Belgium is not just about Brussels. Many medieval towns have been preserved, which are renowned for their stunning buildings and atmosphere. Let me introduce you to 18 Belgian locations worth visiting!
Belgium is a member of the Benelux countries. It has land borders with the Netherlands to the north, Germany and Luxembourg to the east, and France to the south and west. It is an ethnically and linguistically diverse country, with three main groups, the Dutch-speaking Flemish, the French-speaking Walloons and a German-speaking community in the eastern region.
Table of Contents
Best places in Belgium
Bruges
The city became known to many through the film „In Bruges” and it is indeed as beautiful as it is portrayed.
Bruges, also known as the „Venice of the North”, is one of Belgium’s most visited destinations. The city is intersected by numerous canals, alongside which you can find colorful, medieval buildings.
I visited in June 2022 and can confirm: it truly is a charming city where you can walk for hours, enjoying the sights and atmosphere.
Brussels
Long overlooked by many as just the „capital of the EU”, Brussels is definitely worth a visit.
While the European Parliament and the Atomium are well-known, Brussels is also home to numerous museums and beautiful buildings.
I enjoyed my time in Brussels; it’s a very charming and beautiful capital city.
Dinant
Located in a valley between Namur and the French border, this picturesque town is a must-see.
Dinant’s attractions include the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame de Dinant and the Citadel above it. The fortress, built in the 11th century, was constructed to control the Meuse Valley. It gained its current form in the 19th century. You can reach the top by 408 steps from the church or by a cable car.
Ghent
Many say that visiting Ghent is a must, in addition to Bruges. Like Bruges, Ghent is also crisscrossed by several canals.
In the Middle Ages, it was one of the largest and wealthiest cities in Northern Europe. Often referred to as the „Florence of the North” for its variety of themed museums, the most famous of which is the Museum voor Schone Kunsten (Museum of Fine Arts) featuring works by Hieronymus Bosch, Jean Fouquet, and other Flemish masters.
The city center is car-free, allowing you to explore the attractions on foot or by bike: St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry, Gravensteen Castle, and the beautifully designed old Graslei harbor.
Antwerp
The capital of Flanders, Antwerp is an important city in the Benelux region both economically and culturally.
The city is put on the world map by diamonds. Nearly 90% of the world’s diamond trade takes place in Antwerp. But the city boasted great prosperity even in the Middle Ages, which is reflected in its buildings.
Among its rich monuments, the Cathedral of Our Lady stands out as the tallest cathedral in the Low Countries. Another famous building is Het Steen fortress on the banks of the Schelde River, the oldest building in Antwerp.
A key figure in its art history is Rubens. The painter worked here, and a large part of his house, now a museum, was designed by him. This makes it a must-see in Antwerp!
Liège
Situated in the Meuse Valley, Liège is one of the largest industrial and cultural centers of Wallonia.
The mix of various minorities (French, German, Italian) living here has created a unique lifestyle. This is evident in speech: the residents speak a distinctive dialect of Walloon.
Liège is known for its festivals and various events. The most famous is the „Le Quinze Août” celebration held in August, showcasing local traditions.
The city has a vibrant nightlife: the Le Carré district is full of pubs, bars, cafes, and other entertainment venues.
Leuven
Located about 25 km from Brussels, Leuven is perfect for a day trip for those who love charming small towns.
Its most beautiful attraction is the old town hall, located in Grote Markt square. The building, with a Gothic, lace-like facade, features more than 200 statues!
Leuven also has a Hungarian connection: after World War I, the „Old Hungarian Lamentations of Mary” manuscript was brought here. This codex is our first known poetic relic. Additionally, the Collegium Hungaricum has been operating here since 1948.
If you love beer, you might have come across the name Leuven. It’s home to the world’s largest brewing company, where Stella Artois is produced.
Namur
This city was an important military location for a long time, which contributes to its significance in Belgium today. The Parliament of Wallonia is located here.
Its most famous attraction and landmark is the Citadel above the city. This is the country’s largest fortress of its kind. The view is magnificent over the city and the Meuse and Sambre rivers.
Moreover, walking through the charming streets of the old town is worthwhile. The Saint Aubin’s Cathedral, museums, and beautiful houses are must-see attractions.
Baarle-Nassau
This town has been listed among the most beautiful places in the Netherlands. But how can a town be in two countries!?
