12 Most Beautiful Places in Belgium to Visit (Medieval Magic)

336

Let me clear something up: Belgium isn’t just for beer lovers. This country hit me with some of Europe’s most jaw-dropping medieval towns, and I’m still not over it. Every street looks like it should be on a postcard, and I’m not even exaggerating.

I’ve gathered the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium which made me realize how wrong I was about this place. These 12 spots are pure magic – and they’re probably not what you’re expecting!

👉 Find Your Perfect Belgium Accommodation
👉 My Favorite Tour in Belgium

#1 tip to save money on your trip to Belgium

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Belgian adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Brussels for just $370 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by shopping at budget supermarkets like Colruyt and Lidl. For eating out, try local friteries (fry shops) where a huge portion of frites with sauce costs €3-4. Many bars serve cheap, filling traditional stews. Student areas like Ixelles have great lunch deals. Skip the tourist restaurants around Grand Place – they’re often four times the price!
• Transport: Get a MOBIB card for public transport in Brussels, or city passes in Antwerp and Ghent. For intercity travel, book SNCB train tickets in advance – they offer weekend discounts and youth fares. Using public transport and advance train deals has saved me hundreds of euros on each trip.

Belgium can be as expensive as neighboring France and Netherlands, especially in Brussels. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this charming country for much less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Belgium:

1. Bruges

• 📍 Location: West Flanders, Northern Belgium
• 🏆 Best For: Romantic strolls 💑, history lovers 🏰, canal cruisers 🚤
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the Belfry of Bruges, cruising the canals, visiting the Groeninge Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for spring blooms and lighter crowds 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel de Orangerie – Elegant canal-side stay with vintage decor and afternoon tea

Bruges looks like it was pulled straight from a storybook. Cobblestone streets, stone bridges, and colorful gabled houses make every corner feel like a postcard. The city’s heart is its historic center, where you can wander for hours past Gothic churches and charming courtyards without needing a plan.

The canals are a big part of the magic. Hop on a boat ride to see the city from the water, passing beneath stone arches and willow-draped banks. Back on land, climb the Belfry for sweeping rooftop views, then grab some fries or Belgian chocolate to refuel.

Even with all its beauty, Bruges doesn’t feel too busy or overwhelming. Museums, cozy cafés, and quiet squares give you space to slow down. It’s one of those places that feels timeless, where medieval charm and modern comfort blend effortlessly.

2. Ghent

• 📍 Location: East Flanders, Northern Belgium
• 🏆 Best For: Art lovers 🎨, architecture fans 🏛️, chill explorers 🚶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking along Graslei and Korenlei, seeing the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, climbing the Belfry
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for festivals and warm evenings 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof – Stylish stay with historic charm near the city center

Ghent surprises most people who visit Belgium for the first time. It’s got the look of Bruges, but with fewer tourists and a younger crowd thanks to its university vibe. The car-free center makes it super walkable, and there’s something to see on almost every street corner, from historic churches to funky cafes.

One highlight is Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, which holds the famous Van Eyck painting, The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. Don’t skip the climb up the Belfry for the breathtaking (and Instagram gold) panoramic view waiting at the top. If you’re into relaxed riverside hangouts, the Graslei and Korenlei quays are perfect for that.

Ghent is only 30 minutes by train from Brussels, making it one of the easiest places to add to your Belgium itinerary without too much planning.

3. Antwerp

• 📍 Location: Antwerp Province, Northern Belgium
• 🏆 Best For: Art collectors 🖼️, fashionistas 👗, architecture buffs 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Grote Markt, visiting the Rubenshuis, shopping in the fashion district
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for cultural events and patio weather ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Julien – Contemporary boutique hotel in the historic center

Antwerp feels both historical and stylish, giving you castle towers one minute and high-fashion boutiques the next. The city’s heart is the Grote Markt, where you’ll find the City Hall and ornate guild houses that make every photo pop. This area is especially charming at sunset when the lights reflect off the cobbled square.

Art fans will want to stop at Rubenshuis, the former home of Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens. The city also has one of Europe’s most vibrant fashion scenes, centered around the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. Local designers have shops scattered through the winding streets near Nationalestraat.

From the main train station, it’s just a short walk to most key sights, making Antwerp a strong option for a city break or a stylish overnight stay. It’s also a great place to sample Belgian fries, chocolate, and beer in one go.

