Going on day trips from Brussels to the other Flemish medieval jewels such as Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent is fun, easy, and surprisingly affordable. Just hop on the next train that will take you to each of them in less than one hour and for around 10 €uro.
I’m a busybody with a chronic case of FOMO.
But Belgium got the cure.
It is relatively small, in fact, the fifth smallest country in the European Union. It slumbers there, nestled between Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Luxembourg, pretty much undisturbed in the middle of the continent, not bragging about its beauty. And beauty it has all right!
During my stay in Brussels, Belgium’s and secretly also Europe’s capital, I actually managed to visit three other beautiful cities, one more intriguing than the other, so that I list them here fair and square in alphabetical order: Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent.
The Path to Becoming Belgium
As one of Europe’s wealthiest regions, Flanders was ruled by counts for centuries. Then, during the Middle Ages, the region experienced a decisive shift in power. Flanders came under the dominion of the Dukes of Burgundy and later the Habsburgs. In the 16th century, the region was drawn into the religious and political conflicts associated with the Reformation and the Revolt of the Netherlands. While the Southern Netherlands remained under the rule of the Spanish Habsburgs, the northern provinces eventually evolved into the independent Republic of the Seven United Provinces, known today as the Netherlands. This political division had a lasting impact on the region.
After periods of French and Dutch rule, Belgium gained its independence in 1830. However, within the new Belgian state, the Dutch-speaking population of Flanders initially held significantly less political and social influence than the French-speaking elite. Nevertheless, it developed into an industrial power and one of Europe’s most prosperous regions.
From the 14th and 15th centuries onwards, Flemish cities also became significant centers of art and culture. The Early Netherlandish masters developed an exceptionally detailed style of oil painting that profoundly influenced European art. The cities’ wealth was also reflected in their town halls, guildhalls, churches, and magnificent merchant houses. These structures still define the character of the historic city centers.
Flanders – Shaped by Trade, Textiles, and Art
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the Flemish Movement campaigned for the recognition of Dutch as an equal language and for greater cultural and political autonomy. These developments ultimately contributed to Belgium’s division into three regions, namely the Flemish-speaking Flanders, French-speaking Wallonia, and the Greater Brussels Region. However, Belgium is a constitutional monarchy and a key founding member of the European Union.
Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent – these former Flemish economic powerhouses have some of Europe’s most beautiful historic centers. They all boast medieval old towns with cobblestone-plastered alleys, large market squares, and majestic churches with iconic belfries. Mind you, in Belgium alone, UNESCO declared 33 of those towers World Heritage Sites.
But most importantly, there’s water. Rivers and canals divide Antwerp, Bruges, as well as Ghent. It was the water that made the cities accessible and facilitated trade’n’commerce. In fact, to this day, Antwerp has Europe’s second-largest industrial port after Rotterdam. However, the water also makes them very scenic, and a canal cruise, where you can see the cities from a completely different perspective, is an absolute must for any visit. Now add the fact that Belgium is so small that you never spend more than an hour on the train to visit those gems, and you’ll realize why it would be foolish to miss out on some unforgettable day trips.
ANTWERP
So you’re looking for a city that’s as trendy as Amsterdam, but without the crowds? A place bursting with Flemish architecture and history like Brussels, but without the fast pace? And one with the creative energy and outstanding design of Copenhagen, but without the price tag? Don’t look any further, as Antwerp unites all those strong suits and still keeps a very laid-back vibe.
It is Belgium’s largest city and home to Europe’s second-largest port. Culturally, it is famed for its historic old town and its vigorous arts and fashion scene. Last but not least, Antwerp has been a global center for the diamond trade for centuries.
Particularly due to its location on the Scheldt River, Antwerp developed into a major trading city during the Middle Ages. As early as the 12th and 13th centuries, the city attracted merchants from all over Europe.
Then, in the 16th century, Antwerp experienced its greatest period of prosperity. The city became one of the most important trading and financial centers in Europe. Spices, fabrics, precious metals, and other goods were traded here. This prosperity enabled rapid development into a center for art, printing, and science. Famous artists such as Peter Paul Rubens shaped the city’s cultural life.
However, this golden age came to an end in the late 16th century. During the Eighty Years’ War between the Netherlands and Spain, Spanish troops besieged Antwerp in 1585. Many Protestant merchants and craftsmen fled the city. Also, with the blocking of the Scheldt, Antwerp lost a large part of its trade.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that the city began its economic recovery. After Belgium gained independence from the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the port was expanded. Over time, it developed into the second-largest seaport in Europe.
