Belgium is a small country in Western Europe, but it packs a big punch when it comes to tourist attractions. From bustling cities and medieval towns to stunning natural beauty, Belgium has something to offer everyone.
In this article, we will highlight the top 10 tourist attractions in Belgium. We will provide a brief overview of each attraction, as well as some tips for planning your visit.
1. Grand Place, Brussels
The Grand Place is the main square in Brussels and is one of the most beautiful squares in the world. The square is surrounded by ornate guildhalls and the Brussels Town Hall, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are many things to see and do in the Grand Place. You can wander through the guildhalls, admire the architecture, or simply people-watch. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants in the square, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with a view.
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2. Manneken Pis
The Manneken Pis is a landmark 55.5 cm (21.9 in) bronze fountain sculpture in central Brussels, Belgium, depicting a puer mingens; a naked little boy urinating into the fountain’s basin.
The sculpture is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Brussels. It has been repeatedly stolen or damaged throughout its history.
3. Atomium
The Atomium is a landmark structure in Brussels that was built for the 1958 World’s Fair. The structure is a 102-meter (335 ft) tall model of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.
The Atomium is open to the public and offers stunning views of Brussels. You can also take a guided tour of the structure.
4. Bruges
Bruges is a medieval city in Belgium that is known for its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular tourist destination.
There are many things to see and do in Bruges. You can take a boat ride through the canals, visit the Church of Our Lady, or explore the city’s many museums. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants in Bruges, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink in a charming setting.
5. Ghent
Ghent is a city in Belgium that is known for its historic center, which is home to many medieval buildings. The city is also home to the Ghent Altarpiece, one of the most famous works of art in the world.
There are many things to see and do in Ghent. You can visit the Ghent Altarpiece, explore the city’s historic center, or take a boat ride on the River Scheldt. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants in Ghent, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink in a charming setting.
6. Antwerp
Antwerp is a city in Belgium that is known for its diamond industry, its fashion scene, and its Baroque architecture. The city is also home to the Rubenshuis, a former home of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens.
There are many things to see and do in Antwerp. You can visit the Rubenshuis, explore the city’s diamond district, or shop for fashion in the Meir shopping district. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants in Antwerp, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink in a charming setting.
7. Waterloo
Waterloo is a town in Belgium that is famous for the Battle of Waterloo, which was fought on June 18, 1815. The battle was a decisive victory for the Duke of Wellington and the Allied forces over Napoleon Bonaparte.
There are many things to see and do in Waterloo. You can visit the battlefield, the Lion Mound, and the Wellington Museum. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants in Waterloo, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with a view of the battlefield.
8. Ardennes
The Ardennes is a region of Belgium that is known for its rolling hills, forests, and caves. The region is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and caving.
There are many things to see and do in the Ardennes. You can hike the GR 5 trail, bike the Vennbahn railway trail, or explore the caves of Han-sur-Lesse. There are also a number of charming villages and towns in the Ardennes, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink in a relaxed setting.
9. Dinant
Dinant is a town in Belgium that is known for its steep cliffs, its medieval bridge, and its saxophone museum. The town is located in the province of Namur, in the Wallonia region of Belgium.
Dinant is a popular tourist destination, and is known for its beautiful setting and its charming medieval town center. The town is also home to a number of interesting attractions, including:
- The Notre-Dame de Dinant Cathedral: This 12th-century cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Belgium.
- The Citadel of Dinant: This 19th-century citadel offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
- The Sax Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the saxophone, which was invented in Dinant in the 19th century.
10. The Belgian Coast
The Belgian Coast is a 67-kilometer (42-mile) stretch of coastline that is located in the province of West Flanders. The coast is known for its sandy beaches, its charming seaside towns, and its lively nightlife.
There are many things to see and do on the Belgian Coast. You can relax on the beach, swim in the sea, or go for a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks, water parks, and casinos on the coast.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Belgium has to offer. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or food, Belgium is sure to have something to keep you entertained.
Planning Your Visit
Here are a few tips for planning your visit to Belgium:
- The best time to visit Belgium is during the spring (April-June) or fall (September-October). The weather is mild during these months, and there are fewer crowds.
- If you are planning to visit Brussels, be sure to book your accommodations in advance. Brussels is a popular tourist destination, and hotels can fill up quickly.
- If you are planning to visit Bruges, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. The city is built on canals, and there are many cobblestone streets.
- If you are planning to visit the Ardennes, be sure to pack for all types of weather. The region can be cold and wet in the winter, and hot and humid in the summer.
Getting Around
The best way to get around Belgium is by train. The Belgian train system is efficient and affordable. You can also get around by bus or by car.
Visas
Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Belgium for tourism purposes. However, be sure to check with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country for the latest visa requirements.
Currency
The currency of Belgium is the euro. You can exchange your currency for euros at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels.
Language
The official languages of Belgium are Dutch, French, and German. However, English is widely spoken in Belgium, especially in tourist areas.
Safety
Belgium is a safe country to visit. However, be sure to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
We hope this article has given you some ideas for your next trip to Belgium. Belgium is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors. We hope you enjoy your visit!