4. Brussels

• 📍 Location: Brussels-Capital Region
• 🏆 Best For: Museum lovers 🏛️, foodies 🍫, first-timers 🧳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Grand Place, viewing Magritte Museum, trying a Brussels waffle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to October 🌷🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Dominican – Chic hotel steps from Grand Place

Brussels is much more than a European capital. It’s a city that mixes grand architecture with everyday local charm. The Grand Place is the city’s centerpiece, filled with 17th-century buildings that glow in the evening light. Just a few streets over, you’ll stumble upon small comic murals and vintage boutiques that show a more playful side of the city.

If you’re into art, you should check out the Magritte Museum or stroll through the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. And if you prefer quirky attractions, the Atomium offers one of the coolest skyline views in Belgium.

The food scene is just as fun. Grab a cone of fries at a local frituur or settle in for mussels and beer. Brussels makes a great home base for day trips too, thanks to its central train connections across the country.

5. Ardennes

• 📍 Location: Wallonia, Southern Belgium
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌲, hikers 🥾, peace seekers 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Han-sur-Lesse, exploring Dinant, kayaking the Semois River
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for outdoor adventures 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel La Malle Poste – Cozy stay in Rochefort with easy access to nature

The Ardennes is where Belgium gets wild and green. This heavily forested region in the south is known for its steep hills, quiet villages, and deep river valleys. If you’re coming from the buzz of Brussels or Antwerp, the peacefulness here hits different. You’ll find nature trails winding past castles and farms, and misty mornings that make everything feel calm and cinematic.

Dinant is one of the most photogenic towns in the region. Its clifftop citadel and saxophone-filled streets give it character, while river cruises and nearby hiking trails make it a great base. The Han-sur-Lesse cave system is another standout, especially if you want to see massive underground chambers and wildlife in the adjoining reserve.

Whether you’re camping, cycling, or road-tripping through the valleys, the Ardennes is a solid pick for slowing down and enjoying Belgium’s natural side. It’s ideal if you’re craving a quieter adventure.

6. Tournai

• 📍 Location: Wallonia, Hainaut Province
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture fans 🏛️, history lovers 🏰, art buffs 🎨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the Belfry, visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral, strolling Grand-Place
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for pleasant weather 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel d’Alcantara – Warm and modern stay near the town center

Tournai is one of Belgium’s oldest cities, and it shows in the best way possible. The town is packed with medieval buildings, quiet alleyways, and an old-school vibe that history nerds will love. At its heart is the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO-listed wonder with five towers and stunning interior art. It feels both grand and grounded.

Next door, the Belfry of Tournai offers a workout and a rewarding view. Climb the narrow staircase and you’ll be greeted by a panorama that shows how compact and charming this city really is. Back on the ground, the Grand-Place is ideal for people-watching with a drink in hand.

Tournai also has a handful of quirky museums and quiet cafés, perfect for laid-back exploring. If you’re into architecture or lesser-known cities with big historical energy, this one belongs on your Belgium list.

7. Mechelen

• 📍 Location: Flanders, Antwerp Province
• 🏆 Best For: Quiet city breaks 🏘️, family-friendly travel 👨‍👩‍👧, culture lovers 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing St. Rumbold’s Tower, cruising the Dijle River, exploring the Large Beguinage
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for outdoor sightseeing 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Elisabeth – Stylish boutique hotel just outside the city center

Mechelen is often skipped in favor of its bigger neighbors, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a walkable city full of Gothic buildings, cozy canals, and local energy. The St. Rumbold’s Tower stands tall over everything, climb it for some of the best city views in Belgium. The bells still ring, giving your visit a little soundtrack.

You’ll also find a UNESCO-listed Large Beguinage, once home to a semi-religious community of women. The quiet streets here are perfect for wandering with no real plan. Families love Technopolis, an interactive science museum that’s a hit with both kids and adults.

Mechelen combines small-town charm with surprising cultural depth. If you want a relaxed day trip between Brussels and Antwerp or just a place that feels authentically Belgian without the crowds, this city delivers.

