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20 Best Places to Visit in Belgium: Complete Travel Guide

by Lifestylemetro
December 11, 2025
in Europe
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Map of Belgium highlighting the Best Places to Visit in Belgium including Bruges, Brussels, and Ghent
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Belgium may be small in size, but this charming European gem packs an incredible variety of experiences into its compact borders. From medieval cities with cobblestone streets to rolling countryside dotted with castles, Belgium offers travelers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re drawn to the romantic canals of Bruges, the vibrant energy of Brussels, or the peaceful beauty of the Ardennes, this guide will take you through the 20 best places to visit in Belgium that deserve a spot on your travel itinerary.

Having explored this captivating country extensively, I’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you discover both the iconic landmarks and hidden treasures that make Belgium such a special destination. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to charming small towns, prepare to be enchanted by Belgium’s rich tapestry of experiences.

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Essential Belgium Travel Tips
    • Stay Connected Throughout Your Belgium Adventure
  • 1. Bruges: Belgium’s Medieval Treasure
    • Must-See Attractions in Bruges:
  • 2. Brussels: The Vibrant Capital
    • Top Experiences in Brussels:
  • 3. Ghent: The Hidden Gem
    • Don’t Miss in Ghent:
  • 4. Antwerp: Fashion and Diamond Capital
    • Highlights of Antwerp:
  • 5. Dinant: Riverside Beauty
    • What to Do in Dinant:
  • 6. The Belgian Ardennes: Nature’s Paradise
    • Ardennes Highlights:
    • Find the Best Deals for Your Belgium Adventure
  • 7. Leuven: University Town Charm
    • Top Attractions in Leuven:
  • 8. Mechelen: Historic Heart of Flanders
    • Mechelen Highlights:
  • 9. Namur: Wallonia’s Capital
    • What to See in Namur:
  • 10. Spa: Wellness and Relaxation
    • Spa Experiences:
  • 11. Ypres (Ieper): WWI Remembrance
    • WWI Sites Around Ypres:
  • 12. Durbuy: Europe’s Smallest City
    • Durbuy Attractions:
  • 13. Bouillon: Medieval Fortress Town
    • What to Do in Bouillon:
  • 14. The Belgian Coast: Seaside Charm
    • Coastal Highlights:
    • Book Your Belgian Coastal Getaway
  • 15. Waterloo: Historic Battlefield
    • Waterloo Battlefield Sites:
  • 16. High Fens (Hautes Fagnes): Wilderness Experience
    • Exploring the High Fens:
  • 17. Belgian Abbey Trail: Spiritual Heritage
    • Notable Belgian Abbeys:
  • 18. Tournai: Ancient Heritage
    • Tournai Highlights:
  • 19. Torgny: Belgium’s Little Provence
    • Torgny Experiences:
  • 20. Liège: Industrial Heritage and Vibrant Culture
    • Liège Attractions:
  • Planning Your Belgian Adventure
    • Ready to Explore Belgium?

Essential Belgium Travel Tips

Before diving into our list of the best places to visit in Belgium, here are some quick travel tips to help you plan your journey:

  • Belgium is divided into three regions: Flanders (Dutch-speaking north), Wallonia (French-speaking south), and Brussels (officially bilingual).
  • The country has an excellent public transportation network, making it easy to travel between cities by train.
  • The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are plentiful.
  • Belgium uses the Euro (€) as its currency and credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.
  • Don’t forget to try local specialties like Belgian chocolate, waffles, fries, and the incredible variety of Belgian beers.

Stay Connected Throughout Your Belgium Adventure

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1. Bruges: Belgium’s Medieval Treasure

The picturesque canals and medieval buildings of Bruges, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Often called the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting cities in Europe and tops our list of the best places to visit in Belgium. This perfectly preserved medieval city seems frozen in time, with its network of picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and stunning Gothic architecture.

The historic center of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is best explored on foot or by boat. Take a leisurely canal cruise to admire the step-gabled houses and centuries-old bridges from a unique perspective. The Markt (Market Square) forms the heart of the city, dominated by the impressive 83-meter-tall Belfry tower, which offers panoramic views for those willing to climb its 366 steps.

