Things to Do in Belgium

Belgium is a country full of charm, history, and culture. From exploring the medieval streets of Bruges and museum-hopping in Brussels to hiking the stunning Ardennes region and discovering the best Belgian beer and chocolate, there are countless things to do in Belgium.

Exploring the beer culture is one of the best things to do in Belgium, offering an unparalleled diversity of flavors and brewing styles. From Trappist ales to fruity lambics, Belgian beers are crafted using unique, time-honored methods. Explore this rich tradition through beer-tasting tours in cities like Brussels, Ghent, or Antwerp, where you can sample local brews and learn about their origins. Visit places like the Beer Museum or UNESCO-recognized breweries to deepen your appreciation. In Belgium, beer isn’t just a drink—it’s a cultural experience worth savoring.

Top destinations:

• Brussels: Beer almost becomes a religious experience here, with stained glass windows, chandeliers, and old wooden benches like pews. Visit a traditional Belgian bar like Au Bon Vieux Temps, the oldest in the city. Enjoy a pint and puppet theater at Toone, or sample from a list of over 3,000 beers at Delirium.
• Antwerp: If you are on the hunt for more obscure beers, you will likely find them during a tour of Antwerp. Browse the massive catalog in Cafe Kulminator, where you can select beers from different regions and years, much like you would a bottle of wine. Order a pint and a plate at Billie’s Bier Kafetaria, with hearty dishes like a Flemish stew that pairs perfectly with your brew.
• Ghent: Gruut Brewery makes beer the old-fashioned way, using herbs and botanicals like mugwort, heather, and yarrow. Drink from the signature tubular glasses at De Dulle Griet, or make like the locals and pick up a beer or two to enjoy at the water’s edge of the sunny River Lys.

Best time: Although you can drink beer all year round, try to plan your Belgium trip closer to the beer fests, such as the annual Zythos Beer Festival of Leuven in April and the Kerst Beer Festival of Essen held on the third weekend of December.

Insider tip: Bring back some beer as a souvenir from De Biertempel in Brussels, where you even get 25% off if you purchase a Brussels Card. 

Visiting Belgium’s World War battlefields is a profound experience that offers a chance to reflect on the sacrifices of brave soldiers for the sake of peace. Key sites like Ypres, Passchendaele, and the Somme are steeped in significance, with preserved trenches, cemeteries, and museums bringing the stories to life. Guided tours provide valuable insights, highlighting pivotal events and honoring fallen soldiers. Don’t miss the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate—a poignant tribute to the lives lost during one of history’s most defining conflicts.

Top destinations:

• Flanders: Explore the Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres to gain an immersive understanding of life during World War I, with interactive exhibits showcasing personal stories, artifacts, and the war's global impact. Walk through the preserved trenches of Hill 62, a site that vividly illustrates the harsh realities soldiers faced. Learn about the German invasion of Belgium in 1914, which marked the war’s early days and transformed the region into a battlefield.
• The World War II Liberation Route: Embark on a journey tracing the World War II Liberation Route through Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit significant landmarks and museums that bear witness to the conflict. Additionally, you'll have ample time to immerse yourself in cultural trips to Brussels and Rotterdam.
• Mons: Rediscover the Battle of Mons on a self-guided battlefield tour. As well as allowing you to explore the city, the route will take you to pivotal sites during the fierce battle, including the critical road and railway bridges, the Obourg railway station, the historic Château Gendebien, the strategic Bois-la-Haut region, the renowned Bascule fortification, the poignant Irish Monument, and the Mons cemetery. The journey culminates at the Saint-Symphorien cemetery, where German and British soldiers now rest eternally in peace.

Best time: Remembrance celebrations take place every November and add an extra sense of poignancy to your visit. Mons also holds events of remembrance in the summer, around August.

Insider tip: Visit the Menin Gate in Iepers and listen to the rousing tones of The Last Post, which is played every evening at around 8 pm.

Exploring Belgium’s history is one of the most enriching activities to do in Belgium, offering a blend of world heritage sites, landmarks, and museums. Visit Brussels’ iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels showcase centuries of art, while Antwerp’s Cathedral of Our Lady features stunning Gothic architecture and works by Rubens. Unique attractions like Mini-Europe display detailed scale models of Europe’s landmarks, bringing history to life. From Waterloo’s battlefield to Ghent’s medieval Castle of the Counts, Belgium provides endless opportunities to learn about its rich cultural and historical heritage. Check out our history tours in Belgium.

