Top Tourist Attractions In Belgium: Complete 2025 Guide By Malik Express
Belgium may be small, but it is one of Europe’s most diverse and rewarding destinations. Within a few days you can explore grand Gothic squares, peaceful canals, vibrant art cities, First World War memorials and forested hills in the Ardennes. Add world-class chocolate, waffles, fries and hundreds of local beers, and you have all the ingredients for a memorable European trip.
For travellers from Pakistan, Belgium is an excellent introduction to Western Europe. It is part of the Schengen Area, compact and easy to travel around, and well connected by high-speed rail to France, the Netherlands, Germany and beyond. You can use Brussels as a base, then take short trips to Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp and other cities without long journeys.
In this Belgium travel guide, Malik Express Travel & Tours highlights the top tourist attractions in Belgium, shares practical tips and explains how our team can help you plan a smooth Europe holiday from Pakistan.
Why Visit Belgium?
- Iconic Historic Cities In A Compact Country
Within a few hours’ travel you can visit Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp – all filled with medieval architecture, museums and lively squares – plus smaller towns like Dinant or Leuven.
- UNESCO-Listed Heritage And Beautiful Squares
Belgium’s highlights include Bruges’ historic centre, Grand Place in Brussels and the belfries of Flanders and Wallonia, which are recognised by UNESCO for their cultural and architectural value.
Belgian chocolate, waffles, fries with sauces, mussels and speciality beers are world famous. Each region also has its own local dishes and markets.
- Central Schengen Location
Belgium’s location between France, the Netherlands, Germany and Luxembourg makes it ideal for multi-country itineraries using one Schengen visa. High-speed trains connect Brussels to Paris, Amsterdam, London (via Eurostar) and other major cities.
Top Tourist Attractions In Belgium
1. Brussels - Grand Place, Atomium And European Capital
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union, mixes historic charm with modern glass offices and international institutions.
Grand Place (Grote Markt)
Grand Place is Brussels’ central square and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Surrounded by ornate guildhalls, the Town Hall and the King’s House, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see both by day and illuminated at night.
Other Key Sights In Brussels
- Manneken Pis - the small but iconic statue of a little boy, often dressed in different costumes.
- Atomium - a unique building in the shape of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, with observation spheres offering 360-degree views over the city.
- Royal Galleries Saint-Hubert - elegant 19th-century glass-roofed arcades with chocolate shops and cafés.
Travel Tip
Stay near the city centre or close to a main station like Bruxelles-Midi for easy access to both local attractions and day-trip trains.
2. Bruges - Canals, Medieval Streets And Chocolate
Bruges (Brugge) is often described as a fairy-tale medieval city, with cobbled streets, canals and step-gabled houses. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Belgium’s most popular tourist attractions.
Highlights In Bruges
- Belfry Of Bruges - climb the tower on Market Square for panoramic views over rooftops and canals.
- Canal Cruise - see the city from the water, passing under stone bridges and along historic façades.
- Beguinage And Minnewater (Lake of Love) - peaceful locations with white houses, gardens and swans.
Travel Tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tour-group crowds.
- Book at least one night in Bruges so you can enjoy the quiet evening atmosphere after day-trippers leave.
3. Ghent - Vibrant Canals And Gravensteen Castle
Ghent combines medieval architecture with a lively student population and creative energy. Once a powerful trading city, it is now known for its canals, street art and events.
Top Sights In Ghent
- Gravensteen Castle - a medieval fortress in the city centre, with towers, ramparts and a view over Ghent’s rooftops.
- Graslei And Korenlei - picturesque quays along the Leie River, lined with historic houses and cafe terraces.
- St Bavo’s Cathedral - home to the famous altarpiece “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”, one of Europe’s masterpieces of religious art.
Travel Tip
Ghent is easy to visit as a day trip from Brussels, but staying overnight shows its evening charm when canals and monuments are beautifully lit.
4. Antwerp - Fashion, Diamonds And Rubens
Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city and a major port. It is famous for its fashion scene, diamond district and artistic heritage linked to Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens.
What To See In Antwerp
- Cathedral Of Our Lady - a stunning church with important works by Rubens.
- Grote Markt And Old Town - historic square, guildhouses and city hall.
- MAS (Museum Aan De Stroom) - museum about the city and port with a rooftop terrace offering sweeping views.
Travel Tip
Antwerp’s central station is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world; plan a few minutes just to admire its architecture when you arrive or depart.
5. Leuven - Lively University Town Close To Brussels
Leuven is a historic university town just east of Brussels, known for its mix of Gothic buildings and lively student atmosphere.
Highlights
- Town Hall And Grote Markt - an ornate Gothic town hall covered with statues, plus a square filled with terraces.
- Old Market (Oude Markt) - often called the longest bar in the world due to its many cafés.
