Unique Experiences You Will Love If You Visit Belgium

Photo Credits: Jorge Fernández Salas

Belgium might be a small country, but it packs a lot of charm and allure within its borders. From the picturesque cities to the impressive architecture, Belgium boasts a unique blend of contrast and diversity. Its fusion of art, history, culinary creativity, and cultural traditions make it an essential destination for travelers, vacationers, tourists, expats, and digital nomads. Follow along as we explore the enchanting country of waffles, beer, and chocolate through this travelogue.

Belgium is the country that gave the world some of its most adored contributions to food culture, including Belgian waffles, beer, fries and of course, chocolate. Belgian cuisine is famous for its hearty flavorful dishes that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of the people of this region. If you are a foodie and love to explore new tastes, then Belgian cuisine is guaranteed to send your taste buds on a wild adventure.

Belgian Waffles: No visit to Belgium is complete without trying their iconic Belgian Waffles. The Belgian waffles are a delicacy that has been perfected over many years to give us the lightest, crispest and most delicious offering. Brussels waffles are the most popular kind served with toppings such as whipped cream, strawberries, and chocolate sauce. Try these waffles at Maison Dandoy in Brussels, which has been making waffles since 1829!

Belgian Chocolate: Belgium is world-famous for its chocolate, and you don’t have to be a chocolate enthusiast to appreciate the heavenly offerings here. Belgium has a long history of producing chocolates that are unrivalled in their quality and range. For instance, try out the “Prasline” which is a unique kind of Belgian chocolate filled with creamy praline. Godiva is one of the most reputed chocolatiers in Belgium and is a must-visit for chocoholics. You can also check out Neuhaus, Leonidas, and many other chocolate houses.

Belgian Fries: While French fries may be known the world over, Belgian fries are another level of deliciousness. Belgian fries are thicker than the regular fries and are served unique dipping sauces. I would highly recommend checking out Fritland in Brussels; it is a legendary spot for fries and has been serving since 1984.

Carbonnade: Carbonnade is a rich and hearty beef stew that is brewed to perfection with beer and served with fluffy mashed potatoes. The beer used changes based on the region but is typically a darker beer-like Rodenbach. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings and is best enjoyed with the locals at La Petite Histoire in Brussels.

Belgian beer: Belgians take their beer very seriously, and they produce some of the finest brews in the world. Belgium boasts over 1,000 different kinds of beer, with breweries producing unique beers using local ingredients that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you prefer a Trappist beer or a fruity lambic, Belgium has something for everyone.

Belgium is renowned for its artistic heritage and vibrant contemporary art scene. The capital city, Brussels, is a cultural hub teeming with stunning galleries, museums, and artistic landmarks. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just appreciate beautiful aesthetics, immersing yourself in Belgian art is a must-do experience when visiting Brussels.

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is a centrally located complex of six museums that together showcase Europe’s most extensive collection of art, spanning from the 15th to the 21st centuries. The complex includes an extensive collection of Flemish and Belgian art, along with notable international artists such as Rubens, Bruegel, and Bosch. One of the highlights of the museum complex is the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of the surrealist artist René Magritte.

Botanique
Botanique is a unique modern art museum situated in the Botanical Gardens of Brussels. The museum focuses on contemporary artists working in music, visual arts, and performance. You’ll find several exhibition spaces with regularly changing installations, making it an exciting destination to return to multiple times during your stay.

WIELS Contemporary Art Centre
If you’re a fan of contemporary art, WIELS Contemporary Art Centre is a must-visit destination in Brussels. The center, which is located in a former brewery, featuring an expansive exhibition space that hosts temporary exhibitions and installations. The center is committed to showcasing up-and-coming artists, both local and international, making it an excellent way to discover new talent in the art world.

Galerie Valérie Bach
Galerie Valérie Bach specializes in contemporary art from an international array of exciting artists. The gallery regularly hosts exhibitions and events, creating an ever-changing and diverse atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of unique and eye-catching pieces here, with artworks spanning traditional and contemporary mediums.

The Comic Strip Museum
Belgium is renowned for its comic strips, and The Comic Strip Museum in Brussels is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in this unique art form. The museum is housed in an Art Nouveau building and showcases the work of Belgian artists, including Tintin, Lucky Luke and the Smurfs, among others.

If you’re a beer lover, there is no better place to go than Belgium! Belgium is a country that has made a name for itself around the world as the home of the tastiest and finest beers. You’ll find over 3,000 beers from over 160 breweries in the country, and each one has its unique flavor, taste, and aroma. Belgian beer is often compared to wine because of its complexity and diversity. There are many types of beers to choose from, such as Abbey, Trappist, Fruit, White, Pils, and Lambic, and each of them delivers a different experience.

