Belgium’s unique places you can’t miss

Belgium is the centre of world tourism. This European country is always welcoming its visitors. What are the sights worth seeing here? Why is Belgium such a draw for travellers? Read our review.

Belgian sights: Bruges and its canals

Bruges and its canals

Belgium is famous for its river canals. Most of them are found in Bruges. The city is jokingly nicknamed ‘Venice of the North’. The city was literally built on the water.

During the Middle Ages, the canals of Bruges were the arteries for transportation. They were the link between the city and the other cities in Belgium.

Belgian sights: Grand Place

The Grand Place, the heart of Brussels

This is the name of the central square of the Belgian capital. Today crowds of tourists gather there. They all come to the Grand Place to see the giant carpet of begonias. You can smell it from miles away.

Belgian sights: Belfry in Bruges

Medieval bell tower

Built back in the 13th century in Bruges. Today the bell tower is a landmark in Belgium. You can see it on many postcards, calendars and other souvenir products. To reach the top of the bell tower you have to climb 366 steps.

Belgian sights: Castle Gravensteen

Gravensteen Castle

This ancient building looks like something out of a chivalrous novel. It was built by Count Philippe, the Duke of Alsace, who ruled over the Alsace lands. The Gravensteen is one of the main attractions in Belgium. It even has its own website.

Belgian sights: Notre Dame in Tournai

Notre Dame in Tournai

There is a unique cathedral not only in Paris, but also in the Belgian town of Tournai. It is often referred to as the local Notre Dame. The cathedral itself is a building truly majestic. Its towers are over 100 meters high. 

Belgian sights: Antwerp railway station

Antwerp Station

Occupies a special place among all the attractions of Belgium. The station opened in 1905. It is a true architectural masterpiece. The station building is decorated with an ancient dome that reaches 44 meters high.

Belgian sights: Grote Markt

Grote Markt

This square is the centre of the town of Mechelen. It is considered a beautiful landmark. You’ll find a variety of cosy restaurants, modern shops and places of worship there.

A visit to St. Rumboldt Cathedral is a must. You’ll be awestruck by its majestic beauty and understated charm.

Belgian sights: Castle in Bouillon

Bouillon Castle

Its stone walls recall events from long ago. The castle was owned by a nobleman. One day, he wanted to take part in a crusade. For this he needed a lot of money.

The nobleman decided to sell his castle and get a lot of money for it. What happened to the owner of the castle? We’ll never know. But we do know the fate of the stone building that he sold. Today the castle is the main attraction of Bouillon.

Belgian sights: Mons

Mons and its ancient bell tower

In the Middle Ages, the inhabitants of Europe learned the news by ringing a bell. Almost every town had its own bell tower. The Belgian town of Mons was no exception.

Its ancient bell tower is on UNESCO’s list of historical and cultural heritage. It is over 87 metres tall.

Belgian sights: Leuven Town Hall

Leuven Town Hall

It was built in the mid-15th century. The town hall has barely changed since then. Naturally, the building was restored several times. As a result, it survives to this day.

Today, no tour of Belgium is complete without a visit to Leuven Town Hall.