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Belgium

Savor Life in Europe's Heartbeat

Belgium is a perfect destination that offers different experiences throughout the year. The best time to visit largely depends on the traveler's preference for weather and festivals. For those who love mild weather and blooming flowers, spring (March to May) is recommended. Summer (June to August) provides warm temperatures and a great lineup of outdoor festivals and events, making it peak tourist season. Early fall (September to early October) is an ideal time for visitors seeking less crowd and pleasant weather with colorful autumnal scenery. It's always best to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your visit to Belgium.

Flights
Belgium from € 52

Belgium presents itself as an enchanting European gem, boasting a cultural palette that blends diverse languages, artistic heritage, and gastronomic excellence for globe-trotting visitors to uncover. With its long-standing historical roots, Belgium is home to beautifully preserved medieval cities, impressive Renaissance structures, and bustling modern metropolises such as Brussels, the EU's epicenter featuring the grandiose Grand Place and the futuristic Atomium.

Travelers are captivated by the timeless allure of Bruges, with its cobblestoned paths, idyllic canals, and quaint market squares casting a romantic spell likened to a storybook setting. In Ghent, the majestic Gravensteen castle anchors a vibrant cultural milieu, alluring to those with an appreciation for the arts. Belgium's reputation for sensory pleasures is well-deserved, with its world-renowned chocolates and waffles signifying the country's penchant for gourmet experiences.

The Belgian terrain extends beyond the cityscapes, offering the lush Ardennes with its picturesque hills perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in hiking, biking, and historical explorations. Coastal visits are equally inviting, with sandy shores providing leisurely summer retreats.

Belgium is famed for its rich beer heritage, encapsulating a brewing prowess with a repertoire of over 1,000 beer types, each with their distinctive serving glass, making each tasting a unique encounter. Culinary adventurers will be enticed by Belgium's dining scene, featuring esteemed Michelin-starred establishments and local markets where traditional dishes such as moules-frites and savory beef stew are savored.

Navigating Belgium is a breeze, courtesy of its extensive and reliable rail system, enabling easy access to the country's multifaceted attractions. With its hospitable community, proficient in multiple languages, Belgium stands out as a captivating destination that seamlessly integrates tradition with modernity. Visitors are guaranteed a comprehensive assortment of experiences, whether their interests lie in historical discovery, culinary pursuits, or artistic engagements. Belgium promises a memorable journey that caters to varying preferences and ensures a rich compendium of adventures.

Journey 3 steps itinerary

Embark on a three-day journey to uncover the splendid medieval past of Belgium and delight in its globally celebrated chocolate. Experience the historical allure of Bruges and Brussels combined with the pleasures of Belgian chocolate craftsmanship.

Immerse yourself in the picturesque Ardennes region for a week, partaking in exhilarating activities such as trails and river kayaking, and unwinding with tranquil spa treatments.

Indulge in a weekend of opulence in Antwerp's illustrious diamond quarter and immerse yourself in the city's exclusive fashion scene with visits to high-end shops and designer ateliers.

Activities Do and see

Brussels
Brussels

Explore the allure of Brussels, Belgium's vibrant capital city—a tapestry of rich history, cultural charm, and the bustling epicenter of European politics. This historic yet contemporary metropolis offers a seamless fusion of global sophistication and cherished local customs, making it a magnetic destination for tourists worldwide.

The city's crowning jewel is the breathtaking Grand Place, also known as Grote Markt. This architectural marvel is encircled by lavish guild houses, the impressive Town Hall, and the King's House, which now hosts the City Museum. Its exceptional beauty earned Grand Place a spot on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1998.

Just a stone's throw away is the whimsical Manneken Pis statue. This tiny bronze figure of a boy has become synonymous with Brussels' playful spirit. It is frequently adorned in new costumes, amassing a wardrobe that now boasts over a thousand variations.

Brussels is also a haven for the arts. The Magritte Museum showcases the genius of Belgian surrealist René Magritte. Meanwhile, those fascinated by musical history can delve into the extensive array of exhibits at the Musée des Instruments de Musique (MIM), nestled within a stunning art nouveau building.

Science and architecture enthusiasts must see the Atomium, the city's futuristic landmark representing a vastly enlarged iron crystal. This unique structure offers sweeping views from its upper sphere, making it a highlight of any visit.

