Unveiling Unforgettable City Escapes in Belgium: Discover the Enchantment of Six Remarkable Belgian Cities
An Unforgettable Getaway to Europe: Discover the Enchanting Charm of Belgium's Medieval Cities
If you're ready for a delightful European adventure, Belgium should be high on your list! This country is a treasure trove of gorgeous medieval towns that are guaranteed to sweep you off your feet. With its endless canals, pedestrianized centers, and compact size thanks to a reliable rail network, Belgium offers a laid-back escape that's perfect for a few days of sightseeing.
But planning a city break in Belgium can be tricky, as each city boasts a unique character and reasons to visit. From the bustling, bureaucratic capital of Brussels to the charming, Burgundian city of Mechelen, here are our top picks for the best cities to explore in Belgium:
Mechelen
A Historic Haven for Delicious Food and a Touch of Burgundy
Medieval Mechelen (pictured at the top) is an undeniably underrated gem, offering everything you could ask for in a city break. Sized just right, it's easy to explore on foot without needing any public transportation—unless, of course, you fancy a boat ride along the picturesque Dyle. This city is brimming with delectable food options, ranging from traditional Belgian fare to vegan cuisine. You'll also find unique eateries along the Mechelen Food Trail, inspired by ingredients from a Burgundy-era cesspit (trust us, it's way more tasty than it sounds!).
Mechelen's rich history as the former capital of the Low Countries (comprising much of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg) is on full display. Climb the never-quite-completed St Rumbold's Tower, and VR sets will transport you back in time. Step inside the recently renovated Hof van Busleyden Palace to marvel at the artworks and interactive displays sharing the city's historical significance—it was a favorite of Margaret of Austria. Once you've had your fill of sightseeing, head to a riverside brewery or kayak along the tranquil inner canal.
- When to Visit Mechelen: Mechelen is a delight to visit year-round. In summer, free concerts and festivals like Parkpop and Maanrock are fantastic, while Christmas brings on the festive market charm. Autumn (September and October) is an excellent choice as the weather is likely still sunny, the outdoor market is a joy, and the city takes on hues of copper and bronze.
- How to Get There: You can easily reach Mechelen from Brussels by train in less than 25 minutes.
- Where to Stay: We adore Porta Superia, an eco-minded B&B situated in a historic building with luxurious touches. The owner, Kurt, is full of insider tips and will make you feel right at home over a scrumptious breakfast.
Dinant
A Tranquil Riverfront City Hiding in Wallonia's Corner
When most first-time visitors to Belgium head to the more well-known, larger cities in the northern, Dutch-speaking Flanders region, they tend to miss out on Wallonia's hidden gems. Low-key, riverfront Dinant is just one example of this charming, lesser-known region. With enough attractions and decent restaurants to keep you busy for a few days, Dinant makes an excellent base to explore more of the Meuse Valley and the river itself, which is full of hidden European treasures.
Dinant is the birthplace of one of Belgium's most famous beers, Leffe, which was founded by monks in the 12th century. Today, you can visit the Leffe Museum across the river. Dinant was also the home of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, ensuring that music remains an integral part of the city's culture. If the weather is nice, rent a kayak and paddle your way along the river. On cloudy days, stop by the magnificent, onion-domed cathedral and admire the stained glass.
- When to Visit Dinant: Dinant is a popular destination during the summer for significant events like August's International Saxophone Festival and al fresco performances each Sunday in July and August. Spring is a wonderful time to be in the Meuse Valley for wildflower hikes and kayaking along the river.
- How to Get There: It takes about two hours to reach Dinant from Brussels by train (with a change) or with a connecting bus from Namur.
- Where to Stay: Inside the walls of a rustic former monastery and the home of Maison Leffe, you'll find La Merveilleuse, an unforgettable staying option for your visit to Dinant.
Ghent
A City Pulsing with Culture, Architecture, and Youthful Energy
Gorgeous Ghent skillfully blends medieval history with youthful energy and artistic festivities, making it the perfect city break for culture enthusiasts. Visit at the right time and catch one of the animated annual events like July's Gentse Feesten. Even when there aren't any special events happening, Ghent offers plenty of sights worth exploring. Construction on the imposing, 12th-century Gravensteen Castle (the Castle of the Counts) started in the Middle Ages, making it a fascinating landmark to tour. Don't forget to wander the network of canals, especially those lined with historic gabled facades around Korenlei, for some breathtaking photo ops.
