Belgium is one of Europe’s most charming travel destinations. Travellers searching for the Best Things to Do in Belgium quickly notice the country’s rich mix of medieval cities, historic landmarks, world famous cuisine, and vibrant cultural traditions. Located in Western Europe between France, Germany, and the Netherlands, Belgium offers visitors an exciting variety of experiences packed into a relatively small country.
The country’s cities are filled with beautiful squares, canals, and historic buildings that date back centuries. Many travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium begin their journey in Brussels, the capital city known for its grand architecture, lively markets, and political significance as the headquarters of the European Union. From there, visitors often travel to cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp, each offering a unique character and historic charm.
Belgium is also known for its food culture. Chocolate shops, waffle stalls, and traditional Belgian restaurants are easy to find throughout the country. Travellers experiencing the Best Things to Do in Belgium often enjoy tasting famous Belgian chocolates, sampling regional beers, and visiting lively cafés located in historic squares. This combination of culture, architecture, and culinary tradition makes Belgium one of the most rewarding destinations in Europe.
Why Belgium Is a Must Visit Destination?
Belgium offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, architecture, and cuisine. Travellers researching the Best Things to Do in Belgium will find experiences that appeal to history enthusiasts, photographers, food lovers, and art fans.
Key reasons travellers enjoy the Best Things to Do in Belgium include:
• Beautiful medieval city centres filled with historic buildings
• World famous Belgian chocolate and waffles
• Cultural museums and art galleries
• Scenic canals and charming town squares
• Historic castles and cathedrals across the country
These attractions make Belgium a memorable destination that continues to attract travellers from around the world.
Quick Travel Facts About Belgium
Before exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium, these travel facts help visitors plan their trip.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Belgium |
| Capital | Brussels |
| Population | Around 11.6 million |
| Known For | Chocolate, waffles, beer, medieval cities |
| Famous Landmark | Grand Place |
| Best Time to Visit | April to October |
| Currency | Euro |
Top 19 Best Things to Do in Belgium
Belgium offers a wide range of experiences including historic cities, cultural landmarks, art museums, and scenic landscapes. Travellers looking for the Best Things to Do in Belgium will find unforgettable attractions across the country.
1. Visit Grand Place in Brussels
Grand Place ranks among the most famous Best Things to Do in Belgium. Located in the heart of Brussels, this historic square is surrounded by ornate guild halls, the Town Hall, and impressive architecture dating back to the seventeenth century.
Visitors often spend time admiring the gold decorated buildings and enjoying the lively atmosphere created by cafés and street performers.
Highlights include:
• Historic architecture with decorative façades
• UNESCO World Heritage Site status
• Restaurants and cafés surrounding the square
• Seasonal flower carpet events
2. Explore the Canals of Bruges
Bruges offers one of the most romantic experiences among the Best Things to Do in Belgium. The city is often called the Venice of the North because of its network of canals and medieval buildings.
Boat tours allow visitors to see historic bridges, colourful houses, and church towers from the water.
Visitors enjoy:
• Scenic canal boat rides
• Historic medieval architecture
• Beautiful photography locations
• Walking through charming cobblestone streets
3. Visit the Atomium
The Atomium is one of the most unique landmarks included in the Best Things to Do in Belgium. Built for the 1958 Brussels World Expo, the structure represents an iron crystal magnified billions of times.
Visitors can enter the spheres and explore exhibitions while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Highlights include:
• Futuristic architectural design
• Observation decks with city views
• Science and design exhibitions
• Nighttime illuminated views
4. Walk Through Ghent’s Historic Centre
Ghent offers one of the most beautiful historic districts among the Best Things to Do in Belgium. The city features medieval buildings, canals, and historic towers that create a remarkable skyline.
Visitors often walk along the Graslei and Korenlei waterfront areas where historic merchant houses line the canal.
Popular experiences include:
• Walking along historic canal streets
• Viewing medieval towers and churches
• Visiting historic markets and cafés
• Exploring art museums and galleries
5. Visit the Belfry of Bruges
The Belfry of Bruges stands as one of the iconic Best Things to Do in Belgium. This medieval bell tower rises above the city centre and offers impressive views of Bruges.
Visitors can climb hundreds of steps to reach the top and enjoy panoramic views across rooftops and canals.
Reasons visitors climb the tower include:
• Historic medieval architecture
• Stunning city views
• Famous bell tower chimes
• Central location in Market Square
6. Explore Antwerp Cathedral
Antwerp Cathedral ranks among the architectural Best Things to Do in Belgium. Officially called the Cathedral of Our Lady, the building features Gothic architecture and houses paintings by the famous artist Peter Paul Rubens.
Visitors enjoy:
• Gothic architecture with towering spires
• Historic religious artworks
• Beautiful stained glass windows
• Cultural exhibitions
7. Taste Belgian Chocolate in Brussels
Trying Belgian chocolate remains one of the most delicious Best Things to Do in Belgium. Many chocolatiers offer tastings and workshops explaining how traditional chocolates are crafted.
