You might know Belgium because of their waffles, the pissing boy or the European parliament. Brussels is a famous European capital, but do you also know other Belgian cities? Here are some tips on where to go on your next trip to Belgium.
Brussels
The European capital. It’s a city with a lot of magic and activities. It’s full of tourists from all over the world. There are many places you should visit and things you should try, whether it’s gastronomy or cultural events. Here’s a list of things to do in Brussels.
- Mini Europe
If you want to see Europe in one day, come to this park. It offers miniature wonders of Europe. You won’t only learn about the wonders itselves but also about the countries and the history. It’s a very unique place to visit.
- Eat waffles
You definitely can’t miss this activity. Belgium is well known for its waffles. They are fresh, delicious and you can pick from several flavors, toppings or even shapes. You can find waffle places all over the city center and pick whichever suits you the most.
- Walk in the city center
The Grand Place with the Town hall is a place you cannot miss. This beautiful square is stunning with its architecture and especially the lights in the evening.
- Atomium
This is one of the landmarks of Brussels and Belgium itself. This construction is shaped as an atom and it offers exhibitions, a panoramic view and a restaurant.
- See the pissing boy
A little statue of a little boy peeing. This statue is very well known. It’s located in the streets in the center and you have to visit it.
- Mount of the Arts and Parc du Cinquantenaire
Mount of the Arts is located between the Royal Library and the Congress Palace. It’s a beautiful park especially in the evening when the lights are on. Parc du Cinquantenaire is a big park that stands out because of the triumphal arch that stands there. There are also two palaces next to the arch. These are opened as the Royal museums of Art and History and the Army and Military History.
- Eat in Wolf
Wolf is a food hall offering a huge variety of different cuisines from many parts of the world. You want pasta, burgers, sushi or something vegan, you can find it all under one roof. It’s a perfect place to go for lunch. If you like street food or crafted beer this is the place for you.
- Visit museums
Brussels is a huge city, so it offers many museums. Some of the most famous ones are the Choco Story, a museum of chocolate where you can learn the history, see how the chocolate is made and also have a taste. Autoworld shows you the history of cars. Museum of Natural Sciences where you can see dinosaurs. Museum of Infinite Realities offers a holographic show. Also many many more.
- Eat fries and enjoy beer
Just like the waffles, Belgium is also known for its fries. The Belgian fries are a big delicacy for locals and tourists. You can buy them in many stands or restaurants and they come with many toppings and sauces. Belgians are also big fans of beer so you should also give a try to some Belgian beers.
Antwerp
It’s a beautiful city full of history and beautiful architecture. It’s located north, very close to the Netherlands. Antwerp has a great connection to many other cities even in different countries. Once again this city offers many activities and here’s the list.
- The most beautiful train station
The Antwerp central station is voted as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. This station was built in an eclectic style and was also inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. It works like every other station offering food and drinks, information and ticket offices and trains leaving to Belgium and the Netherlands.
- One of the oldest zoos
This zoo is the oldest in Belgium and one of the oldest in the world. It is located right next to the central station and it is home to many beautiful animals from all around the world. You definitely need to spend more time in the zoo as there are many beautiful pavilions.
- Shop in Stadsfeestzaal
This is a place with stunning historical architecture screaming luxury. Originally this place was opened as an event hall, hosting many different events through the years. Originally it was opened at the very beginning of the 20th century, now it’s a beautiful shopping mall in the city center offering around 40 shops.
- Visit Het Steen
Het Steen is a fortress located in the biggest port in the city and one of the biggest in Europe. It is a medieval fortress that was demolished many times. Nowadays it’s a visitor center and a cruise terminal.
- Walk in the city
This is a city where you can spend a lot of time walking, enjoying the view of the canals, architecture and many cultures. While walking you have to visit the Grote markt square which is the historical heart of the city. The Town hall is also located at this square and you definitely can’t miss it, this building is also part of UNESCO world heritage list. Another place you have to pay a visit is the Cathedral of our lady. It’s a massive beautiful cathedral full of art.
- Historical street Vlaeykensgang
A medieval street full of history and antiques or restaurants. This street is really small but it’s full of history.
- Visit museums
Antwerp offers a huge variety of museums. Either it’s historical museums, art galleries or fun museums with different activities, this city has it all. If you are interested, you shouldn’t miss The Museum of Fine arts which is a cultural landmark. If you are looking for something more special, visit the Chocolate Nation. As the name already hints, it’s a museum of chocolate where you don’t only learn about chocolate but also get to taste it. Everyone knows that Belgian chocolate is delicious. The Museum Plantin-Moretus is a UNESCO site showing the history of printing and publishing. Other places worth visiting are the Diamond museum, Rubens House, Fashion museum, different art museums and many more.
Tip: Take care of your belongings and late night stay close to the tourist places for your own safety. Some neighbourhoods in Brussels and Antwerp are not safe.
Ghent
This city is smaller and calmer. It offers beautiful historical architecture and a great atmosphere. It’s a great place to go if you want to go just for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Here’s what it offers.
- Festival of lights
Ghent has one of the most beautiful open air light festivals. It’s free and it’s located all over the city. This festival happens only every 3 years, so make sure to put a note in your calendar for the next one. The light art is made by both national and international artists spreading across the city and its landmarks.
- Go on a boat tour
There are several canals in Ghent, therefore you can go on a tour by boat. This is a unique experience. You can enjoy the view of the most famous landmarks and the beautiful architecture. There are also boats that offer drinks or you can even have a meal.
- Visit the Castle or the Counts
The Castle or the Counts or also called Gravensteen is a well kept treasure of Ghent. The castle is opened to visitors. You can visit many rooms and places and learn about the history of not only the castle but also the city. There are also activities and festivals being held at this castle.
- St. Michael’s church and bridge
This is the most magical place in Ghent. The church with its beautiful architecture is lying next to the canal and a beautiful bridge. Walking in this church you can enjoy some peace and numerous artwork pieces.
- Walk in the city
Ghent is a perfect city for some romantic walks. The old architecture, churches and cathedrals, canals and a castle are making this city a magical place. It offers many unique places to eat and drink or shop in several souvenir shops. It’s also a perfect place to take many photos.
Note: The official languages in Belgium are Dutch, French and German. In the north the majority speaks Dutch and in the south French. Most of the people also speak English.
I personally loved Antwerp. Brussels is also a beautiful city and Ghent has a lot of magic. There are many more places to see in Belgium and I’m excited to do so. If you are interested in my experiences and other things to do in Brussels, reed my post From Breda to Brussels.
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