Must-See Attractions in Bruges:

  • The Belfry of Bruges (Belfort) – Climb to the top for breathtaking city views
  • Church of Our Lady – Home to Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child sculpture
  • Groeningemuseum – Housing an impressive collection of Flemish primitive art
  • Minnewater Park (Lake of Love) – A romantic spot with beautiful scenery
  • Basilica of the Holy Blood – Containing a relic believed to be Christ’s blood

Bruges is also a paradise for food lovers. Sample handmade Belgian chocolates at one of the many artisanal chocolatiers, enjoy fresh waffles topped with strawberries and cream, or settle into a cozy brown café to try some of Belgium’s famous beers.

2. Brussels: The Vibrant Capital

The stunning Grand Place in Brussels, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

As the capital of both Belgium and the European Union, Brussels blends historic charm with cosmopolitan energy. While it may not have the fairy-tale appearance of Bruges, Brussels offers visitors an eclectic mix of architectural styles, world-class museums, and a vibrant cultural scene.

The UNESCO-listed Grand Place (Grote Markt) is the magnificent centerpiece of Brussels, surrounded by opulent guild houses, the City Hall, and the King’s House. Just a short walk away is the city’s quirky mascot, the Manneken Pis – a small bronze statue of a urinating boy that has become an unlikely symbol of Brussels’ irreverent spirit.

Top Experiences in Brussels:

  • Grand Place – Marvel at one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval squares
  • Atomium – Visit this unique atom-shaped structure built for the 1958 World Expo
  • Royal Museums of Fine Arts – Explore an extensive collection of Belgian and international art
  • Comic Strip Route – Follow a trail of murals celebrating Belgium’s comic book heritage
  • Mont des Arts – Enjoy panoramic views and beautiful gardens

Brussels is also renowned for its culinary scene. Beyond the famous Belgian fries, chocolate, and waffles, the city boasts excellent restaurants ranging from traditional brasseries to innovative fine dining establishments. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample authentic Belgian beers at historic taverns like Delirium Café, which offers more than 2,000 different brews.

3. Ghent: The Hidden Gem

The stunning medieval architecture and canals of Ghent, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Often overshadowed by Bruges and Brussels, Ghent combines the medieval charm of the former with the vibrant energy of the latter, but with fewer tourists. This university town has a youthful atmosphere despite its ancient roots, creating a fascinating blend of historic grandeur and contemporary creativity.

Ghent’s car-free city center makes it a pleasure to explore on foot. The three iconic towers of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry, and Saint Nicholas’ Church dominate the skyline, while the scenic Graslei and Korenlei harbors offer some of the most picturesque views in Belgium.

Don’t Miss in Ghent:

  • Gravensteen Castle – An imposing medieval fortress in the city center
  • The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (Ghent Altarpiece) – A masterpiece of Early Flemish painting in Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
  • Patershol – A charming neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets and excellent restaurants
  • Design Museum Gent – Showcasing Belgian design from Art Nouveau to contemporary works
  • Graslei and Korenlei – Historic quays perfect for people-watching and photography

Ghent has also established itself as a culinary destination with a focus on sustainable and vegetarian cuisine. The city hosts the largest vegetarian festival in Europe and has numerous plant-based restaurants alongside traditional Belgian eateries.

4. Antwerp: Fashion and Diamond Capital

The stunning Antwerp Central Station, an architectural masterpiece in one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Belgium’s second-largest city, Antwerp is a dynamic port city known for its fashion industry, diamond trade, and rich artistic heritage. The city has reinvented itself numerous times throughout history, resulting in an intriguing mix of medieval architecture, Renaissance grandeur, and cutting-edge design.

Begin your exploration at the stunning Antwerp Central Station, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful railway stations. From there, stroll down the fashionable Meir shopping street toward the Grote Markt, where you’ll find the impressive City Hall and guild houses. Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Rubens House, where the Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens lived and worked.

