20 Captivating Places to Visit in Belgium in 2025

must see tourist attractions in Belgium

Belgium may be a small country in the West Europe but it still captivates the travelers from around the world. This is thanks to its fascinating medieval towns and the modern cities which have something for everyone. Looking for the beautiful places to visit in Belgium in 2025? Then, you are at the right place!

This carefully curated guide will show you some of the most stunning places that you can explore in the Belgium. Grab the chance to check out the stunning architecture, rich history and the delicious cuisine. In addition to this, there are the picturesque landscapes of Belgium that you can discover. Simply grab a Belgium Visa and read this guide to plan the best Belgium Trip in 2025!

20 Captivating Places to Visit in Belgium in 2025

1). The Grand Place – One of the Popular Brussels Tourist Spots

The Grand Place stands as the magnificent central square of the Brussels!

Dating back to the 13th century, this place showcases the stunning architectural styles of Gothic and Baroque. When you head over to this place, the first thing you will notice are the surrounding guild houses. In addition to this, there is the City Hall and the King’s House!

Every evening, you can enjoy a spectacular light show that illuminates the historic buildings in the dazzling colors!

2). Visit Bruges Historic Centre – Top Things to do in Bruges!

The Bruges, which many calls as the “Venice of the North” captivates visitors with its medieval charm!

The place is best-known for its picturesque canals that wind throughout the city. These offer some of the most romantic boat tours in the world. This is why the attraction is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Some of the top attractions in this historic centre are:

  • The Market Square featuring the guild houses
  • Belfry Tower with 366 steps that lead to breathtaking city views
  • Church of Our Lady housing Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child sculpture

3). Explore Antwerp’s Diamond DistrictPlaces to Visit in Belgium

The Antwerp shines as the diamond capital of the world. This is thanks to more than 70% of the diamonds passing from here. It makes visiting this place on of the best things to do in Antwerp!

Head over to the Diamond District near the Central station to check out thousands of the diamond businesses. therefore, visitors can opt for a tour of the diamond workshops. Although learn about the cutting and polishing techniques here!

Or, you can explore the Diamond Museum offering fascinating insights into the history of the industry.

Beyond the diamonds, Antwerp is also quite popular for the impressive architecture and the cultural attractions!

4). Discover the Medieval Center of GhentPlaces to Visit in Belgium

Ghent is a popular destination that combines the medieval architecture with the vibrant university town ambience. However, it ranks amongst the top interesting cities to visit in Belgium!

One of the first things that you may notice is the three towers namely:

  • Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
  • Saint Nicholas’ Church
  • The Belfry

These dominate the skyline of the city. Then, there are the attractions such as the Gravensteen Castle, which is a well-preserved medieval fortress. 

Apart from this, you should check out the picturesque Graslei and the Korenlei waterfronts. These feature the stunning guild houses! 

Do not miss out on the Patershol neighbourhood. Here the narrow streets and the excellent restaurants will charm you!

5). Visit the Atomium – One of the Best Things to do in Brussels

One of the most iconic landmarks of the Brussels is the Atomium. It dates all the way back to the 1958 World Expo. 

Make sure to check out the nine interconnected spheres by using the escalators and the elevators. Although Head over to the top sphere to enjoy panoramic views of the Brussels. 

Apart from this, you can enjoy the interactive exhibitions which explain the importance of the structure!

6). Don’t Miss Out on Dinant and the Meuse Valley – Places to Visit in Belgium

The Dinant is essentially a picturesque town which you will find between the Meuse River and the limestone cliffs. One of the highlight attractions of this place is the skyline. Therefore, it features the striking Collegiate Church and Citadel perched on the cliff. Take a cable car or climb the 408 steps to reach the citadel for the spectacular views. 

Another wonderful thing that you can do is go on the Boat cruises along the Meuse River. Here, you can bask in the views of the stunning natural landscapes and the castles. In addition to this, there is the surrounding Meuse Valley. It provides the excellent hiking and cycling opportunities. 

Interesting fact: Dinant is the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of Saxophone!

So, when are you filling the Belgium visa application form? Belgium awaits your arrival!

7). Travel to the Leuven University TownPopular Place to see in Belgium

The Leuven is one of the popular places to see in Belgium, hence, thanks to its prestigious university and the architectural treasures. 

One of the first attractions you should check out is the University Library. Rebuilt after the World War I, it features an impressive tower. Then, there is the Gothic Town Hall that stands as one of the most ornate civic buildings of the Belgium.

Make sure to explore the Grote Markt (Main Square). It buzzes with the cafés and the restaurants serving the local specialities. Want more? Thus, You had head over to the Oude Markt (Old Market). Since, It is popular for being “the longest bar in Europe”!

8). Visit Battlefields of Flanders – Historic Places to Visit in Belgium

The Flanders Fields that you will find around the Ypres wonderfully preserve the memory of the World War I. 

Here, you will find the Flanders Field Museum which offers the moving interactive exhibits. Then, there the Menin Gate Memorial which holds the nightly Last Post ceremonies which honor the fallen soldiers. 

