history of this beautiful city.
- Mons
Another Wallonian city to visit is Mons. Mons is a quaint, friendly capital with a rich cultural heritage and modern architecture. When visiting Mons, visit its 17th-century baroque belfry, the Saint-Calixte chapel built in the 11th century, and the Neolithic Flint Mines of Spiennes. Like its Belgian counterparts, Mons boasts some impressive architecture. Like Brussels, Mons also has a Grand Place, surrounded by cafes and terraces. The spacious square takes you on a journey through time and allows you to shop in the most remarkable buildings. Another Mons attraction is Maison Losseau, an Art Nouveau house designed by Paul Saintenoy. For museum lovers, you can visit Mons’ François Duesberg Museum of Decorative Arts, one of the city’s top attractions. You can discover Mons by walking and horse carriage, which adds a bit of uniqueness to your experience. Mons is a charming Belgian city with much to offer, see, and experience, and it is worth visiting when in Belgium.
- Liege
Another top destination in Belgium is the city of Liege. Just like Antwerp, people become impressed with Liege at its train station. Liege’s Guillemins train station has an arch design that makes anyone who views it do a double take. However, there are many other reasons people are impressed by Liege. One of the famous attractions in Liege is the Montagne de Bueren staircase. Of course, when you are touring a place, exercise is the last thing many tourists think about, but walking up these staircases will give you an excellent workout to history, and your calves will thank you for it. But fear not! After taking the 374 steps up the staircase, you can catch your breath while marveling at the panoramic view of this unique city. The green pastures will add to the beauty.
You will find the charming Collegiale Chruch of Saint Barthelemy at the city center. Enjoy delicious food at the city center and get lost in the Saint-Marguerite neighborhood. Before leaving, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, founded at the end of the 10th century and underwent reconstruction in the 13th, 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries, only to be completed in 1803. Should you want to have more fun, Liege offers a selection of fun activities, such as FLY-IN, the largest free-fall simulator in the world. You can go ice skating and paintball and participate in escape games. Unfortunately for me, I visited Liege during the pandemic when most activities were closed, but even through the restrictions of the pandemic, I had so much fun there, and I know you will, too.
- Blankenberge
Blankenberge is one of my favorite Belgian cities, only because it is a beach city. It is the second beach resort in Belgium, and there are plenty of things to do aside from sitting by the beach, which I prefer more than anything. Visiting Blankenberge means enjoying everything that a beach resort has to offer. Its Belle Epoque center displays Blankenberge’s history from 1870 to 1914. Blankenberge is a Flemish city where you will hear many French-speaking people, which is uncommon in a Flemish town. You will find villas looking out to the North Sea. Strolling around Blankenberge, you will discover the Belgium Pier, a 350m long promenade. When I went to Blankenberge, I did not know this beach resort had a casino. For tourists who would like to try their luck in the slot machines, check out the Blankenberge Casino. However, the best way to enjoy Blankenberge is by strolling around the city. There are tours to the Old Town the Blankenberge Aquarium, and you can even sail the North Sea. Speaking of cruising the North Sea, you can choose from plenty of sailing tours. You can tour with rescue boats and small ferries or enjoy the wavefun, offshore sailing excursions, and superfast boats to other beach towns like Ostend. However, my favorite activities are walking along the beach and enjoying seafood, a must-do in Blankenberge. When visiting Belgium, make sure to visit this coastal city.
- Ostend
Speaking of coastal cities, Blankenberge cannot be included without Ostend. Ostend is a seaside paradise with a spacious promenade, exceptional museums, churches, and architecture. The largest Belgian coastal city offers impressive buildings, a neoclassical arcade of the Royal Galleries, and a royal villa. You can visit the neo-gothic churches of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. Aside from visiting the churches, you can discover the Mu.ZEE. The MuZEE is the only museum in the world focusing on modern and contemporary art in Belgium. The white sandy beach is a big attraction for this beach town. You and your family and friends can indulge in beach activities like playing volleyball, kitesurfing, building sand castles, and fighting off seagulls. You can tour the Atlantic Wall, which the German army used during WWII. It is now an open-air museum with tunnels, bunkers, and trenches. Another highlight to explore in Ostend is its big green parks. Like Blankenberge, Ostend has a Casino where you can spend the day trying your luck. True to its Belgian identity, Ostend also offers some fantastic gourmet experiences, ensuring a tremendous experience.
To conclude, although overlooked, Belgium has many experiences and attractions that many tourists will love. The multicultural country invites people of all backgrounds, cultures, and traditions, and in return, it offers diverse experiences to those who seek them. Belgium is a beautiful place to visit, and these 10 must-see destinations will provide you with lasting memories. From its capital of Brussels to the two regions, Flanders and Wallonia, Belgium has many hidden gems. When deciding to visit Europe, include a visit to the heart of Europe, where you will learn unique histories, see incredible arts and churches, and cruise along its rivers with beer, waffles, chocolate, or Belgian fries in hand.
Until next time, safe travels!
Xoxo,
Cy!
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