- When to Visit Ghent: There's always something cultural going on in Ghent. The most famous music event is the city-encompassing Gentse Feesten (July), but Flanders Festival Ghent (September) and the Winter Festival (December) are also worth planning around.
- How to Get There: The fastest direct train from Brussels to Ghent takes just 35 minutes.
- Where to Stay: For a cozy, canalside stay, we recommend Hotel The Boatel, a floating houseboat offering a handful of guest rooms just a short walk from the center.
Brussels
A Global City Filled with Museums, Galleries, and International Flair
Brussels effortlessly blends political bureaucracy with an international flair, making it one of the most cosmopolitan cities on the planet. If you're interested in EU history and inner workings, be sure to check out interactive museums like Parlamentarium and the House of European History to gain context. But if politics doesn't interest you, dive into the magnificent, historic architecture starting at UNESCO-listed La Grand-Place, a central square market square adorned with buildings dating from the 14th to the 19th century. The Royal Palace offers more stately sights, while Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts boasts an impressive collection of Flemish masters. Or, simply soak up the international vibe, indulge in first-class frites from street vendors, hop between craft beer bars in the Bailli-Châtelain neighborhood, and discover why Brussels deserves more than its sometimes boring reputation.
- When to Visit Brussels: As the capital, Brussels hosts a packed year-round event calendar, so there's rarely a bad time to visit, especially since there are so many museums and galleries to explore when the weather turns.
- How to Get There: The fastest direct train from the airport takes less than 20 minutes to reach the city center, while the Eurostar from London takes less than two hours.
Bruges
A Postcard-Perfect City of Canals, Chocolate, and Crowds
One of Belgium's most picturesque cities, Bruges is the epitome of postcard-perfect Europe. The quiet, charming canals weave their way through the city center, cobbled streets are lined with terraced restaurants, and leafy squares offer idyllic settings for a photo shoot. It comes as no surprise that tourists flock to Bruges in their thousands, but rest assured that there's a reason for the hype. Modern art collections, boat tours, and medieval architecture like the Belfry of Bruges are just a few of the things you'll find. If you stay overnight, the nearly-still canals bathed in golden glow make for a dreamy end to the day.
- When to Visit Bruges: To truly enjoy Bruges, avoid visiting when cruise ships are docking—it's not a huge city. Fortunately, they generally don't dock outside the high season. That said, Christmas is magical, albeit crowded, and February's light festival illuminates the city's gloomiest months.
- How to Get There: The fastest direct trains from Brussels take less than an hour to reach Brugge.
Antwerp
A Solid Brussels Alternative With a Vibrant Culture and Bustling Vibe
A weekend in Antwerp, Belgium's second-largest city, offers a suitable middle ground. It's big enough to feel like a "proper city" with an impressive train station, and its central square, the Grote Markt, boasts a grandeur reminiscent of Brussels' Grand Place, but with less hustle and bustle. The Cathedral of Our Lady's Belfry towers higher than Bruges' counterpart, and it houses Rubens' masterpieces inside. For more Rubens, head to his former residence, the Rubenshuis.
What makes Antwerp one of the best cities to visit in Belgium is its contemporary side. Modern art is well-represented in a couple of galleries, it bills itself as the nation's fashion capital with a dedicated museum, and it has a diverse university scene, ensuring a wealth of craft beer bars that are easy on the wallet. Antwerp is known for its diamond trade and district, but there's plenty of new to rewrite the old.
- When to Visit Antwerp: Antwerp's numerous cultural attractions make it an anytime destination. The Antwerp Art Weekend (end of May) and Zomer van Antwerpen summer festival (late June until the end of August) are two of the area's most significant events.
- How to Get There: The fastest direct train from Brussels takes just 40 minutes to reach Antwerp.
- Where to Stay: Central, affordable, and housed above a vegan restaurant, Simone's Kitchen B&B is a reliable choice. If luxury is more your style, consider the 5* Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, housed in a historic 15th-century monastery.
Feeling inspired? Belgium's captivating cities are waiting for you to explore. So, start planning your next city break today!
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Explore Belgium's hidden gems for a unique city break experience. Mechelen, evoking a touch of Burgundy, is easily navigable on foot and boasts delectable food options, historical landmarks, and riverfront activities.
In Low-key, riverfront Dinant, you'll discover the charm of Wallonia's lesser-known region, with attractions, decent restaurants, and the opportunity to explore more of the Meuse Valley and the river itself.