Head over to the Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest in Commonwealth War Cemetery, Then, containing 12,000 graves. Take some time out to see the Hill 60 and the other preserved trenches. Hence, they showcase the harsh realities of the warfare.

9). Visit the Smallest City of Europe – Durbuy, Place to Visit in Belgium

The tiny Durbuy claims the title of the “Smallest City in Europe” along with the medieval charm. This also makes it one of the unique Belgium tourist cities to explore!

When you visit here, the Cobblestone streets winding between historic stone buildings and half-timber houses welcome you. Make sure to check out the Durbuy castle which gives a fairytale backdrop to the place.

Head over to the Ourthe river that offers the kayaking adventures through the beautiful landscapes. Take some local souvenirs before leaving like handcraft goods or the traditional jams.

10). Royal Palace of Brussels – Top Attractions in Belgium

The Royal Palace of Brussels serves as the official palace of the monarchy of Belgium. 

In Every summer, the palace is open for the public with the ever-changing exhibitions. Then, the Grand Staircase which welcomes the visitors with its impressive marble construction!

One of the attractions that you must see is the mirror room. It features a ceiling decorated with over a million beetle wings. 

There are the state rooms of the palace which showcase the craftmanship of Belgium. Although, these include the meticulously curated tapestries and the crystal chandeliers. In 2025, the new multimedia guide will enhance your experience with the royal stories!

11). Stop by the Historic Buildings of MechelenPlaces to Visit in Belgium

The Mechelen, which is situated in between the Brussels and Antwerp. It is one of the charming cities in Belgium to explore. This place is best-known for its historical architecture. 

The first attraction to check out is the St. Rumbold’s Tower. Hence, climb the 358 steps to enjoy panoramic views. Next up is the Palace of Margaret of Austria which showcases the Burgundian-Habsburg Renaissance architecture. 

There is the Kazerne Dossin Memorial. Then, documents the Belgium Holocaust with its moving exhibits. Visiting with kids? Make sure to check out the Toy Museum featuring the historical toys!

End your visit to the city with a visit to the Great Beguinage. Therefore, It is a UNESCO site featuring the peaceful streets and the historic houses!

Also, check: Belgium Schengen Visa Fee from UK

12). Discover the Ardennes ForestPlaces to Visit in Belgium

When you head over to the south east of Belgium, you will come across the Ardennes forest. This place with its rolling hills and the dense woodlands are one of the enthralling places to visit in Ardennes, Belgium.

It is essentially a nature paradise offering the hiking, mountain biking and wildlife spotting opportunities. Want to see the dramatic landscapes? Go to the Semois Valley. Then, It has the unique river bends and the forested slopes. 

Then, there is Bouillon Castle, perched above the Semois River which hosts the medieval reenactments. 

Check out the beautiful Ninglinspo, the only mountain stream of Belgium. It helps create the natural pools and the waterfalls that you will love seeing!

13). Explore Spa – The Original Spa Town!Must Place to visit in Belgium

The Spa is that town which gave its name to the wellness retreats that you hear about worldwide!

So, naturally, you should head over to the best Spa places here. Make sure to visit the Thermes de Spa Complex featuring the thermal baths, saunas and the wellness treatments. The town has beautiful mineral springs which attracts visitors since the 14th century. 

Head over to the main spring, Pouhon Pierre le Grand which is in a historic spring. There, there is the Casino of Spa which is the oldest in the Belgium. It wonderfully combines gaming with the cultural events. 

Try out the waffles and the regional Herve cheese at the local cafés for a delightful experience. All you need is a Belgium Tourist Visa from UK to experience these incredible destinations!

14). Waterloo Battlefield – Belgium Famous Places to Not Miss!

The Battlefield of Waterloo perserves the site of the final defeat of Napolean in 1815. 

One of the first attractions to see is the Lion’s Mound. It is a 141 foot artificial hill which offers the panoramic views of the battlefield. 

Then, head over to the Memorial 1815 Museum. It uses the immerseive technology to bring the battle to life. Therefore, check out the Hougoumont farm which is a key battle site (restored). 

Want more? Visit the Wellington Museum in Waterloo. It displays the artefacts from the Duke’s headquarters!

15). Discover the Namur Citadel – One of Europe’s Largest Fortress

The Namur Citadel ranks amongst the largest fortresses of the Europe, therefore, overlooks the beautiful Meuse and Sambre rivers. 

The fortress is a massive complex that covers a whopping 150 acres of area. It also features the interesting underground passes and the fortifications. 

You can opt for the guided tours to know about the military history of the citadel which spans many centuries. Then, there is the Terra Nova Visitor Centre which explains the strategic importance of the place. 

Try to board the tourist train which will help you to easily explore the extensive grounds of the fortress with ease!

16). Horta Museum – Wonderful Places to Visit in Belgium 

The Horta Museum expertly preserves the home and studio of the Art Nouveau pioneer then, Victor Horta. 