Top destinations:

• Bruges: Walking through Bruges is a bit like taking a journey into the past on a time machine. With cobbled streets, old stone bridges, and houses that date back to the 12th century, Bruges feels like a place plucked straight out of a history book. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Burg Square, which is flanked by buildings like the 14th-century Gothic town hall with its carved minarets and signature red dormers.
• Durbuy: Durbuy is one of the smallest cities in the world, and it’s definitely one of the prettiest in Belgium. Imagine chocolate-box cottages; the architecture here dates back to the Middle Ages. Take the tourist train to see all the attractions on land, and take a kayak on the river Ourthe to see them from the water.
• Mechelen: Steeped in history, Mechelen is a treasure trove of historic architecture. At its heart lies the iconic St. Rumbold's Cathedral, a towering landmark that dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views over the city. Nearby, you’ll find the Burgundian Hof van Busleyden palace. Away from the center of the city, encounter quaint churches and exquisite baroque facades that grace the banks of the picturesque Dyle River.
• Brussels: No matter the subject, you’ll find a museum in Brussels to learn all about it. Head to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts to see masterpieces by artists such as Rubens and Memling or glimpse a view at the future (according to the 1960s mind) at the Atomium. Understand the European culture at the House of European History before learning how it is governed at the Parlamentarium.

Best time: To see these historic locations in all their glory and the nearby rivers, the best time to visit Belgium is during the misty autumn months of September and October.

Insider tip: Visit the Choco-story Museum in Bruges for unlimited free chocolates at the end.

Cycling tours in Belgium offer an unforgettable way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. Ride through picturesque routes like the Flanders countryside, famous for its cobblestone roads and iconic Tour of Flanders race. Explore canalside paths in Bruges, scenic trails in the Ardennes, or urban cycling in bike-friendly cities like Ghent and Antwerp. Many tours include stops at charming villages, historical landmarks, and local breweries, making it a perfect blend of adventure, history, and gastronomy.

Alternate destinations:

• Flanders: The flat terrain of Flanders makes it perfect for cycling to see the north of the country by bike. Take the F8 cycle highway that runs alongside the Leuven Canal, or for another waterside cycle, take the Leikanttragel that follows the Ghent-Bruges canal past picturebook houses and the Kruispoort bridge. If you want a challenge, take on the 80-kilometer-long Blue Route through the Belgian countryside and its signature berg cobblestones.
• Wallonia: The south of the country also has a lot to offer for cyclists. Pedal past castles like the Chateau de Fallais and Chateau de Logne through the mist-laden forests of Spa, or combine bikes with beer by cycling between the breweries of Walloon Picardy.
• Brussels: Exploring Brussels by bike is one of the best ways to experience the Belgian capital city and its surrounding areas. Cycle through tranquil parks and green fields on the outskirts of the city before heading further into the metropolis to bike past famous monuments like the Atomium, the Royal Estate, and the National Basilica.

Best time: The summer months from June through August are the best for cycling tours around Belgium.

Insider tip: If you just want to use a bike for a quick hop around Brussels, try signing up for Villo. With countless points at which to rent and drop off your cycle, you can get around the city for as little as 1,60EUR per day. 

Riding the coastal tram in Belgium is a scenic and relaxing way to explore the country's stunning coastline. Stretching from Knokke-Heist to De Panne, this tram offers picturesque views of sandy beaches, charming seaside towns, and vibrant dunes. It's one of the best ways to experience the Belgian coast at a leisurely pace, with stops at attractions like the seaside resorts of Ostende and Blankenberge. Whether you're enjoying the breeze or exploring the coast, the tram ride is one of the most fun things to do in Belgium.

Alternate destinations:

• The Liege to Luxembourg Line: Taking just three hours, the train from Liege to Luxembourg City not only makes for a feasible day trip but also highlights the gorgeous scenery of the Ardennes. Look out the window as the train rumbles past the idyllic countryside and marvel at the ancient forts nestled in the hills. Consider stopping at various stations along the way to explore the local towns and attractions, like Vianden Castle, or entertain the family at the adventure park in Coo after viewing its majestic waterfall.
• Brussels and beyond: There are plenty of places to visit in Brussels, as well as places you can get to by catching a train here. If you are looking to cover as many major cities in Western Europe as you can, Brussels is the perfect place for a train-hopping holiday. You can get to Paris in 1 hour and 30 minutes, Cologne in 2 hours, and Delft in the Netherlands in 2 hours and 30 minutes. As for key destinations within Belgium’s borders, Ghent is only 30 minutes away, and it’s only 1 hour to get to Bruges.