8. Waterloo

• 📍 Location: Walloon Brabant, Wallonia
• 🏆 Best For: History fans 🪖, culture lovers 🏛️, peaceful sightseeing 🌳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Lion’s Mound, exploring the Battlefield Visitor Center, touring the Wellington Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for outdoor exploration 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Le Côté Vert – Quiet, modern stay just steps from key landmarks

Waterloo is more than just a battlefield, it’s one of Belgium’s most intriguing historical sites. The highlight is Lion’s Mound, where you can climb to the top and see the entire terrain of Napoleon’s last stand. It’s a surreal moment, especially if you’ve read about the battle in books or watched documentaries.

Next door is the Battlefield Visitor Center, which does a great job of breaking down the story with immersive exhibits and a huge panoramic painting. The Wellington Museum, set in an old inn, shows what went on behind the scenes during the final fight. It’s detailed and surprisingly emotional.

Beyond the history, Waterloo has some great spots to unwind, from local cafés to peaceful parks. If you’re even slightly interested in European history, this is a must-see that adds depth to any trip through Belgium.

9. Namur

• 📍 Location: Namur Province, Wallonia
• 🏆 Best For: Scenic views 🌄, riverside strolls 🛶, cultural relaxation 🖼️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Citadel, exploring Saint Aubin’s Cathedral, walking through the Old Town
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for good weather and riverside cafés 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Château de Namur – Elegant hotel with panoramic views near the Citadel

Namur sits quietly at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre Rivers, offering a calm escape from the more crowded Belgian cities. The massive Citadel of Namur dominates the skyline, and climbing up gives you a gorgeous overlook of the city and green hills beyond. It’s a solid intro to the region’s landscape and past.

In the city center, Saint Aubin’s Cathedral has a rich interior and fewer crowds, making it a peaceful spot to visit. The winding streets around it are full of cafés, galleries, and little shops that give Namur its laid-back vibe. Everything is close enough to explore on foot without rushing.

Namur is perfect if you’re into less touristy towns that still have history, beauty, and solid food. It’s especially great for slow travel and relaxed weekends with scenic walks and cultural gems.

10. Leuven

• 📍 Location: Flemish Brabant, Flanders
• 🏆 Best For: Gothic architecture 🏰, student energy 📚, Belgian beer lovers 🍻
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Leuven Town Hall, visiting St. Peter’s Church, touring the university library
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to October 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Begijnhof Hotel – Relaxed hotel near historic university quarter

Leuven balances medieval charm with a youthful energy thanks to KU Leuven, one of the oldest universities in Europe. The Town Hall is the star of the city with its towering spires and dozens of statues carved into the façade. It’s worth going inside for a guided tour if you’re into history or architecture.

Just steps away, St. Peter’s Church houses stunning artwork and quiet chapels that make it a good spot to reset after exploring. The university area itself has a relaxed vibe, full of bookstores, cafés, and low-key bars where students and travelers hang out side by side.

Leuven is also one of the best places to dive into Belgium’s beer culture without the big tourist scene. Take your time strolling through the city, tasting local brews, and discovering corners of Flemish life that often get missed.

11. The Belgian Coast

• 📍 Location: North Sea Coast, West Flanders
• 🏆 Best For: Seaside breaks 🏖️, beach walks 🚶‍♀️, scenic train rides 🚋
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the coast tram, visiting Knokke-Heist, exploring De Haan
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for beach weather 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Rubens – Cozy stay near the beach in De Haan

Stretching about 40 miles along the North Sea, the Belgian Coast surprises with its variety. You can ride the Coastal Tram, the longest tram line in the world, connecting all the seaside towns in one smooth ride. It’s a great way to hop between stops like Ostend, Knokke-Heist, and De Haan without needing a car.

Each town brings its own vibe. Ostend is lively and urban with art galleries and nightlife. Knokke-Heist feels more upscale with boutique shops and stylish cafés. De Haan is quiet, full of Belle Époque villas and peaceful beaches that suit slower travel.

For a change of pace from city-hopping in Belgium, the coast gives you sunshine, space, and a fresh sea breeze. It’s easy to reach by train, and a few days here can break up any itinerary with coastal calm.

