Explore Belgium’s best tourist destinations offering historic beauty, rich culture and unforgettable unique experiences.
Belgium is a country with a variety of attractions, from the beauty of historic cities to stunning natural landscapes. The country is also renowned for its cultural heritage, including art, architecture and mouth-watering cuisine.
Every corner of Belgium offers a unique experience, from ancient castles to iconic monuments, making it a must-visit. Here are 10 must-see Places to Visit in Belgium that will give you an unforgettable travel experience.
1. Gravensteen Castle
Gravensteen Castle in Ghent is one of Belgium’s most striking historical sites. Built in the 12th century, the castle is an impressive piece of architecture and offers incredible views of the city of Ghent.
You can explore the various rooms inside the castle, which is now a museum, including the torture chamber, which depicts the dark side of medieval life.
The castle also features an art gallery and beautiful views of the city from its tower. Visiting Gravensteen Castle is a rare opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a bygone European kingdom.
2. Durbuy
Durbuy, known as the smallest village in the world, is located about two hours drive from Brussels. This village attracts visitors with its strong medieval atmosphere, like those from classic films.
Durbuy has beautiful cobbled streets, charming old buildings and relaxing natural scenery. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the charming village atmosphere.
Although only inhabited by around 500 people, Durbuy is a must-visit destination if you want a different experience from the big city.
3. Atomium
Located in Brussels, the Atomium is a very unique and iconic monument. Built for the 1958 Expo, the Atomium depicts an atom magnified nine times, with metal spheres connected by steel tubes.
Each sphere has a different function, including an exhibition space displaying various collections about science and technology.
The top of the Atomium offers incredible views of Brussels, and it is a perfect place for visitors interested in modern science and architecture. Not only that, this structure is also a very popular tourist attraction in Belgium.
4. Royal Palace
The Royal Palace or Palais de Bruxelles is the official residence of the king and queen of Belgium located in the heart of Brussels.
The palace is open to the public during the summer months, giving visitors the opportunity to see the grandeur and elegance of the royal interior.
With its magnificent architecture, you can explore various historic rooms decorated with artwork and historical objects. Another advantage is the free entry, making the Royal Palace one of the easily accessible destinations without any additional costs.
5. Magritte Museum
For art lovers, the Magritte Museum in Brussels is an unmissable destination. This museum is dedicated to the works of René Magritte, one of the most famous Belgian surrealist painters.
Inside the museum, you will find the largest collection of Magritte’s works, including some iconic paintings such as The Son of Man which became a symbol of surrealism.
The museum also displays other art objects that provide a deep insight into the world of art and the mind of the surrealist. The experience of visiting the Magritte Museum provides a unique perspective for anyone interested in art and imagination.
6. Beer Tasting
Belgium is known for its rich and varied beer-making tradition. In Belgium, you can find many places to sample beer, including the famous Poe Chenelle Kelder, which offers around 150 types of beer to sample.
For non-beer drinkers, there are still many non-alcoholic beverages to choose from. The cozy atmosphere with a cafe theme makes this a perfect place to relax while enjoying world-famous Belgian beer.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sample a variety of local beers, which are an integral part of Belgian culture.
7. Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is one of the most famous and iconic statues in the world located in Brussels. This small statue of a boy urinating has been a symbol of the city of Brussels since the 17th century.
The legend that accompanies this statue is about a boy who bravely deactivated a bomb that was about to explode by pouring urine on it, thus he was honored with a statue.
Today, Manneken Pis has become an important part of Belgian culture and is a must-see for any tourist visiting Brussels.
8. Dinant
Dinant is a small town located about 65 km from Brussels, and is known for its incredible natural beauty. The town is situated on the banks of the Meuse River and is surrounded by dramatic rock cliffs.
In Dinant, you can enjoy the calming views of the river, visit the famous Caves of Han and Dinant Caves, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
Dinant is the perfect place for those seeking peace and quiet, while enjoying the pristine beauty of nature.
9. Pierre Marcolini Chocolatier
Belgium is a heaven for chocolate lovers, and Pierre Marcolini Chocolatier is the best place to find the best chocolate in the country. Pierre Marcolini is a chocolate brand known for its high quality and elegant packaging design.
In this shop, you can buy various chocolate products, including truffles, macarons, and limited edition chocolate collections. Chocolates from Pierre Marcolini are not only souvenirs, but also special gifts that will give sweet memories from Belgium.
10. Waterloo Battlefield
Waterloo is a historical site known worldwide as the site of the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, where Napoleon Bonaparte suffered a major defeat.
Located about 20 km from Brussels, you can visit this vast battlefield and learn about the history of the battle that changed the course of Europe.
The site features several monuments and statues that commemorate the historic event, including the Lion’s Mound, an artificial hill that offers beautiful views. For history buffs, Waterloo is a destination full of knowledge and experience.
Belgium is a country with extraordinary rich history, culture and natural beauty. From ancient castles to fascinating historical sites, every corner of the country offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
While exploring Belgium, be sure to check out Things to do Brussels for an incredible mix of culture, history, and modern attractions.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the top ten tourist destinations in Belgium that will enrich your knowledge and provide beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.