Well, part of the town belongs to Belgium and another part to the Netherlands. Moreover, there are small Dutch areas within the Belgian territories. The complicated border is the result of medieval treaties, agreements, land swaps, and sales.
The town is not bothered by this situation, especially because of the tourists. There are even houses where the border runs „through”, subjecting the residents to the laws of both countries.
Ypres
Located in the southwestern part of Belgium, near the French border, this city was an important battlefield during World War I.
The Menin Gate memorial commemorates the Commonwealth soldiers who died for the city and in the surrounding battles during the First World War and whose graves are unknown.
In the city center, the 13th-century Cloth Hall is the most imposing. It was one of the largest commercial buildings of the Middle Ages and is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
Ooidonk Castle (Kasteel Ooidonk)
One of Belgium’s most beautiful castles, inhabited by the t’Kint de Roodenbeke family.
A fortress originally stood on the current castle’s site but was later demolished. It was rebuilt in the Renaissance style by an Antwerp merchant. The t’Kint de Roodenbeke family acquired it in 1864.
The castle and park are open to tourists for a limited period.
Oostende
Although Belgium is not famous for its beaches, Oostende’s beach is well-known in Europe.
The city has a sandy coastline along which runs a long promenade. Excellent hotels await tourists, justifying its old nickname „The Queen of Beaches”.
Since there is a direct train line from Brussels through Ghent and Bruges, it’s easy to visit here as part of a pleasant day trip.
Kortrijk
The city in West Flanders is an important historical and cultural site. Here, in 1302, the Battle of the Golden Spurs took place, where the Flemish won against the French.
Its old town hosts the Belfry, a medieval bell tower that is part of UNESCO World Heritage and symbolizes the city’s independence. Another significant building is the late Gothic, early Renaissance-style City Hall on the main square, adorned with statues of the Counts of Flanders.
Kortrijk’s medieval history is also reminded by the Our Lady’s Hospital, as well as the only remaining part of the medieval city walls, the Broel Towers, including a bridge spanning the Lys river.
Tournai
This town near the French border is one of Belgium’s oldest cities.
Its main attraction is the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The Romanesque cathedral, later expanded with Gothic elements, is part of UNESCO World Heritage. It houses one of the most important Christian relics, the sarcophagus of Saint Rocus.
Several significant museums operate here. The most famous is the Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts), designed by Victor Horta. It contains significant art collections, ranging from medieval and Renaissance works to modern and contemporary pieces.
It’s also famous for its industrial heritage, particularly the ceramics industry, which flourished in the Middle Ages and still plays an important role in the city’s economy today.
Durbuy
Often referred to as the „smallest city in the world.” It earned this title in 1331 when it had only a few hundred inhabitants, but still retains this designation today.
Its old town’s winding streets, historic buildings, and ancient paved squares bring back the medieval atmosphere, making it popular among tourists.
When here, don’t forget to visit the Topiary Park. This unique garden contains more than 250 sculpted plant figures, which is the largest collection of its kind in Europe.
Hasselt
The capital of the Flemish province of Limburg is known for its friendly atmosphere, rich cultural life, and numerous green spaces.
Its most significant building is the Saint Quentin Cathedral. It is especially famous for its high tower, visible from afar. The cathedral contains the relics of Saint Quentin, to whom the cathedral is dedicated, and who is the patron saint of Hasselt.
It also has Europe’s largest Japanese garden, reflecting Japanese culture and philosophy.
La Roche-en-Ardenne
This small town in the Ardennes is popular among hikers and those who enjoy active relaxation besides its historical landmarks.
The ruins of the medieval castle on the hill above the town are one of the main attractions of La Roche-en-Ardenne. The castle offers a magnificent view of the surroundings.
The town’s history is closely linked to World War II. The War Museum presents the events that took place in the region, with special attention to the battles and the life of the civilian population.
Veurne
In this town near the Belgian coast and the French border, we can see several well-preserved medieval buildings.
The Grote Markt (Great Market) in the town center is one of the main attractions, around which the town’s most important buildings are grouped. Particularly notable is the Saint Walburga Church, an impressive Gothic building, as well as the Town Hall.
Another significant attraction is the Spanish Pavilion, dating from the Spanish rule, and representing a fine example of Flemish Renaissance architecture.
