2025 Belgium Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

#europetrip Brugge, often called the “Venice of the North,” is a captivating city in Belgium that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Its cobblestone streets, winding canals, and medieval architecture create a magical atmosphere. Highlights include the iconic Belfry Tower, the serene Minnewater Park, and the charming Markt Square. Brugge is a haven for art lovers with its museums showcasing Flemish masterpieces. The city is also renowned for its chocolate, waffles, and local beers, offering a true taste of Belgium. Whether wandering through its quaint alleys or enjoying a canal cruise, Brugge enchants visitors with its timeless beauty and charm.

#magicalxmastrip #belgium Belgium is renowned for its stunning architectural heritage, offering a delightful mix of medieval, Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau buildings that make it a paradise for architecture lovers. The country’s towns and cities are full of eye-catching structures, each telling its own story. 1. Grand Townhouses in Bruges Wandering through Bruges feels like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved medieval townhouses lining narrow streets and canals. The Guildhalls on the Market Square, with their ornate facades and intricate designs, stand out as prime examples of the city’s rich history. Many of these buildings feature steep, pointed roofs, and brightly colored facades that are simply charming. 2. Brussels’ Art Nouveau Masterpieces Brussels is home to some of the most remarkable Art Nouveau architecture in the world, with works by famed architect Victor Horta leading the charge. The Hôtel Tassel and Horta Museum showcase the elegance of curving lines, stained glass, and natural motifs that define this style. The Maison Saint-Cyr is another stunning example, with its beautiful wrought ironwork and intricate glass windows. 3. Charming Townhouses in Ghent and Antwerp In Ghent, medieval houses and colorful buildings dot the Korenmarkt, while the Gravensteen Castle looms majestically over the city. Meanwhile, Antwerp boasts unique Renaissance buildings like the Vlaeykensgang, a hidden alley of cozy, antique houses that feels like a secret world. Belgium’s diverse architectural gems make it a dream destination for anyone fascinated by beautiful homes and buildings!

Grand Place, Brussels Grand Place is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The square is surrounded by magnificent guildhalls and the Town Hall, showcasing a variety of architectural styles that are truly breathtaking. ⏰ Opening Hours: Open all day 🎫 Admission: Free Palace of Justice The Palace of Justice is one of the largest court buildings in the world, located in the upper town of Brussels. Its unique architectural style, rich in neoclassical elements, offers a spectacular view of the city. ⏰ Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 🎫 Admission: €10 for adults, discounted rates for students and seniors European Parliament Brussels is the administrative center of the European Union, and the European Parliament is one of its legislative bodies. Visitors can join guided tours or attend plenary sessions to learn about the work and decision-making processes of the Parliament. ⏰ Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM 🎫 Admission: Free (advance booking for guided tours required) Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium This important art museum complex consists of the Museum of Ancient Art and the Museum of Modern Art. It houses a vast collection of European paintings and sculptures, including works by Flemish masters like Bruegel and Rubens. ⏰ Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM 🎫 Admission: €15 for adults, discounted rates for students and seniors Atomium The Atomium is an iconic building in Brussels and a symbol of Belgium. It is composed of giant iron spheres connected in the shape of an iron crystal. Inside, there are exhibitions and observation decks offering stunning views of the city. ⏰ Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM 🎫 Admission: €16 for adults, discounted rates for students and seniors Manneken Pis This is one of Brussels’ most famous and controversial sculptures, and also a symbol of the city. The statue is located on a small fountain in the city center. ⏰ Opening Hours: Open all day 🎫 Admission: Free St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral This magnificent Gothic cathedral is located in the heart of Brussels and is one of Belgium’s most important religious buildings. Its stunning interior and beautiful rose windows are popular highlights for visitors. ⏰ Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 🎫 Admission: Free Travel Boarding & Security Check ⏰ Entry Time: Boarding is allowed 1.5 hours before departure. Due to potentially long security checks, it's recommended to arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour before departure. 🎫 Ticket Scanning: To enter, scan your e-ticket (added to your Wallet app) or present your paper ticket. 🔍 Security Check: You will need to remove any jewelry and outerwear during the security screening. 🛂 Passport Check: Your passport will be stamped with a special train stamp (a small train icon). #belgium #brussel #trip #travelguide

