Belgium's hidden treasures: discovering cities, taste and nature

Belgium's hidden treasures: discovering cities, taste and nature

Welcome to Belgium, a small but fascinating country that delights with its rich history, cultural diversity and culinary delights! Whether you are an architecture lover who wants to explore the venerable buildings of historic cities, a foodie looking for the best beer and the most delicious chocolates, or a nature lover who wants to discover the breathtaking landscapes of the national parks - Belgium has something to offer for everyone.

In this article, we take you on an exciting tour of discovery through the enchanting cities of Belgium, introduce you to the culinary highlights that will pamper your taste buds, and share interesting insights into the country's most important museums and monuments. We also invite you to enjoy the impressive natural experiences and take part in the lively festivals and events that make Belgian culture so unique.

So grab your travel guide and let’s discover Belgium together – a country full of surprises and unforgettable experiences!

Discovery tour through the enchanting cities of Belgium

Belgium's cities are like little pearls just waiting to be discovered. With their unique mix of history, culture and breathtaking architecture, they offer plenty of incentive for an unforgettable visit. Here are some of the most notable cities every traveler should experience in Belgium.

Brussels: Heart of Europe

The capital of Belgium, Brussels, is not only the administrative center of the European Union, but also a place full of surprising facets. Walks through the historicGrand Placebecome a journey through time. Surrounded by magnificent guild houses and the iconicCity hall, this square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the impressiveAtomium, which was originally built for the 1958 World's Fair and now houses a fascinating museum.

Bruges: The Venice of the North

Often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges captivates visitors with its picturesque canals and medieval buildings. TheCastle of the Count of Flandersand theBelfrywith its breathtaking view over the city are just a few highlights. A leisurely walk along theReien, the canals, is a must - this is where Bruges shows off its most beautiful side. Also make time to watch the local lace makers at work.

Antwerp: The jewelry city

Antwerp is a veritable treasure trove for art and fashion enthusiasts. This is where it is locatedRubenshuis, the former home of the famous Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, which is now a museum and displays an impressive collection of his works. TheAntwerp Cathedral, known for its Gothic architecture, is also home to some of his most important paintings.

Ghent: City of Counties

Ghent offers an extraordinary cityscape characterized by impressive castles, churches and lively squares. TheGravensteen(Grafenstein) is a medieval castle known for its fascinating history. TheSt. Bavo's Cathedral, home of the famousGhent Altares, is another highlight. Ghent also has a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings when the lights shine on the historic buildings.

Leuven: university town with charm

Leuven is known for its venerableuniversity, one of the oldest in Europe, which creates an atmosphere full of thirst for knowledge and liveliness. TheOld market, also known as “the longest bar in the world,” is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local nightlife. The impressiveLeuven Town Hall, a masterpiece of Flemish Gothic, is another must-see.

Namur: The city at the interface of the rivers

Namur, the capital of Wallonia, impresses with its strategic location at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse. TheCitadel of Namurnot only offers an interesting history, but also breathtaking views of the city. Here you can explore the well-preserved fortifications and learn more about the military and historical significance of the city.

The perfect travel planning

To visit all these cities, it is advisable to make a travel plan and choose a good means of transport. The train connections between the cities are excellent and make it easy to get from one place to another. Belgium's small but beautiful tracks are ideal for an exploration tour.

Whether you're interested in art, history or simply beautiful architecture, the cities of Belgium offer something for every taste. Let yourself be enchanted by the diversity, the vibrant cultures and the warm hospitality of the Belgians - you won't regret it!

Culinary delights: From beer to chocolates

Belgium is known not only for its picturesque cities and impressive architecture, but also for its excellent cuisine. The country's culinary delights reflect the traditions and diversity of its regions. From delicious beers to tempting chocolates and savory waffles, Belgium's gastronomy is a feast for the senses.

Beer:Belgium is a beer lover's paradise. With over 1,000 different types of beer, the country offers an impressive variety. These beers are divided into different categories including:

• Trappistenbier: Brauen in Abteien von Mönchen, dieses Bier hat eine lange Tradition.
• Abteibier: Ähnlich wie Trappistenbiere, oft mit fruchtigem und würzigem Geschmack.
• Blondes und Brunes: Helle und dunkle Biere, die jeweils eigene Geschmacksprofile haben.
• Witbier: Ein erfrischendes Weizenbier, oft mit Orange und Koriander gewürzt.

