Belgium is Tintin, fries, waffles and jokes. It is also Brussels and its international cultural influence, Bruges and its canals, Ostend and its seaside... Only a few kilometres from France, Belgian culture and landscapes surprise and charm visitors. From Wallonia to Flanders, let's discover the flat country and discover the most beautiful cities in Belgium!
Bruges
Bruges is the essential stopover for any trip to Belgium. The well named "Venice of the North", capital of the province of West Flanders, has retained its former charm despite the tourism that has developed there. A real haven of peace with very few cars: here, you can travel by bike or horse-drawn carriage (a little touristic, but so romantic!).
Ostend
We could have chosen Knokke le Zoute, the Belgian St-Trop', but it is towards Ostend that our choice stopped. In addition to having a magnificent beach (9 km of sand!), Ostend is a real seaside city. In recent years, it has been modernized: the dike has been renovated as well as several major streets and squares in the city centre. You can breathe in the fresh air, the North Sea air, wrapped in your parka, a cone of chips in your hand. The dolce vita in Belgian style, you get a taste for it!
Brussels
At the heart of Europe, Brussels (pronounced Brussel please!) is certainly one of the most welcoming capitals on the Old Continent. Known for its Maneken-Pis and its Grand-Place, it is nevertheless its art of living that has the greatest impact. To enjoy it, settle down as soon as you arrive in a typical estaminet and order a Gueuze or a Kriek. Beer is part of our heritage here!
Very active on the cultural level, the Belgian capital does not lack either of museums and festivals: everyone will find his happiness! The Belgian Comics Centre is a must. He will tell you more about the history of the 9th art in a fun and educational way
Antwerp
Antwerp (or Antwerpen in Flemish) is the "diamond of Flanders". Certainly it is a small jewel, but this nickname is mainly due to the diamond industry that has developed there. Antwerp is a great place to stroll: the streets and alleys of the historic centre are lined with monuments of outstanding architecture. It is also the first city in Flanders. Very culturally active, it has welcomed many artists and intellectuals who have been actors in its history
Waterloo
Waterloo is best known for the battle that took place there in June 1815. The famous Lion's Hill is one of the city's symbols. This heap of earth topped by a gigantic lion statue was erected in 1826 to celebrate national glory. Only a few kilometres from Brussels, it is a green city surrounded by valleys and woods. A perfect getaway during a stay in the capital!
Cork
Liege is nicknamed "the fiery city" both in reference to its steel industry and its lively atmosphere. Indeed, it is renowned throughout Belgium for the legendary friendliness of its inhabitants and their sense of celebration. But that's not all. Liege also has a rather rich heritage that will lead you in the footsteps of Charlemagne (he was born there...) or Simenon. There are even prehistoric footprints and the remains of a Gallo-Roman villa!
Ghent
Ghent is one of Belgium's hidden treasures. Often forgotten for the benefit of Bruges, it is nevertheless a city full of charm. Ghent, which is also bordered by canals, seduces its visitors. For a better view of the city, climb to the top of the keep of the Castle of the Counts of Flanders. This monumental fortress, designed by Philippe d'Alsace, was one of the symbols of his power. Ghent also has an intense cultural life and is home to a highly renowned museum of contemporary art: the SMAK
Namur
Capital of Wallonia, Namur has a particularly interesting historical and architectural heritage. Its many monuments from past centuries have all retained their original appearance thanks to the renovation work undertaken over the past few years. The most notable monument is undoubtedly the citadel. It is one of the largest fortresses in Europe. The city is discovered on foot, taking care to observe the many buildings around you. A visit to the region also allows you to discover the surrounding countryside because in Namur, nature is never really far away.
Mons
European Capital of Culture in 2015, Mons remains relatively unknown despite its crazy charm. It has no less than three sites classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A very nice list of achievements! Its baroque belfry is unique in Belgium. It culminates at 87 meters high and shelters a real treasure: a carillon of 49 bronze bells
Leuven
Another capital of culture... university this time: Leuven. It is undoubtedly the youngest and most dynamic city in Belgium. It is home to the oldest university in the country and its streets come alive in the evening. Leuven is also the beer capital. On the banks of the Dyle, the famous Stella Artois is brewed and the Domus tavern-brewery serves its beers from the tank
