Think you know Belgium? Think again. Beyond the chocolate, beer, and postcard-perfect architecture lies a country full of surprises. One moment you’re wandering along the canals of Bruges, the next you’re sipping a local beer on a lively Brussels terrace or hiking through the wild landscapes of the Ardennes. This fascinating destination is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re a lover of art, food, history, or simply looking for authentic travel experiences, this guide covers some of the very best things to do in Belgium. Prepare to be surprised by a country that may be small in size but is overflowing with character, charm, and adventure.
Brussels and its landmarks
No trip to Belgium would be complete without exploring Brussels, the capital of Belgium, the seat of the European Union, and one of the country’s most vibrant cities.
Start where every first-time visitor should: the magnificent Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site framed by gilded guild houses and intricate stonework. Widely considered one of the world’s most beautiful squares, it’s the perfect introduction to the city. For a quieter experience, arrive early and watch the square come to life. Then step inside the stunning Town Hall, an architectural masterpiece that has dominated the skyline for centuries.
From there, let curiosity guide you. Wander through the historic center, stroll down cobblestone lanes, browse independent shops, and settle onto a café terrace—because some of Brussels’ best moments are the ones you don’t plan. When you’re ready for a different vibe, head to Saint-Gilles or Ixelles, where art galleries, creative boutiques, and lively patios reveal a more contemporary side of the city.
Further north, the former industrial site of Tour & Taxis has been transformed into a dynamic cultural hub hosting festivals, food markets, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Rain clouds rolling in? Brussels is also the comic book capital of Europe. Explore the Belgian Comic Strip Center, then, when the weather clears, follow a walking route lined with more than 80 murals featuring Tintin, Spirou, Lucky Luke, Asterix, and other beloved characters.
Before you leave, stop by the iconic Manneken Pis and the elegant Galerie St-Hubert, one of Europe’s oldest covered shopping arcades. And thanks to its central location and excellent rail connections, Brussels is also the perfect gateway for discovering the rest of Belgium.
What are the best foods to try in Belgium?
If there’s one thing Belgians take seriously, it’s food. And after a few meals here, chances are you’ll do the same. Belgian cuisine combines influences from neighboring countries while maintaining a distinct identity of its own. Warm, generous, and delicious, it’s far more than just fries and mayonnaise.
And to accompany these comforting dishes, treat yourself to one of the country’s famous Trappist beers or another locally brewed specialty.
Must-try dishes include:
- Moules-frites: fresh mussels cooked in white wine and herbs, served with crispy fries.
- Waterzooi: a creamy chicken or fish stew that is the ultimate comfort food.
- Liège-style meatballs: sweet-and-savory meatballs served with a rich syrup-based sauce.
- Chicons au gratin: Belgian endives baked with ham and béchamel sauce.
- Waffles: from Brussels or the famous Liège waffle, each variety has its own devoted fans.
- Pralines: handcrafted chocolates that showcase Belgium’s world-renowned expertise.
- Flemish beef stew: slow-cooked beef simmered in dark beer.
- Grey shrimp croquettes: a beloved coastal specialty.
Adventure in the Belgian Ardennes
Need a break from city streets and historic squares? Head for the Belgian Ardennes, a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, dense forests, winding rivers and rolling hills invite you to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with nature.
Top activities include:
- Hiking in the High Fens-Eifel Nature Park.
- Kayaking along the Ourthe River.
- Cycling through the forests around Saint-Hubert.
- Wildlife watching at dusk, particularly during deer-rutting season.
- Forest bathing among centuries-old trees in Anlier Forest.
For travelers looking to go farther off the beaten path, the Ardennes are also home to the spectacular Tombeau du Géant, one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the country.
What is worth visiting in Belgium? Bruges and its canals!
If any city resembles a fairytale come to life, it’s Bruges.
Nicknamed the “Venice of the North,” Bruges enchants visitors with its picturesque canals, medieval houses, and romantic atmosphere. A boat ride remains one of the best ways to discover the city, offering postcard-worthy views around every corner.
