Places to visit in Belgium

One of the most vibrant squares in Europe, the Grand-Place is a 13th century market in the city center of Brussels. It blends age-old architecture with modern shops, markets and cafes. Home to the famous Atomium and Manneken Pis, the Grand-Place is steeped in history. The Chocolate Museum (Musée du Cacao et du Chocolat) must be seen to be believed. The country produces well over 150,000 tons of the sweet stuff each year. View more things to do in Brussels.

Belgium’s second-largest city, Antwerp (Antwerpen), is a busy, buzzing metropolis with plenty to see and do. From unsurpassed cuisine to cutting-edge fashion to architecture and history, Antwerp is a traveler’s playground. The Cogels-Osylei, one of the most fascinating streets in Belgium (and some believe, in all of Europe), is teeming with magnificent 19th century architecture.

Although it lies quietly in the shadow of Antwerp, Ghent (Gent) is a perfect stop between modern Antwerp and ancient Bruges – and a place where food, beer and fun have risen to an art form. Wander the 13th century streets and it won’t be long before you find the perfect environment for your taste, and friendly people with whom to share it.

One of Flanders’ more historic cities, Bruges’ (Brugge) presence was felt in medieval times, and it was western Europe’s most important trade city by the 15th century.  A walk through Bruges today is like walking back into times long passed, since even modern renovations are done to preserve the medieval look and feel.

Art and history reign supreme in Liège (Luik). No visit would be complete without a trip to the Musée d’Art Réligieux et d’Art Mosan. For a peek inside the lives of Wallonia’s most famous artists (including René Magritte and Paul Delvaux), try the Musée de l’Art Wallon.

Mild temperatures and varied landscapes make Belgium a great outdoor destination. The Ardennes are a nature-lover’s paradise: lush hills, flowing rivers, cycling, kayaking, skiing – the works. In Rochefort, rent bikes and cycle along unused train tracks to Houyet. And the Waterloo Battlefield, looking as it did during the famous battle back in 1815, is near Brussels. In June, there are costumed battle re-enactments.