Map Of Belgium And Surrounding Countries
Introduction
Belgium is a small country in Western Europe that is known for its delicious chocolates, waffles, and beer. However, there is much more to this country than just its food. Belgium is home to stunning architecture, beautiful countryside, and a rich history that dates back to the Roman times. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through Belgium and its surrounding countries, highlighting the top attractions, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures that you won’t want to miss.
Top Attractions
Belgium is home to many top attractions, including the famous Atomium, a unique building that was built for the 1958 World Expo and is now a museum and a symbol of Brussels. Another popular attraction is the Grand Place, a stunning square in the heart of Brussels that is surrounded by beautiful architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historic city of Bruges is also a must-visit destination, known for its picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture.
Hidden Gems
If you want to get off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems in Belgium, head to the town of Ghent. With its stunning medieval architecture, beautiful canals, and vibrant nightlife, Ghent is often overlooked by tourists but is definitely worth a visit. Another hidden gem is the town of Leuven, known for its beautiful university buildings, stunning architecture, and lively student atmosphere.
Food Scene
Belgium is famous for its delicious food, including waffles, chocolate, and beer. However, there is much more to the Belgian food scene than just these three things. Brussels is home to many great restaurants, including Chez Leon, a traditional Belgian restaurant that serves up delicious moules-frites (mussels and fries). In Bruges, head to De Halve Maan brewery, where you can sample some of the best Belgian beer in the country.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Belgium can be an expensive country to visit, but there are ways to save money. One of the best ways to save money is to travel during the off-season, which is from October to March. During this time, prices for hotels and flights are much cheaper. Another way to save money is to eat like a local and head to the many street food vendors that can be found throughout the country.
Outdoor Adventures
Belgium is a great destination for outdoor adventures, with many hiking and biking trails to explore. One of the best places to go hiking is the Ardennes, a beautiful forested region in the southeast of the country. If you’re looking for a more challenging adventure, head to the Belgian coast and try your hand at kite surfing or windsurfing.
Historical Landmarks
Belgium is steeped in history, with many beautiful historical landmarks to explore. One of the most famous historical landmarks is the Battlefields of Ypres, where many soldiers lost their lives during World War I. Another must-visit historical landmark is the Waterloo Battlefield, where Napoleon was defeated in 1815.
Family-Friendly Activities
Belgium is a great destination for families, with many fun activities for kids of all ages. One of the best family-friendly activities is visiting the Pairi Daiza Zoo, which is home to over 7,000 animals from around the world. Another great family-friendly activity is visiting the Mini-Europe theme park, where you can see miniature versions of famous European landmarks.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you want to get off the beaten path and discover some unique experiences in Belgium, head to the town of Dinant. Here, you can take a ride on the cable car and enjoy stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is visiting the town of Durbuy, which is known as the smallest town in the world and is home to beautiful medieval architecture.
Natural Wonders
Belgium is home to many natural wonders, including the stunning caves of Han-sur-Lesse, which are over 500,000 years old and are home to beautiful rock formations and underground rivers. Another must-visit natural wonder is the Hoge Kempen National Park, which is home to beautiful heathlands, forests, and lakes.
Vibrant Nightlife
Belgium is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. One of the best places to experience the nightlife is in Brussels, where you can find everything from jazz bars to techno clubs. Another great destination for nightlife is Antwerp, which is known for its trendy bars and clubs.
Local Markets
Belgium is home to many local markets, where you can sample traditional foods, buy handmade crafts, and mingle with the locals. One of the best markets is the Grand Sablon Market in Brussels, which is held every Saturday and Sunday and is known for its antiques and art. Another great market is the Vrijdagmarkt in Ghent, which is held every Friday and is known for its vintage clothing and artisanal food.
Beaches and Mountains
Belgium may be a small country, but it has both beaches and mountains to explore. The Belgian coast is home to many beautiful beaches, including the popular resort town of Blankenberge. If you’re looking for mountains, head to the Ardennes, where you can explore beautiful forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages.
Cultural Immersion
If you want to immerse yourself in Belgian culture, head to the town of Bruges, which is known for its beautiful architecture, cobbled streets, and medieval history. Another great destination for cultural immersion is Brussels, where you can explore the many museums and galleries, including the famous Magritte Museum and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
Art and Music Scene
Belgium is home to a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. One of the best places to experience the art scene is in Antwerp, which is known for its many galleries and museums, including the Museum of Contemporary Art. Another great destination for music is Brussels, where you can find everything from jazz bars to classical music concerts.
Walking Tours
Belgium is a great destination for walking tours, with many beautiful cities and towns to explore on foot. One of the best walking tours is in Bruges, where you can explore the many canals and cobbled streets and learn about the city’s rich history. Another great walking tour is in Brussels, where you can explore the many beautiful parks and gardens.
Architectural Marvels
Belgium is home to many beautiful architectural marvels, including the famous Atomium in Brussels, which is a unique building that was built for the 1958 World Expo and is now a museum. Another must-visit architectural marvel is the St. Rumbold’s Cathedral in Mechelen, which is known for its stunning gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
Historical Sites
Belgium is steeped in history, with many beautiful historical sites to explore. One of the most famous historical sites is the Waterloo Battlefield, where Napoleon was defeated in 1815. Another must-visit historical site is the Gravensteen Castle in Ghent, which is a stunning medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century.
Biking Routes
Belgium is a great destination for biking, with many beautiful routes to explore. One of the best biking routes is the Flanders Cycle Route, which is a 600-kilometer route that takes you through the beautiful countryside of Flanders. Another great biking route is the Ravel Route, which is a network of bike paths that takes you through the beautiful Ardennes region.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, head to the town of Spa, which is known for its natural mineral springs. Here, you can relax and rejuvenate at one of the many spa resorts, including the famous Thermes de Spa. Another great destination for wellness retreats is the town of Ypres, which is home to many beautiful spas and wellness centers.
Adventure Sports
Belgium is a great destination for adventure sports, with many opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking, and more. One of the best places for adventure sports is the Ardennes, where you can go kayaking on the beautiful rivers and explore the many hiking and biking trails. Another great destination for adventure sports is the Belgian coast, where you can try your hand at kite surfing or windsurfing.
Conclusion
Belgium and its surrounding countries offer something for everyone, from stunning architecture and beautiful countryside to delicious food and vibrant nightlife. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or cultural immersion. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of Belgium and its surrounding countries.