Highlights of Antwerp:

  • Antwerp Central Station – A cathedral-like railway station with magnificent architecture
  • MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) – A striking contemporary museum with panoramic rooftop views
  • Diamond District – The world’s oldest and largest diamond trading center
  • Rubens House – The former home and studio of the famous Flemish painter
  • Het Zuid – A trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, boutiques, and cafés

Antwerp’s reputation as a fashion capital makes it a paradise for shoppers. The city is home to the renowned Royal Academy of Fine Arts, which has produced influential designers like the “Antwerp Six.” Explore the Fashion District around Nationalestraat for boutiques featuring both established and emerging Belgian designers.

5. Dinant: Riverside Beauty

The dramatic clifftop citadel and riverside setting of Dinant, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Nestled between the Meuse River and towering limestone cliffs, Dinant offers some of Belgium’s most dramatic scenery. This small Wallonian town is known for its striking setting, with the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame and its distinctive onion dome standing at the foot of a massive cliff topped by a citadel.

Dinant is the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, and you’ll find saxophone sculptures throughout the town. Cross the Charles de Gaulle Bridge, adorned with colorful saxophone sculptures representing different countries, to reach the main part of town.

What to Do in Dinant:

  • Citadel of Dinant – Climb the 408 steps (or take the cable car) for spectacular views
  • Collegiate Church of Notre Dame – Admire the 13th-century Gothic church with its iconic bulb dome
  • Maison Leffe – Learn about Belgium’s brewing heritage at this interactive museum
  • Adolphe Sax House – Discover the life and work of the saxophone inventor
  • River cruises – Experience the beauty of the Meuse Valley from the water

While in Dinant, be sure to try the local specialty, Couques de Dinant – extremely hard honey cookies that are more decorative than edible. They’re traditionally pressed into wooden molds to create intricate designs.

6. The Belgian Ardennes: Nature’s Paradise

The lush forests and rolling hills of the Belgian Ardennes, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

For a break from Belgium’s historic cities, head to the Ardennes region in the southeast of the country. This area of dense forests, rolling hills, deep valleys, and winding rivers offers outdoor enthusiasts a perfect playground for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

The Ardennes played a significant role in both World Wars, particularly during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. History buffs can visit numerous war memorials, museums, and battlefields throughout the region.

Ardennes Highlights:

  • La Roche-en-Ardenne – A picturesque town with medieval castle ruins
  • Bouillon Castle – One of Europe’s oldest and most impressive feudal castles
  • Caves of Han – Spectacular limestone caves and wildlife park
  • Semois Valley – Known for its dramatic landscapes and charming villages
  • Ourthe River – Popular for kayaking and canoeing adventures

The Ardennes is also known for its distinctive cuisine, featuring game meats, river fish, wild mushrooms, and Ardennes ham. The region produces excellent craft beers and is home to several Trappist breweries, including the famous Orval Abbey.

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7. Leuven: University Town Charm

The ornate Gothic Town Hall of Leuven, a masterpiece of Brabantine architecture and one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities (founded in 1425), Leuven combines youthful energy with historic charm. Just 30 minutes by train from Brussels, this vibrant student city offers impressive architecture, a buzzing cultural scene, and Belgium’s brewing heritage.

The city center is dominated by the magnificent Gothic Town Hall, considered one of the most beautiful in the world with its ornate façade featuring 236 statues. Nearby, the Old Market Square (Oude Markt) is lined with bars and cafés, earning it the nickname “the longest bar in Europe.”

Top Attractions in Leuven:

  • University Library and Tower – A symbolic building with panoramic views
  • St. Peter’s Church – Housing masterpieces of Flemish art
  • Grand Béguinage – A well-preserved medieval community now part of the university
  • Stella Artois Brewery – Tour the home of one of Belgium’s most famous beers
  • M-Museum – An impressive collection of art spanning six centuries

Leuven’s compact size makes it perfect for a day trip, but its lively atmosphere and excellent dining options might tempt you to stay longer. The city is particularly charming in summer when students fill the terraces and parks.

8. Mechelen: Historic Heart of Flanders

The picturesque Grote Markt and St. Rumbold's Tower in Mechelen, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Often overlooked by international tourists, Mechelen is a hidden gem located between Brussels and Antwerp. This compact city was the capital of the Low Countries during the early 16th century and retains much of its historical significance and architectural splendor.

