TAKE A MINI ROAD TRIP IN BELGIUM
Belgium is well-known for its mediaeval cities, Renaissance architecture, and as the European Union and NATO's headquarters. To the north is Dutch-speaking Flanders, to the south is French-speaking Wallonia, and to the east is a German-speaking community. Its also quite small which means its perfect for a short road trip. We’re taking a look at Bruges, Brussels and antwerp, all great places but with very individual characters.
Photo. by Alex Vasey
What to do in Bruges
Photo by J. Torres
When people think of Belgium, they often think of Bruges. Canals wind their way through the town like a string of pearls, earning it the nickname "Venice of the North." It's practically hard to take a terrible picture here, with cobblestone roads, brick archways, stone cathedrals, and charming bridges. With swans on the water, horse-drawn carriages in the streets, and daffodils in the park, it's heavenly.
Allow plenty of time to become delightfully lost in this small city to properly discover the myriad joys around every corner, from lace boutiques and chocolate shops to architectural and historical gems.
1. Look for the windmills
Windmills are well-known in the Netherlands, but they are also found in Belgium. The Old Town of Bruges is bordered by a canal, and four 18th-century windmills may be found on the northeastern end. The Koeleweimolen and Sint-Janshuismolen mills are both functioning grain mills and are key parts of the city's history.
2. Take a boat tour down the canals
Bruges is a city of canals and has been dubbed "The Venice of the North" by several European towns. It's easy to see why a boat tour is one of the most popular things to do in Bruges, with so many rivers crisscrossing the city. The departure point for canal trips is Huidenvettersplein, and the voyage takes 30 minutes.
Photo by Andrei Toader
3. Eat some french fries with mayo
When visiting Bruges, there is one food you must try: french fries with mayonnaise. The controversy over whether the French or the Belgians originated the French fry has raged for years, with the Belgians claiming possession in these parts. Chip shops may be found all throughout town, but for a friendly competition, head to the main square, where two stands compete for supremacy right in front of the Belfry. Condiments are optional, however, one pump of mayo and one pump of curry ketchup are worth it.
4. Take a brewery tour of De Halve Maan.
The Half Moon Brewery is a well-known name in Bruges, and it's a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Tours last 45 minutes. A degustation of a Brugse Zot Blond is also included in the tour, because what's a brewery tour without some beer?
5. Try to figure out if the Belfry is really leaning
One of the greatest things to do in Bruges is see the Belfry of Bruges, a historic bell tower located in Market Square. The climb to the top is 366 steps, but once you're there, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views over the city. Trying to capture a symmetrical shot of the tower once you're back on solid ground is hilarious because the tower is actually slanted a full metre to the east.
What to do in Brussels
Photo by Sergio Otoya
This metropolis is known as The Capital of Europe since it is the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. While it is undoubtedly international, it provides more than just government buildings to justify this well-deserved distinction. It is the quintessential European city, with a melting pot of languages and cultures that has resulted in a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene. Culture is also accessible, with over 80 museums, the King's Palace, and a wealth of history.
1. Royal Palace of Brussels
Although it is no longer used as a Royal Palace, it is still a beautiful location that is used for important events. It's a fantastic not-so-little site to view, right adjacent to Brussels Park. Make sure your visit falls during the warm months if you want to go inside. Simply avoid visiting on Mondays, when the palace is closed to the general public.
2.Visit Palais de Justice
The Palais de Justice (The Palace of Justice) is one of Europe's largest and most stunning structures. It is still the most significant courthouse in Belgium today.
The building is visible from most parts of the city due to its large size and location in the upper Town of Brussels. The best views of Brussels may be seen on Poelaert Square, which also serves as the building's primary entrance.
3. Visit the famous Atomium
The Atomium, built in the 1950s, is a little outside of the city centre yet a terrific place to see something different. It's an excellent site to see some views of the city because it's almost 100 metres (330 feet) tall. If you're feeling really flush, visit the Atomium Restaurant in one of the spheres. Prices are a touch higher than other restaurants, but it's well worth it if you're looking for a unique dining experience. It's one of the city's most distinctive experiences.
Photo by Wilber Diaz
4. Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences
The Natural Sciences Museum is the place to go if you enjoy a little bit of history. Visit the North and South Pole tunnels, the Shell Gallery with its own aquarium, and the epic The Dinosaur Hall once you've gotten inside. This is a great place to visit if you're a dinosaur fanatic. The best part is that it's indoors, which is ideal if the weather becomes bad.
5. Grand Place
Grand Place is a place that is always beautiful to visit, no matter how many times you visit. Grand Place, which dates back nearly 300 years, is simply too beautiful to pass up. There are a few different festivals, markets, and art exhibits throughout the year. Don't miss the Brussels City Museum and the Town Hall, both of which are located on the plaza.
What to do in Antwerp
Photo Ernest Ojeh
It's impossible not to find the architecture appealing, whether you're in the central train station or MAS, the magnificent town museum. It includes everything from mediaeval structures such as the majestic town hall and square to modern courthouses and countless Art Nouveau gems in between. Antwerp is a beautiful city, with attractive architecture and well-dressed window displays.
1. Explore the historic Antwerp Zoo
The Antwerp Zoo, which opened in 1843, is a terrific place to visit if you're bored of museums and architecture. The zoo may be one of the world's oldest, but its facilities are cutting-edge, with cutting-edge enclosures and breeding programmes. A koala couple who live together in a thatched home, as well as a new reef environment in the zoo's aquarium, are popular attractions at the zoo.
2. Visit the MAS Museum
If you've seen all of Antwerp's ancient sights (and there are plenty), you should pay a visit to the modern MAS museum. MAS is a museum that not only explores Antwerp's history and status as a major port city but also contains temporary cutting-edge exhibits that change on a regular basis. One of the temporary exhibits on show at the time of writing is one that looks at various styles of body art. Taking the lifts to the open top roof for stunning views of the city is a must-do while visiting the museum.
3. Antwerp Central Station
In many cities, looking at a train station is not one of the nicest things to do, but in Antwerp, it is a must. The building's spectacular outside Gothic architecture will take your breath away, and the great hall is equally magnificent. The station is a beloved landmark in the city and has been named one of the top five most beautiful train stations in the world. The station, however, is much more than a gorgeous face; with its multilevel platforms, it has been completely suited to operate in the twenty-first century.
Photo by Ishan Ioya
4. Tour Ruben's House
The Rubenshuis is the old residence of Pieter Paul Rubens, a Dutch painter. Rubens designed the house to serve as both a residence and a studio for him to work in. Prior to restoration work beginning in 1937, the structure was in horrible shape, but with some meticulous work, it has now been restored to its former beauty. The residence features various items of the painter's artwork as well as furniture from the time he resided here.
5. Stadsfeestzaal Shopping Centre
The Stadsfeestzaal Shopping Centre in Antwerp's city centre is one of the most stylish shopping centres in the world. The structure was nearly destroyed in the past, but due to its position as a listed structure, it was quickly restored to its original state. Even the most hesitant consumers will be charmed by the architecture, marble staircase, and mosaic floor, and if not, there is always the champagne bar to enjoy.