Table of Contents
Introduction
Belgium is a small European country that often gets overlooked by tourists in favor of its more famous neighbors like France and Germany. However, Belgium has a tremendous amount to offer visitors, from stunning medieval architecture to incredible food and drink. Two of its most popular destinations are the capital Brussels, home to the enormous Grand Palace, and the fairytale city of Bruges with its breathtaking canals.
Brussels and its Grand Palace
Brief history of Brussels
Brussels has been an important city for centuries. It was founded in the 10th century and became the capital of the Duchy of Brabant. When Belgium gained independence in 1830, Brussels was chosen as the capital due to its central location. Today, it is the capital of both Belgium and the European Union.
Description of the Grand Palace
The most iconic sight in Brussels is the Grand Palace, or Grand Place. This magnificent square is surrounded by guildhalls and two town halls built in different architectural styles. The elaborate Gothic Town Hall was built in the 15th century while the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall was completed in the 19th century. The Grand Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful public squares in Europe.
Other top attractions in Brussels
In addition to the Grand Palace, Brussels has many other attractions worth seeing. The Atomium is a unique 335-foot tall structure built for the 1958 World’s Fair that resembles an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Mini-Europe contains over 350 miniature models of famous European landmarks. Art lovers can admire masterpieces by Flemish painters like Rubens at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts.
Bruges and its Fairytale Charm
Brief history of Bruges
Bruges has been an important commercial center since the Middle Ages due to its location near the North Sea. By the 15th century, Bruges was one of the most prosperous cities in Europe. Although it lost prominence after its harbor silted up in the 16th century, present-day Bruges still retains its medieval charm.
Walking the fairytale streets
The historic center of Bruges looks like something straight out of a fairytale, with its winding cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and exquisite medieval buildings. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride or boat tour along the canals for gorgeous views of the city. At night when Bruges is illuminated, its bridges and buildings seem to come right out of a fantasy novel.
Top things to do in Bruges
Bruges has countless museums showing its rich artistic heritage, such as the Groeninge Museum with its collection of Flemish Primitives. Choco-Story tells the history of Belgian chocolate production. For stunning views, climb the 366 steps up the 13th century belfry known as Belfort. Sample delicious Belgian beers at one of Bruges’ many cafés and brasseries. At the Church of Our Lady, see Michelangelo’s famous sculpture Madonna and Child.
Ghent’s Medieval Architecture
Brief history of Ghent
Located near the confluence of two rivers, Ghent began as a settlement in Roman times. It grew into an important city by the Middle Ages when it was a center of cloth production. Many of its medieval buildings remain standing today.
Ghent’s medieval buildings
The historic center of Ghent transports visitors back to the Middle Ages. Prominent landmarks include St. Bavo’s Cathedral with its Baroque pulpit and the famous painting Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers. Other highlights are the 13th century Castle of the Counts, the medieval port known as Graslei, and the well-preserved Guildhalls along the Graslei and Korenlei quaysides.
Things to do in Ghent
In addition to admiring its medieval architecture, visitors can explore Ghent’s museums showcasing its history, art, and design. The City Museum has an enormous model of Ghent in the 16th century. The Design Museum Gent exhibits modern and contemporary design. Must-try local foods include cuberdon candies, Ghent noses, and Ghent waterzooi stew.
Antwerp’s Diamond District and Fashion Scene
History of the diamond district
Since medieval times, Antwerp has been a major hub for diamond dealers and cutters. Its diamond district experienced tremendous growth in the late 19th century. To this day, about 84% of the world’s rough diamonds pass through Antwerp. The city contains over 1,500 diamond companies.
Browsing the diamond shops
Antwerp’s diamond district feels like a heavily guarded fortress, with police surveillance and security systems protecting the dazzling diamonds. Visitors can browse the incredible selection at stores lining streets like Schupstraat and Hoveniersstraat. Diamond shopping here is simply an experience like no other in the world.
Antwerp’s fashion culture
Beyond diamonds, Antwerp is renowned as an international fashion capital with a prestigious fashion academy. The city has a flourishing high-end fashion scene along with an edgy street style. Fashion lovers can visit the MoMu Fashion Museum or go shopping at the many designer boutiques. Twice a year, Antwerp hosts ModeNatie, a huge open-air fashion event.
Enjoying Belgian Food and Drink
Famous Belgian dishes
From savory favorites to sweet indulgences, Belgium’s cuisine has much to offer. Flemish stew, carbonnade flamande, is a flavorful beef stew made with beer. Other specialties include moules-frites (mussels and fries), waffles, and Belgian endive. For a decadent treat, try a praline, chocolate filled with creamy ganache.
Belgian beers and chocolate
Belgium is famed for its high-quality beers including Abbey beers like Chimay, lambics like kriek, and Trappist beers like Westmalle. There are around 200 Belgian beer brands to experience. Belgium also produces some of the world’s finest chocolates from renowned houses like Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Godiva.
Conclusion
With its beautiful medieval cities, delectable cuisine, fascinating history, and world-class art and design, Belgium offers an amazing variety of experiences for visitors. Beyond the postcard-perfect Bruges and Grand Palace in Brussels, destinations like Ghent and Antwerp reveal more of Belgium’s cultural treasures. Exploring Belgium is like uncovering hidden gems of European culture, cuisine, and artisanal crafts.
FAQ 1: What is the best way to get around in Belgium?
The cities in Belgium have excellent public transportation systems, making getting around by metro, tram, bus, or train easy for visitors. Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges also have bike share programs. Between cities, the high-speed rail network is efficient and affordable.
FAQ 2: What is the weather like in Belgium?
Belgium has a maritime temperate climate, with cool winters and mild summers. In Brussels, average temperatures range from the mid 30s Fahrenheit in winter to the low 60s Fahrenheit in summer. Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year. Visitors should bring layers and an umbrella or raincoat.
FAQ 3: What languages are spoken in Belgium?
Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Dutch is spoken in Flanders, French in Wallonia, and German in a small region bordering Germany. In Brussels, both Dutch and French are commonly spoken. English is widely understood in major cities.
FAQ 4: What are some good souvenirs to buy in Belgium?
Belgian chocolates, pralines, beers, and lace are excellent souvenirs. Brussels is known for delicate lacework. Antwerp offers diamond jewelry. Handcrafted tapestries, ceramics, fashion items, comics, and handicrafts also make great mementos.
FAQ 5: What are the best times of year to visit Belgium?
Spring and fall are pleasant times to visit Belgium’s cities and countryside. Late spring has flowers blooming, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Brussels has lively festivals in August and September. Bruges hosts Christmas markets in December. Late winter has Carnival celebrations leading up to Lent.