Thanks in no small part to this port, Antwerp has always been a hub of European emigration. That is one reason why the city boasts such an impressively international atmosphere today. Obviously, this also contributed to the development of the significant Orthodox Jewish community. Antwerp is called Jerusalem of the North for a very obvious reason.
Thanks to its advantageous location and well-organized trade structures, the city developed into a major hub for the diamond trade already in the 15th century. It remains one of the most important international epicenters for high-quality diamonds to this day. Alongside its medieval center, there is a vast array of very diverse museums. And if museum-going isn’t really your thing, you can enjoy monumental murals adorning Antwerp’s walls just by strolling through its streets and alleys.
Let me tell you, this bustling metropolis has something for everyone!
Once in Antwerp, you need to
- admire the Rubens paintings and the outstanding contemporary art in the Cathedral of Our Lady
- learn all about diamonds at the DIVA Museum
- trace the emigration via Antwerp’s port at the Red Star Line Museum
- look out over the city from the roof of the Museum aan de Stroom
- pass under the Scheldt through the Sint-Annatunnel
- let the Nottebohm Room at the Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library blow you away
- enjoy the unbridled street art at the Zomerfabriek
Believe it or not, there is still more to explore – as you can read in my post.
BRUGES
Bruges is without a doubt one of Europe’s most captivating cities, and due to its central location, it is easily accessible from many spots in Belgium and the Netherlands. This makes Bruges an ideal day trip destination. With its picturesque canals and romantic bridges, idyllic alleys and squares, magnificent historic townhouses, and the impressive Grote Markt Square, you might think you have stumbled into a medieval knight’s tale.
Bruges’ history dates back to the early Middle Ages. The city developed along the Reie River and, through its connection to the North Sea, participated early on in international trade. In the 12th and 13th centuries, Bruges became a major trading center for textiles, wool, spices, and other goods.
Yet it reached its zenith primarily in the 13th and 14th centuries, when the city was a center of international trade and finance. This led to the construction of numerous impressive buildings, churches, and townhouses that you can admire to this day.
Flemish painting also experienced significant development. Artists such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling worked in Bruges and contributed to the city’s cultural standing.
From the 15th century onward, Bruges gradually lost its economic importance. The connection to the North Sea increasingly silted up, while Antwerp gained prominence as a trading center. Bruges became economically marginalized and remained comparatively insignificant for centuries. This very development, however, contributed to the preservation of large parts of the medieval city structure and historic buildings.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, visitors increasingly discovered Bruges as a romantic destination, so that today the city rather suffers from übertourism. Nevertheless, its historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 – very justly so.
It’s only half an hour from Brussels to Bruges, and trains are frequent and reliable. But that is certainly only one reason why Bruges is one of the most popular places for a day trip. Like many other merchant cities, Bruges had to trade for tourism, and its 120,000 inhabitants currently welcome over 8 million visitors per year. Yes, that’s the price for having one of Europe’s most beautiful and best-preserved historic old towns. Neither wars nor other powers destroyed Bruges. Therefore, the medieval cityscape and historic buildings are very well preserved. In addition, there are dozens of fascinating museums and landmarks to visit.
Once in Bruges, you need to
- take a canal cruise
- travel back to Bruges’ past at the Historium
- climb the 366 steps of the Belfry to get the best panoramic view
- admire the architecture’n’art at the Sint-Janshospitaal
- feel a shiver run down your spine at the Basilica of the Holy Blood
- learn how the wealthy elite shared their riches at the iconic Godshuizen
- visit one of the unusual museums dedicated to chocolate, fries, or beer
But there is much more to explore – as you can read in my post.
GHENT
Few cities blend centuries of rich heritage into modern urban life as effortlessly as Ghent. Massive medieval structures, picturesque canals, and centuries-old guildhalls form one of Belgium’s most atmospheric historic centers. Yet, behind its magnificent facades, Ghent is a vibrant university city boasting a truly unique energy. Less crowded than Bruges and far more laid-back than Brussels, it strikes the perfect balance between tradition and modernity.
Ghent is only about 50 kilometers from Antwerp, Bruges, as well as Brussels. Therefore, it’s also an ideal base for exploring other iconic cities in Belgium. However, make sure to plan enough time for Ghent since I’d argue that it is just as picturesque as Bruges, although thankfully it hasn’t suffered nearly as much from the current übertourism as its smaller sister to the west. Furthermore, despite its impressive historical architecture, Ghent has retained the welcoming atmosphere of a modern metropolis. So whether you stroll through Ghent’s cobblestone streets, take in the views from dizzying towers, explore museums, or relax on waterfront terraces, the city reveals a different side at every turn.