Best time: Riding a tram is a year-round activity in Belgium.

Insider tip: If you plan on making the most of the train system in Belgium, consider applying for and purchasing an Interrail Pass (if you are from the EU) or a Eurail Pass(if you are from outside of the EU) to make the most of your budget. 

Trying chocolate during a trip to Belgium is an essential part of experiencing its culinary culture. Renowned for its rich, high-quality chocolate, Belgium is home to world-famous chocolatiers. Visit their shops in Brussels or Bruges to taste decadent pralines and truffles. For a deeper experience, participate in chocolate-making workshops where you can learn the art of crafting these sweet treats. Exploring Belgium’s chocolate culture is a delightful and unforgettable experience for any traveler.

Alternate destinations:

• Bruges: Bruges is a true paradise for chocolate lovers, one of Belgium’s most famous exports. The charming Katelijnestraat, in particular, boasts an enchanting concentration of chocolate shops, with a half-dozen cocoa-filled destinations within a mere stone's throw from each other. Visit Choco-Story, the museum all about chocolate. Once you have eaten your fill, consider taking a class on how to make it for yourself with master chocolatiers.
• Brussels: Belgium’s capital is also a chocolate haven, with many recognized brands getting their start here, like Godiva. One of the coolest things to do in Brussels is to go on walking and—most importantly—a tasting tour of the city’s chocolate shops with expert guides helping you to discover the best truffles and pralines and how to tell the difference.
• Ghent: Get your chocolate fix during a trip to Ghent with numerous chocolate ateliers to peruse. The city also hosts chocolate-themed events like talks in the city hall from experts, as well as chocolate walking tours. If you want to combine two of Belgium’s culinary staples, you can even undertake Bierolade, a tour combining beer and chocolate in one boozy and sugary outing.

Best time: There is never a bad time to try some chocolate.

Insider tip: Avoid chocolate shops with many tourists, as the prices will likely be higher. Instead, follow the locals to their usual chocolate haunts. 

Belgium has the most castles per square kilometer to visit than any other country. Exploring the castles in Belgium is one of the most fascinating activities to do in Belgium, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history. Visit the medieval Castle of the Counts in Ghent or the fairytale-like Château de la Hulpe near Brussels. Discover the stunning architecture and lush gardens of castles like the Renaissance-style Beloeil Castle. These iconic landmarks provide an unforgettable experience, blending history, culture, and breathtaking views—perfect for any traveler seeking to uncover Belgium’s heritage.

Top destinations:

• Namur: The Namur province highlights this perfectly, with 140 castles dotted about the area. View the iconic domed turrets of Le Chateau de Lavaux Sainte-Anne, walk through the manicured gardens of Chateau de Freyr, and take in the fairytale charm of Chateau de Veves, complete with Sleeping Beauty and dragon.
• Liege: Liege also has its fair share of castles, including the baroque Chateau de Modave, which served as inspiration for Versailles, the medieval Chateau de Reinhardstein, and Château de Jehay, with its unique checkerboard facade.
• Antwerp: In the Flanders region, expect not to see chateaux but instead kasteels. Nestled in the scenic Rivierenhof park is Sterckshof, lovingly restored in 1931. Situated on the edge of the river Scheldt, you can't help but marvel at the neo-Gothic beauty of Bornem Castle.

Best time: The best months to explore the castles in Belgium are May to September. The weather is mild, the landscapes are lush, and many castles host events or festivals during this time.

Insider tip: Some of the castles are private, so you may need to snap them from afar. Others have limited opening hours and times, so book ahead if you are planning to visit. 

Discovering underground caves is one of the most unique things to do in Belgium, offering an unforgettable journey into nature’s wonders. The Caves of Han-sur-Lesse in the Ardennes stand out for their vast chambers, stunning stalactites, and an underground river reached by tram. Nearby, the Grotte de Dinant impresses with breathtaking rock formations and panoramic views. The Hotton Caves, with their delicate crystal structures and extensive 6,000-meter gallery system, add to the allure. Guided tours reveal geological marvels, prehistoric fossils, and rare wildlife like bats, making these caves a fascinating blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty for any visitor.

