Belgium Travel Guide: Things To Do in Belgium. Places To See in Belgium.

Belgium is a small wonder. As a small European nation, it may have a limited land area, but travelers will be pleasantly surprised at the number of attractions and activities in Belgium. Travelers who visit the low country of Belgium will find delight in the diversity of the language, culture and the people. It is a land that pays a strong homage to its regal past, while at the same time embracing the excitement of many dynamic changes for the future. It is this flexibility that has allowed the various ethnic groups in Belgium to come together and create a history that is interesting and note worthy.

There are simply so many places to see and things to do while in Belgium, no wonder it remains a top tourist destination for many travelers going to Europe. It is abundant in medieval architecture, soaring castles, inspiring artwork, gastronomic delights, without losing its whimsical sense of humor. Starting from the Belgian capital of Brussels, to the medieval town of Bruges, to the French speaking region of Wallonie, travelers will find themselves delighted and enthralled by the beauty and understated elegance of Belgium.

Here are some of the best places to see in Belgium and things to do in Belgium. This is one of the most interesting sections of our Travel Guide Belgium, because it provides travelers a refreshing insight on notable places to visit. At the same time, travelers can get some noteworthy suggestions on what to do and what not to miss when going around Belgium.

Things to see in Brussels

Travelers will find the busy capital city of Brussels (Bruxelles, Brussel) a feast for the senses. It is where the old and the new come together. No wonder it is often called the unofficial capital of Europe, as the city is able to harmoniously combine a number of traditions and cultures, from Celtic, Roman, German, French and Austrian and created something that is uniquely their own. It is a high density city, being home to over a million Belgians, as well as the largest collection of diplomats in any city. Pass by the NATO building and the European Union Headquarters. The European Parliament Building, one of the most expensive structures built in Brussels, is another place that can be visited. Tours are available in the Parliament building, which has earned the name Caprice des Dieux, or Whim of the Gods.

The Grand Place is a must see for anyone going to Brussels. This square has been described as one of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe and features 17th century guild homes adorned with gold. The tourist information office is located here and is a good place to start a day of sight seeing when in Brussels. Every two years during a week in the month of August, the Grand Place is the venue for the Brussels Flower Carpet, a giant exhibition of an enlarged design using millions of colorful begonias in an area covering 1,800 square meters. Classical music and a light show is the showcase of the flower carpet in the evening.

A few steps away is the cherubic symbol of Belgium, the Manneken-Pis. This small boy sculpture atop a fountain is only three blocks away from the Grand Place and serves as a constant reminder to the whimsical and playful nature of the people. There are many legends surrounding this little boy, one of the most popular being that he saved the Grand Place from a fire by putting out the bomb by pissing on it . However, the reality is that the fountain was installed by Archduke Albert to provide a source of drinking water for the residents. People from the world over have joyfully contributed to this little sculpture’s wardrobe. It has over 800 outfits, including an Elvis outfit, and about 100 are on display at the Museum. There is even a celebration when this little boy gets dressed in one of his costumes thirty-six times a year.

You can see the home where Victor Hugo lived when he sought refuge in the liberal country of Belgium. At the same time, pass by the home of Karl Marx, where it is said he wrote his most famous work, Manifesto.

Art lovers will appreciate the collection in the Musées Royaux des Beaux Arts, home to the Musée d’Art Ancien and the Musée d’Art Moderne. Here, you can find the famous “Landscape with the Fall of Icarus” created by Bruegel the Elder. There are also masterpieces by Rubens and René Magritte. There are also works by Van Gogh, Seurat and Gauguin. Jacques-Louis David’s “Death of Marat” can also be found here. Aside from the fantastic art pieces, travelers can take in a panoramic view of Brussels from the fourth floor, perfect to have a few souvenir cityscape photos taken.

The cathedral of Notre Dame du Sablon features some amazing 14-meter high stained glass windows. At the Place du Petit Sablon, considered as one of Brussels’ prettiest gardens, travelers can take in the 48 bronze statues designed by Paul Hankar atop the wrought-iron fence posts. The statues represent the medieval arts and crafts of Brussels.

Things to Do in Brussels

If you’re not sure how to go about your itinerary, a good place to start is the tourist office at Grand Place. City sightseeing tours are found in Gare Central. Tours last less than two hours, leaving you with a lot of time to shop and eat at leisure.

If you’re pressed for time and want to see all of Europe condensed in one spot, then the place to be is the Mini-Europe. This open air exhibit recreates some famous European landmarks, albeit a quarter of its original size.

