What to do in Belgium
Belgium is a small country that's packed with culture, history, and striking natural beauty. Get to know some of the best cities in Belgium for trips of every kind, from bustling cities with great shopping to historic towns with centuries-old canals and medieval architecture.
History lovers can explore the battlefields of Belgium, including Ypres and Flanders, which are famous for their roles in both WWI and WWII. Bruges is perfect for foodies, with its winding canals and cobbled streets, and the smell of cocoa wafting from the many chocolatiers across the city. Art and fashion reign supreme in Antwerp, so head here to discover the trendy café culture and bohemian feel.
Top destinations in Belgium
Brussels
Brussels is the capital of Belgium, and it's home to some of the country's most famous landmarks. From the iconic Grand-Place to the Manneken Pis, Brussels is the perfect destination for sightseers, culture vultures and history lovers.
The city has a cosmopolitan feel, with beautiful architecture, well-maintained parks, and a range of significant landmarks, including the European Union's headquarters. Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts to see a collection of more than 20,000 works or indulge in the city's diverse restaurant scene.
Bruges
Bruges is one of Belgium's most charming cities, renowned for its cobbled streets and picturesque canals. Strolling around Bruges feels like a journey through time, with its untouched medieval architecture, boutique shops, quirky cafés and independent bars where you can sample the best beer in Belgium.
Whether you're planning to make the most of the city's rich cultural heritage or you're ready to explore the diverse and unique food scene, there's something for everyone in Bruges. Let us help you plan your city break in Bruges and explore one of Belgium's most-loved cities with ease.
Ghent
Ghent is a quiet and quirky city filled with arts and culture, featuring fascinating museums, street art, and impressive architecture. It's Belgium's third-largest city, but it doesn't have the same tourist footfall as Brussels or Antwerp. Visit Ghent to marvel at its rich medieval history and cultural offerings while enjoying the vibrant nightlife and diverse restaurant scene.
Ghent is one of the most underrated cities in Belgium, so if you're someone who likes to visit lesser-known areas, explore a true hidden gem on a city break here.
Antwerp
Antwerp is a trendy city with plenty to explore. From its unique shops to its bustling café culture and buzzy nightlife, visit Antwerp for the perfect city break. The city has a rich artistic heritage, as the home of the 17th-century painter Rubens, so it's one of Belgium's most culturally significant cities.
Visit famous landmarks like the Grote Markt and Museum Plantin-Moretus, or indulge in some retail therapy in Antwerp's famous diamond district and shopping areas. You can also explore the city's bar and restaurant scene, which features venues for every budget and taste.
How to get to Belgium from the UK
Getting to Belgium from the UK is quick and easy with DFDS ferries. Travel on our Dover to Dunkirk route and reach the Belgian border in less than 30 minutes.
Alternatively, an overnight crossing from Newcastle to Amsterdam will leave you feeling recharged, and you can reach Belgium in just two hours from our IJmuiden port. Brush up on driving in Belgium with our handy guide, or discover the best places for cycling in Belgium if you're bringing your bike onboard.