Alternate destinations:

• Remouchamps: Underneath your feet in the city of Remouchamps is the longest underground river in the world. Walk through tunnels and caverns on your way to this subterranean water source, passing by elegant cathedrals of rock formations. Once you arrive, spend a couple of hours sailing down the Rubicon, spotting rare bat species and learning about its prehistoric past.
• Grottes de Han: If you are looking for family-friendly activities in Belgium, Grottes de Han combines its cave network with a zoo on the surface. A UNESCO heritage site, here you can marvel at intricate stalactite formations, and gaze at your reflection in mirror-like pools.
• Grottes de Hotton: Due to their splendor, the Grottes de Hotton are nicknamed “the caves of the 1001 nights.” Highlights include an underground canyon, rainbow-colored rock formations, and the unique flora of the Calestienne gardens above ground.

Best time: Any time of the year except for April and early June, when rainfall levels reach 142 millimeters.

Insider tip: Most of Belgium's caves have a stable climate, meaning it’s 12 degrees Celsius all year round. Don’t forget to take a light coat or jacket with you. 

Hiking in Belgium offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and charming landscapes. The Ardennes region is a top destination, featuring dense forests, rolling hills, and trails like the Ninglinspo Walk, a picturesque route along a bubbling stream with waterfalls and wooden bridges. Another must-visit is the High Fens Nature Reserve, boasting serene moorlands and boardwalks, especially enchanting during autumn. For history lovers, the Battle of the Bulge trails in Bastogne combine scenic paths with World War II landmarks. Coastal hikers can explore the Zwin Nature Park near Knokke-Heist, offering dunes, salt marshes, and birdwatching opportunities. With diverse terrain and well-marked trails, Belgium is a hiker’s delight. Check out our hiking tours in Belgium.

Top destinations:

• Ardennes Region: The Ardennes captivates with tranquil villages, dramatic cliffs, and trails like the Bouillon Loop, which circles the historic Bouillon Castle. Explore dense woodlands, hidden caves, and peaceful valleys, making it ideal for both adventure seekers and relaxation lovers.
• High Fens Nature Reserve: This elevated plateau is enchanted with misty horizons, rare flora like sundews, and scenic viewpoints such as Botrange, Belgium’s highest point. Winter transforms the trails into snow-covered paths, while spring brings blooming heaths and a serene hiking atmosphere.
• Zwin Nature Park: Zwin impresses with tidal channels, grazing wildlife, and interactive visitor centers. Its walking paths meander through quiet wetlands, providing close encounters with storks, vibrant coastal plants, and serene views of the changing tides throughout the seasons.

Best time: The best months for hiking in Belgium are April to October, offering pleasant weather, blooming landscapes in spring, and vibrant autumn colors. Trails remain accessible, with stunning views and ideal outdoor conditions.

Insider tip: A lot of the key museums in each of these cities offer free entry, perfect for a budget-friendly trip. Plan your trip on the weekend to make these big cities the cheapest, as hotels are often lower priced than on weekdays, the reverse of many other countries.

Cruising Belgium’s canals is a serene way to explore its charming towns and scenic landscapes. Bruges offers enchanting boat tours through medieval canals lined with historic buildings and picturesque bridges. Ghent’s canal cruises showcase stunning architecture, including the Gravensteen Castle and the Graslei waterfront. For a unique experience, head to Dinant, where the Meuse River provides a beautiful backdrop of cliffs, castles, and quaint riverside villages. Ypres also offers peaceful canal rides amidst lush greenery. Canal cruising in Belgium combines relaxation with breathtaking views, making it a memorable activity for any traveler. Check out our cruise tours in Belgium.

Top destinations:

• Bruges: In Bruges, canal cruises take visitors past iconic landmarks like the Belfry Tower and the Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo’s Madonna. Explore the serene canals near the Beguinage, a UNESCO site, and view the beautifully preserved medieval architecture.
• Ghent: Ghent’s canals wind through vibrant neighborhoods, offering picturesque views of historic buildings like the St. Michael's Bridge and the Belfry Tower. Boat tours reveal the city’s rich history and stunning facades, with the peaceful water reflecting the city’s charm.
• Dinant: Cruising along the Meuse River in Dinant provides an incredible view of the iconic Citadel perched above. The river meanders past cliffs, lush landscapes, and charming villages, making it an unforgettable, scenic boat tour through Belgium’s southern region.