Visitors can explore famous chocolate shops and taste handmade pralines.
Experiences include:
• Chocolate tasting tours
• Visiting historic chocolate shops
• Learning chocolate making techniques
• Buying premium Belgian sweets
8. Visit the Royal Palace of Brussels
The Royal Palace is one of the official residences of the Belgian monarchy and remains among the historic Best Things to Do in Belgium.
During summer months visitors can tour the interior halls decorated with chandeliers, artwork, and royal furnishings.
Highlights include:
• Grand ceremonial halls
• Historic royal architecture
• Decorative interior design
• Seasonal public tours
9. Explore Gravensteen Castle in Ghent
Gravensteen Castle is a medieval fortress located in the centre of Ghent. Visiting this fortress ranks among the historic Best Things to Do in Belgium.
Visitors can explore towers, armour displays, and museum exhibits explaining medieval warfare.
Activities include:
• Walking along castle walls
• Viewing medieval weapons
• Exploring historic rooms
• Learning about medieval life
10. Visit Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is one of the most famous landmarks included in the Best Things to Do in Belgium. This small bronze statue located in Brussels has become a humorous and iconic symbol of the city. Although the statue is modest in size, it attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to see one of Belgium’s most recognisable cultural figures.
The statue dates back to the seventeenth century and represents a young boy urinating into a fountain basin. Over time it has become part of local folklore and city tradition. Throughout the year, the statue is often dressed in different costumes during festivals and special events, which adds to its playful charm.
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium usually stop here while walking through the historic streets of Brussels. The surrounding area is filled with chocolate shops, waffle stands, cafés, and souvenir stores that create a lively tourist atmosphere.
Visitors enjoy:
• Photographing the famous bronze statue
• Seeing the statue dressed in seasonal costumes
• Exploring nearby souvenir and chocolate shops
• Walking through historic streets around the square
11. Experience Belgian Beer Culture
Belgium has a long and respected brewing tradition, making beer tasting one of the most enjoyable Best Things to Do in Belgium. The country produces hundreds of unique beer varieties, many crafted using traditional brewing techniques that have been passed down for generations.
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium often visit local breweries and historic beer cafés where they can taste different styles of Belgian beer. From strong Trappist ales to refreshing wheat beers and fruity lambics, the variety available across Belgium is impressive.
Many breweries offer guided tours where visitors learn about ingredients, fermentation methods, and the history of Belgian brewing. These experiences give travellers insight into one of the country’s most celebrated cultural traditions.
Experiences include:
• Guided brewery tours explaining beer production
• Beer tasting sessions featuring local varieties
• Learning about centuries old brewing traditions
• Sampling famous Trappist and abbey beers
12. Visit the Magritte Museum
The Magritte Museum in Brussels ranks among the artistic Best Things to Do in Belgium. Dedicated to the famous surrealist painter René Magritte, the museum houses one of the largest collections of his works in the world.
Visitors exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium can view paintings, sketches, photographs, and personal artefacts that highlight Magritte’s creative journey. His imaginative artworks often feature unusual combinations of everyday objects that challenge viewers to think differently about reality and perception.
The museum is located in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts complex, making it easy for travellers to combine their visit with other nearby art galleries. Art lovers and cultural travellers often consider this museum a highlight of any trip to Brussels.
Visitors can enjoy:
• Viewing famous surrealist paintings
• Exploring sketches and personal artwork
• Learning about Magritte’s life and artistic style
• Visiting other nearby art museums in the same complex
13. Walk Through Leuven
Leuven offers one of the charming city experiences included in the Best Things to Do in Belgium. Located about 25 kilometres from Brussels, this historic university city is known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and vibrant student culture.
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium often visit Leuven to see its impressive Gothic Town Hall, which features hundreds of decorative statues and intricate carvings. The nearby St Peter’s Church also stands as an important historic landmark in the city centre.
Leuven is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, which brings a youthful and energetic atmosphere to the city. Visitors can walk through lively squares filled with cafés, restaurants, and historic buildings.
Popular experiences include:
• Admiring the Gothic architecture of Leuven Town Hall
• Walking through lively student squares
• Visiting historic churches and museums
• Enjoying cafés and local restaurants
14. Visit the Battlefields of Flanders
The battlefields of Flanders represent one of the most historic Best Things to Do in Belgium. Located mainly around the city of Ypres, these sites commemorate the events of the First World War and honour the soldiers who fought there.
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium often visit these memorials and museums to learn about the important role the region played during the war. The area contains preserved trenches, cemeteries, monuments, and educational exhibits that tell the story of the conflict.
One of the most moving experiences is attending the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres. This daily ceremony honours the soldiers who lost their lives during the war and continues to attract visitors from around the world.