Ghent originated in the early Middle Ages at the confluence of the Scheldt and Leie rivers. In 630, St. Peter’s Abbey was founded there, around which the first settlement developed. Nothing remains above ground of the very first wooden or early medieval structures of the abbey; the complex was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries in the Baroque style.
During the Middle Ages, Ghent grew into a significant trading and cloth-making city. The processing and trade of wool, in particular, brought the city great wealth. It was one of the most important cities in Europe. Its wealthy citizenry and craft guilds wielded considerable political influence. In the 13th and 14th centuries, an estimated 65,000 people lived there. According to historical estimates, this made Ghent the second-largest city north of the Alps after Paris, and even larger than London!
And quite honestly, if you stroll through the city center with your eyes open on a city break, you’ll still see and feel Ghent’s importance at every turn.
Once in Ghent, you need to
- take a boat trip on the Leie and Lieve rivers
- travel back into Ghent’s past at Gravensteen, the Castle of the Counts
- look out over the city from the top of the Belfry
- admire the world-famous Altarpiece Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Jan and Hubert van Eyck
- walk in the footsteps of Ghent’s wealthy merchants along the Korenlei, Graslei, and Kraanlei quays
- visit the SMAK, one of Belgium’s boldest contemporary art museums
- eat a generous portion of the best fries of your life at the Frituur Tartaar
But there is much more to explore – as you can read in my post.
Practical Information
How to Get There and Around
When in Belgium, quick city breaks are easy to squeeze in. Not only because of the country’s moderate size but mainly due to its excellent system of public transportation. There are trains going crisscross the country. Also, the tickets are very reasonably priced. You can get practically everywhere for about 10 €uros. SNCB, the national train company, has a very comprehensive website. It comes in four languages and is really easy to navigate. You’ll find all the price info and schedules you need there.
My Tip
Antwerp and Ghent have two train stations each: Antwerpen-Centraal and Antwerpen-Berchem, respectively Ghent-Sint-Pieters and Ghent-Dampoort. Especially if you spend the night in these cities, it might be worth checking which one is closer to your accommodation and if your train stops there as well.
The city centers and even the immediate quarters can easily be visited by walking. Obviously, you can also rent a bike and cycle from landmark to landmark. I have to admit, though, that in cities with trams such as Antwerp and Ghent, I’m always terrified of getting caught in the tracks and falling flat on my face. Anyway, lots and lots of other cyclists manage it without incident, so just ignore me.
However, the cities have very comprehensive networks of public transportation. Quickly, yes, but not exactly cheaply. A single journey costs 3 €uro and is valid for 60 minutes, including transfers. Note that there is no automatic fare cap. If you plan on taking several trips during your stay, you can save money with a 10-trip ticket for 22 €uro. Various passengers can even share this ticket. Alternatively, a day ticket is a good option at 9 €uro, which is valid for 24 hours from the time of first activation on all De Lijn vehicles throughout Flanders. The same applies to the 3-day ticket, which costs 18 €uro.
In general, contactless payment is the most convenient way to buy a ticket. Simply hold your bank card, smartphone, or smartwatch in front of the white reader on board the vehicle. Please keep in mind that you must check in with a physical ticket or a digital scan when boarding – regardless of whether it’s a single ticket, a multi-journey ticket, or a day pass.
Where to Stay
Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent are undoubtedly among Europe’s best destinations for a day trip. However, this very fact leads to an influx of day-trippers that sometimes detracts from the cities’ charm, especially on weekends and during peak season. You can easily counter this by staying overnight. This lets you soak up the cities’ magic after the day-trippers leave in the evening and again early in the morning, before the tourist hordes arrive. Therefore, take into consideration to spend the night and use this map to choose from a wide range of accommodation options that best suit your needs and budget*:
What to Eat
Not only do Belgians fry potatoes. Basically, everything that accompanies these famous frites is deep-fried. There are many frying houses claiming to be the best. There’s actually no other way than trying out yourself at which of thosefrituur or frietkot you like the grease best. Mind you, Belgian fries are a culinary institution in their own right and are traditionally served with a wide array of sauces.
This being said, Flanders’ cuisine is as diverse as its inhabitants. Alongside classic Flemish cookery, the food scene is shaped by international influences, fine dining, and a vibrant café culture. Visitors should therefore sample both traditional specialties and modern interpretations. Among the best-known dishes are stoofvlees, a slow-cooked beef stew made with dark Belgian beer, and vol-au-vent, a puff pastry case filled with chicken fricassée. Moules-frites, hence, mussels with fries, are another staple.
