Belgium Overview

In spite of relatively small size of the country there are many interesting places to visit in Belgium. Of course it would be better to start the excursion from the capital – Brussels. The residents of the city usually call it a “small Paris”, but the tourists used to entitle it as an open-air museum. What do we think about when we hear the word “Brussels”. The most informed of us say that it is the home of the European Commission and the Council of ministers of the European Union (EU), less informed remember the historic sights. Both opinions are absolutely right. Being very modern and up-to-date city, Brussels at the same time impresses the visitors by ancient architecture. Gothic cathedrals come in contrast with classical building, art nouveau and art deco houses. Start your tour around Brussels from its heart – the Grand Place with the world famous peeing boy at the corner. Interested in Flemish art, then go to the Museum of Ancient Art, The Museum of Modern Art and others. Such excursion will be both educational and fun. Panoramic view of Brussels is open from the Atomium, constructed for the 1958 World’s Fair, but nowadays being the most popular tourist sights.

The second largest city of Belgium is Antwerp, which is sometimes called a daughter of the River Scheldt. Here is a saying that diamonds are the friends of every girl. If it is true to life, than Antwerp should be a must visit place for every woman, because it is the world center of diamonds. The city is also known as the second largest port in Europe. The history the country is represented in Antwerp by numerous monuments and ancient buildings. The city is also a birthplace of Peter Paul Rubens, whose works are displayed in Rubens’ House and Royal Museum of Fine Arts.

Small city of about 20 thousand inhabitants became a real symbol not only of the country but also of the whole historic epoch. Of course we are talking about Waterloo. The famous battle between the army of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the Allied forces, commanded by the Duke of Wellington. Don’t waste time, go to Waterloo and have a look at the place of outstanding historic significance. It is rather strange but Belgium has its own Venice. Do not believe, then visit Bruges, which is the chief town of the western Flanders, called the “Venice of the North”. Firstly, the city is close to the North Sea, secondly, it is one of Belgium's crown jewels. Lady’s Church with the tower, The Basilica of the Holy Blood, and The Groeninge Museum are also worth visiting. Who doesn’t know the meaning of the word “spa”. Do you think it stands for the beauty procedures? Unfortunately, you are mistaken. It is a town in Belgium, situated in a wonderful valley. It was renowned for its health-giving hot water springs, such as Pouhon Pierre Le Grand and the Pouhon Prince-de-Condé. So, the name of the town has become synonymous with the resort suggesting hot water facilities and hydro-massage.

Wild forests, hills and fast flowing rivers, many picturesque villages, and green valleys – all these you can enjoy in the Ardennes – the region in the south-east of Belgium. Tourists are free to choose what to do: go fishing, canoeing, or kayaking; start off for walking tours, or cycling, try horse riding, climbing, or mountain biking. Appropriate conditions for any type of the activity are naturally created in the Ardennes. So, whatever is your aim of visiting Belgium, you will always be satisfired with your trip, because the country has a lot to offer.