#myitinerary #citydaytours **Day 1 - Brussels** - Arrive in Brussels and check into your hotel - Visit the stunning Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site - See the iconic Manneken Pis statue - Explore the historic Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert shopping arcade - Indulge in Belgian waffles, chocolate, and craft beers **Day 2 - Brussels** - Tour the impressive Royal Palace of Brussels - Visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts - Explore the European Quarter, home to EU institutions - Marvel at the futuristic Atomium landmark - Wander the trendy Marolles neighborhood **Day 3 - Bruges** - Take a day trip to the "Venice of the North" - Bruges - Stroll the picturesque canals and historic city center (UNESCO) - Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood and climb the Belfry - Enjoy a relaxing boat tour on the canals - Sample local Belgian beers **Day 4 - Ghent** - Travel to the vibrant city of Ghent - Tour the impressive St. Bavo's Cathedral and see the Ghent Altarpiece - Explore the medieval Gravensteen castle - Wander the lively Graslei harbor area - Immerse yourself in Ghent's thriving arts and music scene **Day 5 - Depart** - Spend the morning visiting any remaining sights in Brussels or Bruges - Depart for your next destination or journey home My itinerary showcases the enchanting Flemish gems of Belgium, from the grand architecture and historic landmarks of Brussels to the picturesque canals and vibrant arts scenes of Bruges and Ghent.

💖Highlight 📝Here is the travel guide for Bruges, Belgium ❣️Save it quickly ⛲️Travel guide for Bruges, Belgium ✨️Basilica of the Holy Blood A Roman Catholic basilica built in the 12th century It houses the relic of the Holy Blood collected by Joseph of Arimathea and was elevated to the status of a minor basilica in 1923. ✨️Belfry of Bruges Located in the Market Square in the center of Bruges, it is a medieval bell tower built between the 13th and 15th centuries It is the most prominent landmark of Bruges. The belfry was once used to store treasures and municipal archives, and to observe fires and other dangers. ✨️Bruges Train Station Bruges Central Train Station is about a 10-minute walk from the city center There are buses and taxis outside the station, making it very convenient to travel to other districts. ✨️Memling Museum Located in the oldest surviving medieval hospital in Europe The museum recreates daily life in the hospital through collections of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and decorative arts The museum houses several outstanding 15th-century paintings and the Shrine of St. Ursula, all works by Memling. ✨️Lake of Love Located in a long canal lake in the southern part of Bruges, it is used to control the water flow of Bruges. Love at First Sight Bridge: Located on the east side of the Church of Our Lady, it is said that when you step on this bridge, the first person of the opposite sex you meet will fall in love with you at first sight.

🌎Bruges is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Its architectural style, canal network and unique atmosphere make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belgium. When you come to Bruges, you might as well stroll around the beautiful city center square and enjoy the magnificent view of the Bruges Bell Tower; drive along the ancient buildings, stone bridges and windmills on both sides of the river bank to feel the tranquility and romance. In addition, you can also drive into the countryside around Bruges to explore the beautiful countryside and taste local food and beer in country taverns. Let’s explore the city freely with Chechejun and start an exciting self-driving trip to Bruges! 🌼Daily schedule DAY1: Bruges Provincial Palace - Bruges Belfry - Bruges Library - Basilica of the Holy Blood DAY2: Lake of Love-Groninger Museum-Royal Beguinage in the Vineyard-Cactus Muziekcentrum vzw DAY3: Beer Museum-Crossgate-Canal Mill-Water Sports Activity Center (Sint-Pietersplas)-Entrepot 🌸The self-driving mileage is about 25 kilometers, and the recommended travel time is 2-3 days. It is suitable for tourists who like humanities and history. 💖Overview of attractions ✔️Bruges Bell Tower: Located on the Market Square in the center of the city, it is one of the famous landmarks of the small town. If you want to reach the top of the bell tower, you need to go through 366 narrow and steep steps. There is also a carillon with 47 bells on the bell tower, which will sound melodious every 15 minutes. After climbing to the top, you can overlook the scenery of Bruges and take in the beauty of the beautiful waterside town of Bruges. ✔️Lake of Love: Located in the south of Bruges, the park has a very beautiful environment, and the idyllic scenery also adds to the beauty of Bruges. There are many elegant white swans in the lake, so it is also called "Swan Lake". There is a place where you can rent bicycles in the park. Renting a bicycle and going around the lake will definitely make you feel relaxed and intoxicated by the charming scenery. ✔️Beer Museum: Located in the center of Bruges, it is a historically famous beer workshop. The museum has dedicated staff to explain the beer making process and history. There are also tens of thousands of beers on display in the museum, the more delicious ones are cherry and raspberry flavors. There is also a souvenir shop in the museum selling a variety of beers. #trip # Self-driving # Car rental # Self-driving tour

