Belgium may be a small country, but it’s filled with beautiful towns, making it well-worth a visit. While you’re here, go beyond cities like Antwerp and Brussels to discover some of its most charming destinations. From the mineral waters in the town of Spa to Venice-like Dinant, you’re in for a world of spectacular delights.
Dinant
Dinant is not only one of Belgium’s most beautiful towns, it’s one of the most beautiful in all of Europe. Sandwiched between the glistening waters of the Meuse River and its citadel just south of the capital city, it’s famous for several natural attractions, including the Grotto of Dinant and the Caves of Han, some of the largest and most spectacular caves in Europe. Located in a wildlife reserve, they’re surrounded by lush flora and abundant fauna. In the town itself you’ll discover some especially remarkable architecture, including the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, while its mountaintop fortress offers jaw-dropping views. One of the best ways to experience it is to spend a day exploring, and then relax at one of the local cafes to enjoy the scene.
Bruges
Frequently ranked among the most beautiful cities in Europe, Bruges’ medieval center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, complete with charming cobbled streets and picturesque canals lined with Gothic churches, 17th-century mansions, chocolate shops and flower markets. It offers many of the allures of Venice without the big crowds, and it can easily be explored on foot, by boat or even horse-drawn carriage. Bruges is hard to beat when it comes to romance as one of Europe’s most romantic destinations. Couples may want to embark on a boat ride through the canals or hop on one of the horse-drawn carriages to Beguinage, a monastery with bridges and swan-filled towns. Wintertime visits are fabulous too as you might even be able to strap on a pair of ice skates and glide along the canals before warming up with heavenly Belgian hot chocolate.
Spa
The “Pearl of the Ardennes,” as Spa is affectionately referred to, is, not surprisingly, a place where you can enjoy the ultimate spa experience. It sits within a picturesque wooded valley surrounded by undulating hills, springs and rivers. Come and enjoy a relaxation holiday, soaking in hot pools, admiring geysers and bubbling water cannons. The Thermes de Spa is one of the most popular with its soothing waters derived from the Clementine spring, jam-packed with minerals that help to heal and reveal more beautiful skin.
Oud Rekem
Oud Rekem is the quintessential Belgian village – it’s even been named the prettiest village in all of Flanders. While it isn’t big, it is filled with charms, including narrow winding streets and all sorts of places to explore. One of the highlights is the apothecary, the oldest in all of Belgium. Stepping into the 17th-century building is like taking a step back in time, with its fascinating medical accessories, pill boxes and the like, all perfectly arranged as it was centuries ago. The 1722 church of St. Pieter’s also serves as the village museum, concert hall and tourist office, and there are a number of walking and biking routes for enjoying the tranquility of nature as well.
Crupet
One of the most fairy-tale like villages in Wallonia, Crupet’s center is dominated by the impressive Grotto of Saint Anthony of Padua. It features 22 religious statues, many of which depict life scenes of Saint Anthony of Padua. Crupet is also home to the 13th-century Crupet Castle, a medieval moated donjon (fortified farmhouse) which sits alongside the river, making for particularly stunning photographs.
Ghent
Ghent is a friendly, laid-back university town that sits against a backdrop of 13th-century Gothic churches, 17th-century canal-side houses and the Castle of the Counts, Gravensteen, a medieval fortress complete with a torture chamber and battlements. It’s also home to an Opera House, 18 museums and over 400 historic buildings. Its wonderful vibe can be enjoyed by hanging out in one of the many cozy cafes, perhaps sipping a local beer while chatting with the locals, or people watching. Be sure to view one of Europe’s greatest treasures while you’re here, The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, painted all the way back in 1432, hanging in St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
Bouillon
The most popular tourist hub in the Semois Valley, Bouillon isn’t just something you use in soups and stews, it’s a Belgian town that’s home to one of the country’s oldest and most fascinating fortified castle remains. Three drawbridges restricted access to this structure that’s existence is recorded as early as the 10th century. From its Austria Tower, you can take in especially breathtaking views of the castle, the River Semois, Bouillon and the old bridge to the north. At the Ducal Museum of Bouillon, you’ll find a variety of exhibits, including local folklore and crafts, and reconstructed interiors of an Ardennes home.
Mons
Mons has a rich and storied history, and it’s located just an hour from Brussels. It may be most famous for the lovely sounds of its Belfry bells that ring from a 270-foot tower, but as you stroll the winding streets, be sure to check out the Collegiate Church of Sainte-Waudru which boasts an impressive collection of 16th-century statues, as well as the impressive Gothic-style Town Hall. In the Van Gogh House, which was the artist’s home before moving to Provence, you can see some fantastic productions of the master’s works. A visit in June brings the opportunity to experience the city’s most important event of the year, the Ducasse de Mons It dates back to 1349 and features a reenactment of Saint George slaying the Dragon. As the dragon swings its tail toward the crowd, spectators attempt to grab it, pulling out its hair and ribbons for good luck.