12. Mons

• 📍 Location: Hainaut Province, Wallonia
• 🏆 Best For: Historic plazas 🏛️, cultural festivals 🎭, architectural sights 🏗️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Grand Place, climbing the Belfry, joining the Doudou Festival
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for sunny walks and events 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Martin’s Dream Hotel – Eclectic hotel in a former chapel with local flair
  

Mons often flies under the radar, but it has one of the most picturesque main squares in Belgium. Grand Place is the heart of the city, lined with cafés and framed by the Gothic-style Hotel de Ville, which sets the tone for the whole area. Everything feels walkable and relaxed.

Just a short walk uphill, the Belfry of Mons gives a wide view of the city and is the only Baroque belfry in Belgium. You can also visit the Sainte-Waudru Collegiate Church, which holds impressive stained glass and religious treasures from the 16th century.

If you time your visit for the Doudou Festival, expect music, costumes, and one of the most unique traditions in Wallonia. Mons is a solid option if you like cities with a strong identity and fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Belgium

Interested in broadening your understanding of the most picturesque spots in Belgium? Here are some frequently asked questions I receive about the best Belgian attractions and activities.

Does Belgium have beautiful nature?

Absolutely, Belgium is graced with an abundance of natural beauty. It’s often overshadowed by the country’s more popular urban destinations like Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp. From tranquil waterways to verdant forests, Belgium is a haven for nature lovers.

The Ardennes region, located in the south, has rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque villages. It’s a popular spot for hiking, biking, and canoeing. The High Fens Nature Reserve, situated in this region, offers unique moorland landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Belgium’s coastline, although not extensive, is worth a visit. The Belgian coast stretches for about 67 kilometers and is characterized by sandy beaches and dunes. The nature reserve Het Zwin, often called ‘the bird airport’, is a beautiful coastal area that hosts numerous migratory birds.

Belgium also boasts a network of beautiful canals, particularly around Bruges and Ghent, offering idyllic boat trips amidst lush green landscapes.

The country’s natural beauty extends to its stunning gardens and parks, such as the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, Hallerbos (known as the Blue Forest), and the National Botanic Garden of Belgium. Each of these spots offers a unique, serene environment, perfect for relaxation and leisurely walks.

In short, despite its small size, Belgium hosts a variety of natural landscapes that can captivate and delight visitors.

What is the best time to visit Belgium?

The best time to visit Belgium is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller. The country’s famous flower, the bluebell, blooms in the spring, particularly in the Hallerbos forest.

Do they speak English in Belgium?

Belgium is a multilingual country with three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. However, English is widely spoken, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

What is Belgium famous for?

Belgium is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse cultural heritage. It’s also known for its gastronomy—particularly chocolates, waffles, fries, and beer.

Is Belgium expensive to visit?

The cost of visiting Belgium can vary depending on your travel style. While it can be more expensive than in some other European countries, budget travel is possible with planning.

How many days do I need in Belgium?

While you can get a taste of Belgium in 3-4 days, a week is ideal to explore more of the country’s beautiful cities, countryside, and coastline.

Where is the prettiest place in Belgium?

Beauty is subjective and can be found everywhere in Belgium. Some might argue that the medieval city of Bruges, with its charming canals and cobblestone streets, is the prettiest. Others might find the lush, forested hills of the Ardennes or the wide sandy beaches of the Belgian coast to be the most beautiful. The best way to find out is to explore Belgium for yourself!

Is Belgium a beautiful country?

Absolutely! Belgium is renowned for its diverse and beautiful landscapes. Its historic cities are filled with stunning architecture peaceful countryside and picturesque coast. It offers a wonderful mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a truly beautiful country to visit.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Belgium

In the heart of Europe, a land of rich history, diverse culture, and incredible landscapes awaits. Belgium, often underappreciated and overshadowed by its larger neighbors, is a treasure trove of stunning cities, peaceful countryside, and charming coastlines.

Whether it’s the medieval grandeur of Bruges, the vibrant atmosphere of Brussels, the stunning coastline of Ostend, or the cultural richness of Mons, Belgium has something for every traveler. We’ve listed the most beautiful places in Belgium, but there’s so much more to discover in this small yet fascinating country.

If you’re wondering where to go in Belgium each place, unique and beautiful in its own way, contributes to the charm and allure of Belgium. If you haven’t considered visiting Belgium before, we hope that this list has inspired you to explore this beautiful corner of Europe. The only question left to ask is: which of these beautiful places in Belgium will you visit first?