Obviously, you need to wash your meal down with Belgian beer. In one of Europe’s smallest countries are approximately 280 breweries that offer more than 1,000 different brews. Amazingly, many of them come with specially designed glasses. These are great for collectors and also a wonderful souvenir!
Visiting Organized
I’m an avid solo-travelling woman. Since solo travel doesn’t equal solitude, I love to join organized tours here and there. They allow me to meet fellow travellers – for just a short moment or a lifelong friendship.
Therefore, here are some great ideas of what to do during your stay in Belgium. Especially if you have only a short time to stay, they’ll enable you to make the best of it*:
Cash, Cards, And Deals
In May 1998, the heads of the member states of the European Union agreed – nota bene in Belgium’s capital, Brussels, on the implementation of the €uro.
Until now, 21 European countries have replaced their former local currency with the €uro starting in 2002. Obviously, Belgium is one of them. The exchange rate is 1 US$ = 0.84 EUR as of September 2026. However, you can check today’s conversion rate on this page.
Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted. However, there are not as many ATMs as in other European countries, so sometimes the queues can be pretty long.
The three cities have a lot to offer, and entrance fees aren’t exactly cheap. As costs can quickly add up, you should get the respective city passes to save at least some money.
Antwerp’s and Bruges’ city cards can be obtained for 24, 48, and 72 hours, while for Ghent, you can choose between 48 and 72 hours. While the city pass in Bruges does not include free use of public transport, the cards in Antwerp and Ghent do, which is a significant saving factor considering the high fares. In my comprehensive guides to Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent, I’m explaining these city cards in detail – along with many other well-researched information that will make your trip smoother and therefore more fun.
However, before you obtain any of these city passes, keep in mind that museums in Belgium offer age-based discounts. These are not tied to EU citizenship or residency. Adults under 26 often pay half price, and entry is even free for those under 18.
Languages
I always find it fascinating that some of the smallest European countries have several official languages. Switzerland leads the way with four, but Luxembourg and Belgium each boast three. Belgium’s three official languages, Dutch, French, and German, are the result of two historical events. First, there was a centuries-old ethnic border. Second, a border shift occurred after the First World War.
The French-speaking population in the south of the country, comprising about 39 percent of the population, arose because Wallonia had been under the influence of France and Roman culture for centuries. When Belgium seceded from the Netherlands in 1830, it was the French-speaking elite who led the revolution and established French as the official language of the state and the upper class. The 60 percent of the population in the north, however, retained their own language. The small German-speaking group in the east, which makes up just under one percent of the population, only became part of Belgium over a century later, in 1919, through the Treaty of Versailles. This treaty granted Belgian citizenship to the German minority virtually overnight.
On top of that, most Belgians also speak English quite well.
Since it’s always nice to be able to say at least a few polite things in the local language, you could learn some Dutch words online with Babbel. The first lesson, which already covers all the greetings and expressions of thanks, is even free. However, you’ll also find French and German courses there.
Connection and Communication
Since June 2017, travelers with a mobile contract from an EU country have been able to use their phones in Belgium without incurring additional roaming charges. This rule applies throughout the European Union, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. After Brexit, providers continue to offer EU roaming, though this now depends on the specific contract rather than statutory regulations.
If EU roaming is not available, finding Wi-Fi is rarely an issue. Most hotels, museums, cafés, restaurants, shopping centers, and many public spaces offer free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay online during your visit.
For visitors from outside Europe, purchasing a prepaid SIM card is easy. Belgium’s three national mobile network operators are Proximus, Orange Belgium, and BASE. All providers offer prepaid SIM cards with generous data allowances and nationwide 4G coverage, as well as expanding 5G coverage. These SIM cards are available at provider stores, electronics retailers, supermarkets, and Brussels Airport. Prices and data allowances change frequently, but most prepaid packages aimed at tourists cost between 10 and 25 €uro and provide enough data for a typical city break.
An even more convenient option is an eSIM, provided your smartphone supports it. Providers such as Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and Saily offer data plans for Belgium and Europe that you can purchase and activate online before your trip. Prices generally start at around 5 USD for 1 GB, with larger packages and unlimited data plans available for longer stays. For travelers visiting multiple European countries, a regional Europe eSIM is often the most cost-effective choice.
The standard voltage in Europe is 220 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. In Belgium, they use plug types C and E.