🌎In the heart of Europe, Belgium is like a shining pearl, waiting for every traveler to uncover its mystery. Traveling to Belgium by car is not only a visual feast, but also a spiritual baptism. Walk through ancient streets, visit medieval churches, taste authentic food, and experience the unique romance and style of Belgium. Let’s embark on this classic self-driving tour of Belgium and experience the beauty of the blend of history and culture. ⭐️Route recommendations 🚩Brussels→Ghent→Antwerp→Brussels 🌼Daily schedule DAY1: Art Mountain-Atomium-St. Hubert Arcade-50th Anniversary Park DAY2: St. Michael's Bridge-Count's Castle-Ghent Art Museum-St. Bavo's Cathedral DAY3-4: Antwerp Grand Place-Rubens House-Riverside Museum-Antwerp Zoo-Royal Antwerp Art Museum-Saint Anne Beach-Plantin-Moretus Museum DAY5: Saint-Michel and Saint-Gudula Cathedral-Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium-Belgian Comics Center 🌸The self-driving mileage is about 170 kilometers. The recommended travel time is 4-5 days. It is suitable for tourists who like humanities and history. 💖Overview of attractions ✔️Mont des Arts: A historical site located in the center of Brussels, it has now become an art district with a strong artistic temperament. Walking around the Mont des Arts, in addition to visiting museums, art galleries and other attractions, the unique viewing position allows you to have a bird's-eye view of the charming city of Brussels. ✔️St. Michael's Bridge: a famous bridge in Ghent. Standing on the bridge and seeing the guild buildings of Ghent across the Les River, including three churches and the castle in the distance, is one of the best places to photograph the city. ✔️Antwerp Grand Square: The city center of Antwerp is located and is one of the important landmarks of Antwerp. There are many Flemish-style buildings around, and the ground floors of some buildings are now used as restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. It is a good choice to sit down and have a rest or buy souvenirs. ✔️St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral: This is a Gothic cathedral. It shows the simple linearity of Gothic architecture and is very grand. The front facade of the church has two symmetrical towers with a height of 69 meters. It adopts the rare flame Gothic style with simple and sharp reliefs. The south tower of the church has 49 bells made by the Royal Bell Factory, and people can enjoy its beautiful bells during Sunday concerts. #trip # Self-driving # Car rental # Self-driving tour

#fallingseason Belgium is located in the west of Europe and it is famous for chocolate, waffles and even beer! I have been this place for many times and I am still love it! One of the favourites place for me is Ghent. This place is such a beautiful city with the river and lots of good architecture buildings. Secondly, Bruges is another place that definitely worth to visit it ! As this place looks like another Venice in Belgium, you can see lots of building across the river and they are stunning. #belgium #travel #tripcom #境外遊

Belgium is one of the must visit country in the world , this place known as waffles , chocolate and beer. In here you can discover a wide variety of chocolate and special taste of beer! One of the place in Belgium where is called Dinant. This place is so beautiful with the river across two sides of the road. Bruges is also amazing place with loads of rivers, it is just like another VENICE. If you come to Belgium, highly recommend try different taste of chocolate and you will get a surprise! #境外遊 #Belgium #比利時

Belgium, officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a country in Northwestern Europe. The country is bordered by the Netherlands to the north. Belgium is world-famous for its chocolate, waffles, beer, and its national football team, the Red Devils. Belgium is also home to NATO headquarters and to the EU Commission and European Parliament. Brussels is often referred to as the capital of the EU. Belgium is a member of the Schengen Agreement. There are normally no border controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty. This includes most of the European Union and a few other countries. There are usually identity checks before boarding international flights or boats. Sometimes there are temporary border controls at land borders. A visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty. Please see Travelling around the Schengen Area for more information on how the scheme works, which countries are members and what the requirements are for your nationality. The Grand Palace is a square in the center of Brussels, the capital of Belgium, surrounded by buildings that date mainly from the 17th century. Art, music, and architecture play a big role in Belgian life and history. The comic strip is highly regarded, with "Tintin" and "The Smurfs" both originating in the country. Sports are also popular in Belgium, with soccer being the most-played sport. Waffles, moules frites (mussles served with french fries), and chocolate are three of the most popular Belgian foods.