The skyline is dominated by the massive St. Rumbold’s Tower, part of the cathedral of the same name. At 97 meters tall (though never completed to its planned 167 meters), the tower offers those who climb its 538 steps spectacular views across the flat Belgian landscape – on clear days, you can see as far as Antwerp, Brussels, and even the Atomium.

Mechelen Highlights:

  • St. Rumbold’s Cathedral and Tower – A UNESCO World Heritage site with panoramic views
  • Grote Markt – The central square surrounded by historic buildings
  • Kazerne Dossin – A powerful Holocaust memorial and museum
  • Palace of Margaret of Austria – Former residence of the Habsburg regent
  • Brewery Het Anker – Home of the award-winning Gouden Carolus beer

Mechelen has undergone an impressive urban renewal in recent years, with restored historic buildings, pedestrianized streets, and a revitalized riverside area. The city is particularly family-friendly, with attractions like Technopolis (an interactive science center) and Planckendael Animal Park nearby.

9. Namur: Wallonia’s Capital

The impressive Citadel of Namur overlooking the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Strategically positioned at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, Namur serves as the capital of Wallonia and offers visitors a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city is dominated by its massive citadel, one of Europe’s largest fortresses, perched on a rocky outcrop above the old town.

Namur’s charming historic center features elegant squares, narrow streets, and impressive religious buildings. The Namur Cathedral (St. Aubain’s Cathedral) is a masterpiece of 18th-century classical architecture, while the Baroque Church of St. Loup features striking black and red marble columns.

What to See in Namur:

  • Citadel of Namur – Explore the extensive fortifications and enjoy panoramic views
  • Place d’Armes – The city’s main square lined with cafés and restaurants
  • Félicien Rops Museum – Dedicated to the controversial 19th-century Belgian artist
  • The Belfry – Part of the UNESCO World Heritage list of belfries in Belgium and France
  • River cruises – See the city from a different perspective on the Meuse River

Namur is known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent culinary scene. The city hosts a large market on Saturdays, and the surrounding region is famous for its strawberries, cheeses, and escargots à la Namuroise (snails cooked in a herb and butter sauce).

10. Spa: Wellness and Relaxation

The elegant thermal baths and historic buildings of Spa, the original spa town and one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

The town of Spa has been synonymous with health and wellness for centuries – in fact, the English word “spa” derives from this Belgian town, which has been attracting visitors to its healing mineral waters since the 14th century. Recently added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list as part of the “Great Spa Towns of Europe,” Spa offers a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation.

The modern Thermes de Spa complex, perched on a hillside overlooking the town, provides a range of wellness treatments and thermal baths. The historic center of Spa features elegant Belle Époque architecture, a reminder of its heyday as a fashionable resort for European aristocracy.

Spa Experiences:

  • Thermes de Spa – Indulge in thermal baths and wellness treatments
  • Pouhon Pierre le Grand – Sample the mineral water from the town’s main spring
  • Casino de Spa – Try your luck at one of the world’s oldest casinos
  • Spa-Francorchamps Circuit – Visit the famous Formula 1 racetrack nearby
  • Parc de Sept Heures – Stroll through this elegant park with its bandstand and fountains

Beyond wellness, Spa is surrounded by the beautiful forests of the Ardennes, offering excellent hiking and cycling opportunities. The nearby Fagnes Natural Reserve features unique high-altitude peat bogs with wooden walkways for exploration.

11. Ypres (Ieper): WWI Remembrance

The solemn Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres commemorating WWI soldiers, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Few places in Belgium are as deeply connected to the First World War as Ypres (Ieper in Dutch). This historic Flemish city was completely destroyed during the war but has been meticulously reconstructed to its medieval appearance. Today, Ypres serves as an important center for WWI remembrance and attracts visitors from around the world, particularly from Commonwealth countries.

The imposing Menin Gate Memorial, inscribed with the names of nearly 55,000 soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient but have no known grave, is the site of the moving Last Post Ceremony. Every evening at 8 PM since 1928 (except during German occupation in WWII), buglers sound the Last Post in honor of the fallen – a tradition that continues to this day.