Be sure to visit the Markt, also known as the Grote Markt, as well as the Belfry of Bruges. Climb to the top for spectacular views of the city and its red rooftops.
As evening falls, Bruges becomes even more magical. Reflections dance on the water, church bells echo through the streets, and cozy canal-side terraces invite you to linger a little longer. The nightlife is understated but charming, making it a great time to soak up the city’s atmosphere.
The historic center of Bruges is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world with its remarkably preserved medieval character.
Antwerp
If Brussels is Belgium’s political heart and Bruges its medieval jewel, Antwerp is its creative soul.
Known for its diamond trade and fashion scene, Antwerp also boasts exceptional heritage and unique architecture.
Its stunning Central Station is often considered one of Europe’s most beautiful railway stations. Continue your exploration through the city’s historic center, where impressive squares and monumental landmarks reveal centuries of prosperity.
The Renaissance-style Town Hall, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, dominates the square, while the Cathedral of Our Lady houses several masterpieces by Rubens. Culture lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in the city’s acclaimed museum of art collections.
Then head to the trendy Zuid district, where galleries, restaurants, and cutting-edge design showcase a modern side of Antwerp.
Waterloo
Stand atop the Lion’s Mound and take in the sweeping panorama before you.
Today, peaceful fields stretch across the horizon. Yet this was the battlefield where Napoleon met his final defeat in 1815.
An audio-guided visit to the Memorial 1815 brings the events vividly to life. The Wellington Museum and Hougoumont Farm provide deeper insight into one of Europe’s most significant historical moments.
For history enthusiasts, this is unquestionably one of the most fascinating things to do in Belgium.
Belgium’s North Sea coast (and free beaches)
Warm sand beneath your feet, fresh sea air, and endless beaches: summer is the perfect season to experience another side of Belgium. Stretching for nearly 70 kilometres along the North Sea, the Belgian coast is beloved by Belgians for its relaxed atmosphere and wide sandy beaches.
Highlights include:
- Ostend: stroll the waterfront promenade and visit Mu.ZEE, a renowned museum of art dedicated to Belgian creativity.
- Knokke-Heist: cycle through the Zwin Nature Park and enjoy exceptional birdwatching.
- La Panne: try land yachting on one of the country’s largest beaches.
- Blankenberge: walk out onto the famous pier extending into the North Sea.
- De Haan: admire elegant Belle Époque villas before enjoying a sunset stroll through the dunes.
Watching the sun dip below the coastline is one of those simple travel moments that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
Ghent and the Castle of the Counts
Ghent has a habit of surprising people. Visitors often arrive expecting a smaller version of Bruges and leave wondering why they hadn’t spent more time here.
Located in East Flanders, Ghent is one of those cities that effortlessly balances history and modern energy. Medieval façades stand alongside bustling cafés, vibrant cultural venues, and a lively student population.
At the heart of Ghent stands the imposing medieval Castle of the Counts. Built in the 12th century, this remarkable fortress is a true masterpiece and one of the finest reminders of the Middle Ages in Belgium.
Another highlight is Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers. Along the Graslei and Korenlei, elegant buildings line the Leie River, creating one of the country’s most beautiful urban landscapes.
The city also features a remarkable collection of historic buildings, including a stunning Town Hall. Many travelers count Ghent among their biggest surprises in Belgium, and for good reason.
Nearby, you’ll also encounter traces of the famous Beguines and the peaceful communities they established throughout the region. Several former beguinages linked to the Beguines are today recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dinant
Few places in Belgium deliver a first impression quite like Dinant. Wedged between towering cliffs and the Meuse River, the city looks as though it was carved directly into the landscape.
The city’s skyline is dominated by a hilltop citadel perched high above the river. Reach it on foot or by cable car and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views over Dinant and the surrounding landscape.
Back below, the historic center of Dinant invites leisurely exploration. Stroll along the waterfront, take a cruise on the Meuse, and admire the colorful saxophone sculptures that celebrate the city’s most famous native son, Adolphe Sax.
Nature lovers can easily pair a visit to Dinant with an excursion to the famous Caves of Han, among the most impressive natural attractions in the country.
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