The 13 Best Things to Do in Belgium: Castles, Chocolate & Culture
Explore Belgium’s enchanting castles, culinary delights, vibrant art scene, and unique local traditions with this essential guide.
The 13 Best Things to Do in Belgium
Belgium, nestled in the heart of Europe, is a treasure trove of medieval castles, decadent chocolates, legendary beers, and artistic wonders. But beyond its classic indulgences, this compact country surprises travelers with quirky museums, iconic comics, vibrant cycling routes, and some of Europe’s greatest festivals. Delve into this guide to uncover Belgium’s most compelling experiences, perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned explorers.
1. Lean In to Castle Mania
Belgium dazzles with more castles per square kilometer than anywhere else in the world. From imposing medieval fortresses to romantic 18th-century châteaux, these storied structures offer a journey through centuries of history and grandeur.
- Bouillon Castle: Perched above the Semois River in the Ardennes, this ancient fortress dates back to the 10th century and offers panoramic views across lush forests.
- Gravensteen: Located in Ghent, this perfectly restored medieval castle once served as the seat of the Counts of Flanders and features gripping exhibits on justice and warfare.
- Citadelle de Namur: Overlooking the Meuse River, Namur’s mighty citadel was a key strategic defense point and now boasts scenic walks and historical reenactments.
- Château de Beloeil: Sometimes called “the Belgian Versailles,” this grand château is renowned for its beautifully landscaped French gardens and an extensive library containing over 20,000 books.
Castle enthusiasts can plot a route through the scenic Wallonia region, where winding roads connect fortified keeps, turreted wonders, and private estates still inhabited by old Belgian nobility.
2. Sip One of the 2000 Beers at Delirium Café
Belgium’s beer culture is legendary and nowhere is its diversity better celebrated than at Brussels’ Delirium Café, home to a beer menu with over 2,000 varieties. Trappist ales, abbey beers, fruity lambics, spicy saisons, and crisp pilsners jostle for attention in this vibrant basement bar—listed in the Guinness Book of Records for its unparalleled selection.
- Sample local favorites like Chimay, Westmalle, or Orval brewed in centuries-old monasteries.
- Try regional styles such as sour lambics or unique gueuze blends.
- Ask the friendly staff for their seasonal recommendations or let your palate roam through rare Belgian dubels and tripels.
True beer aficionados shouldn’t miss a brewery tour, like those at De Halve Maan in Bruges or Cantillon in Brussels, to learn about Belgium’s rich brewing traditions.
3. Taste Pure Bliss: Belgian Chocolate
Belgium is synonymous with chocolate, and for good reason. Decadent pralines, silky ganaches, and inventive truffles tempt from the windows of master chocolatiers across the nation. Cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges are dotted with workshops where chocolate is crafted to perfection.
- Visit Maison Pierre Marcolini for artisanal bean-to-bar creations.
- Step inside Neuhaus, credited with inventing the filled praline in 1912.
- Explore Chocolaterie Mary or Leonidas for melt-in-the-mouth treats in elegant packaging.
Many chocolatiers offer tasting sessions and interactive workshops so you can try your hand at truffle making. Don’t miss local specialties such as chocolate-dipped speculoos biscuits or delicate cocoa-dusted marzipan.
4. Discover Comics Culture: Tintin, Smurfs, and More
Comics are a beloved art form in Belgium, the birthplace of iconic characters like Tintin, the Smurfs, and Lucky Luke. Explore the country’s passion for sequential art through vibrant murals, interactive museums, and unique street art.
- Musée Hergé (Louvain-la-Neuve): Immerse yourself in the world of Tintin’s creator through original drawings, storyboards, and archival treasures, set in a striking geometric building.
- Brussels Comic Book Route: Wander the city to spot giant murals featuring beloved Belgian comic book characters decorating building facades on self-guided trails.
- Belgian Comic Strip Center: Located in a magnificent Art Nouveau building in Brussels, this institution showcases the history, artistry, and humor of Belgian and European comics.
| Title | Creator | Debut |
|---|---|---|
| Tintin | Hergé | 1929 |
| The Smurfs | Peyo | 1958 |
| Lucky Luke | Morris | 1946 |
5. Cruise Canals and Cobblestone Streets in Bruges
Fairytale Bruges, with its picturesque canals, medieval town squares, and gingerbread-hued houses, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that enchants at every turn.
- Stroll the Markt and Burg Squares to admire the striking belfry, soaring towers, and lively cafes.
- Embark on a scenic canal boat tour beneath stone bridges, past tranquil gardens and exquisite façades.
- Climb the Belfort’s 366 steps for sweeping views over the city rooftops.
- Visit the Groeningemuseum to see masterpieces from the Flemish Primitives, including Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
Cap your visit with a glass of locally brewed beer at a cozy tavern, such as the legendary ’t Brugs Beertje.
6. Marvel at Masterpieces in Ghent
Ghent combines vibrant university town energy with a sublime artistic heritage. The city’s riverside medieval core is home to treasure-filled churches, evocative market squares, and an unmissable art scene.
- Stand in awe before The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, the 15th-century altarpiece by the van Eyck brothers, displayed in St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
- Explore the Gravensteen castle, stroll picturesque Graslei and Korenlei quays, and discover urban art installations.
- Dive into Ghent’s lively restaurant and bar scene, boasting traditional delicacies and local brews.
