Great day trips Belgium: Cities
Background photo: Ypres, not mentioned in the list below
10 great city day trips in Belgium. Change categories for more great destinations.
1.Brussels
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Brussels: A City of Hidden Gems and Iconic Landmarks
Brussels is a city that tends to evoke strong opinions—you either love it or you don't. But one thing is undeniable: the city is brimming with treasures waiting to be discovered. Some of these gems are iconic and widely recognized, while others only known to the curious explorer. Whether you're a tourist or a local Belgian, Brussels is a destination that deserves your attention. Here are some of the most famous spots for stunning cityscapes and photography:
For more inspiration, check out the 'Activities page', where you'll find multiple recommendations for exploring Brussels and its surroundings. |
2. Bruges
Bruges [NL: Brugge], one of the Venices of the north, with loads of canals floating through the city center. The medieval character of the city is well maintained. Due to the absence of high-rise buildings and the small amount of cars driving through the city center, the city is a perfect location for wanderers and photographers. It is one of the most beautiful, but also one of the most touristic cities in Belgium.
It is a great places to discover Flemish culture, both historical and culinary. It is also perfect to spot medieval arhitecture, canals and bridges.
Don't forget to visit:
- The market square
- Multiple Beguinages
- A local brewery like 'de halve maan'
- Many viewpoints at the canels
Don't forget to check out the 'Nature list', since their is a topic located nearby Bruges.
It is a great places to discover Flemish culture, both historical and culinary. It is also perfect to spot medieval arhitecture, canals and bridges.
Don't forget to visit:
- The market square
- Multiple Beguinages
- A local brewery like 'de halve maan'
- Many viewpoints at the canels
- Rose hat quay
- Bonifacius Bridge
- Minnewaterlake and park
- Windmills
- Just walk through and around the whole city. It's really small and there is a lot to see!
Don't forget to check out the 'Nature list', since their is a topic located nearby Bruges.
3. GhentGhent [NL: Gent] is a wonderful medieval city with a great historical city center. Next to medieval buildings, many churches and towers reach high in the sky. If you compare Ghent with Bruges, the city is larger and you really have the feeling you're in a city, while Bruges often looks like a village.
In Ghent, only the city center has medieval buildings. While in Bruges, almost the whole city looks medieval. Ghent has way more highlights and towers. Especially the region around the Korenmarkt has many incredible towers. A bit further to the north, you can find a castle called 'Het Gravensteen'. Some of the highlights for sightseeing: - Gravensteen castle - Graslei - Saint Michiels Bridge - Korenmarkt - Saint Baafs Cathedral - De krook library - Saint Pieters Abbey and wineyards - Citadelpark Ghent is also a perfect place for nightlife and shopping. It's a young city with many students, starters and a quite large international Erasmus community. TIP: buy a ticket to visit the Belfry and climb the hundreds of stairs to the top to enjoy a wonderful 360° panorama over Ghent and its towers. |
4. Antwerp
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Antwerp [NL: Antwerpen] is the capital city of the Province of Antwerp, and also the biggest city of Flanders. It's a very multicultural city with a large history.
Next to that, it's a great place for a citytrip and for photography but also for shopping and entertainment. The city has a lot of different places and styles. Some highlights for either photography or activities: - Great market square: historical buildings - Cathedral of Our Lady - Central station building: incredible architecture - Port authority - Havenhuis: incredible modern architecture - MAS: museum and panorama - Walk at the banks of the 'Schelde' river - Marina and "'t eilandje" - Port area - Antwerp zoo A little bit further - Doel: an abandoned town nearby Antwerp. I will write a separate topic about Doel itself soon. |
5. MechelenAlso Mechelen is a typical cultural city in Belgium. The city is located right in the middle between Brussels and Antwerp and therefore is a great base point.
The city has a mix of everything you would expect in cultural Belgian City. A beautiful historical center with many towers, bars and shops, waterways going straight through the city, cosy parks.. I think you can compare the city to Leuven. A great city with many secrets. Nevertheless, I know I haven't seen every corner of the city so far, but Ghent and Bruges definitely have a lot more to offer. I'm sorry for disappointing the people who love this city. Some of the highlights: - St Rumbold's Cathedral - Palace of Margareta of Austria - Winter gardens Ursulinen - Dijlepad, a walk on the banks of the River Dijle. - The great beguinage - Museum 'Hof van Busleyden' |
Large market square in Mechelen. - Traveltower
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6. LIÈGE
Liège: A City of Contrasts
Liège, the second-largest city in Wallonia after Charleroi, is located in the province that shares its name. Just an hour's drive from Brussels, it serves as an excellent base for exploring both Limburg and the Ardennes.
Although I often pass through Liège on my way to the Ardennes or Germany, I haven’t spent much time in the city itself recently—the last time I visited was when I was a child. To be honest, Liège doesn’t immediately attract me as a destination. It strikes me as a somewhat grey and monotone city. That said, I have no doubt that it offers plenty of interesting sights and activities. It could also be a fantastic spot for urban photography, with its unique blend of modern and historical elements.