WWI Sites Around Ypres:

  • In Flanders Fields Museum – Located in the reconstructed Cloth Hall, offering powerful insights into the war
  • Tyne Cot Cemetery – The largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world
  • Hill 60 – Preserved battlefield with visible craters and bunkers
  • Essex Farm Cemetery – Where John McCrae wrote “In Flanders Fields”
  • Sanctuary Wood Museum – Featuring preserved trenches and a collection of stereoscopic photographs

Beyond its war history, Ypres has a charming reconstructed medieval center. The magnificent Cloth Hall dominates the Grote Markt, and the ramparts that once protected the city now form a pleasant green belt perfect for walking.

12. Durbuy: Europe’s Smallest City

The charming medieval streets and castle of Durbuy, Europe's smallest city and one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Often marketed as “the smallest city in the world” (it received city rights in medieval times despite its tiny size), Durbuy is a picture-perfect destination in the heart of the Ardennes. With its cobblestone streets, stone houses, and 17th-century castle, this miniature city offers visitors a charming step back in time.

Durbuy’s pedestrianized old town is a delight to explore, with narrow alleyways opening onto small squares lined with restaurants and boutiques. The Ourthe River winds around the town, adding to its picturesque setting among the rolling hills of the Ardennes.

Durbuy Attractions:

  • Durbuy Castle – A 17th-century château overlooking the town
  • Topiary Park – Featuring over 250 boxwood sculptures
  • Confiturerie Saint-Amour – A traditional jam factory offering tastings
  • Megalith Park – Ancient standing stones just outside town
  • Adventure Valley – An outdoor activity center with challenges for all ages

The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, including kayaking on the Ourthe River, hiking in the forests, and rock climbing on the nearby limestone cliffs. Durbuy is also known for its gastronomy, with numerous restaurants serving Ardennes specialties like game, ham, and trout.

13. Bouillon: Medieval Fortress Town

The impressive medieval castle of Bouillon overlooking the Semois River, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Nestled in a tight loop of the Semois River and dominated by one of Belgium’s most impressive medieval fortresses, Bouillon offers visitors a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Located in the Belgian Ardennes near the French border, this small town is most famous for its castle, which dates back to the 8th century and was once owned by Godfrey of Bouillon, a leader of the First Crusade.

Bouillon Castle is remarkably well-preserved and offers an authentic medieval experience with its drawbridges, dungeons, and torture chamber. The castle also hosts falconry shows during the summer months, adding to its medieval atmosphere.

What to Do in Bouillon:

  • Bouillon Castle – Explore one of Belgium’s oldest and most impressive fortresses
  • Archéoscope Godefroid de Bouillon – A multimedia experience about Godfrey and the Crusades
  • Ducal Museum – Housing artifacts related to the history of the region
  • Semois Valley – Hike the scenic trails along the river
  • Viewpoint of Frahan – Offering spectacular views of a Semois River loop

The surrounding Semois Valley is perfect for nature lovers, with numerous hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, and fishing spots. The region is also known for its tobacco cultivation, with the Semois tobacco being a protected local specialty.

14. The Belgian Coast: Seaside Charm

The sandy beaches and promenade of the Belgian Coast, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Belgium’s 67-kilometer coastline along the North Sea offers a string of resort towns, each with its own character. From the sophisticated Knokke-Heist with its upscale boutiques to the family-friendly De Haan with its Belle Époque architecture, the Belgian coast provides diverse experiences for beach lovers.

One of the most unique ways to explore the coast is via the Kusttram (Coastal Tram), the longest tram line in the world. This convenient service connects all Belgian coastal towns from De Panne near the French border to Knokke-Heist at the Dutch border.

Coastal Highlights:

  • Ostend – The “Queen of Seaside Resorts” with its royal connections and vibrant harbor
  • De Haan – A charming resort with preserved Belle Époque villas and car-free center
  • Knokke-Heist – An upscale resort known for luxury shopping and art galleries
  • Nieuwpoort – Featuring Belgium’s largest marina and excellent seafood restaurants
  • The Zwin Nature Park – Coastal bird sanctuary and unique salt marshes

Beyond sunbathing and swimming, the Belgian coast offers numerous attractions, including the Atlantikwall open-air museum (WWII coastal defenses), seafront casinos, and fresh seafood markets. The flat coastal landscape is also perfect for cycling along dedicated paths.

