Best things to do in Belgium

• Capital: Brussels
• Language(s): Dutch, French, German
• Currency: Euro (€) (EUR)
• Dial Code: + 32

Belgium Travel Guide: Where Waffles Meet World Wars and Medieval Magic

If you think Belgium is just a pit stop between France and the Netherlands, think again. This little European powerhouse may be small in size, but it packs a mighty punch when it comes to history, culture, chocolate, and yes—beer. Whether you're into Gothic cathedrals, comic strips, or just want to eat fries with more sauces than you knew existed, this Belgium travel guide will walk you through all the must-know info, top attractions, and unforgettable places to visit.

Let’s be honest—Belgium is like that quiet kid in class who turns out to be a rock star at karaoke. It's full of surprises.

A Brief Backstage Pass to Belgium

Belgium, officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is tucked away in Western Europe and is known for being the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. But don’t let the politics scare you—this place is all about contrasts. One minute you're walking through a Gothic old town, the next you're sipping a beer brewed by monks while checking out cutting-edge street art.

With a population of around 11 million, Belgium is a cocktail of cultures. You've got the Dutch-speaking Flemish in the north (Flanders), the French-speaking Walloons in the south (Wallonia), and a tiny German-speaking community in the east. Then there’s Brussels, sitting awkwardly in the middle, officially bilingual but mostly French-speaking—and globally famous for fries, bureaucracy, and Tintin.

Brussels: Beyond Bureaucrats and Belgian Waffles

Brussels is where most people start, and honestly, it's a vibe. The Grand Place is one of the most beautiful city squares in Europe, complete with ornate guildhalls and floral displays that would make your Instagram explode. Don’t skip the Manneken Pis statue, even if it is just a tiny peeing boy—it’s tradition, okay?

But there's more to do than admire urinating fountains. Check out the Royal Palace, the Belgian Comic Strip Center (yes, that’s a thing), and the Atomium, which looks like something a futuristic science geek dreamed up in the 1950s—and that’s because it was.

Hungry? Brussels is the home of both waffle styles: Brussels waffles (light and crispy) and Liège waffles (thicker, chewier, and caramelized). Try both. For science.

Bruges: The Medieval Dream You Didn’t Know You Needed

If you’ve ever wanted to step into a fairytale without the commitment of becoming a Disney princess, Bruges is the place to be. It’s one of the top attractions in Belgium, and for good reason. With canals that crisscross the city, medieval spires, and swans just casually floating around like they own the place, Bruges is pure sightseeing bliss.

Take a boat ride through the canals, climb the Belfry for panoramic views, and get your sweet tooth ready for the chocolate shops on every corner. And yes, there's a Frietmuseum—an actual museum dedicated to fries. Belgium takes potatoes very seriously.

Ghent: Belgium’s Cool Cousin

Ghent is where the cool kids hang out. It’s a little less touristy than Bruges but just as charming, with a lively student population, amazing art, and enough quirky cafes to satisfy even the most jaded coffee snob.

Check out the Saint Bavo Cathedral, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece (which even the Nazis were obsessed with). Explore the Gravensteen Castle, and walk through the Graffiti Alley if you want to see the edgier side of Belgian street art.

Antwerp: Diamonds, Fashion, and Rubens

Antwerp sparkles—literally. It’s the world’s diamond capital, and if you’ve got deep pockets, this is the place to flash some serious bling. But even if you’re not looking for jewelry, there are plenty of things to do.

Visit the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), climb the Cathedral of Our Lady, and stroll through the fashion district. Antwerp is known for producing some of the world’s top designers, so if you’ve ever dreamed of looking effortlessly European, this is your shopping paradise.

Leuven: The Student-Powered Beer Capital

Leuven is where Belgian students go to study and party in equal measure. It’s home to KU Leuven, one of the oldest universities in Europe, and has a historic vibe with a very lively nightlife. The Old Market Square is literally nicknamed “the longest bar in the world,” with dozens of cafes and pubs packed into one small square.

Be sure to visit the University Library and the ornate Town Hall—arguably one of the most detailed Gothic buildings in Europe. And did we mention the beer? You can’t swing a baguette here without hitting a brewery.

Food and Drink: The Real Reason You're Here

Let’s not kid ourselves. One of the best things to do in Belgium is eat. Belgian cuisine is criminally underrated, and it’s not just about chocolate (though yes, that’s also amazing).

• Fries: Double-fried, perfectly crispy, and served with an overwhelming variety of sauces. Belgians will fight you if you call them French fries.

• Moules-frites: Mussels with fries. It sounds simple, but it’s a national obsession.

• Beer: Over 1,000 varieties exist. From fruity lambics to strong Trappist brews, there’s something for every palate.

• Chocolate: Pralines, truffles, bars—you name it. Visit chocolatiers like Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Pierre Marcolini.

History Buffs, Rejoice

Belgium has been through it all—literally. From Roman times to the Middle Ages, from being part of the Spanish Netherlands to fighting off Napoleon and becoming a key battlefield in both World Wars, there’s no shortage of historical landmarks.

Visit the battlefields of Waterloo, explore the trenches of Ypres, and take a reflective walk through the Flanders Fields Museum. These sites aren’t just historically significant—they’re deeply moving.

Final Travel Tips

• Getting Around: Belgium is compact and has a fantastic train system. You can base yourself in Brussels and take day trips to most major cities.

• Languages: Dutch, French, and German are official languages. Most Belgians also speak English—especially in tourist areas.

• Weather: Pack an umbrella. Even in summer. Especially in summer.

• Etiquette: Be polite, don’t assume everyone speaks French, and definitely don’t criticize their beer.

Belgium: Small But Mighty

In the grand European tour, Belgium might not always be the headline act, but it’s the unforgettable opening band that turns out to be everyone’s favorite. Between the mouthwatering food, fascinating history, and postcard-perfect cities, this country proves that good things really do come in small packages.

So, whether you're planning your first Euro trip or returning for round two, make sure Belgium is on your itinerary. It’s one of the best places to visit in Europe—and once you're there, you'll wonder why you ever considered skipping it.