Belgium is one of our favorite destinations in Europe. Take a gander at these 38 pictures of Belgium to see why—and ignite your wanderlust in the process!
One of the things we love about our small community in Costa Rica is the vibrant and diverse population who lives here. While most of us expats are from the U.S. and Canada, we’re also grateful to know folks from Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, France, Italy, Chile, Argentina… the list goes on and on! We even have a Belgian beer bar in town, one of our favorite spots to sip Delirium on draft while small talking with the Belgian owners. Which, perhaps unsurprisingly, always leads to us chatting about our love affair with Belgium. The food, the architecture, the people, the design, the food again…
Despite how much fun we had traveling in Belgium, we never talked about it all that much on the blog. We shared our guide to 24 Hours in Brussels and provided a peek at our romantic getaway in Bruges. But we certainly didn’t give credit to the incredible sights and tastes we discovered. So since we were reminiscing, we figured it was only fair that we let you all in on it.
Dan had a blast photographing Belgium—we hope these pictures of Belgium ignite as much wanderlust for you as they do for us!
38 Pictures of Belgium To Ignite Your Wanderlust Today
Brussels
The iconic Atomium in Brussels, Belgium. Originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World Expo, the unique cell-like building was never supposed to remain standing into the 21st century. Today it is a must-see while in Brussels, not only for the unique architecture, but also for the stunning views from the top!
The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert in Brussels. The elegant shopping arcade was one of the first built in Europe. Visit for the architecture, upscale boutiques, and to stop at Chocolatier Mary—the first female-owned chocolate shop in Belgium!
Amble down the Museum Quarter in Brussels to soak in the relaxing garden views or easily hop into any of Brussels’ world-class museums.
The cheeky Mannekin Piss! The statue is said to symbolize the rebellious nature of the city. It’s a touristy attraction, but we bet you can’t help but smile when you see it!
The Grand Place Square is considered to be one of the most beautiful in all of Europe. Visit at twilight to watch the plaza glitter in all its glory.
Rue des Bouchers is known for its back-to-back seafood restaurants and lively atmosphere. Take a seat outside at any of the bistros for prime people-watching.
Belgium invented waffles, so you better not miss the opportunity to taste test one while you’re here.
Pair your waffle with a side of decadent ice cream, just because.
Belgium is a beer lover’s delight. Grab a few new bottles to savor in your hotel room or for souvenirs to take back home. Always a guaranteed hit! For more of what to do while in Brussels, don’t miss our 24-hour guide to the city.
Bruges
No visit to Bruges is complete without a scenic boat ride down its idyllic canals. It’s hardly any wonder Antwerp has been compared to Venice.
The juxtaposition of old and new is easily appreciated while floating down Bruges’ canals.
After your canal ride, enjoy lunch at any of the charming restaurants in the Bruges historic center.
Taking a bike ride outside Bruges to the small village of Damme to enjoy the verdant countryside and canal views. Damme is as lovely as could be, yet feels far less touristy than Bruges.
The view of Bruges from above!
For more on where to stay and what to do in Bruges, don’t miss our guide: Romance and Relaxation in Bruges, Belgium.
Antwerp
The Grote Markt, Antwerp’s beautiful historic old town square.
Grab a coffee at any of the cafes in the historic center and admire the ornate architecture.
Antwerp’s gorgeous central train station. Chances are you’ll arrive to the city via this station—take a moment to admire the architecture both inside and outside of the building.
The best waffles in Antwerp! Don’t miss Broodjes Wafels.
Gorgeous photos…thankfully it’s only a few hours away….hmmm maybe I’ll go this weekend! Thanks for the idea.
Corinne recently posted…Cherry Blossom Time in Japan
Did you end up going? Hope you make it there soon!! :)
Wonderful shots, Dan! You surprised the real beauty of this European country. And those pralines look delicious!
travelFREAK recently posted…The Importance of Slowing Down Your Life
Thanks so much!! Yea we definitely ate way too much chocolate haha ;-)
I know that spring has arrived in Belgium as well, and a beer drank outside is very welcome.
I also have the chance to taste that chocolate once and I want to go there again this spring for another round.
Lisa recently posted…Solar Impulse 2 landed safely in Ahmedabad, India
We were there in Spring last year and it was wonderful!
Amazing shots that bring back so many memories, Belgium might be not a huge country but it is incredibly beautiful! :)
Franca recently posted…Five Pics and Tips for Edinburgh
So true- it packs a lot in just a little space ;-)
The beer! Nevermind the waffles, chocolate and mussels! I passed through Brussels once for two hours, obviously nowhere near enough time! It looks like I really need to get myself back there!
Laura recently posted…Should You Travel To Korea?
Haha so true. You can never have enough beer in Belgium ;-)
The food all looks amazing and the city is absolutely beautiful, but really all you had to do was show me some beer :-) Thanks for a great post!
Kenin Bassart recently posted…Borden’s Ice Cream – The Last Store Left Standing
Haha we totally understand ;-) Thanks for the comment!
Beautiful pictures ,amazing you and mouthwatering food. What else anybody wants.
Keep Sharing!!
Thank you!
you know, i wasn’t crazy about belgium after my first quick trip there a few years ago… but i think i may need to revisit. mainly for the beer ;)
the lazy travelers recently posted…jetsetters: michael & hilda of @newkidzprojects
Hi Casey,
Beautiful photos! Belgium is such a unique country. My family and I did a month long driving road trip through France, Belgium, Germany and Denmark last summer. I was pleasantly surprised with how diverse and culture packed Belgium is.
Cynthia Bowman, JoyJournist
Cynthia recently posted…airplane yoga stretches that don’t look nuts
Wonderful images of Belgium. I bet you guys really had a good time there specially tasting different brews of beer. Very nice review indeed. Cheers!
City is absolutely beautiful, and all food pictures are awesome. Keep Posting.
I remembered tasty food on my Dubai Tour.