7. Cycle Through History and Countryside
Belgium’s terrain is made for cycling, with flat landscapes in Flanders and rolling hills in Wallonia. The country’s extensive network of signposted cycling routes makes it easy to explore at your own pace.
- Flanders Fields: Ride the World War I remembrance routes past poignant memorials and cemeteries, including the Legacy route through Passchendaele.
- Blue Bike: Rent from major train stations and pedal city to city via safe, scenic routes.
- Follow rivers or woodland trails through the Ardennes, discovering sleepy villages and hidden chapels.
With legendary cyclist Eddy Merckx as a national hero, Belgium’s cycling tradition is deeply rooted—visitors of all skill levels are welcome to join in.
8. Experience Belgium’s Carnivals and Festivals
Belgium’s festive calendar is dotted with exuberant celebrations, reflecting both ancient folk traditions and contemporary creativity.
- Carnival of Binche: Recognized by UNESCO, Binche’s carnival features the mysterious Gilles—masked figures in elaborate costumes who parade through the streets throwing oranges to the crowd.
- Flower Carpet (Brussels): Every two years, the Grand Place transforms into a vast mosaic of begonias for just one weekend, drawing visitors from around the world.
- Gentse Feesten: Ghent’s 10-day summer arts festival brings the city alive with music, theater, street performers, and fireworks.
Whether you prefer historical reenactments, comic conventions, or beer festivals, there’s a lively gathering for every traveler.
9. Devour Waffles, Frites, and Mussels — Belgian Culinary Delights
Belgium’s reputation as a gastronomic destination is well deserved. Don’t leave without indulging in some of the country’s most iconic treats:
- Waffles: Sample fluffy Brussels waffles dusted with powdered sugar or sticky Liege waffles studded with caramelized pearl sugar.
- Frites: Belgian fries are crisped to perfection and served with an endless variety of sauces; savor them as street food or alongside steaming bowls of mussels (moules-frites).
- Mussels: From brasseries in Brussels to ports along the North Sea, enjoy plump, briny mussels prepared with herbs, white wine, or creamy sauces.
- Speculoos: These spiced biscuits, redolent of cinnamon and ginger, pair perfectly with Belgian coffee.
Serious foodies can join tasting tours or take part in cooking classes to delve deeper into Belgian cuisine.
10. Revel in Art Museums and Galleries
Belgium has played a pivotal role in European art, from the Renaissance to contemporary styles. The country’s museums are home to some of art history’s finest works:
- Royal Museum of Fine Arts (Brussels): Marvel at paintings by Rubens, Bruegel, Magritte, and Delvaux among its vast collections.
- Groeningemuseum (Bruges): See Flemish Primitives, including works by Hieronymus Bosch and Jan Provoost.
- S.M.A.K. (Ghent): Dive into cutting-edge contemporary art installations and international exhibitions.
Outside the big cities, discover charming local galleries and artist studios supporting Belgium’s vibrant creative community.
11. Admire Belfries, Beguinages, and World Heritage Sites
Belgium’s history is inscribed in its UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
- Belfries of Belgium and France: These medieval civic towers, found in cities like Bruges and Ghent, symbolized urban pride and autonomy.
- Beguinages: Tranquil religious complexes offering insight into the lives of medieval laywomen, notably in Lier and Leuven.
- Historic City Centers: Stroll Bruges, Ghent, Leuven, and Antwerp for cobbled lanes, grand guildhalls, and bustling market squares.
12. Shop for Local Treasures and Fashion
Belgium may be small, but its shopping scene is mighty. The country is internationally acclaimed for its fashion, diamonds, and artisanal crafts.
- Antwerp: Shop designer boutiques and flagship stores of the avant-garde “Antwerp Six” in this stylish port city.
- Pick up sparkling diamonds in the city’s renowned diamond district.
- Find delicate handmade lace in Bruges or colorful ceramics in Walloon towns.
- Peruse art markets and vintage stores for everything from comics memorabilia to retro housewares.
13. Enjoy Belgium’s Quirky Sights and Eccentric Attractions
From Brussels’ much-photographed Manneken Pis—a tiny fountain depicting a urinating boy that’s become a mascot for Belgian humor—to giant atom-shaped monuments and surreal museums, Belgium celebrates the quirky and unexpected.
- Manneken Pis: Find this famous statue frequently dressed in festive costumes throughout the year.
- Atomium: Venture inside this iconic Expo ’58 structure, a futuristic model of an iron crystal, for exhibitions and city views.
- Urban Art Installations: Spot whimsical contemporary pieces and striking graffiti in almost every Belgian city.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit Belgium?
A: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Many festivals take place from May through August, while holiday markets light up winter.
Q: Can you visit Belgian castles inside?
A: Yes, many castles and fortresses such as Gravensteen, Bouillon Castle, and Château de Beloeil are open to the public with self-guided tours, exhibitions, and gardens to explore.
Q: What foods is Belgium famous for?
A: Must-try foods include Belgian chocolate, waffles, fries (frites), mussels, speculoos biscuits, and local beers such as Trappist ales and lambics.
Q: How can I experience Belgium’s cycling culture as a tourist?
A: Belgium is cycling-friendly with well-marked routes, rental stations at major train stations, and scenic rides through Flanders, Wallonia, and historic WWI sites.
Q: Is English widely spoken in Belgium?
A: Yes, especially in tourist areas. However, the country’s main languages are Dutch (Flemish), French, and German, so greeting locals in their language is always appreciated.
