1. Medieval Bruges
Bruges is one of the most visited cities in Belgium due to its medieval architecture and thoroughly romantic ambience. Bruges’ canals are one of its most charming features, and no visit to the town is complete without a scenic canal boat tour. From the water, tourists can enjoy a different perspective of the city; land-lovers can likewise stroll along the canals to watch the boats go by, and the local tourist office has free walking tours available. Of particular note are the mansions along the Diver Canal, some of which now house museums.
The historic center’s two main squares, Burg Square (also known as simply “the Burg”) and the Market Square, sit adjacent to each other in the middle of the city. Market Square is surrounded by several impressive buildings, but the Halle and its 83-meter belfry are by far the most imposing structure. The belfry, which was started in 1282 and completed in 1482, is home to 47 bells and a viewing area for tourists who are brave enough to climb the 366 steps to the top.
Aficionados of ecclesiastic architecture will want to visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood on Burg Square, which has a combination of Romanesque and late Gothic styles. The Burg is also home to the historic Town Hall (Stadthuys), which was completed in 1420, and the tourist office, which is housed in the Liberty of Bruges, the former Law Courts.
Those staying in Bruges will find many fascinating towns and tourist sites within a short drive. For a walk or pedal bike ride, the trails along the Schipdonkkanaal are particularly nice, and canal boat tours are also available here. The small down of Damme is home to several historic buildings and a traditional Flemish atmosphere.
Located near the coast, Bruges is also convenient to the seaside and beach communities of Knokke and Ostend. Knokke is best known for its upscale resort community of Knokke-Heist, but is also a hub for art lovers, with an astounding 85 galleries and numerous public art installations. Along with the beaches of Ostend, tourists can visit several good museums including the De Plate Museum, with local history, and the Museum of Fine Art.
2. Upper Meuse Valley
The Meuse River splits the country north and south, E42 from Liege to Namur, and from there to Dinant. The valley is known for its idyllic small towns, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lush forests that are ribboned with trails.
Namur (also called Name) sits in the heart of the valley and is home to several historic landmarks, as well as a large university. The Namur Citadel sits on an outcropping above the town and is a fun place to explore, as well as an excellent spot for panoramic views of the valley.
In town, the best sightseeing areas are along the Rue de Fer and in the central Old Town, where tourists will find several good museums, as well as shops and cafés. Namur is also home to historic churches, including the 18th-century Cathedral of Saint Aubin and the Church of Notre-Dame and its ecclesiastical Treasury, which houses several priceless religious items.
The town of Dinant is located 28 kilometers south of Namur and is a popular tourist destination in the upper Meuse Valley. It, too, has a beautiful citadel, which affords excellent views of the town and has battlements that are fun to explore.
Boating on the Meuse River is a popular activity in Dinant, as well as sightseeing at major landmarks like the Meuse Bridge and the collegiate Church of Notre-Dame.
West of Namur, the village of Floreffe is home to a stunning 12th-century abbey, formerly the Premonstratensian Abbey, which now houses a seminary. The abbey church still contains some of its original features and is a lovely place to visit.
The next town over is Fosses-la-Ville, also home to a 12th-century monastery. Unfortunately, very little of the original is intact, however visitors can still admire the crypt, choir, and tower.
Northeast of Namur near Franc-Ware is Franc-Ware Castle, a beautiful 17th-century fortified residence. Visitors can tour the castle and grounds; the interior has a variety of original furnishings, artwork, and rare items, while the gardens are carefully tended to appear as they did during the castle’s heyday.