- Hatiku tertinggal di Brussels. Syurga coklat dan waffle rupanya kat sini. Min dah jatuh hati dah dengan Belgium ni. Brussels ni bandar di Belgium yang terkenal dengan coklat. Kedai coklat ada kat mana2 terutamanya di kawasan tarikan paling terkenal kat sini iaitu The Grand Place. Coklat2 di sini marvellous. Ada banyak master chocolatier yang membuka kedai dari kedai yang hi-end/butik sehinggalah kedai yang menjual 10 box dengan 1 harga. Salah satu perkara menarik kat sini, semua kedai2 coklat (butik atau biasa) membenarkan anda merasa (free tasting) semua coklat2 yang anda mahu rasa (sila tanya dulu untuk coklat beralkohol atau tidak) dan anda boleh rasa pelbagai coklat sampai kenyang hahaha. Sebenarnya ada 2 makanan wajib yang perlu dicuba di sini iaitu waffles dan coklat. Terdapat banyak gerai2 waffles di sini dengan harga waffle Euro1 tetapi topping adalah berharga berlainan. Dinasihatkan anda survey beberapa gerai dahulu sebelum membeli kerana harganya adalah boleh tahan juga bila ditambah beberapa topping berbeza. Sebagai seorang muslim, semak dan tanyalah dulu ingredient di dalam makanan2 ini sebelum membeli atau mencuba (free tasting). Kalau dah sampai sini, mesti pekena waffle rangup yang di limpahi dgn coklat di atasnya. Sambil minum hot chocolate Belgium. Perghh…. So bila dah teringat hal coklat, this time min terfikir why not kita backpack ke Europe. Kitorang pick up Europe kali ni sesuai ngan bajet yg sederhana. Lepas brainstorm baru-baru ni, negara2 yang dipilih tu adalah UNITED KINGDOM, FRANCE, BELGIUM & NETHERLAND.

Even though Belgium is smaller than many other countries you can visit, it is filled with activities, restaurants, and much more. Getting from place to another is easy for travellers in Belgium because the towns are close together. There are trains and buses that will take you where you want to go. Whether it is Antwerp to see one of the largest collections of diamonds, or to Ghent to visit botanical gardens and visit castles. Brussels, the capital of Belgium is another fascinating city you should visit when you are travelling. Many people visit Belgium for the food as much as for the countries two diverse cultures. In Belgium, people either speak Dutch or French depending on which part of Belgium you want to visit. Food and drink come in all forms. If you enjoy tasting home brewed beer, then Belgium is a great place to start. There are many breweries and pubs that you can visit during your stay. Chocolate is also a tourist attraction for many people. There are also many restaurants, caf

With these hot days, people everywhere are looking to cool down. One of the favorite places is the vicinity of the North castle, where the Hogere Zeevaartschool is located. The North castle was a citadel that was built in 1862 on the territory of the disappeared polder village Oosterweel. Its main task was the defense of the Oosterweel bend on the Scheldt in Antwerp. Already in 1881, nineteen years after its construction, most of the North castle was demolished to make way for the Amerikadock and the Afrikadock due to the expansion of the port of Antwerp. In 1910 the North Castle was officially written off as a military area. Under the impulse of Mayor Camille Huysmans, the 61-hectare domain of North Castle was transformed in 1934 into a recreation resort with a very popular and public outdoor swimming pool. In 1957, a large part of the recreational area had to make way for the western expansion of the Amerikadock. In 1969 the recreation resort North castle was closed for the construction of the never realized Boerinnensluis. The only remaining half caponier 1 became a city warehouse on the current Oosterweelsteenweg. Explosives were stored in the underground corridors until 1995. Today, only a green area with a piece of ramparts on the rowing pond (the former main moat) close to the Hogere Zeevaartschool remains of the castle. The views on the Scheldt river and the skyline of Antwerp are magnificent from there. Part of the remaining grounds of the North Castle will be included in the construction of the Oosterweel connection. #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes#beaches