Whereby, since nowadays, all these chargers have integrated adapters, in general, the voltage and frequency don’t really matter. However, if you are looking for more comprehensive travel info, you’ll find everything you need in my post World’s Most Complete Travel Information– an indispensable globetrotter classic.
Pinnable Pictures
If you choose to pin this post for later, please use one of these pictures:
Note: I’m completing, editing, and updating this post regularly – last in September 2026.
Did You Enjoy This Post? Then You Might Also Like These:
What to Do on a Day Trip to BRUGES
The Best Murals Along Brussels’ Comic Book Route
Best Street Art in BRUSSELS
Best Things to Do in BRUSSELS, the Capital of Europe
Best Street Art in ANTWERP – From Merksem to the City Center
Best Street Art in ANTWERP – Fresh Murals at Zomerfabriek
BRUSSELS and Beyond: Day Trips to Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent
Best Street Art in GHENT
Disclaimer: I obviously appreciate that visitGent as well as visitAntwerpen supported my blogger trip by supplying me with the respective City Cards. However, all opinions on these services are mine and weren’t by any means influenced by my cooperation partners.
*This is an affiliate link, so if you book through this page, not only do you get the best deal. I also get a small commission that helps me run this blog. Thank you so much for supporting me!
While trains are indeed efficient and affordable for day trips from Brussels to Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent, exploring these cities by car can offer greater flexibility, especially for those interested in visiting surrounding rural areas or less accessible sites. Driving allows you to adjust your itinerary spontaneously and discover charming villages or scenic spots beyond the main tourist centers. However, it’s important to consider traffic regulations, parking availability, and potential city center restrictions in Flemish cities, which often encourage sustainable mobility. Balancing the convenience of public transport with the freedom of a car can enhance a richer travel experience in Flanders.
The freedom you have when driving is indisputable. However, driving within the city centers is a drag and comes with stress and high costs for parking etc. That being sais, I’m not driving, anyway, therefore I offer alternatives on my blog. But thank you very much for your valuable input – and happy travels 🙂
What a wonderful way to capture the magic of Belgium’s medieval cities! I completely relate to that “chronic FOMO” you mentioned—there’s just so much to see in such a compact country. Your alphabetical approach to Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent is a smart way to keep things organized, and I love how you highlighted the practicality of train travel for under €10. Bruges has always been on my list, but your vivid descriptions of Ghent’s Gravensteen Castle and the Ghent Altarpiece have definitely bumped it up a few notches. Thanks for sharing such a detailed and enthusiastic guide—it’s clear Belgium truly deserves its quiet spotlight!
Thanks for your feedback. Since Ghent is still a bit underrated, the visit is far more relaxed than in Bruges. I liked that a lot. Either way, happy travels!
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Glad I found a fan 😉 Thanx for your kind words!
It is an appropriate time to make some travel plans and it’s time
to be happy. I enjoy reading your travel posts 🙂
Do you have specific wishes or requirements for a trip? Let us know and we will develop an experience that perfectly meets your needs.
Thank you so much – I’ll get back to you asap 🙂
That photo of you in royal garb is a riot! And that library with its 1.5 million books is outrageous! When I was pet sitting in Europe, I came SO close to making it to Brussels, but alas, didn’t quite get there. Can’t wait to get back to that side of the pond. GREAT post- thanks for the inspiration!
Thank you – I like to travel in style 😉 😀
These towns all look so beautiful & make me long for the day we can travel again. I have only been to Bruges on your list but loved it when I visited, no doubt it’s a lot busier now than when I went many years ago. My first boyfriend was working just outside Ghent & I can’t believe I didn’t go into the city when I went to visit. Having since seen how stunning it is, clearly a missed opportunity there. Great post as always – loads of info for when I do get a chance to visit.
Nottebohm Room seems to be a place I would enjoy 🙂
My father in law lived in Brussels for about two years for work and we kept saying that we should go there to visit him… but life happend and time flew by, and I still have not been there 🙂 If I ever go, I would love to visit Bruges aswell!
My daughter studied in Brussels, hence I got to know it from a local’s view, too. 🙂
Saved as a favorite, I really like your blog!
Thank you, that’s such a nice thing to say! 🙂
Such a gorgeous city. Reminds me of what I hoped Paris would be like without the overtourism That’s there now.
I am sad to say that we have never been to Brussels. Your post shows there is so much to see and do for such a small country. The architecture in medieval towns is always a draw for us. But I must admit I might be tempted to shop for diamonds! Hubby would make sure we stopped in many chocolate shops on our travels. We would definitely check out the city cards. I can see we will need a long stay to check out Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent.