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15. Waterloo: Historic Battlefield

The Lion's Mound monument at the Waterloo Battlefield, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Just 20 kilometers south of Brussels lies Waterloo, site of one of history’s most famous battles. Here, on June 18, 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte was finally defeated by a coalition of armies under the Duke of Wellington and Prussian Field Marshal Blücher, ending the Napoleonic Wars and reshaping European history.

Today, the battlefield is preserved as a memorial and museum complex. The most visible landmark is the Lion’s Mound, a 40-meter-high artificial hill topped with a cast iron lion. The 226 steps to the summit offer panoramic views of the battlefield and surrounding countryside.

Waterloo Battlefield Sites:

  • Memorial 1815 – An underground museum with interactive exhibits and a 4D battle recreation
  • Panorama – A massive 360-degree painting depicting the battle
  • Hougoumont Farm – Site of crucial fighting during the battle
  • Wellington Museum – Located in the Duke’s former headquarters
  • Napoleon’s Last Headquarters – Where the emperor spent the night before the battle

History enthusiasts should plan to spend at least half a day exploring the various sites. The battlefield is particularly busy during June, when annual reenactments of the battle take place with hundreds of participants in period uniforms.

16. High Fens (Hautes Fagnes): Wilderness Experience

The unique landscape of the High Fens nature reserve with wooden boardwalks through peat bogs, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

The High Fens (Hautes Fagnes in French, Hoge Venen in Dutch) is Belgium’s largest nature reserve, covering about 4,500 hectares of high plateau in the eastern part of the country near the German border. This unique ecosystem of peat bogs, heathlands, and forests offers visitors a wilderness experience unlike anywhere else in Belgium.

The landscape of the High Fens was formed during the last ice age and has remained relatively untouched, creating a habitat for rare plants and animals. Wooden boardwalks allow visitors to explore the boggy terrain without damaging the fragile ecosystem.

Exploring the High Fens:

  • Signal de Botrange – Belgium’s highest point at 694 meters above sea level
  • Nature Center Botrange – Educational exhibits about the region’s ecology
  • Baraque Michel – Historic inn and starting point for many hiking trails
  • Fagne de la Polleur – Featuring the Polleur Peat Bog nature trail
  • Cross-country skiing – Popular winter activity when snow conditions permit

The High Fens experience dramatic seasonal changes, from purple-blooming heather in late summer to misty, atmospheric landscapes in autumn and snow-covered expanses in winter. The reserve is strictly protected, with certain areas only accessible with guides or during specific seasons to protect wildlife.

17. Belgian Abbey Trail: Spiritual Heritage

The stunning Orval Abbey, one of Belgium's famous Trappist monasteries and one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Belgium has a rich monastic tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, and today visitors can explore numerous historic abbeys throughout the country. Many of these religious communities are still active, particularly the Trappist monasteries famous for their beer production.

There are only 14 certified Trappist breweries in the world, and six of them are in Belgium: Chimay, Orval, Rochefort, Westmalle, Westvleteren, and Achel. Visiting these abbeys offers insights into Belgium’s religious heritage, architectural history, and brewing traditions.

Notable Belgian Abbeys:

  • Orval Abbey – Known for its distinctive ruins alongside a modern monastery and excellent beer
  • Villers Abbey – Impressive ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey
  • Maredsous Abbey – Neo-Gothic monastery famous for its cheese and beer
  • St. Sixtus Abbey (Westvleteren) – Producing what many consider the world’s best beer
  • Parc Abbey – Well-preserved 18th-century abbey complex near Leuven

While some abbeys welcome tourists with visitor centers and guided tours, others maintain a more contemplative atmosphere with limited access. Always respect the religious nature of these sites and check visiting hours in advance, as they often close during prayer times.

18. Tournai: Ancient Heritage

The impressive Romanesque and Gothic Cathedral of Tournai, one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

One of Belgium’s oldest cities, Tournai boasts over 2,000 years of history. Founded by the Romans as Turnacum, this Wallonian city near the French border has been ruled by many powers throughout its long history, each leaving their mark on its architecture and culture.