Marnixplaats, a central square on the south where 8 streets lead to, is getting more and more hip. The widening of the footpaths allowing the terraces to expand and the creation of a green zone around the statue ‘Schelde Vrij’ will certainly have contributed to this. Around the entire square there are horeca establishments where you can get a drink or snack any time of the day. The dominating 20 meter high ‘Scheldt Free’ memorial monument in the middle of the square commemorates the liberation of the Scheldt in 1863 and dates from 1873. On July 16, 1863, Belgium bought off with the support of other seafaring nations, the last remainder of medieval toll for goods from the Netherlands for a sum of 17,141,640 guilders. Belgium and England paid most of it in addition to 19 other countries who paid an applied share according to their shipping traffic intrest in this route. The negotiator on the Belgian side, Auguste Lambermont, received the title of baron. All names of the 8 streets that open onto the square also refer to the liberation of the Scheldt. If you look a little closer you will see that it is actually a group of statues consisting of a Neptune figure by Jean Jacques Winders with Mercury on the right and the seated, crowned city maiden on the left. Neptune carries a bronze trident in his right hand, the left arm rests on the female figure, a cloak on the back. Mercury has a staff and rests with his left knee on a pitcher of water. The artists Louis Dupuis, Jaak De Braekeleer and Frans Floris also contributed to this sculpture group. Popular nickname for the Neptune figure with the trident is 'het verket'. Verket is flemish dialect for fork. #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes

Belgium is famous for many things, Tintin, beer, chocolate, french fries, and peeing statues. #historicculture#bestislandtraveltowns#newphotographer#smelltheroses#deliciousfood

📍Trip overview 🚩Route: 5-minute walk from Brussels Central Station 🏖️Photogenic spots: Grand Place and all surrounding buildings 🚇Transportation: Train, bus 📷Recommended photo spot: Grand Place 🍜Exquisite food: Waffles, fries, chocolate Grand Palace is located in the center of the city, where you can see not only Europeans but also Japanese people here and there. It is lined with historic old buildings, all of which are cool. It is lively but has a relaxing atmosphere. If you go down a narrow street from the center, you will find various restaurants and sweet shops where you can enjoy food. #Europetrip #Solotravel #Belgium #Brussels #grandpalace #belgium

1. Waffle heaven🍓🧇 Belgian waffles are special when eaten locally! Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside. Customize your own waffle with toppings of chocolate, cream, and fruit! 👉 If you can't decide, we recommend the "Liège waffle." Eat it while walking, the Belgian way! 2. Chocolate is on another level🍫✨ Belgian chocolate is seriously delicious. Many specialty stores allow you to sample, so try a variety and find your favorite! 👉 Check out famous stores such as "Pierre Marcolini" and "Godiva"! 3. Medieval cityscapes are like something out of a storybook🏰❤️ Bruges and Ghent are like a time warp! Cobblestone streets, canals, old churches... you can't stop taking photos. 👉 A boat tour is a must in Bruges! The view from the canal is amazing. 4. Heaven for beer lovers 🍺🍻 Belgian beer has a wide variety and high alcohol content! Try a "Trappist beer" at a local pub. 👉 Delirium Cafe has over 2,000 types of beer! 5. Authentic fries 🍟🔥 Belgian fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Enjoy them with plenty of mayonnaise or special sauce! 👉 Find a "Frituur" and enjoy the local flavor! ➡️ Belgium has all three of the qualities of "delicious x cute x fun", so why not make it your next travel destination? ✈️💖 #Belgium #Europe #Overseas travel #Overseas travel strategy

#europetravel #gent #belgium Ghent is a picturesque city in Belgium, famous for its medieval charm and cultural heritage. It is home to impressive historical buildings, such as the Castle of the Counts of Flanders and the Cathedral of St. Bavo, which houses the famous "Adam and Eve". Ghent is also famous for its vibrant cultural life and delicious cuisine, including traditional beer. The city is an ideal place for strolling along picturesque canals and cozy streets, making it popular among tourists.#gent