The best place to do some shopping is in the Galerie Saint Hubert. This arcade is only a block away from the Grand Place and sells everything and anything a tourist can want. Be sure to pick up a box of pralines for loved ones back home. You can also find some indulgent and highly decadent chocolates at Wittamer. If you prefer to bargain your way through the flea market, visit the Place du Jeu de Baile in the morning. For some antique pieces, pass by the stalls at the Place du Grand Sablon, which are open every Saturday morning.

Be sure to have your picture taken by the Manneken-Pis and take the time to peruse through his many outfits. It’s sure to put a smile on any weary traveler’s place.

Those who want to see some opera and ballet need only to head out to the Le Théâtre Royal de la Monnaie. It is said that a performance of the La Muette de Portici in 1830 was so compelling, that it inspired the people to take to the streets and thus gave rise to the Belgian revolution for independence.

If you’re traveling with children or feeling a bit young at heart, don’t miss the Belgian Comic Strip Center. This is known as the comic strip capital of the world. Fans of the comic strip Tintin can purchase fun souvenir items here. Another interesting place to visit is the Royal Theater of Toone VIII, a puppet theater and museum. The traditional art and craft of puppetry is alive and well here, continued by an 8th generation of master puppeteers. Shows are available in English, French, German and Flemish for a nominal admission fee, and is sure to delight anyone young at heart.

Brussels has much to offer travelers looking for some entertainment. If you want to unwind and catch a movie flick, why not do it at the largest movie theater in Europe, the Kinepolis Cinema and IMAX? In the summer, there are free concerts and live performances at the Grand Place.

When you’re hungry, why not dine in one of the many restaurants along the road and order a serving of moules and frites? While taking in the sights around the city, be sure to pick up an order of frites from the street vendors, or take the time and sit in a café and order some waffles. Choose from over 800 beers to satisfy your thirst and end your meal.

From Brussels, travelers can take a day trip and see where history changed at Waterloo. It is here where Napoleon was defeated in only nine hours at the cost of 50,000 lives. You’ll see the Lion’s Mound or the Butte du Lion. Tours are given on the sites, where you can see battle artifacts.

Another daytrip that can be taken from Brussels is to Mechelen or Malines in French. Located north of Brussels, travelers will enjoy seeing the many churches in the city. There is the St. Rumbold’s Cathedral as well as its famous tower that is home to two Carillion sets of 49 bells each. Ruben’s creation, the Adoration of the Magi, can be seen in the Church of St. John. After touring the churches, take the time to stroll around the botanical gardens.

Things to see in Bruges

Although Brussels is the capital of Belgium, most tourists opt to flock to Bruges instead. It is probably the medieval charm of the city that attracts tourists from all over the world. Canals and cobblestone streets will make any traveler feel like they stepped back in time, into one of the most romantic and picturesque cities in Europe.

Travelers can take a day trip to Bruges and explore the many sights on foot. The Belfort tower in the Grote Markt is a must see. The Belfort tower stands 88 meters tall and travelers can choose to climb the 366 steps to see the panoramic view of the city. The city hall or Stadhuis is another attraction not to be missed, as it is home to a number of artworks, sculptures and other fine art pieces.

The Basilica of the Holy Blood is another stop in any traveler’s itinerary. It is said to contain a religious relic that has the blood of Christ. The 14th century Church of Our Lady is home to the famous work of Michelangelo, The Madonna and Child. The tombs of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold can also be found here.

Those who wish to stop by the museums can choose from the Groeninge Museum, which is home to a number of Dutch and Flemish works of art, the Gruuthuse Museum, which has a number of tapestries and showcases the lifestyle during the 15th and the 19th centuries and the Memling Museum, part of St. John’s Hospital where the masterpieces of Hans Memling are shown.

The windmill-lined canals of Kruisvestraat are sure to inspire, artists, musicians and romantics. The St. Janshuismolen is a 230-year old windmill that is still being used today, especially in the summer when it is used to grind flour. There is also the Minnewater Park or Lake of Love, a favorite of joggers and those who wish to take in the natural splendor of this delightful city.

Things to do in Bruges

If you’re planning to go to Bruges, don’t go on a Monday, when many of the stores and museums are closed. However, on any other day of the week, the city is alive and full of inspiration. Art enthusiasts and historians will appreciate the Northern Renaissance architecture that has been well preserved in Bruges. Artists can find inspiration from the picturesque images found at the Kruisvestraat.

Bruges is such as quaint city, you can opt to go by foot or rent a bike to get around town. However, it’s still best to go on foot so you can view things at leisure.