😀 😀 😀 Maybe it’s better for your bankaccount that you haven’t made it to the diamonds of Belgium yet 😀
😀 😀 😀 Maybe it’s better for your bank account that you haven’t made it to the diamonds of Belgium yet 😀
Oh, how we loved our trip to Belgium. We visited Bruges, Brussels, and Ghent but didn’t get the chance to visit Antwerp during that trip. Your post makes me long for traveling to this charming country again and wandering around in those cobblestone streets. It’s helpful to know about Antwerp Card and I know we will be heading to Witzli-Poetzli to sample some of their famous hot chocolate. Great guide.
At the end of my trip, Antwerp had been my favorite place – maybe because it was just nicer than expected 🙂
Wow, those are fantastic cities. Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands are on my list for one of our next Europe trips. I can’t wait.
Excellent choice. However, they are so small that you can still add some more 😀
Great post; I would like to see these places someday. Especially Antwerp and charming Bruges are on my list.
Antwerp was my favorite, too 🙂
Brussels is still on my bucket list. I hope everything will go back to normal so that we can all travel back again.
I hear you loud and clear!! 😉
I would love to travel to Belgium one day. My step family lives in Paris I want to move there and then travel around to other parts of Europe. Great post you really covered a lot!
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
A few years ago, we visited Brussels. It was an amazing city! This post has highlighted three other cities in Belgium that I’d love to go to when the time is right. They all look fantastic and I appreciate the info you shared!
Belgium is beautiful through the eyes of your photographs. Wonderful info attached as well, great post !
I wish Florida had places like this to visit. I love visiting places that have a history with beautiful architecture.
Florida has other treasures – and far more sunshine 🙂
What a great and funny photo as a king! It’s fabulous! Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent are still on my bucket list. I hope to visit these cities during Spring. So I gladly read your post. Very exciting and informative. It’s great that you provided opening hours and addresses.
Aaah – I wish you so much fun once you get to visit! 🙂
OMG, you are definitely making me excited! I think once I finally get my Aussie passport then I can visit this place without the need for a visa. Oh, I could imagine myself getting lost in those museums and that chocolate shop.
I’m sure you’ll love it! 🙂
Holy Smokes! This is one comprehensive article about Belgium. I would love to revisit this country one day. It has such a nice blend of history, food, and city life. Excellent review!
Thank you – I’m so glad you like it! 🙂
Wow I’m dying to head to Bruge and Ghent. I love the medieval architecture. I went to brussels a few years ago and really enjoyed it but wish I had managed to get chance to head to these on day trips or overnight
It’s really easy visiting all the small cities on day trips – Belgium is small 😉
Beautiful photos of Belgium. I can’t decide which one is my favorite. Maybe Ghent? Brugge is awesome but small if I remember correct. The photo of the frites with the andalouse sauce gave me goosebumps I need those in my life right now!
I totally understand – they are all different, yet charming in their very own way.
You took such beautiful photos. I could stare at your photos all day of Belgium.
I have been very close to Brussels, but haven’t made a stop there yet. I love visiting European cities! They always have so much charm to them and Brussels looks like no exception. The architecture is stunning, and I would love to explore via the canals.
That’s true, each of those cities has so much amazing landmarks!
I love the first picture of you on this post. You always have great historical materials! I have never been the Brussels but now it’s going on my list!
Haha, glad you like it. Yes, Belgium is definitely worth the visit.
looks like a great trip! i want to come back to Belgium to cycle there and visit all the interesting cities, bit and small closer to the coast. I did Brussels-Liege-Bastogne trip and it was great!
Oh wow, that trip sounds great, too. I only went through Liege on my way to France.
Wow! These towns look so incredibly romantic. I miss Europe, I can’t wait to head back. I may skip that creepy pig though… haha
Yes, they always have so pretty quirky stuff at those cabinets 😉
I admit knowing very little about the times and locations introduced here. Thank you so much for an interesting and thorough discussion. The man that bears the cross looks like a truly impressive sculpture. The fried food and desserts also caught my interest for sure!
Yes, after having seen various works by Jan Fabre, he definitely is one of my favorite contemporary artists.
After reading your sharing, I then missed my Brussels trip many years ago, wish to revisit again in the future. Had a lovely read. cheers, siennylovesdrawing
For a small country, Belgium has so much to see and do! I loved all your pictures, and especially the ones of the food! I’ve heard Belgium has the best chocolates and cheese. And of course, waffles!