You will come across this unique structure in the Saint-Gilles district of Belgium. The place elegantly showcases the revolutionary architecture style of Horta. 

The building itself is a masterpiece featuring the flowing lines and the natural motifs. Then, the original furniture of this place is designed by Horta himself. 

Then, there are the stained glass, mosaics and the wrought iron which demonstrate the decorative elements of Art Nouveau!

17). Travel to the Hallerbos ForestMust see place in Belgium

The Hallerbos or the Blue Fort is a magical place that transforms each spring season with the bluebells. 

For a few weeks in the April, Therefore, the forest floor becomes a purple-blue carpet. You will get to see the ancient beech trees create the cathedral-like canopy above the flowers. 

Try to go on a stroll on the marked walking paths. This will help you to explore the place while protecting the delicate ecosystem. You can get to see the wildlife like deer and different bird species. 

Another magical thing you will notice is the contrast between the tall trees and the blue flowers. This creates the magical photo opportunities for you and your dear ones. Just grab a Belgium visitor visa from UK to check out such fascinating places of the Belgium!

18). Check Out the Historic Quarter of LiegeMust see place in Belgium

The fourth largest city of the Belgium is Liege, then, offers a rich history and the vibrant culture. 

One of the popular attractions that you must see is the Montagne de Beuren featuring 374 steps. Therefore, Once you climb it, you will enjoy the panoramic views. 

Then, there is Prince-Bishops’ Palace which showcases the city’s former ecclesiastical rulers’ power. You can also check out the Grand Curtis Museums which is home to the impressive art and the historical collections. 

Apart from this, you can also check out La Batte Market, which is one of the longest in Europe. 

When are you booking the Belgium visa appointment? Incredible attractions in Belgium wait for you to discover them!

19). Visit the Knokke-Heist Beach ResortMust see place in Belgium

The Knokke-Heist ranks as one of the most sophisticated coastal resorts, therefore it known as the golden beaches (Belgium Beaches for Sun and Fun). 

This place boasts a 12-kilometre sandy shoreline that offers the perfect spot for sunbathing and the water sports. You can also take some time out to visit the Zwin Nature Park. This place features the unique salt marshes and the diverse bird species. 

Do not miss out on the seafood restaurants. Then, these serve the fresh North Sea catches with the Belgian flair. You can check out the Butterfly Garden which houses hundreds of the exotic butterfly species!

20). Visit Tournai Cathedral – Charming Places to Visit in Belgium

The Notre-Dame equivalent cathedral in Belgium is none other than the Tournai Cathedral. This incredible structure features 5 impressive towers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Therefore, It combines the best of the Romanesque and the Gothic architectural styles. 

The construction of the place started in the 12th century making it one of the oldest cathedrals of Belgium. Although, take sure to check out the rose window and the stained glass which create the magical light effects inside. Then, there is the treasury which houses the religious artefacts including the Byzantine reliquaries and tapestries!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Belgium offers a truly extraordinary range of the experiences for the travellers in 2025. From the medieval towns to the modern marvels, this compact country has everything to deliver the unforgettable memories. Therefore,the 20 beautiful Places to visit in Belgium showcase the rich historic and vibrant culture of the country. 

Whether you want to savor the delicious chocolates in the Brussels. Or, go hiking in the Ardennes, Belgium is ready to charm you at every turn. So, do not hold yourself back! Instead, gather your Belgium Schengen Visa Documents and Apply for Belgium visa from UK now. Go on a delightful holiday to Belgium with your near and dear.

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UK Traveler’s Help Guide: Your Travel Questions Answered

1). What is the best time to visit Belgium in 2025?

The Spring season (April to June) and Fall season (September to October), offer the mild weather and the fewer crowds and are the best times to visit the Belgium. On the other hand, summer season comes with a lot of festivals but larger crowds too. Then, there is winter with its magical Christmas markets in the many cities!

2). How many days do I need to explore the Belgium properly?

A minimum of 5 to 7 days enables you to see the major attractions of the Brussels, Bruges and Antwerp. If you plan for around 10 to 14 days, you can explore the Belgium more deeply, including smaller towns and the natural areas.

3). Is Belgium expensive to visit compared to other European countries?

Belgium falls in the mid-range in Europe when it comes to the travel costs. The prices of the accommodation and the dining are generally low when you compare to Paris or Amsterdam. Budget travelers can find the affordable options, while the luxury experiences are also available.

4). What are some must-try Belgian foods beyond chocolate and waffles?

Belgium offers delicious culinary experiences including moules-frites (mussels with fries), carbonade flamande (beef stew), waterzooi (creamy chicken or fish stew), and the speculoos cookies . Each region has its specialities like the meatbolls of the Liege or the Ham of the Ardennes.

5). Do I need to speak French or Dutch to visit Belgium?

In most of the tourist areas, you will see people speaking English in hotels, restaurants and the attractions. However, learning a few basic phrases in French or Dutch (depending on the region) will help you to easily communicate with the locals.

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