Popular breweries like Brouwerij La Chouffe and Duvel Moortgat invite you to tours and tastings where you can learn more about the brewing process and taste the unique flavors of Belgian beers.

Chocolates:Belgium is also famous for its exquisite chocolates and pralines. The art of making chocolates has been perfected here and you can find numerous chocolate shops offering the most delicious creations. Some of the most famous brands are:

• Neuhaus: Berühmt für die Erfindung der Praline.
• Godiva: Luxuriöse Pralinen und Schokoladen mit weltweiter Bekanntheit.
• Leonidas: Eine beliebte Marke, die hochwertigen Schokoladen zu erschwinglichen Preisen anbietet.

In cities like Brussels and Antwerp you will find small, charming chocolate shops where you can experience the art of praline making up close. Many of them also offer workshops where you can create chocolates yourself.

Waffles:No one can visit Belgium without trying the famous Belgian waffles. These are like a delicious dessert dream, usually available in two varieties:

• Brüsseler Waffeln: Leichter und knuspriger, meist mit Puderzucker serviert.
• Lütticher Waffeln: Dickere Waffeln mit Zuckerstückchen, die beim Backen karamellisieren.

Waffles are available in many cafes and street stalls, often accompanied by toppings such as chocolate, fresh fruit or whipped cream. Trying a waffle in one of the numerous cozy waffle shops is mandatory - a treat you shouldn't miss!

Fries:Another Belgian specialty are French fries, known as “French fries” in most European countries. In Belgium, however, they are prepared the right way – sliced ​​thick, double-fried and usually served with a variety of sauces. The most popular sauces are:

• Mayo: Eine klassische Wahl, die zu den Fritten gehört.
• Andalouse-Sauce: Ein würziger Ketchup-Mayonnaise-Mix.
• Samurai-Sauce: Eine scharfe Mischung, ideal für die mutigen Esser.

You'll find plenty in cities like Bruges and GhentFries shops, which sell the best fries in town. Don't forget to enjoy your snack in a paper cone while strolling through the picturesque streets!

Whether you prefer beer, chocolates, waffles or fries, Belgian cuisine offers a variety of tasty experiences. A visit to this culinary paradise will give you unforgettable taste experiences and pamper your palate. Be surprised by the flavors and ingredients that Belgium has to offer!

History and Culture: The Top Museums and Monuments

Belgium is a country rich in history and culture. With its high-quality museums and impressive monuments, it offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the fascinating past and the vibrant present. Whether you're an art lover, history buff or just curious, Belgium has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the most outstanding museums and monuments that you should definitely visit.

1. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp houses one of the most important collections of Flemish masterpieces. Here you can admire works by artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck and Ensor. The museum is not only a place of art, but also an important part of the city's cultural life.

2. The Magritte Museum in Brussels
This museum features over 200 works by surrealist artist René Magritte. Each image tells a story full of imagination and meaning. The museum is a must not only for art fans, but also for anyone interested in the Surrealist movement. It is part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium and provides a comprehensive overview of Magritte's influence on contemporary art.

3. The Belfry of Bruges
The Belfry of Bruges is an iconic symbol of the city and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its 366 steps, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the top. The bell tower dates back to the 13th century and tells stories about the city's past, one of trade and prosperity.

4. The Historium in Bruges
The Historium offers a unique opportunity to experience the history of Bruges in an interactive way. Attractive exhibitions, virtual journeys through time and fascinating stories about medieval Bruges make the visit a special experience. It is ideal for families who want to learn more about this magical city.

5. The ADAM Museum of Design in Brussels
If you are a fan of design and contemporary art, the ADAM Museum of Design in Brussels is the perfect place for you. The museum focuses on design objects from the 20th and 21st centuries and shows how design has evolved with society. Regularly changing exhibitions ensure that there is always something new to discover.

6. The Atomium in Brussels
Another impressive Belgian landmark is the Atomium, built for the World Exhibition in 1958. It symbolizes an iron crystal and is a masterpiece of architecture. Inside there are numerous exhibitions highlighting Belgium's history and contribution to science and technology. From the top ball you have a fantastic view over the capital.