That’s definitely true, for such a small country, Belgium is packed!
Heard and read lots of nice things about Belgium… your post has taken visiting it to the top of my bucket list. Thanks.
Hope you’ll soon have a chance to visit 🙂
This is such a beautiful place to visit. I have never been to Belgium but after looking at this pics I am going to add it in my travel list.
I’d love to travel here sometime. It seems like a great place to explore.
Oh, how I love visiting Belgium! I used to live in Maastricht, just across the border from Lieges, Belgium in the Netherlands, and my sister and I would hop on our bicycles and spend all day exploring on two wheels!
How interesting, didn’t know that you used to live in Maastricht. I guess Europe is the only continent where you can just cycle from one country to another on day trips 😀
Absolutely love Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp. I planned a visit to Bruges and Ghent in Spring of this year but it was, cancelled for me. Hope to visit and enjoy these remarkable Flemish jewels in Spring of next year.
I guess we all have places we were supposed to be this year 🙁 Mine were Norway, Morocco, Laos, and Myanmar 🙁
OMG … hopefully one day … a Trips to Antwerp!
Yes, I think that’s where I’ll return to, too.
I have the itch to travel but it doesn’t look like it will be happening anytime soon! All your pics made me feel like I was there though!
I totally get you – and I’m not sure if reading travel blogs makes it better or worse 😉
despite devastation in world war 2,,,this country emerges from ashes…great history and sacrifices for its people in keeping their heritage and way of life..
I would love to visit Belgium! So much history!
I have been to Bruges, Brussels and Ghent, but I haven’t visited Antwerp yet. I love just wandering around the streets and looking at all the architecture. Thank you for taking me a walk down memory lane!
You’re very welcome – glad you enjoyed reading it 🙂
All three are amazing day trips from Brussels. Each of the three cities Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent has a unique vibrance and charm. My favourite here would be Ghent. The chapels and the UNESCO heritage Belfry, the museums, and even the artistic station, what a lovely place.
I find it difficult to choose – all of them are beautiful in their own way.
I went to Belgium 10 years ago and reading this truly brought me back!
This is such a detailed guide! Didn’t get to visit Brussels when I went !
Whenever I’m planning a European adventure, I always forget poor old Belgium. I don’t know why, as your pics show, it’s quite a beautiful place and I love medieval towns. Love that photo of you as a king – very cute!
Me too. Although it’s politically the most important country, it’s somehow a blind spot when it comes to travelling. Finally I only went there because my daughter spent one year in Brussels 😀
Belgium is one of the countries that have always been on my list of ‘to-see’ places. I have been to Europe a few times, but never to Belgium. Thanks for sharing this 🙂
I believe that even many Europeans have never been to Belgium, so….
Honestly other cities apart from Brussels became known to me due football. Since I’m a fan I came to know of football clubs using the names of those cities, but I’d love to visit them someday. Thanks for sharing the beauty.
We were lucky enough to spend time visiting Belgium last year and like you, we based ourselves in Brussels. Reading through your post brought back many lovely memories of Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent as charming towns with significant and interesting history. While in Antwerp, we didn’t know about the Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library as we would have loved to have seen that. We enjoyed a great lunch in Bruge as well as boating through the canals. All three towns just have such character and you have to love the architecture, not to mention the beautiful surrounding nature. Hopefully, we will all be able to travel safely again soon to enjoy such places that you have highlighted so well here.
Those places look enthralling with a rich history, culture heritage, and architecture. Love to visit someday soon.
For their size, they are amazingly rich in beauty in history!
You really did justice to these cities! I can vouch for how beautiful Bruges and Ghent are, your photos are fantastic and brought back a lot of memories!
I’m glad you’ve enjoyed my round-up 🙂
I would love to visit Brussels. I love how the buildings look. Who would have thought I would love going and looking at architecture. Walking around for hours looking at all these places I would be in heaven!
That’s right – you can just walk around and indulge beauty 🙂
Thanks for this very detailed post about Brussel. It was so interesting to read, I particularly liked reading about the cottage for single women
Totally fascinating! I’ve visited another one in Brussels, too. 🙂
The place is so incredible and I love the amazing view. I would love to add this one my bucket list awesome photos.
Well your majesty, I am sold! I have been recently learning more about Brussels and the different cities within the country but to be honest, it has always fallen down my bucket list project.
But with that said, the more I read about especially Bruges the more I really want to check out the whole country. I mean I love all the canals and the old feeling of the these old towns. Plus all the churches are epic looking! I mean I think only Italy and Spain offer such amazing art in their European Churches. Love that The Man Who Bears the Cross sculpture too.