Some highlights of Liège:
I’d love to hear your thoughts and tips about Liège! Share your opinions or must-visit spots in the comments below.
Liège, the second-largest city in Wallonia after Charleroi, is located in the province that shares its name. Just an hour's drive from Brussels, it serves as an excellent base for exploring both Limburg and the Ardennes.
Although I often pass through Liège on my way to the Ardennes or Germany, I haven’t spent much time in the city itself recently—the last time I visited was when I was a child. To be honest, Liège doesn’t immediately attract me as a destination. It strikes me as a somewhat grey and monotone city. That said, I have no doubt that it offers plenty of interesting sights and activities. It could also be a fantastic spot for urban photography, with its unique blend of modern and historical elements.
Some highlights of Liège:
- Train station Guillemins: A stunning piece of contemporary architecture by Santiago Calatrava.
- Montagne de Bueren: Iconic stairs offering a workout and a great view.
- La Batte Sunday Market: A vibrant market brimming with local charm.
- The Hidden Alleys of Liège (Impasses): Quaint and atmospheric walkways perfect for exploring.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and tips about Liège! Share your opinions or must-visit spots in the comments below.
7. OSTEND
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In Ostend [NL: Oostende], I was born and raised and therefore I can't exclude it from this list. Ostend doesn't always have the best reputation and the city is often criticized. Nevertheless I want to show you the charm and potential of this coastal city.
Best photography spots and places to see: - Venetian Galleries and Thermae Palace Hotel - Ostend Marina and Mercatordok - The Pier of Ostend - The easter bank [fort Napoleon, luxury skyscrapers, dunes and bunkers] - Domein Raversyde and 'Atlantikwall' - Maria Hendrika park - The beach and breakwaters - Sint-Petrus-en-Paulus church Best events and things to do: - The Chrystal Ship [street art], check my activities page for more information. - 'Oostende voor anker' [Ship festival] - Ostend during Christmas: "Winter in the park". - Fiery Mondays [fireworks in summer] - Sand sculpture festival (update: this event moved to Middelkerke) Next to these events mentioned above, almost every weekend and particulary in summer, there are loads of events and festivals: - Beer events (North Sea beer festival,..) - Food & foodtruck festivals (Barrio Cantina,..) - Theater festivals (TAZ,..) - Ostend filmfestival - Music festivals (Ostend Beach, Paulusfeesten,..) - ... There’s always something happening in this vibrant city. Check the city’s official event website for the latest updates! TIP: Take the free water shuttle to the eastern bank of the harbor. Next to more quiet beaches, rolling dunes and fort Napoleon, you can also spot the city’s modern luxury “skyscrapers” (by Belgian standards). From there, it’s just a short walk to my favorite spot for a breathtaking view of Ostend’s skyline |
The Mercator ship in Ostend. - Traveltower
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Beautiful monument of the Ghent Altarpiece, located at the beach in Ostend. - Traveltower
8. DURBUY
Durbuy: A Small City with Big Charm
With just 11,000 inhabitants, Durbuy is by far the smallest and least populated city on this list. Despite its size, it is one of the top attractions in Wallonia. While some people prefer to escape the crowds, Durbuy offers something for everyone to enjoy.
The city itself is compact and can be explored quickly, and to be honest, it is nothing special at all, but the surrounding area is packed with activities and sights to discover:
Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or tranquility, Durbuy has something special to offer.
With just 11,000 inhabitants, Durbuy is by far the smallest and least populated city on this list. Despite its size, it is one of the top attractions in Wallonia. While some people prefer to escape the crowds, Durbuy offers something for everyone to enjoy.
The city itself is compact and can be explored quickly, and to be honest, it is nothing special at all, but the surrounding area is packed with activities and sights to discover:
- The Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of this historic gem.
- The Labyrinth of Barvaux: A fun and unique experience for all ages.
- Adventure Activities: Test your limits with activities like high ropes courses, ziplining, kayaking, free-fall jumps, climbing, or mountain biking.
- Cave Exploration: Visit one of the stunning caves just a few kilometers from Durbuy.
- Enjoy Nature: Relax and take in the serene beauty of the surrounding countryside.
Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or tranquility, Durbuy has something special to offer.
9. TOURNAI
Tournai [NL: Doornik] is a historic city in the province of Hainaut, located in the French-speaking region of Belgium. As the second-oldest city in the country, with a history spanning over 2,000 years, Tournai boasts remarkable architectural heritage. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Cathedral of Tournai, a stunning Roman-Gothic structure dating back to the 12th century, with its tallest tower reaching an impressive height of 134 meters.
Like most of the cities in Belgium, Tournai is a good option for an afternoon visit but it's too small to stay there for multiple days. Nevertheless, It's quite cosy and there is definitely enough to do and see.
Like most of the cities in Belgium, Tournai is a good option for an afternoon visit but it's too small to stay there for multiple days. Nevertheless, It's quite cosy and there is definitely enough to do and see.
10. DINANT
Will be featured soon... Still haven't been there :)