#CanadaFlightEvent Brussels, Belgium, a great place to travel to because of its luxurious atmosphere and magnificent buildings! It's a place you'll definitely fall in love with once you visit. I recommend you visit it as a place where you can leisurely travel while walking around and looking at each building. 👍

🗓️Itinerary Scheduling: 20/02/2025

#favouriteitinerary Nestled within Brussels’ historic Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Les Ecuadors has been a beacon of luxury for over 30 years. This artisan boutique offers a curated selection of high-end perfumes and unique jewelry, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Their signature fragrances, such as Turquoise and Fleur d’Oranger, capture the essence of sophistication and charm. Each visit is a sensory journey, where the rich scents and exquisite pieces create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking a personal indulgence or the perfect gift, Les Ecuadors provides a touch of timeless elegance in the heart of Belgium.  #LesEcuadors #BrusselsLuxury #ArtisanPerfume #UniqueJewelry #GaleriesRoyalesSaintHubert #BelgianCraftsmanship #TimelessElegance #LuxuryShopping #PerfumeLovers #JewelryDesign

#favouriteitinerary Craving a healthy yet delicious meal in Belgium? Hawaiian Poke Bowl is the perfect spot to satisfy your taste buds with fresh, vibrant flavors. Inspired by traditional Hawaiian cuisine, this eatery offers customizable poke bowls packed with sushi-grade fish, crisp vegetables, and flavorful sauces. Whether you prefer salmon, tuna, tofu, or chicken, you can create a bowl that suits your preferences. The combination of fresh ingredients and tropical vibes makes every bite a delight. Ideal for a quick lunch or a light dinner, it’s a must-visit for foodies who love nutritious and tasty meals! #HawaiianPokeBowl #PokeLovers #HealthyEats #FreshAndTasty #BelgiumFoodie #PokeTime #EatTheRainbow #FoodAdventure #HealthyLifestyle #MustTryBelgium

#favouriteitinerary If you’re looking for a unique and artistic way to capture your essence, Irisgalerie is the place to be. Located in various cities across Europe, this innovative studio transforms your eye into a breathtaking piece of art. Using high-resolution photography and expert editing, they bring out the intricate details and colors of your iris, creating a stunning, one-of-a-kind keepsake. Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with family, the experience is both fun and fascinating. It’s not just a photo—it’s a masterpiece that reflects your individuality. A must-visit for art and photography lovers! #Irisgalerie #IrisPhotography #EyeArt #UniqueExperience #EuropeanArt #PersonalizedArt #TravelMemories #IrisPrint #ArtisticVision #MustVisitEurope

#getgoing2025 Ghent Old Town is the historic heart of Ghent, Belgium, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant cultural scene. The area seamlessly blends the charm of the past with the energy of contemporary life, making it a must-visit destination. Key Highlights: • Graslei and Korenlei: These two picturesque streets along the Leie River are lined with historic guild houses and warehouses, offering a glimpse into Ghent’s medieval trading history. The area is especially enchanting at night when the buildings are illuminated. • St. Bavo’s Cathedral: Home to the famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers, this cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Visitors can admire its stunning interior and the renowned artwork. • Gravensteen Castle: This medieval fortress offers insights into the city’s history and provides panoramic views of the Old Town from its ramparts. The castle’s exhibits delve into the medieval period, showcasing artifacts and interactive displays. • Belfry of Ghent: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Belfry stands as a symbol of the city’s independence and medieval power. Visitors can climb the tower for a panoramic view of Ghent’s historic center. • Patershol District: A charming neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets, historic houses, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. It’s an ideal spot to experience local cuisine and ambiance. Visitor Information: • Accessibility: Ghent Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within walking distance. The city is also known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, making cycling a popular mode of transport. • Best Time to Visit: The Old Town is captivating year-round. However, winter months offer a magical atmosphere with festive lights and fewer crowds. The city’s canals and historic buildings look especially enchanting under a blanket of snow. • Local Cuisine: Ghent is renowned for its culinary delights, including local specialties like “Waterzooi” (a creamy stew) and “Stoverij” (beef stew). The city also boasts a vibrant café culture, perfect for sampling Belgian beers and chocolates. Exploring Ghent Old Town offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a destination that appeals to a wide range of interests.