Here are some monuments that reflect Belgium's rich history:

• Der Grote Markt in Brüssel: Ein Meisterwerk der Architektur und der politische Mittelpunkt der Stadt.
• Der Platz der Kämpfung in Ypern: Ein Friedhof, der den Gefallenen des Ersten Weltkriegs gewidmet ist und durch das Menenpoort symbolisiert wird.
• Das Denkmal für die Königin Elisabeth: Auf dem Place des Martyrs in Brüssel zu finden, um die ehrenvolle Geschichte zu würdigen.

In addition, it is worth visiting the many regional museums, which often offer unique perspectives on the heritage and culture of the respective cities. Each museum tells its own story that will help you understand Belgian culture and its diverse influences. You'll find that Belgium is known not only for its delicious chocolate and beer, but also for its impressive cultural treasures and rich historical heritage.

Recommended museums for history buffs:

Belgium truly offers an incredible range of museum opportunities and cultural experiences. A visit to these museums and monuments will broaden your view of Belgian history and culture and create unforgettable memories. If you want to find out more, take a look at the official website for tourist information in Belgium.

Nature experiences: explore national parks and landscapes

Belgium may be small, but it is home to an impressive variety of natural landscapes and national parks. From rolling hills in the Ardennes to the wide beaches on the North Sea coast, there is a lot to discover. Here are some of the most exciting places that nature lovers and adventure seekers shouldn't miss.

Ardennes: A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts

TheArdennesare one of the most famous regions in Belgium for nature experiences. This forested mountainous region in the south of the country is ideal for hikers, cyclists and canoeists. The rolling hills, deep valleys and clear rivers provide a perfect backdrop for various activities.

• Wanderungen: Es gibt zahlreiche Wanderwege mit unterschiedlichen Schwierigkeitsgraden. Die GR57 ist besonders beliebt und führt Sie durch einige der schönsten Landschaften der Ardennen.
• Kanu fahren: Erkunden Sie die Flüsse Ourthe und Semois und entdecken Sie versteckte Buchten und idyllische Ausblicke.

Hoge Kempen National Park: An untouched natural paradise

TheHoge Kempen National Parkin the east of Belgium is the country's first national park and offers an extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna. The vast coniferous forests, heathland and lakes invite you to explore.

Visitors can:

• Über 200 km an Wander- und Radwegen entdecken
• Vogelbeobachtungen in diesem geschützten Lebensraum genießen
• Die zahlreichen Ausstellungszentren und Informationsstellen besuchen, um mehr über die Natur zu erfahren

Hainich nature reserve: diverse landscapes

TheHainich nature reserveis another highlight for nature lovers. It offers impressive biodiversity and a network of hiking and cycling trails. Here you can see rare animal species like thatBlack storksorWolvesobserve.

The untouched nature and the opportunity to hike in a quiet environment make this area an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and nature lovers.

The North Sea coast: the sound of the sea and sandy beaches

BelgiumNorth Sea coastis not only known for its lively seaside resorts, but also offers breathtaking natural landscapes. The extensive beaches are ideal for long walks and offer numerous opportunities for water sports.

• Strandaktivitäten: Von Windsurfen bis zu Strandwanderungen – die Küste hat für jeden etwas zu bieten.
• Vogelbeobachtung: In den Naturschutzgebieten entlang der Küste kann man viele verschiedene Vogelarten beobachten, besonders während der Zugzeiten.

Rock views: The cliffs of Étretat

Although Étretat is not geographically part of Belgium, it is just a stone's throw from the Belgian border and the spectacular cliffs of Étretat are worth a visit. This stunning coastal feature offers scenic views and spectacular sunsets.

Many Belgians prefer to take a day trip there to enjoy the natural beauty and fresh sea air.

Top tips for exploring nature in Belgium

Belgium offers a remarkable variety of natural landscapes that appeal to all the senses. Whether you are a hiker, cyclist or just a nature lover, the opportunities to experience breathtaking nature are limitless. Get ready to explore Belgium's fascinating national parks and natural areas and enjoy unforgettable experiences in this small but large natural treasure trove.

