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Things to Do in Belgium
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Belgium
Top things to do in Belgium include visiting the Grand Place in Brussels, a beautiful square featuring ornate guildhalls from the 17th century. Close by is the unique Manneken Pis statue, only a short walk away. For a modern perspective, head to the Atomium, constructed for the 1958 Expo and rising 102 meters high.
1. Grand Place
Brussels
Step into an extraordinary open-air museum of architecture and heritage. Feel the excitement of lively festivals and breathtaking nighttime lights.
Quick facts: Every two years, millions come to see a floral carpet display that covers the square in vibrant blooms. The buildings exhibit a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles with golden accents that gleam in the sunlight.
Highlights: The town hall's soaring spire commands attention in the square. Elaborate guild houses feature golden figures and meticulously carved wood that narrate the tales of medieval craftsmen. In winter, thousands of lights and festive music transform the plaza into an unforgettable magical setting.
2. Manneken Pis
Brussels
Quick facts: A playful bronze statue is famous for donning over 900 tiny costumes changed for festivals and official visits. Visitors often gather in the narrow square to watch the whimsical water displays and capture photos, enjoying the charming tradition and local historical stories.
Highlights: Standing just 61 centimeters tall, the bronze figure has a wardrobe exceeding 900 costumes. Costume-change events include a uniformed group and a small brass band parade. Legend says the figure once saved the city by putting out a fuse, and every year a local brewery gifts a lambic keg for the ceremony, filling the area with the warm smells of hops and boiled wool.
3. Atomium
Brussels
Quick facts: This structure amplifies an iron crystal cell by 165 billion times. It features nine mirrored spheres connected with walkable tubes. Inside, visitors find retro-futuristic displays, swirling escalators, and a restaurant atop the highest sphere with reflective steel that shines like chrome.
Highlights: Rising 102 meters, this surreal lattice consists of nine shining stainless steel spheres about 18 meters wide, connected by tubes representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Engineered by André Waterkeyn for the 1958 World's Fair, visitors climb narrow escalators inside the tubes to reach the top sphere, dine in a revolving restaurant where bright sunlit patterns dance on curved metal while black-and-white Expo-58 pictures provide a glimpse into history.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Belgium, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
4. Belfry of Bruges
Bruges
Quick facts: Climbing 366 steps leads to stunning views over the medieval city. The tower houses a 47-bell carillon that plays melodies on the hour and during special occasions.
Highlights: Narrow, twisting stairs feel like a journey back through time. Panoramic views from the top are the reward. The original wooden dragon weather vane at the peak creates one of the tower’s iconic silhouettes against the sky.
5. Ghent City Museum
Ghent
Quick facts: Inside, you can uncover Gent’s history through over 6,000 items ranging from ancient artifacts to modern art. Energetic multimedia exhibits bring the city’s past and present alive in engaging ways.
Highlights: Visit the Glass Cube, a striking modern addition where history merges with impressive architecture. Enjoy sweeping views of Gent from the rooftop terrace while soaking up centuries of local culture within.
6. Cathedral of St. Bavo
Ghent
Discover impressive medieval art and towering architecture. Step inside to see vivid altarpieces up close and enjoy sweeping city views.
Quick facts: The cathedral is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a gem of early Netherlandish art loved by art enthusiasts worldwide. Its spire rises more than 90 meters, standing out sharply against the city skyline.
Highlights: The Ghent Altarpiece’s detailed artwork captivates visitors with bright colors and almost magical lifelike textures. A unique custom involves ringing bells to mark major city events, giving visitors a tangible connection to local culture.
7. Antwerp Zoo
Antwerp
Visit one of the planet's oldest zoos home to 7,000 animals and remarkable architecture. Get close to exotic creatures and immerse yourself in nature.
Quick facts: Among the oldest zoos globally, this zoo hosts over 7,000 animals across more than 950 species. Its Art Nouveau entrance is a scenic favorite for photographers worldwide.
Highlights: The zoo features a special underwater viewing tunnel where visitors can watch seals swim just inches away, creating an immersive feel. Nighttime ‘Sound of the Wild’ events bring animal sounds to life, filling the park with magic.
8. Royal Palace of Laeken
Brussels
Experience royal elegance and thriving greenhouses. Wander through magnificent glass domes filled with rare plants in a grand royal setting.
Quick facts: The Royal Palace of Laeken is the Belgian royal family’s official home, but mostly closed to visitors except during special events. Its large park contains one of Europe’s oldest greenhouses, showcasing exotic plants resembling an indoor jungle.
Highlights: The palace is surrounded by over 300 hectares of private parkland that includes remarkable botanical collections in the Royal Greenhouses. These bloom for only a few weeks each year. Visitors stroll among rare orchids and giant water lilies beneath glass domes, experiencing a truly royal secret garden.
Where to Stay in Belgium
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Most popular day trips
Bruges
A picturesque medieval town with canals and historic buildings.
Ghent
Historic city with beautiful architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
High-speed trains to major European cities and domestic connections
Take the train or bus from Brussels Airport to city center; it is fast and convenient.
Click to get eSim for Belgium
The easiest and most affordable way to get mobile internet wherever you travel.
Visa & entry
EU countries, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea
Most other countries outside visa-free list
Schengen visa allows travel to Belgium and other Schengen states for up to 90 days.
Comments (7)
The beer in Belgium is next level. If you're a fan of craft brews, this place is heaven. Some towns are super quiet, almost too sleepy at night.
Brussels felt safe and super walkable, though it got a bit crowded around the main squares. Loved the mix of old and modern vibes.
Skip the Grand Place restaurants for meals. Walk two blocks off to find authentic Belgian cuisine and way better prices. Locals will usually guide you to these hidden gems.
I found Belgium pricier than expected, especially in tourist areas. Consider staying outside big cities for better deals and local eats.
Belgium's weather was a bit gloomy when I visited, but the waffles and chocolate made up for it. I'd say 4 days is enough. Not overwhelming but charming.