Leuven is easy to visit on a half-day trip from Brussels and gives a more local feel than some larger cities.
6. Ardennes - Hills, Forests And Outdoor Activities
Southern Belgium is dominated by the Ardennes, a region of rolling hills, forests, rivers and small villages. It offers hiking, cycling, kayaking and castle visits.
Key Spots In The Ardennes Include:
- Dinant - dramatic town squeezed between cliffs and the Meuse River, with a citadel overlooking the valley and boat trips on the water.
- Bouillon - hilltop castle and scenic views along the Semois River.
- Spa And Spa-Francorchamps - spa town and world-famous Formula 1 circuit in a forested setting.
Travel Tip
The Ardennes are best explored with a car or organised tour, as some areas are less accessible by public transport.
7. Flanders Fields - First World War Remembrance
Around Ypres (Ieper) and the Westhoek region lie the historic battlefields of the First World War, collectively known as Flanders Fields. Visitors can see cemeteries, memorials and museums dedicated to soldiers from many countries.
Important Sites Include:
- Menin Gate In Ypres - where the Last Post is sounded every evening in remembrance of the fallen.
- In Flanders Fields Museum - in Ypres’ Cloth Hall, explaining the war’s history in an engaging way.
- This region is especially meaningful for travellers interested in history and remembrance tourism.
8. Belgian Coast - Beach Towns And Dunes
Belgium’s short coastline along the North Sea features sandy beaches, dunes and family-friendly resorts such as Ostend, Blankenberge and De Haan.
What To Expect
- Long promenades with cafes, ice-cream stands and bike rentals
- Tram line running along the entire coast, making it easy to hop between towns
- Opportunities for walking in dunes and bird reserves
Travel Tip
The coast is most popular in summer, especially with Belgian families. Visit in late spring or early autumn for quieter beaches.
Best Time To Visit Belgium
Belgium has a temperate climate with no extreme weather, so you can visit almost all year, but some seasons are better for particular activities.
Mild weather, blossoming parks and more daylight. Ideal for city walking tours and cycling trips.
- Summer (July To Early September)
Warmest months with festivals, outdoor events and busy cafe terraces. Best for the Belgian coast and Ardennes outdoor activities, but also the most crowded time in Bruges and Brussels.
- Autumn (Late September To November)
Pleasant temperatures, colourful foliage in parks and the Ardennes, and often fewer tourists. A good time for city breaks and countryside drives.
- Winter (December To February)
Colder and darker, but Christmas markets in Brussels, Bruges and other cities create a cosy atmosphere. Ideal for short city trips and chocolate shop visits.
Essential travel Tips For Belgium
1. Visa And Entry For Travellers From Pakistan
- Belgium is part of the Schengen Area. Pakistani citizens normally need a Schengen short-stay visa to visit, which typically allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Belgium and other Schengen countries.
- Belgian and EU authorities emphasise that a visa does not guarantee entry; border officers still check conditions on arrival, and from 2025 the EU’s new Entry/Exit System will gradually digitise passport stamps and track short stays electronically.
- Malik Express can help you understand these rules and prepare a strong application, but final decisions always rest with the embassy or visa centre.
2. Getting Around Belgium
- Belgium’s rail network is dense and efficient, connecting Brussels with Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Leuven, Liège and other towns.
- Intercity trains usually require no advance seat reservation inside Belgium, making day trips flexible.
- Public transport in cities (trams, buses, metro) is well developed, especially in Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent.
- For the Ardennes and some smaller villages, renting a car or joining organised tours gives much more freedom.
3. Money, Language And safety
- Currency: Euro (EUR). Cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments.
- Languages: Belgium has three official languages - Dutch (Flemish) in Flanders, French in Wallonia and German in a small eastern region. English is commonly spoken in cities and tourist areas.
- Safety: Belgium is generally safe for tourists. As in any major city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, stations and during festivals.
4. Budgeting And Planning Tips
- Hotels in Brussels can be cheaper on weekends when business travel decreases; in Bruges it can be the opposite during peak tourist periods.
- Buying rail passes or weekend tickets can save money if you plan several day trips.
- Combine Belgium with neighbouring countries by train to make the most of your international flight and Schengen visa.
How Malik Express Travel & Tours Can Help With Your Belgium Trip
Malik Express Travel & Tours, based in Islamabad, is a leading travel agency in Pakistan offering flight booking, tour packages, travel insurance and visa guidance for destinations worldwide, including Europe.