Visitors often explore:
• Historic war memorials and monuments
• Preserved battlefield sites and trenches
• World War museums and exhibitions
• The Menin Gate Last Post ceremony in Ypres
15. Explore Dinant
Dinant is one of the most scenic towns among the Best Things to Do in Belgium. The town sits beside the Meuse River with colourful buildings and dramatic cliffs.
Visitors enjoy:
• Visiting Dinant Citadel
• Walking along riverfront streets
• Taking river boat tours
• Viewing the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame
16. Visit the Hallerbos Blue Forest
Hallerbos Forest is one of the most beautiful natural attractions included in the Best Things to Do in Belgium. Located just outside Brussels, the forest becomes especially famous during spring when millions of bluebells bloom across the woodland floor. This seasonal display transforms the forest into a stunning landscape filled with vibrant shades of blue and purple.
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium often visit Hallerbos between April and early May when the flowers reach their peak bloom. During this time, walking through the forest feels magical as sunlight filters through tall beech trees and illuminates the colourful carpet of flowers.
The forest contains well marked walking paths that allow visitors to explore the area while protecting the delicate plants. Nature lovers and photographers find the scenery particularly rewarding because the combination of flowers, trees, and soft light creates incredible photo opportunities.
Visitors enjoy:
• Walking peaceful woodland trails
• Seeing the famous spring bluebell bloom
• Capturing scenic nature photographs
• Relaxing in a quiet forest environment
17. Explore the City of Mechelen
Mechelen is one of Belgium’s most charming historic cities and ranks among the cultural Best Things to Do in Belgium. Located between Brussels and Antwerp, this city is known for its beautiful architecture, historic churches, and welcoming atmosphere.
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium often visit Mechelen to admire its historic squares, canals, and impressive monuments. The city centre features colourful buildings, lively cafés, and cultural attractions that reflect centuries of history.
One of the highlights of the city is St Rumbold’s Tower, a towering Gothic structure that dominates the skyline. Visitors who climb the tower are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views across the rooftops of Mechelen and the surrounding countryside.
The city also offers several museums, historic churches, and cultural sites that showcase Belgium’s artistic and architectural heritage.
Visitors enjoy:
• Climbing St Rumbold’s Tower for panoramic views
• Exploring historic city squares and canals
• Visiting museums and cultural attractions
• Relaxing in cafés and restaurants in the old town
18. Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center
Belgium has a strong comic art tradition. The Belgian Comic Strip Center celebrates famous characters such as Tintin and the Smurfs.
Visitors enjoy:
• Comic art exhibitions
• Historic comic artwork
• Interactive displays
• Cultural insights into Belgian comics
19. Relax at the Belgian Coast
The Belgian coast offers one of the most relaxing experiences included in the Best Things to Do in Belgium. Stretching along the North Sea for about 65 kilometres, the coastline features sandy beaches, charming seaside towns, and scenic promenades that attract visitors throughout the year.
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium often visit coastal destinations such as Ostend, Knokke-Heist, and De Panne. These towns provide a refreshing change from city sightseeing and allow visitors to enjoy fresh sea air, open beaches, and relaxing waterfront views.
Many visitors enjoy walking along the long beach promenades where cafés, restaurants, and shops create a lively seaside atmosphere. During summer months the coast becomes especially popular as travellers relax on the beach, swim in the sea, and enjoy outdoor dining.
The Belgian Coastal Tram also runs along the entire coastline, making it easy for travellers to explore several seaside towns in a single day.
Visitors enjoy:
• Walking along scenic beach promenades
• Relaxing on sandy North Sea beaches
• Visiting seaside towns such as Ostend and Knokke
• Taking coastal tram rides along the shoreline
The coastline provides a peaceful and refreshing experience that completes the list of memorable Best Things to Do in Belgium.
Popular Attractions in Belgium
Travellers exploring the Best Things to Do in Belgium often prioritise these famous destinations:
• Grand Place Brussels
• Bruges Canals
• Atomium Brussels
• Ghent Historic Centre
• Antwerp Cathedral
• Gravensteen Castle
• Royal Palace Brussels
• Dinant Citadel
• Magritte Museum
• Hallerbos Forest
Best Time to Visit Belgium
The best time to experience the Best Things to Do in Belgium is between April and October when the weather is comfortable for exploring cities and outdoor attractions.
Spring brings blooming parks and colourful festivals across many cities. Summer offers lively street markets, outdoor dining, and cultural events.
Autumn provides beautiful scenery in countryside areas while winter brings Christmas markets and festive lights in historic squares.
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Final Thoughts:
The Best Things to Do in Belgium reveal a country rich in culture, history, and unforgettable travel experiences. Visitors can explore medieval towns, admire grand cathedrals, taste world famous chocolate, and walk along scenic canals.
From the historic squares of Brussels to the romantic canals of Bruges and the cultural streets of Ghent, the Best Things to Do in Belgium offer something for every traveller. Whether visiting for architecture, food, history, or art, Belgium remains one of Europe’s most rewarding travel destinations.