The European Quarter is a hub for political aficionados, housing significant EU institutions. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in Europe's legislative pulse at the Parlamentarium or catch a glimpse inside the European Parliament during a session.

Adding to its regal appeal is the Royal Palace of Brussels, the formal residence of the Belgian monarchy. Although the royal family does not live here, it serves as a venue for state occasions and opens to the public each summer.

Nature lovers can find solace in the serene Parc du Cinquantenaire, featuring lush landscapes, grand arcades, and three museums, including the Royal Military Museum.

A journey to Brussels wouldn't be complete without indulging in the city's culinary pleasures. Savor the finest Belgian chocolates, sample local beers, or enjoy moules frites—a dish many regard as Belgium's national treasure.

Brussels' combination of animated street life, comprehensive museums, exquisite architecture, and its diverse, multilingual community only enhances its inherent international charm. Whether a history buff, food enthusiast, or political guru, Brussels entices visitors with its dynamic offerings and welcoming spirit.

Charleroi
Charleroi

Charleroi, nestled in the heart of Belgium's Wallonia region, boasts a storied history intertwined with its industrial roots. This city is steadily carving out a niche for itself with intriguing sights and an inviting local ambiance, drawing visitors from afar.

Photography aficionados will be captivated by Europe's most expansive photography museum, the Musée de la Photographie in Charleroi, set in a beautifully refurbished neo-gothic convent. Within its walls lies an expansive array of photographs and camera equipment, delineating the evolution of photography through the ages.

BPS22, the Art Museum of contemporary arts in Hainaut Province, beckons art lovers with its eclectic assembly of modern and contemporary artworks, highlighting everything from paintings and sculptural works to inventive installations and video pieces.

The Bois du Cazier stands as a poignant testament to Charleroi's industrial lineage. This ex-coal mine, now transformed into a museum complex and acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage site, pays homage to the legacy of the miners while imparting knowledge about the region's mining saga through the Industry Museum and the Glass Museum.

The heart of Charleroi presents an array of striking architectural and historical marvels, not least of which is the City Hall (Hôtel de Ville) and its magnificent belfry, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Wandering around Place Charles II opens up a world of impressive structures and dining spaces.

Nature lovers will be drawn to the serene environs along the River Sambre that slices through the city—an ideal setting for leisure walks or cycling adventures. Moreover, the countryside surrounding Charleroi invites hikers to explore its scenic trails.

A stone's throw from the city lie the peaceful ruins of the Abbey of Aulne. Perched by the River Sambre, this erstwhile Cistercian monastery offers a tranquil escape for history enthusiasts and those seeking solace among its storied remnants.

Adventure seekers will find excitement at the nearby Adventure Park Terraltitude with a range of outdoor challenges, including exhilarating zip lines and obstacle courses, perfect for family fun.

Positioned as a launching point to discover Wallonia's broader charms, Charleroi's proximity to quaint hamlets, grand castles, and the larger urban centres of Namur and Liège makes it an ideal spot for engaging day excursions.

Charleroi melds its historical charm with modern allure, making it a compelling destination for travelers keen to experience the spirit of Wallonia. Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or art connoisseur, Charleroi satiates a diverse array of interests while promising a unique and culturally rich Belgian experience.

Gastronomy Cuisine

Belgium is renowned for its delicious and hearty cuisine, which incorporates rich creams, butter, and some of the finest chocolates in the world. This cuisine is a unique blend of Flemish and Walloon influences, showcasing a particular predilection for delectable pastries, beer, and seafood, drawing inspiration from the country's stunning North Sea coast.

  • Moules-frites

    Moules-frites

    Steamed mussels served with crispy fries. The mussels are typically cooked with onions, celery, and leeks, often accompanied by a flavorful broth.
  • Carbonnade flamande

    Carbonnade flamande

    A traditional Flemish beef stew made with beer, onions, and brown sugar, slow-cooked to perfection, giving it a distinctive sweet-sour taste.
  • Belgian Waffles

    Belgian Waffles

    Known for their light texture and large squares, these waffles come in two varieties: Brussels and Liege, often topped with fruit, chocolate, or whipped cream.