#getgoing2025 The Waterloo Battlefield is a historic site located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of Brussels, Belgium. It is renowned as the location of the Battle of Waterloo, fought on June 18, 1815, where Napoleon Bonaparte’s French army was decisively defeated by the Seventh Coalition forces led by the Duke of Wellington and Prussian Field Marshal Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher. This pivotal battle marked the end of the Napoleonic Wars and reshaped European history. Key Features of the Battlefield: • Lion’s Mound (Butte du Lion): A prominent monument built on a man-made hill, offering panoramic views of the battlefield. Visitors can climb the mound to gain a comprehensive perspective of the terrain. • Panoramic Painting: The Panorama of the Battle of Waterloo is a 360-degree painting that immerses visitors in the scene of the battle, providing a vivid historical experience. • Visitor Center: The Waterloo Battlefield Visitor Center offers exhibits detailing the events of the battle, the strategies employed, and the historical context. It serves as an informative starting point for exploring the site. Visiting Information: • Location: Waterloo Battlefield, 1420 Waterloo, Belgium. • Accessibility: The site is easily accessible by car, with free parking available. Public transportation options include buses from Waterloo or Braine-l’Alleud stations. • Opening Hours: The site is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last admission at 5:00 PM. It’s advisable to check the official website for the most current information. • Admission Fees: Ticket prices may vary. For detailed pricing and potential discounts, please refer to the official website. Recent Discoveries: Archaeological excavations at the site have uncovered significant findings, including human and animal remains, providing deeper insights into the battle’s aftermath and the medical practices of the time. These discoveries offer a poignant glimpse into the historical realities faced by those involved. Visiting the Waterloo Battlefield offers a profound opportunity to connect with a pivotal moment in history, providing educational and reflective experiences for all who explore its grounds.

#getgoing2025 Bruges Old Town: A Medieval Fairytale Bruges Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most charming medieval cities in Europe. Located in Belgium, Bruges is known for its picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and stunning medieval architecture. It’s often referred to as the “Venice of the North” due to its canals and bridges, making it a popular destination for history lovers and romantic getaways. Highlights: • Market Square (Markt): The heart of Bruges, surrounded by colorful historic buildings, including the Belfry Tower and Provinciaal Hof. • Belfry of Bruges: Climb the 366 steps to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of the city. • Canal Tour: Take a boat ride along Bruges’ scenic canals for a unique perspective of the city’s medieval architecture. • Basilica of the Holy Blood: A beautiful church that houses a relic believed to be a cloth with the blood of Christ. • Groeningemuseum: Home to Flemish art, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. • Beguinage: A peaceful historical site, originally a home for religious women, with beautiful whitewashed buildings and gardens. Tips: • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. • Walk Everywhere: Bruges is best explored on foot, allowing you to discover hidden gems around every corner. • Try Local Treats: Don’t miss Belgian chocolate, frites (fries), and Belgian waffles at local shops. Bruges Old Town is a fairytale destination, offering visitors a journey back in time with its well-preserved medieval charm and scenic beauty.

#getgoing2025 Grand Place: The Heart of Brussels Grand Place (Grote Markt) is the stunning central square of Brussels, Belgium, and one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. Surrounded by ornate guildhalls, the City Hall, and the King’s House, Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Highlights: • City Hall (Hôtel de Ville): A magnificent Gothic building with a tall spire, offering a glimpse into Brussels’ medieval past. • Guildhalls: The square is lined with elaborately decorated buildings once owned by the city’s guilds, showcasing intricate Baroque and Gothic architecture. • King’s House (Maison du Roi): Now home to the Brussels City Museum, this grand building offers insights into the city’s history and hosts stunning art exhibitions. • Flower Carpet (Every two years): In August, Grand Place is transformed into a vibrant carpet of flowers, attracting thousands of visitors. • Light Shows and Festivals: The square hosts numerous events, including light shows and concerts, particularly during the summer months. Tips: • Best Time to Visit: Summer for festivals, or spring and autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. • Explore Nearby: Take a stroll to nearby attractions like the Manneken Pis statue and Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. • Enjoy Local Treats: Try Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer at cafes surrounding the square. Grand Place is a must-see for anyone visiting Brussels, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture.