Top Belgium Cities to Visit | Discover Belgian Landmarks

Let’s Start the new topic ” Belgium Cities To Visit ” . Belgium is a former powerhouse in the world economy and still retains some of that old charm, having been one of the richest nations in the medieval period. Most of the wealth brought with it a few battles to claim lands, but as can be seen today, all of it was worth protecting. Rich in heritage Belgium has several ancient looking churches, cathedrals, and castles scattered throughout the country. A food lover’s paradise, Belgium is famous for its waffles, fries and chocolate, and cities such as Brussels, Bruges and Antwerp are full of options boasting excellent fine dining as well as contemporary bars.

From the intense nightlife of Antwerp to the medieval history of Bruges and the rich cultural diversity of Brussels, the best Belgian cities are always full of satisfaction regardless of your desire.

Highlights of Belgium Cities To Visit

15. Nivelles

Being located in Wallonia, Nivelles is rich in history, as most of its old town boasts ancient architecture. Dominating the skyline is the world famous St. Gertrude church, known for its unusual architecture. The town is filled with ancient structures that have survived an almost unbroken inhibition since 4000 BC and later was reestablished post heavy bombings during WWII.

One would find this beautiful city at its finest during the Saint-gertrude procession and the Nivelles carnival.

14. Tournai 

Tournai appears to be geographically addressed in the backwaters of history. The city is home to one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the country, in addition to a quaint vintage Grand Place and many small bars and cafes that the average tourist would find interesting. The grand cathedral is however more fascinating as compared to numerous eleventh-twelfth century churches and military erects scattered around the city.

The city of Tournai has indeed been a figurative punching bag for empires, from Franks and Romans to Spanish, English and Austrians! Tournai can be conveniently reached with Lille which is just thirty minutes away by train, making it an excellent day out option.

13. Kortrijk

Visitors can still find statuesque structures in this ancient Roman founded city that experienced a heavy aerial blitz during the Second World War. Kortrijk, once the most important city in the linen trade, still remains a thriving city and has got many good places for shopping as well.

People love to visit Kortrijk due to the beautiful Begijnhof and a superb belfry located at the Grand Place.

12. Charleroi

In light of the fact that it is now part of the ‘Walloon Bruise’, the inhabitants who have the right to vote on matters of development appear to have a bleak outlook. It probably comes as no surprise that Charleroi has brought the title of “ The Ugliest City in Europe” at least twice in the past. Once the industrial capital of Belgium where its coal became famous, it is only in the days of deterioration and decay now with a multitude of factory artifacts. 

Further complicating matters, the artsy area of the region heads in a direction quite opposite this cynicism with a range of places the people can visit. The city does possess numerous pertinent to considerable architecture and grand sculptures. With an international airport contributing for its distant resourcing, visitors commonly visit one of the awaiting layovers at their destination. 

11. Hasselt

Hasselt is still in reach even if you start your tour in Brussels considering it has an antique center already filled with a plethora of stunning buildings, restaurants and bars. Summary is that Hasselt boasts several antique buildings and is famous for its gin, which makes the craft distillery quite an interesting excursion. 

As the festival fizz is likely to draw large crowds to its streets, the population is also enlivened as there’s nearly lifesaver fountains in the center flooding the drinking population with the cash of life; gin! Flanders holds vast treasures of old architecture that only encourage tourists’ endless visits with parks such as Bokrijk serving the true purpose.

10. Ostend

Ostend seems to be the sky of many local people, particularly on weekends, to stroll its lovely promenade in addition to its massive sandy beaches. However, a severe bombarding during World War 2 left in its place dull and unattractive tower-blocks that now stand along the sands. It is the most crowded seaside resort city in Belgium.

Nonetheless, everything changed for the city as there are now elegant cafés and restaurants that embrace the central waterfront in addition to a powerful casino that draws many – not to ignore the lively nightlife. The historical places that dot the city together with the expertly constructed rebuilt sea defenses are fantastic assets.

9. Mons

Mons in Belgium was designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2015. The Medieval architecture attracts many tourists to visit the Grand Place where they can enjoy different cuisines and explore more modern themed museums. The city is exceptionally noteworthy for the annual weeklong parade Monstre de Doudou which brings more life to the region. The history of Mons dates back to the 14th Century. The Doudou festivities continue to be preserved and celebrated by the local population with tons of Belgian beer.

