Belgium On World Map
Belgium, the small yet charming country nestled in the heart of Europe, is often overlooked by travelers. However, this hidden gem has a lot to offer, from its rich history and culture to its scenic landscapes and vibrant cities. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, and much more.
Top Attractions
Belgium is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Europe. The iconic Atomium in Brussels is a must-visit, with its stunning views of the city from the top. The historic Grand Place, also located in Brussels, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Other top attractions include the medieval castle of Gravensteen in Ghent, the picturesque canals of Bruges, and the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp.
Hidden Gems
Belgium is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The city of Leuven, just a short train ride from Brussels, is home to the stunning Gothic-style Town Hall, which is often overlooked by tourists. The town of Dinant, located in the picturesque Meuse Valley, is known for its stunning clifftop Citadel and the beautiful Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame. The city of Mechelen, located between Brussels and Antwerp, is a hidden gem with its beautiful Grote Markt and the stunning St. Rumbold’s Cathedral.
Food Scene
Belgium is famous for its delicious cuisine, from its world-renowned chocolate and waffles to its delicious beer and fries. Brussels is home to some of the best chocolate shops in the world, including Neuhaus and Leonidas. The city of Liรจge is famous for its Gaufres de Liรจge, a sweet and chewy type of waffle. And, of course, no trip to Belgium is complete without trying some of the local beer, such as the famous Trappist beers brewed by monks in monasteries across the country.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Belgium can be an expensive country to visit, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Many museums and attractions offer free entry on the first Wednesday of the month, and some even offer free entry all year round. The Belgian Railways also offer discounted train tickets for students and seniors. And, of course, you can always save money by enjoying a picnic in one of the many beautiful parks and gardens across the country.
Outdoor Adventures
Belgium may be a small country, but it’s packed with opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Ardennes region in the southeast is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and kayaking, with its stunning forests and rivers. The coast is also a great place for outdoor activities, with its sandy beaches and opportunities for windsurfing and kiteboarding. And if you’re looking for a more unique experience, why not try hot air ballooning over the Belgian countryside?
Historical Landmarks
Belgium has a rich history dating back thousands of years, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore. The Roman ruins in Tongeren, the oldest city in Belgium, are a must-visit for history buffs. The Waterloo battlefield, located just south of Brussels, is where Napoleon was defeated in 1815. And the Flanders Fields region, where some of the most brutal battles of World War I took place, is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides.
Family-Friendly Activities
Belgium is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. The Pairi Daiza Zoo, located in the south of the country, is home to over 7,000 animals from around the world. The Plopsaland theme park, located on the coast, is a popular destination for families with young children. And the Mini-Europe park, located in Brussels, is a fun and educational way to learn about the different countries of Europe.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, Belgium has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. The city of Mons, located in the south of the country, is home to the UNESCO-listed Neolithic flint mines, which date back over 4,000 years. The town of Durbuy, located in the Ardennes, is known as the smallest city in the world and is full of charming narrow streets and historic buildings. And the city of Namur, located at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, is a great destination for kayaking and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Natural Wonders
Belgium may not be known for its natural wonders, but it’s home to some stunning landscapes that are worth exploring. The Hoge Kempen National Park, located in the east of the country, is a beautiful area of heathland, forests, and rivers. The High Fens, located in the southeast, is a unique moorland landscape that is home to rare plants and animals. And the Belgian coast is home to some beautiful sand dunes and rocky cliffs.
Vibrant Nightlife
Belgium is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to explore. Brussels is home to a thriving nightlife scene, with everything from jazz clubs to techno clubs. The city of Antwerp is known for its trendy bars and clubs, while the city of Ghent is home to some of the best live music venues in the country.
Local Markets
Belgium is home to some of the best markets in Europe, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The Sunday market in Brussels’ Marolles district is a must-visit, with its antiques, vintage clothes, and quirky collectibles. The Friday market in Leuven is a great place to stock up on local cheese, bread, and beer. And the weekly market in the town of Tienen is a great place to try some of the local delicacies, such as the famous Tienen sugar tarts.
Beaches and Mountains
Belgium may not be known for its beaches and mountains, but it’s home to some beautiful coastal towns and scenic mountain ranges. The town of Knokke-Heist, located on the coast, is a popular destination for beachgoers, with its wide sandy beaches and lively promenade. The Ardennes region, located in the southeast, is a great destination for hiking, cycling, and skiing in the winter months.
Cultural Immersion
Belgium is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in its traditions and customs. The city of Bruges is famous for its lace-making and chocolate-making traditions, and you can visit workshops and museums to learn more. The town of Binche is famous for its Carnival celebrations, which date back over 500 years. And the city of Ghent is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, one of the most important works of art in European history.
Art and Music Scene
Belgium has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. The city of Antwerp is known for its fashion and design scene, with plenty of avant-garde galleries and boutiques. The city of Ghent is home to the Museum of Fine Arts, which has an impressive collection of Flemish art from the 15th to the 20th century. And the city of Brussels is a great destination for music lovers, with its many jazz clubs and music festivals.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities and towns of Belgium, with plenty of guided tours available. The city of Bruges is a popular destination for walking tours, with its charming narrow streets and historic buildings. The city of Ghent is also a great destination for walking tours, with its beautiful canals and medieval architecture. And the city of Brussels offers a wide range of walking tours, from food tours to street art tours.
Architectural Marvels
Belgium is home to some stunning examples of architecture, from the Gothic cathedrals to the Art Nouveau buildings. The city of Brussels is a great destination for Art Nouveau architecture, with buildings such as the Horta Museum and the Hotel Tassel. The city of Ghent is known for its medieval architecture, with buildings such as the Castle of the Counts and the St. Bavo’s Cathedral. And the city of Antwerp is home to some stunning examples of Baroque architecture, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Rubenshuis.
Historical Sites
Belgium is full of historical sites that are worth exploring, from the Roman ruins to the World War I battlefields. The city of Tournai, located in the west of the country, is home to the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Notre-Dame, one of the oldest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. The city of Ypres, located in the Flanders Fields region, is a poignant reminder of the horrors of World War I, with its many memorials and museums. And the city of Tongeren is home to the impressive Gallo-Roman Museum