The city’s crown jewel is the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an unusual blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its five towers create a distinctive silhouette that dominates the city skyline. The cathedral houses treasures including works by Rubens and the Shrine of Our Lady, a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing.

Tournai Highlights:

  • Cathedral of Notre-Dame – One of Belgium’s most impressive religious buildings
  • Belfry – The oldest in Belgium and part of UNESCO’s World Heritage list
  • Museum of Fine Arts – Designed by Victor Horta and housing works by Manet, Monet, and Van Gogh
  • Grand Place – The main square surrounded by historic buildings
  • Pont des Trous – A rare example of a medieval military bridge

Tournai is also known for its tapestry tradition and porcelain production. The city hosts a lively market on Saturdays, and its location on the Scheldt River provides pleasant walking paths along the water.

19. Torgny: Belgium’s Little Provence

The Mediterranean-style stone houses with red tile roofs in Torgny, Belgium's southernmost village and one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

In the far south of Belgium, almost touching the French border, lies the tiny village of Torgny – often called “Belgium’s Little Provence.” With its ochre-colored stone houses, red tile roofs, and south-facing vineyards, this charming hamlet indeed feels more Mediterranean than Belgian.

Torgny enjoys a unique microclimate that is warmer and drier than the rest of Belgium, allowing for vineyards to flourish on the surrounding slopes. This distinctive climate, combined with the village’s sheltered position and limestone soil, creates conditions similar to those found much further south in Europe.

Torgny Experiences:

  • Wine tasting – Visit local vineyards like Domaine de Torgny
  • Torgny Nature Reserve – Home to rare orchids and butterflies
  • Village exploration – Wander the streets admiring the distinctive architecture
  • La Grappe d’Or – Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant
  • Hiking – Explore the surrounding Gaume region with its rolling hills

Torgny is perfect for those seeking tranquility off the beaten path. The village has only about 200 inhabitants but offers a surprising amount of charm and character. The surrounding Gaume region is known as “Belgian Lorraine” and features a distinct culture influenced by its proximity to France and Luxembourg.

20. Liège: Industrial Heritage and Vibrant Culture

The modern Liège-Guillemins railway station designed by Santiago Calatrava, showcasing Liège's blend of historic and contemporary architecture and one of the Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Liège, Belgium’s third-largest city, offers visitors an authentic urban experience away from the more touristy destinations. With its industrial heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and distinctive Walloon character, Liège provides a different perspective on Belgian life.

The city straddles the Meuse River, with historic quarters climbing the surrounding hills. While Liège’s industrial past has left parts of the city with a gritty character, extensive urban renewal projects have transformed the riverside and city center into attractive spaces.

Liège Attractions:

  • Liège-Guillemins Railway Station – Santiago Calatrava’s architectural masterpiece
  • Montagne de Bueren – A 374-step staircase offering panoramic city views
  • Grand Curtius Museum – Housing art and artifacts in a 17th-century mansion
  • Prince-Bishops’ Palace – The former residence of the prince-bishops who ruled Liège
  • La Batte Market – Europe’s longest and oldest market along the Meuse River

Liège is known for its lively atmosphere and friendly locals. The city has a rich culinary tradition, including specialties like boulets à la liégeoise (meatballs in sweet-sour sauce), Liège waffles (richer and sweeter than Brussels waffles), and peket (a juniper-flavored gin).

Planning Your Belgian Adventure

Belgium may be compact, but as you can see, it offers an incredible diversity of experiences for travelers. From medieval cities and battlefields to natural wonders and culinary delights, this small country in the heart of Europe deserves a prominent place on your travel bucket list.

Whether you’re planning a weekend city break, a longer exploration of the countryside, or a themed journey following Belgium’s beer, chocolate, or historical trails, you’ll find warm hospitality and unforgettable experiences awaiting you.

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Tags: Antwerp SightseeingBelgian LandmarksBelgium Travel DestinationsBest Places in BelgiumBruges Travel GuideBrussels Tourist SpotsGhent City HighlightsMust-See Belgium Attractions
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