8. Mechelen

Once the capital of the Netherlands, Mechelen has lost its grace over time. One can witness the historical backdrop through the remaining structures even now. The central square of Mechelen consists of the stunning St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, which stands majestically over exquisitely designed cafes and facades.

Although positioned poorly in comparison to the canals of Brugge, the ones present in Mechelen still enhance its beauty and appeal. The beautiful medieval churches, along with the horrendous post-war structures bean bag the city. There are numerous restaurants and shops available for the dwellers to shop at.

7. Liege 

The neighborhood doesn’t offer a lot in terms of tourists going to Liege. However, it has a river by the name of Meuse which gives it a mesmerizing view. There are industrial buildings that are relatively old and seem to shatter in some areas. On a more positive note, the hills around Liege do provide some color to the city as it is surrounded by greens.

Belgium’s largest city seems to be in the transition phase of modernization. As it grows, new buildings get constructed and even old ones are renovated there are chances to find great architectural buildings at all corners. There are great restaurants, bars, and even fantastic promenades helping along the way.

5. Leuven

This is one of the cities where one day trips might be the only option due to not having many places to visit, and being largely under populated which causes its hyped places to always remain empty. Many might not know this but Leuven is famous for housing many students as it has the eldest university of Flanders along with a strong student community keeping it lively – mostly during the weekdays.

The oude markt is comes first into mind as a central meeting point around which cafes and bars are scattered. Talking about the city of Leuven, its historical context around the succulent great roi beguinage and cobbled streets definitely strike awe in most , and is a beautiful memory to cherish forever.

4. Ghent

In spite of Bruges taking away a lot of Ghent’s potential tourists, it still manages to catch the eye of a lot of people. It is a great city and the sense of liveliness in the area is perfect for people who prefer active environments. The medieval sector of Ghent is breathtaking alongwith the belfry, cathedral and the ancient streets that surround it.

The side beside the canal is beautiful as the area is decorated with beautiful facades. Make no mistake, because Ghent does not appear to be teeming with tourists around the world, however it is undoubtedly bustling with people’s activities, great cultural and historically important places that team with life instead. If the strange combination of slaughters, ancient battlements and fascinating museums interrupts your relaxation routine, tell us about it.

3. Antwerp

Antwerp is known for having a prominent port which has aided how the city developed, and to this day the port remains important. At one stage, Antwerp was one of the most influential cities throughout Europe. Because of this influence, the city is seen as having a rich culture, and in today’s world, Antwerp boasts many luxury boutiques and shops alike, all the while a booming nightlife.

There is no doubt that Antwerp is in many ways backward. Imagine a city, rich in history that has survived the blows of the Second World War only to be left crumbling, but still boasting of beautiful streets that are full of life, the prominent cathedral being an attractive factor too. With numerous landmarks and an abundance of bars, cafes and restaurants to visit, Antwerp is certainly not for the fainthearted. And before you leave, make time to drop by the main train station, one of the most resplendent stations that you will come across in Europe.

2. Brussels.

Disregard for its neighboring giants Paris or Amsterdam Brussels is an interesting city to spend time in and better to actually live in! Brussels is the place where the European Union has its major executive bodies and is the place that represents the capital of the country.

It is indeed one of the most multicultural cities to wander around; with Turkish districts turning into Portuguese and Brazilian. Full of life and very relaxing, the architecture itself is out of this world and it is all beautiful; it hails art nouveau structures, exquisite mansions and huge concrete buildings with cartoons glued all over the walls which is a significant part of Belgium’s culture.

Grand Place is without doubt the heart of historians and archeologists, which seems to be the best site in the center of Brussels. Apart from that, there are other great museums that are also round the corner. Brussels is one of the unnoticed cities in Europe that has a remarkable variety of its unique bars and a variety of superb restaurants. It is a city that must be seen.

1. Bruges

A funny city, picture off its medieval streets and one is bound to be in a daydream. A historic heart built with whimsical cobbled lanes, which eventually opens up with cuffs and wind through canals surrounded by spell-binding ancient church spires. Since it is considered to be one of the most photogenic locations in Europe, I always advise people to visit Bruges but my favorite nickname for it would be ‘Venice of the North’.

But again, it is a pity that it is a pleasant crowded place inhabited by tourists, so if you can, opt for a midweek trip. As you stroll along this lovely city, niches of atmospheric bars and cafes, which are ideal for Belgian beer sampling, may be discovered in its roads.

Map of cities in Belgium