Festivals and events: Experience traditions up close

Belgium is known for its vibrant festival culture, which is celebrated in different ways in each region of the country. From colorful carnivals to impressive religious celebrations to internationally recognized music festivals, Belgium has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the most outstanding events you shouldn't miss during your visit:

• Der Karneval von Binche: Dieser UNESCO-anerkannte Karneval findet in der Stadt Binche statt und ist berühmt für seine traditionell gekleideten „Gilles“. Die Veranstaltung zieht Tausende von Besuchern an und ist ein Fest voller Umzüge, Musik und Tanz.
• Gentse Feesten: Jedes Jahr im Juli verwandelt sich die historische Stadt Gent für zehn Tage in eine Feier der Kunst und Kultur. Straßenkünstler, Musiker, Theateraufführungen und ein umfangreicher Markt sorgen für unauslöschliche Erinnerungen.
• Brüsseler Comic Strip Festival: In der Hauptstadt Brüssel wird im September das Comic Strip Festival gefeiert, das die belgische Comic-Kultur ehrt, inklusive berühmter Figuren wie Tim und Struppi oder Die Schlümpfe. Es gibt Aufführungen, Ausstellungen und zahlreiche Aktivitäten für die ganze Familie.
• Der Weihnachtsmarkt in Brügge: Im Dezember wird Brügge zu einem Winterwunderland mit festlich geschmückten Ständen, Glühwein und handgemachten Geschenken. Diese Veranstaltung macht den Besuch in dieser malerischen Stadt noch magischer.
• Oktoberfest in Belgien: Eine Hommage an das berühmte Münchner Festival, findet das belgische Oktoberfest in verschiedenen Städten statt, mit Bier, traditioneller Musik und bayerischer Küche, die das ganze Land begeistert.

Belgium not only has festivals with a long tradition, but also modern events that attract international attention:

• Tomorrowland: Das weltberühmte EDM-Festival findet jedes Jahr in Boom statt und zieht Fans aus aller Welt an. Mit atemberaubenden Bühnen und einem spektakulären Line-up ist Tomorrowland ein Muss für Musikliebhaber.
• Flandern im Frühjahr: Im April vergibt Flandern über einen Monat hinweg Veranstaltungen, die von Radtouren bis hin zu lokalen Festen reichen. Es ist die perfekte Gelegenheit, die lokalen Köstlichkeiten und Weine zu probieren und die farbenfrohe Frühlingsblüte zu genießen.
• Brussels Jazz Marathon: Liebhaber des Jazz kommen im Mai auf ihre Kosten, wenn Brüssel ein ganzes Wochenende lang ein Jazzfest feiert. In den Straßen und Parks der Stadt treten Künstler aus aller Welt auf.

A special highlight are the many religious festivals in Belgium:

• Die Prozession von Oudenarde: Diese geschichtsträchtige Veranstaltung wird alle sieben Jahre zu Ehren der Heiligen Anna durchgeführt und zieht Tausende von Gläubigen und Touristen an. Die Prozession umfasst historische Kostüme und Musik.
• Die Kapelle der Heiligen Gudula in Brüssel: Hier finden zu besonderen Anlässen Konzerte und festliche Gottesdienste statt, die oft von der Ministerpräsidentin des Landes besucht werden.

To make it easier to see the variety of events, it is worth taking a look at the events calendar:

These festivals express not only Belgium's vibrant culture, but also the hospitality of its people. You'll quickly notice that the connection between history and modern society is strong here. Belgians are proud of their traditions and welcome you to celebrate with them.

Whether you are a music lover, a food connoisseur or just want to experience the local culture, Belgium has something to offer for everyone. The best part? You're never alone because Belgians love sharing their traditions with visitors. Make sure you attend one of the many events and enjoy the authentic feeling of being part of these unique celebrations.

Practical tips for your Belgium holiday

Belgium is not only a country full of charm, culture and delicious food, but also a wonderful destination to explore. To ensure your trip goes smoothly and you get the most out of your Belgium adventure, here are some practical tips to help you on your exploration.

