Belgium Things to Do Tips by windsorgirl

Brussels, the capital of Belgium

Brussels has a lovely Market Place. It has been called the most beautiful square in the world. At night the guildhals surrounding the Market Place are illuminated and in the morning you will find a colourful flower market.

Directions: Brussels is located in the centre of Belgium along the Paris-Amsterdam rail line.

Royal Palace, Brussels

This palace had been the official residence of the royal family up until 1935. Now the Royals live in their palace at Laken.

The Palais Royale is now used for the king's official business and for state receptions. This is a beautiful building with equally attractive formal gardens in front. During July and August, you can tour the interior of the palace as well.

Gravensteen Castle, Gent

You will probably pass through Gent on your way to Brugges from Brussels. It is worth a stop to see the midieval Gravensteen Castle, complete with turrets, dungeons and a moat.

Directions: Gent is located about 50kms west of Brussels and the Castle is located north of St. Michael's bridge on Canal Sint-Veereplein

Antwerp

Antwerp has a lovely old city with many beautiful buildings, most located near the Grote Markt, including the town hall and cathedral.

Antwerp is also known as the home of the famous Flemish painter, Rubens. There are several museums here that represent the works of the Old Flemish Masters.

Directions: Antwerp is located 40kms north of Brussels and very close to the border with the Netherlands.

Mannekin-Pis, Brussels

This is a very popular landmark in Brussels. It is a small fountain of a young boy urinating. Apparantly he has an extensive wardrobe as well, and is dressed up for special occasions.

Directions: This fountain is located 3 blocks behind the town hall at the corner of rue de l'Etuve and rue de Chene.

Commonwealth War Cemetery, Passchendaele

This is the world's largest Commonwealth War Cemetery. 12,000 men lie together here on the slope where they died in a horrific battle so far from home. Many of them were Canadians, Australians and New Zealanders. It is very moving to see row upon row of tombstones as far as the eye can see.

Battlefield Tours at Ypres

If you ever had a relative involved in WWI, or if you have an interest in history, or none of the above (as I was) you will still enjoy a tour of the WWI battlefields. It is a very moving and eye opening experience especially for those of us too young and too lucky to have experienced war ourselves.

The tours will also visit several War Cemeteries and some will help you locate the grave of a lost relative. You can pick up a tour from Brugges, ask at your hotel/hostel.

Stadhuis, Brugges

This gothic Town Hall is located near the Market Place in Burg Square. The tourist office and probably your hotel or hostel will furnish you with a map of the city with excellent suggested walking tours.

Market Place, Brugges

When in Brugges, be sure to visit the Market Place. Here you will find many charming cafes as well as the imposing Belfry. You can climb the 366 steps up this Bell Tower for a spectacular view of the city.

Brugges

Brugges is like visiting a movie set for some historic movie. Every building is in perfect repair, every flower box is brimming with perfect blooms, the streets are cobbled and the waterways offer perfect reflections of this gorgeous city.

If you enjoy photography, bring lots of film and plan on staying at least one day.