Lastly…CHOCOLATE! My Name is Eric and I am a Chocoholic and am quite okay to admit that! So sign me up for all the chocolate there
You will love it – it’s packed with beer and beauty….and, obviously, chocolate, so what’s not to love?!
Love the medieval history behind these locations, and would thoroughly enjoy walking around the historic centres. I still haven’t made it to Belgium, but Antwerp has always been high on my list, and it’s great to know that you can do day trips to Bruges and Ghent too. Saving this post for when I can safely travel again!
I love doing day trips! These places look amazing. Thanks for sharing!
It is absolutely amazing the amount of details and love that went into structures being build during this time period, I wish that there were still buildings going up that resembled how things used to look. I love all of the photos you shared, this sounds like a wonderful place to visit.
You have just given me a load of extra places to add to my travel list – thank you for all the information it looks like these were amazing places to visit
Yes, but each of them is visitable in just one day 😉
You’ve given so much info here I don’t even know where to start! I’ll be sure to save this for when planning my own trip. I think Bruges would be my personal favorite, but Ghent looks fabulous too. It reminds me a lot of a cross between Scotland and some of the smaller towns in England. And those waffles! I would be eating them daily. 🙂
I’ve loved visiting Bruges and Ghent, so your post on Antwerp, where I haven’t yet visited, is interesting. All those trumpets really caught my eye. I’d love to go here someday!
Great photos and that is a stunning necklace. Would love to visit Antwerp one day, the city has so much rich history and culture, thank you sharing – appreciate it.
All of these places are incredible to visit, I would love to spend a day in the Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library, I'm sure there is so much knowledge in the pages. I will have to make a visit if I go to Antwerp soon xo – Kam
Wow, what amazing transport deals. Makes it easy to visit so many new places. We've been to Brussels a couple of times, but not yet to Bruges. I'm sad to hear about the overtourism, but it is truly gorgeous. Great pics. Thanks for putting Antwerp on my radar now. Interesting history in diamonds. Love your King costume. Fun!!!
I've been to Bruxelles a couple of times. Usually make it a point to stop there before I head out to my favorite spot: Brugges. You're so lucky to be able to just make short trips like that, I wish had the same opportunity! I've yet to go to Antwerp and Ghent but I'll keep your guide as reference for future visits 🙂
Brugges is definitely the best of these three. I fondly recollected my memories of my trip to these cities. You are right about how the canals add to the beauty here. The facades are most beautiful. I wish I could visit again.
We missed Brussels on our last visit to the area. Hubby spent time in Ghent when he was in the military and had fond memories. I would want to start in Antwerp for diamonds! But hubby will want to visit the Chocolate Line. Bruges looks like a great canal city. And I will not call it the Venice of the North. Brussels definitely needs to get our our planning board!
Now I want to go explore Belgium. As in, right now! I have a mixed view of Rubens, but I would love to investigate the home. That chocolate store in Antwerp is astonishingly beautiful, as is the Cathedral of Our Lady (two things that aren't usually in the same sentence). Ghent's scenery surprised me — I'm not sure why. But I'd love to take a walking tour along the river and through the museums. And, of course, Bruges will always charm me.
Wow, you are right! We should have stayed two more days in Brussels and gone to these three cities! They are only 45-60 minutes away. OMG, each has its own charm.
I never knew that Brussels used to be Dutch. That explains a lot really. I am also not sure that water ALWAYS adds to a city's charm, but the Dijver Canal certainly does. That looks like it came straight from an oil painting.
I used to work and live in Brussels (Bruxelles) and Brugge (Bruges) about ten years ago and love Flanders region. Not a huge fan of Brussels but Brugge is a great place for historic buildings, good food and a boat ride (I also love cycling in this area to nearby Oostende and Nederlands). Gent (Genk) is my favourite town but for a night out on the town (as its a student city). Love the bars and atmosphere there and the old town is beautiful to walk around. Defo places for first time visitors to visit. 🙂 Great post here and sure did bring back some memories. (But hate the word Ghent – its the British spelling (I am British) for Gent/Genk and no one knows why it stuck, its not even used much in the area and even the locals hate it..he he!) 😀
Wow, you certainly had a fun few little trips. I haven't tried the Belgium public transport unfortunately, but I had a friend living in England for a year who would travel around Europe on his weekends. He adored Belgium. I didn't know that Antwerp worked with so many diamonds. That must have been fascinating to view.