A top destination in Western Europe, Belgium is a country known for its medieval town centers which live should to shoulder with some of the stunning modern architecture.
Today, a political center of European Union, it was once a powerful imperial kingdom.
With a week’s itinerary in mind, check below some of the best cities to visit in Belgium:
Louvain
One of the best cities to visit in Belgium, Louvain is famous for its university and its young college crowd.
Louvain suffered heavy destruction in the 2 world wars, but you can still enjoy some of its historical architecture.
Orient yourself in the central square, Grote Markt, bordering which you will find a number of historical attractions. The City Hall, St Peter’s church, and Guild houses all are found on this very square.
If you love gardens you will find a stroll through the Louvain Botanical Garden very calming.
Ypres
A small but beautiful city in Belgium, Ypres never fails to impress. The city is known for its clothing industry and the same is visible in historic buildings such as the cloth hall.
The city has a majestic belfry with 49 bells that you can climb for great views. During the summer months, you can hear it chime.
For any of you, who are interested in knowing more about the city’s World War history, Flanders fields museum is an excellent place to do so.
With so much to offer, it is easy to see why Ypres is one of the best cities to visit in Belgium!
Bruges
Bruges is considered by many as a romantic destination as well as one of the best cities to visit in Belgium.
The city is known for its old-world charm, which is evident in its narrow cobblestone streets, Grand buildings, and historical houses.
The main attraction of Bruges is the basilica of the holy blood which houses a rare artifact, a vial that contains Jesus’s blood.
Life in Bruges revolves around its main square, the Burg Square and the Markt.
Located on the periphery of the Market Square is the famous belfry, a symbol of Bruges. This old bell tower houses 47 bells and it’s worth climbing 366 steps for a great bird’s eye view of the Old Town.
Taking a boat trip through the city’s canal system provides an entirely different perspective of the city.
On the Burg square, you will find the historical town hall and a mix of gothic buildings from the 14th century.
The Grinch museum is what you should visit if you want to take a look at the old Flemish masters’ collection.
Mons
You might be surprised how the lesser known Mons could be one of the best cities to visit in Belgium, but many are not.
Established in the 7th century, the city of Mons sprung up from a modest start as a castle and monastery with two rivers by its side.
This French bordering city falls en route between Brussels and Paris.
It has a sprawling square named Grand-Place. It is a good point to start your sightseeing trip to Mons as there are many historical buildings on the periphery of the square.
Take a leisurely walk up the hill to the city’s bell tower, not just to admire its architecture but also to get a sweeping view of the entire area. The observation platform located on the top of the belfry can be accessed by a series of steps.
Liège
Although Liège has been historically an industrial city, you will still find quite a few interesting attractions here.
The main attraction of the city is Montagne de Bueren, historical steps which once helped the WW2 soldiers connect to the city centre directly. Climb the 374 steps to the top for a sweeping view of the Old Town area.
The best time to visit Montagne de Bueren is during the month of October when the stairs are lit up with thousands of candles.
The city has long been associated with the production of steel and coal mining the heritage of which is quite evident.
Though not as grand as other cities of Belgium Liège has its own charm, helping you get away from the crowds.
Ghent
A hot favorite of culture travellers, Ghent is one of the best cities to visit in Belgium.
Ghent is a historical city built by the river Lys. The Old Town of Ghent is filled with historical structures dating thousands of years.
The Graseli canal, old rustic houses, and numerous small bridges make for a picture-perfect walk. Taking a boat ride through the canal is quite a popular activity in summer, and unarguably the best way to see the city.
Explores the Flemish culture through one of the many art galleries, craft shops, and charming cafes serving local delicacies.
Some of the highlights of the Old Town of Ghent include a visit to historic buildings such as Guild houses, old market area, town hall, and churches.
Built in a fusion of architectural styles, the cathedral of Saint Bavo remains the most popular church.
To know more about the history of the city you must visit the Museum of Ghent. If you are interested in exploring the cultural side of the city, make a visit to the museum voor Volkskunde. In here you will find workshops and model homes highlighting the local culture.
Namur
Another one of best cities to visit in the Belgium is the historic town of Namur.
The highlight of this beautiful Belgian city is its citadel which acted as its primary defensive mechanism. Today, this old fortification provides an excellent opportunity for travelers to experience medieval architecture and the great city views.
Apart from its baroque church, the Church of Notre dam, you can visit the city’s archaeological museum as well as the Museum of ancient art.
Antwerp
Antwerp is not only loved by many but is also one of the best cities to visit in Belgium.
With its busy port, the city has always been an important part of trading routes. The city is also well known for its art and craft.
Antwerp is a Dutch-speaking city, but you won’t face any language issues.
Antwerp boasts of many historical buildings, the city’s Old Town includes classical structures such as town hall, grand place, butchers hall, Rubens house, Plantin-Moretus Museum.
For those interested in Belgium’s history, Museum aan de Stroom is the definite choice.
Antwerp is home to some of the finest artists ever known such as Rubens and Van Dyck Both are well represented in cities museum – Museum Mayer van den Bergh and Royal Museum of Fine Arts.
Belgium is known worldwide for its chocolate and the museum ‘chocolate nation’ is the perfect place to learn more about it.
If you are traveling with family, your kids will love a visit to Antwerp zoo, a green space with a variety of animals.
If you like visiting European churches, visit Saint Paul’s church, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. In this 16th century church, you will also find artwork by the city’s famous artists such as Van Dyck and Jordaens.
Brussels
One of the most beautiful cities in Belgium as well as in Europe is the country’s capital Brussels. The city is an important business center and a window in the life of modern-day Belgians.
In the city, you will find a mix of old and modern architecture. Quirky art pieces such as Manneken Pis make Brussels an interesting place to visit.
If appreciating art is what interests you then you should visit the Museum of Modern art and Museum of ancient art in Brussels.
Among the most architecturally significant buildings in Brussels include the royal palace, the grand place, and the numerous Guild houses located in Old Town.
For those wanting to see something unique, Atomium is a modern-day masterpiece that they cannot miss.
Any trip to Brussels cannot be completed without tasting its famous chocolate, with so many varieties you will be spoiled for choices
Now you can see why Brussels holds a high position as one of the best cities to visit in Belgium.