10 places to visit in Belgium

10 places to visit in Belgium

1.      Ghent, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city
This small, welcoming city is located in northwestern Belgium, less than an hour's drive from Brussels. Ghent offers a rich architectural heritage, some of the country's most beautiful museums, and plenty of trendy cafes. Want to enjoy a beer with friends? Belgium is renowned for its locally brewed craft beers. Explore the city on two wheels. There are many places where you can rent bicycles for both adults and younger family members. Park your rental car on the outskirts of the city and hire a bike for the entire day.

2.     Don't miss Bruges
Fairytale buildings, picturesque alleys and cobblestone streets, a network of beautiful canals... Bruges is a charming city that you cannot miss when traveling to Belgium. Once you start exploring it, you'll want to stay forever in this small medieval town. What are the best things to do in Bruges? Take a horse-drawn carriage ride with the kids – it's a perfect way to introduce them to some culture. Take a boat trip along the enchanting canals. Why not combine a trip to Bruges with a visit to Ostend? The two cities are only half an hour's drive apart!

3.    Soignies Forest, a touch of nature 
Looking for the most beautiful Belgian landscapes? Soignies Forest is a natural haven perfect for relaxation. Located on the outskirts of Brussels, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed area is an ideal spot to spend a day outdoors, away from the city hustle and bustle. You can hike through the forest or cycle with your family, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the beauty of its fauna and flora. Don't forget to pack a picnic!

4.    Villers Abbey 
Villers Abbey is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium, and also one of the most unusual. Founded in 1146, the monastery fell into ruin gradually since the French Revolution. It's this decay that now contributes to the entire beauty and uniqueness of the place. Currently, the majestic stone walls harmonize perfectly with the vegetation, creating a unique landscape. Walking through it, you feel immersed in a romantic novel, full of melancholy and beauty.

5.    Water Bicycle Path in Bokrijk 
Don't be surprised to see a bicycle path listed among the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium. Indeed, the one in Bokrijk is extraordinary, resembling a ribbon floating on the surface of a pond. Riding on it, you'll feel like you're crossing calm waters like a modern-day Moses. Moreover, take the time to stroll through Bokrijk Park, a true oasis of tranquility. This natural park is also an open-air museum that recreates life in traditional Flemish villages.

6.    Giant's Tomb 
Let's now move to one of the most beautiful natural panoramas to see in Belgium. To discover it, you need to head to the Botassart viewpoint, near the village of the same name. From there, you'll be greeted by a stunning valley. At its heart, a river forms a loop around a forested hill. This astonishing overgrown mound is known as the "Giant's Tomb," and you'll easily guess why!

7.    Atomium and Laeken Park 
A symbol of Brussels, the Atomium adds its eccentric shape to the Belgian landscape. This remarkable piece of architecture will delight enthusiasts of spectacular design! Furthermore, it is located at the entrance of Laeken Park, a beautiful large English-style garden. Within this park, you'll find, among other attractions, the Royal Castle of Laeken and its stunning greenhouses.

8.    Liège 
Liège is renowned throughout Belgium for the legendary hospitality of its inhabitants and their love for festivities. But that's not all. Liège also boasts a rich heritage that traces back to Charlemagne. Here, you can even find traces of prehistoric times and ruins of a Gallo-Roman villa! Liège is also known as one of the top ten party cities in Europe!

9.    Mini-Europe Park
Mini-Europe Park, located in Brussels, is an unforgettable visit for the whole family. Imagine traveling across Europe in just a few steps! This unique park showcases precise miniatures of the most famous European landmarks. From the Eiffel Tower in Paris, to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, all the way to the Atomium in Brussels, you'll see Europe like never before, on a small scale. Each model has been crafted with incredible attention to detail, making the experience even more exceptional. It's a fun and educational way to discover Europe without leaving Brussels. Additionally, the park is easy to find and perfect for a day trip. So, lace up your best walking shoes and get ready to explore Europe in miniature!

10.    Han Caves 
The Han Caves are a treasure located in the Namur region of Belgium. Imagine a magical underground world with vast halls and incredible rock formations. Your visit begins with a small train ride that takes you close to the entrance of the caves. Once there, you'll be guided through illuminated corridors where stalactites and stalagmites create enchanting landscapes. Guides share fascinating stories about the caves' history and formation, making the visit both entertaining and informative. It's a fantastic activity for exploration and learning new things. The Han Caves offer an escape from everyday life in a spectacular natural setting.