Here is how we can support your Belgium holiday:
1. Flight Planning And Ticketing
We Can:
- Suggest convenient routes from major Pakistani cities to Brussels via hubs such as Istanbul, Doha, Dubai or European gateways
- Compare airlines and connections to find a good balance of price and travel time
- Provide confirmed flight bookings and itineraries suitable for visa applications, according to embassy requirements
2. Schengen Visa Guidance For Belgium
While we cannot influence embassy decisions, Malik Express can:
- Explain the Belgium Schengen visa process step by step for Pakistani citizens
- Help you assemble required documents, including travel insurance, hotel vouchers, return tickets and detailed itineraries
- Provide advice on how to plan your stay to comply with the 90/180-day Schengen rule
3. Hotels, Transfers And Local Tours
Through our network of partners, we can:
- Recommend and book hotels in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp or Ardennes towns according to your budget and style
- Arrange airport transfers, city tours, chocolate and beer tastings, canal cruises, battlefield visits and countryside excursions with trusted local operators
- Suggest family-friendly and honeymoon-style itineraries, or tailor experiences for history lovers and food enthusiasts
4. Custom Europe Itineraries Including Belgium
Belgium fits easily into wider Europe tours. Malik Express regularly designs packages such as:
- Paris - Brussels - Amsterdam
- Brussels - Bruges - Ghent - Luxembourg
- Multi-country itineraries combining Belgium with France, the Netherlands, Germany or Switzerland
We can change the length of stay, hotel class and included tours depending on your budget, group size and travel goals.
5. Support Before And During Your Trip
From your first enquiry until you return home, we provide:
- Guidance on the best travel season and estimated budgets for Belgium
- Assistance with date changes, airline rules and travel insurance claims if needed
- Practical tips about public transport, local customs, safety and events as your departure approaches
Plan Your Belgium Adventure With Malik Express
Belgium offers far more than most travellers expect: spectacular historic squares, quiet canals, top-class museums, rolling hills and a rich food culture. It is compact, well connected and ideal both for short city breaks and longer Europe trips.
If you are in Pakistan and dreaming of exploring Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp or the green Ardennes, contact Malik Express Travel & Tours. Our team will help you turn this Belgium travel guide into a personalised itinerary, arrange flights and hotels, support your Schengen visa process and stay by your side throughout your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting Belgium
1. Is Belgium part of the Schengen Area?
Yes. Belgium is a member of the Schengen Zone. Travellers from Pakistan usually need a Schengen short-stay visa to enter Belgium and can visit other Schengen countries during the allowed period, depending on visa conditions.
2. What is the best time to visit Belgium?
Belgium is a year-round destination.
- Spring (April-June) and Autumn (Sept-Nov) are ideal for sightseeing and mild weather.
- Summer (July-Aug) is lively with festivals and long sunny days.
- Winter (Dec-Feb) is perfect for Christmas markets and cosy city breaks in Brussels or Bruges.
3. Which cities should I not miss in Belgium?
The top must-visit cities include:
- Brussels - Grand Place, Atomium, museums
- Bruges - medieval canals, Belfry, old town
- Ghent - Gravensteen Castle, riverside quays
- Antwerp - fashion, diamonds, Rubens art
Smaller gems like Leuven, Dinant and Mechelen are also highly recommended.
4. How many days do I need to explore Belgium?
A comfortable trip lasts 5 to 7 days, covering Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp. Add extra days if you want to explore the Ardennes or take day trips to Luxembourg, Amsterdam or Paris.
5. Is Belgium expensive for tourists?
Belgium is moderately priced compared to Western Europe. Brussels can be slightly more expensive, but Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp offer a range of budget to luxury options. Choosing the right travel season and hotel category keeps costs manageable.
6. What food is Belgium famous for?
Belgium is world-famous for:
- Belgian chocolate
- Belgian waffles
- Fries with sauces
- Mussels (Moules-Frites)
- Hundreds of unique Belgian beers
- Food lovers will enjoy local markets, waffle shops and artisan chocolatiers.
7. Is Belgium a good destination for families?
Yes. Belgium is family-friendly, with walkable cities, parks, museums, boat tours and kid-friendly attractions like Mini-Europe, Zoo Antwerp and Plopsaland theme parks.
8. How do I travel between cities in Belgium?
Belgium has one of Europe’s best rail networks. Trains connect Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp and Leuven efficiently and affordably. No advance seat reservation is required for most domestic journeys.
9. Can I visit other countries easily from Belgium?
Yes. Belgium is centrally located and ideal for multi-country trips. Popular connections include:
- Paris (1 hr 20 min by train)
- Amsterdam (2 hours by train)
- Luxembourg (3 hours by train)
- London via Eurostar
This makes Belgium a great base for Europe tours.
10. How can Malik Express Travel & Tours help me plan my Belgium trip?
Malik Express can assist with:
- Flight booking and route planning
- Belgium Schengen visa guidance
- Hotel reservations across Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and other cities
- Day tours, transfers and complete Europe itineraries
- Support before and during travel