Travel time and climate tips

The best time to visit Belgium is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). The weather is usually mild and pleasant during this time. Here are some tips about the weather:

• Frühling: Die Temperaturen sind oft zwischen 10 und 20 Grad Celsius, packe also leichte Kleidung ein, aber auch einen Pullover für kühlere Tage.
• Sommer: Juillet und August können heiß werden, mit Temperaturen über 25 Grad Celsius. Sonnencreme und Sonnenbrille sind ein Muss.
• Herbst: Die Temperaturen sinken wieder, bring also eine wetterfeste Jacke mit, da es auch regnerisch werden kann.
• Winter: In den Monaten Dezember bis Februar kann es kalt werden, also denke an warme Kleidung und eventuell an einen Regenschirm.

Getting around Belgium

Belgium has an excellent public transport network. Here are some options:

• Zug: Die Bahngesellschaft SNCB bietet regelmäßige Verbindungen zwischen den großen Städten. Züge sind eine der besten Methoden, um schnell von einer Stadt zur anderen zu gelangen.
• BahnCard: Eine BahnCard kann dir helfen, Geld zu sparen, wenn du mehrere Bahnreisen planst.
• Bus und Straßenbahn: Belgiens Städte haben effiziente Bus- und Straßenbahnnetze. Insbesondere in Brüssel und Antwerpen sind diese sehr nützlich.
• Fahrrad: Belgien ist sehr fahrradfreundlich, also miete dir ein Rad, um die Städte aus einer anderen Perspektive zu erkunden.

Accommodation options

The choice of accommodation in Belgium is diverse. Here are some options you should consider:

• Hotels: Von luxuriösen Fünf-Sterne-Hotels bis zu gemütlichen Boutique-Hotels findest du passende Unterkünfte in jeder Preisklasse.
• Hostels: Ideal für reisende Backpacker und solche, die eine günstige Unterkunft suchen.
• Airbnb: Viele Einwohner bieten ihre Wohnungen zur Miete an, was dir die Möglichkeit gibt, wie ein Einheimischer zu leben.

Language and communication

There are three official languages ​​in Belgium: Dutch, French and German. While Dutch is spoken in Flanders (northern part), French in Wallonia (southern part) and German in some smaller communities, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Here are some useful tips:

• Ein paar grundlegende Sätze in der Landessprache zu lernen, kann helfen, die Sonne auf dein Gesicht zu zaubern!
• Bedenke, dass in den meisten Restaurants und Geschäften Englisch gesprochen wird.

Money and currencies

Belgium belongs to the Eurozone, so the Euro (EUR) is used as its currency. Some tips about money and payments:

• Die meisten Geschäfte, Restaurants und Hotels akzeptieren Kreditkarten, jedoch können kleinere Geschäfte Bargeld bevorzugen.
• Geldautomaten sind in den Städten weit verbreitet und bieten die Möglichkeit, Bargeld abzuheben.
• Wechselstuben sind auch verfügbar, doch prüfe die Wechselgebühren, da diese variieren können.

Health and safety

Belgium is considered a safe country to travel to, but it is always wise to follow a few safety measures:

• Sei vorsichtig mit deinen Wertsachen, insbesondere in stark frequentierten Touristengebieten.
• Eine Auslandskrankenversicherung zu haben, kann sich als nützlich erweisen.
• Die Notrufnummer in Belgien ist 112.

Tips for enjoying food

Belgium is famous for its culinary delights, and here are some tips to make the most of it:

• Probiere lokale Snacks und Spezialitäten wie Waffeln, Pommes Frites und die berühmte belgische Schokolade.
• Achte auf typische Gerichte wie „Moules-frites“ (Muscheln mit Pommes) und „Carbonnade flamande“ (Flemish Beef Stew).
• Bierliebhaber sollten die unterschiedlichen Biersorten, die in den lokalen Brauereien angeboten werden, nicht verpassen.

Necessary travel documents

Before you leave, check the necessary travel documents:

• Ein gültiger Reisepass oder Personalausweis ist erforderlich, um nach Belgien einzureisen.
• EU-Bürger benötigen in der Regel kein Visum für einen Kurzaufenthalt.

With these tips you'll be well prepared to explore Belgium's magical cities, delicious food and rich culture. Enjoy your trip!