Belgium is known for the quality of its beers, with many of them coming from small, independent breweries that you’re not going to find elsewhere in Europe, let alone the world. Brussels is the best starting point for a beer tasting tour as there are several breweries in the city, such as Cantillon Brewery, Brussels Beer Project, and Brasserie de la Senne, to name just a few. There, you can try some of the best Belgian beers, learn about the brewing process, and meet like-minded people on the same beer-tasting journey.

If you’re a fan of Trappist beers, then head to Chimay, a small town in the southern Belgian province of Hainaut. The Chimay Brewery has been producing Trappist beer since 1862, and you can visit their brewery and immerse yourself in a century of brewing history. You’ll also find beers from other Trappist breweries in the region, such as Orval and Westvleteren.

If you want to discover local beers, go to Ghent, one of Belgium’s most beautiful and entertaining cities. Gentse Gruut Brewery is famous for using herbs instead of hops, giving their beers a unique and distinctive taste. You can also visit Dok Brewery, which is based in an old industrial building, and try their range of Belgian sour beers.

St. Bavo’s Cathedral

St. Bavo’s Cathedral is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Ghent. Built in the 14th century, the cathedral is an impressive example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral has an impressive collection of paintings, including the world-famous ‘Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’ painted by the Van Eyck brothers. The cathedral also has an impressive interior that will leave you in awe. If you’re visiting Ghent for the first time, a visit to St. Bavo’s Cathedral should be at the top of your to-do list.

Saint Nicholas’ Church

Saint Nicholas’ Church is another must-visit church in Ghent. The church is located in the heart of the city and was built in the 13th century. The church has a stunning interior that includes a massive Baroque pulpit that was constructed in the 17th century. If you’re lucky, you may also hear the church’s massive organ in action. Saint Nicholas’ Church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is definitely worth a visit.

Saint Michael’s Church

Saint Michael’s Church is yet another beautiful example of Gothic architecture in Ghent. The church was built in the 15th century and is located in the heart of Ghent. The church has an impressive interior, with stunning stained glass windows and a massive pipe organ. If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful place to reflect, Saint Michael’s Church is the perfect destination.

Saint Bavo’s Abbey

Saint Bavo’s Abbey is another must-visit church in Ghent. The abbey was established in the 7th century and has undergone various renovations over the years. The abbey has a stunning interior that includes beautiful stained glass windows and an impressive organ. The abbey also has a rich history, with various manuscripts, documents, and artifacts on display. A visit to Saint Bavo’s Abbey is a chance to step back in time and explore the rich history of Ghent.

Antwerp’s Central Station is a magnificent railway station located in the heart of Antwerp city center. It is not only one of the busiest railway stations in Belgium but also one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Antwerp’s Central Station is a must-visit attraction for travelers and commuters who are interested in architecture, history, and culture.

The History of Antwerp’s Central Station
Antwerp’s Central Station was built between 1895 and 1905, during the height of the Belle Époque. It was designed by Louis Delacenserie, who was inspired by the Brussels South Railway Station. The station was built in an eclectic style, with elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The station has undergone many changes over the years, including a major renovation in 2007, which brought the station back to its former glory.

The Modern Architecture of the Station
The modern architecture of Antwerp’s Central Station was designed by the Belgian architect Koen Van Synghel. The station has a contemporary and modern look, with a large steel and glass dome that covers the central hall. The dome is 75 meters high and is supported by 12 steel columns, which are each 32 meters high. The dome represents a modern interpretation of the historical cupola that was once part of the station.

The Grand Central Hall
One of the most impressive features of Antwerp’s Central Station is the Grand Central Hall. The hall is located under the steel and glass dome and is lined with marble floors and walls. It is a grand space that is used for various events and exhibitions throughout the year. The hall is also home to several cafes, restaurants, and shops, where travelers can grab a bite or a souvenir.

The Railway Cathedral
Antwerp’s Central Station has been nicknamed the “Railway Cathedral” due to its grandeur and beauty. The station is not just a transportation hub but also an architectural masterpiece that attracts thousands of tourists every year. The station’s unique beauty has been recognized by many international publications, including Newsweek, which ranked it as the fourth most beautiful railway station in the world.Tips for Visiting Antwerp’s Central Station:
When visiting Antwerp’s Central Station, make sure to take the time to explore the station’s many unique features. The station has several hidden gems, including a beautiful stained-glass window by the Belgian artist Tim Lowly. Also, make sure to take a walk outside the station, where you can see the stunning train shed that was built in 1899. Finally, don’t forget to take a selfie in front of the station, which is a must-do activity for any traveler visiting Antwerp.

Belgium’s charm is not only in the canals, restaurants, and chocolate shops, but also in the attitude of its people and their way of life. Travelers who visit Belgium will come home with an appreciation of a society that takes its passions seriously. The people of Belgium know how to enjoy life, and with this, they have attracted visitors from all over the globe, drawn to its warm character.