Best season: The best months for cruising Belgium’s canals are April to October, offering mild weather and longer daylight hours. Spring and summer bring vibrant flowers, while autumn provides stunning fall colors along the waterways.

Belgium is a treasure trove of stunning art and architecture. In Brussels, the Grand Place showcases opulent 17th-century architecture, while the Royal Palace impresses with its neoclassical design. Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers charming medieval buildings and canals. Ghent boasts the mesmerizing Saint Bavo's Cathedral and the Museum of Fine Arts. Antwerp is renowned for its Renaissance and Art Nouveau buildings, along with masterpieces by Rubens in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. These destinations are a must-see for art and architecture lovers!

Top destinations:

• Brussels: Brussels is a blend of historical and contemporary design. Explore the Atomium, an iconic symbol of post-war architecture, and the stunning Art Nouveau masterpieces by Victor Horta. The Magritte Museum offers surreal art lovers a glimpse into the artist’s world.
• Bruges: Bruges is a picturesque medieval city with cobbled streets and preserved Gothic buildings. Visit the Belfry Tower for panoramic views, and admire the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The Gruuthuse Museum displays fine Flemish art in an elegant 15th-century mansion.
• Antwerp: Known as the diamond capital, Antwerp boasts the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, a Gothic gem. The Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) offers both contemporary architecture and views of the city’s history. Don’t miss the stunning Rubenshuis, home to the famous painter.

Best season: The best months to explore Belgium’s art and architecture are May through September, when the weather is mild and many outdoor events and festivals take place, allowing you to fully enjoy the sights.

Belgium is a global hub for comic book history, home to iconic characters like Tintin and The Smurfs. Created by Hergé in the 1920s, Tintin’s adventures have captured the imaginations of readers worldwide. Meanwhile, Peyo introduced The Smurfs in the 1950s, quickly becoming cultural icons. Brussels boasts the Belgian Comic Strip Center, showcasing the country's rich comic tradition. In addition, murals throughout cities like Brussels and Liège celebrate Belgian comic artistry, making it an immersive experience for fans.

Top destinations:

• Brussels: The Belgian Comic Strip Center in Brussels is a must-visit, highlighting Belgium’s comic art history. Visitors can explore exhibits on Tintin, Lucky Luke, and other popular characters, while the museum’s design mimics a classic art deco style for an immersive experience.
• Charleroi: Charleroi's Comics Art Museum celebrates the region's rich comic book culture. With a special emphasis on graphic novels, it presents rotating exhibitions and works by famed Belgian artists like André Franquin. The museum also offers workshops for aspiring comic creators.

Best season: You can check out the comic-book history of Belgium year-round.

Belgium offers a variety of adventure sports for thrill-seekers. In the Ardennes, you can try rock climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking amidst lush forests and scenic hills. The Vesdre River is perfect for white-water rafting, while the Ourthe River offers calmer waters for canoeing. For something unique, try zip-lining in the Coo Waterfalls area or bungee jumping at the Viaduc de Clémentine. Belgium's diverse landscapes ensure that every adrenaline junkie can find their next challenge, no matter the season.

Top destinations:

• Ardennes: The Ardennes is Belgium's adventure sports hub, offering hiking, rock climbing, and cave exploration. With rugged terrain, it's ideal for mountain biking and off-roading. You can also try paragliding for stunning aerial views of the region's rolling hills.
• Coo: The Coo area, known for its dramatic waterfalls, provides opportunities for thrilling water sports. You can go kayaking, rafting, or even canyoning in the stunning surroundings. The area also has several climbing routes for those seeking a vertical challenge.
• Spa: Famous for its thermal springs, the Spa also offers outdoor activities like off-road driving, mountain biking, and horseback riding. For the ultimate adventure, try a hot-air balloon ride over the picturesque landscape, offering panoramic views of forests and valleys.

Best season: The best months for adventure sports in Belgium are from May to September when the weather is warmer and outdoor conditions are ideal. Summer offers the perfect balance of mild temperatures and long daylight hours.

Belgium offers a diverse range of activities, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. From exploring charming medieval towns like Bruges to indulging in world-famous chocolates and beer, there are endless things to do in Belgium. Whether you're interested in history, and culture, or simply enjoying the picturesque landscapes, this country has something for everyone.

If you are looking for a vacation that has history and nature in abundance, a customized Belgium trip should be at the top of your list. You can also go through our Belgium travel guide for more information.