Try the lace tours offered in the city. There are museums that showcase the delicate works of art that Belgium used to be known for in the middle ages. You can even purchase some pieces to take back home.

Before leaving, be sure to sample some of the mosselen, mussels served with beer. Try a beer tour at the Straffe Hendrik Brewery. The beer museum and brewery has been around since 1856 so it’s sure to delight beer lovers from all over the world. Another must try is the juniper-flavored jenever, a traditional alcoholic liquor popular in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Things to see in Ostend

For those who wish to take a day trip from Bruges, there are trips to Ostend. Located in West Flanders, there are many points of interest perfect for travelers. The Provincial Modern Art Museum is a must see, as well as the De Plate Folklore Museum. Children will enjoy the North Sea Aquarium. Fort Napoléon is also here, as well as the James Ensor house. Travelers will also enjoy the Ostend City Center, where there are stalls, shops and various activities for entertainment.

Things to do in Ostend

Located on the North Sea coast, travelers can enjoy some fresh seafood at this beach town. Although it’s not much for swimming, foodies will certainly enjoy the caricoles or sea snails in the Vitrap fish market.

A must try is to take a ride on the De Kusttram (Coast Tram), to get a view of this lovely coastal town. The Wellington Racetrack is located in Ostend. Those who wish to unwind playing a few rounds of roulette or Black Jack can do so at the Casino Kursaal Oostende. At the Ostend City, fun and games can be played, especially the La Mosca Ostend.

Things to see in Antwerp

Another day trip that is possible from Bruges is Antwerp, the birthplace of famous Renaissance painter Peter Paul Rubens. It is here that travelers can see four of his masterpieces, The Elevations of the Cross, The Descent from the Cross, The Resurrection of Christ and The Assumption, in the Cathedral of Our Lady. Those interested in architecture should check out the majestic houses on Cogels-Osylei done in the 19th century when the area was envisioned as a new neighborhood of the billionaires in Belgium. Shopping can be done on the main street, Meir.

Take advantage of free museum entrances in Antwerp, which is every Friday. The Steen Castle, one of the oldest fortresses to be found in Europe is home to the National Maritime Museum. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is another must see. Rubens Huis is the home of Rubens. Another fantastic museum to visit is the Diamant Museum, the world’s largest diamond museum and learn about the fascinating history and some of the magnificent jewelry collection made from this fantastic stone in the Diamond Center of the World, Antwerp.

Things to do in Antwerp

A trip to Antwerp starts at the Rail station. Built in 1905, the Central Station is a testament to the architectural style and flourish of the people of Belgium. Visit the Museum aan de Stroom. It is an impressive modern building ten-stories high resembling stacked boxes made of red-colored Indian limestone alternating with glass. Each level is rotated 90 degrees so visitors can take a 360-degree view of the city. A world heritage site that can’t be missed is the Plantin Moretus Museum. This printing museum has the world’s oldest printing presses.

Children will enjoy the Antwerp Zoo, where there is also an aquarium. Those who want to get moving will enjoy the Antwerp by Bike tour. You’ll go around the major sites, including the Butterfly Palace, MAS museum and the Cathedral. For a truly unique experience, try riding a hot air balloon offered by Airventure Ballooning. Before you leave, stop by the Diamond district. You may pick up a special souvenir from one of the diamond capitals of the world.

When you want to unwind, stop by and enjoy the jazz music at a jazz bar. There are also pubs where waiters are dressed in traditional clothes.

Things to see in Dinant

The little town of Dinant may not be the first place for many tourists, but those looking for an eco-trip will surely enjoy a visit. Located in the Wallonie or French speaking region of Belgium, one of the main attractions of Dinant are the caves of the Grotte La Merveilleuse. Take pictures of the stalagmites and stalactites that line the caves.

Those who wish to stay in town can see the Citadel Tower, which is located by the Meuse River. The Citadel dates back to the 11th century and is today the location of the Arms Museum. Pass by the home of Adolph Sax, the inventor of the saxophone.

Things to do in Dinant

Dinant is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Aside from the amazing caves of the Grotte La Merveilleuse, there are also rock climbing adventures, kayaking and hiking tours.

For something more leisurely, enjoy the beer tour at Leffe Abbey. There is also a cookies tour called the Couques de Dinant, wherein guests can make cookies made solely from flour and honey. There are also a number of river boat rides and river boat dinner cruises available on the River Meuse.

Adventurers can even opt to take a day trip to Rochefort. Located in the verdant hills of the Lesse Valley of the Ardennes, travelers can enjoy the views after a hike up on the Château Comtal de Rochefort. Spelunkers will also enjoy the Grotte de Lorette.`

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