Discover this small kingdom on the North Sea coast, where the aroma of chocolate, beer, fries, and waffles in various forms will accompany you every step of the way. Visit the "Venice of the North" and stroll along the romantic embankments around the canals, or take a boat ride and watch the reflections of historical buildings mirrored on the water's surface. Walk through the European Quarter in the "European Capital" with the legendary Atomium building, a magnificent square, and statues of urinating figures. Immerse yourself in history and be drawn into the legendary Battle of Waterloo, where the history of Europe was written. A diverse range of culture (museums, architecture, festivals), gastronomy, linguistic and cultural diversity of the local people, comfortable and fast travel, and year-round pleasant weather - all this makes Belgium an ideal destination for comfortable travel throughout the year.
After arriving at Brussels South Charleroi Airport, go through the airport hall to the FLIBCO bus station, which departs from the area in front of the arrival hall. You will travel approximately 1 hour to Brussels South Station (Brussels Midi), where you will transfer to a tram and then reach your accommodation. It is a very multicultural city that connects otherwise nationally divided Belgium. Here, it doesn't matter whether locals identify as Flemish or Walloon. They live side by side with people of many different ethnicities and with temporary European officials. You will come across mosques, bazaars, and you can taste cuisine from all over the world. Brussels is definitely not just a formal metropolis of European institutions, it is a city of museums, markets and peeing statues.
Southern Brussels Airport in Charleroi.
Travel from the airport to Brussels:
FLIBCO buses to Brussels run every day every 20 minutes
the bus stop is right in front of the arrival hall, you can reach it within 10 minutes of getting off the plane
first bus from the airport to Brussels - 7:20
last bus from the airport to Brussels - 0:40
travel time - approx. 55 min (depending on traffic conditions)
ticket - 19.95 EURO, purchase online on the company's website/mobile application, on-site at the vending machine (payment cards accepted), the ticket is valid for the whole day to the purchased day until 04:00 the following day, it can be canceled 1 day before the date of travel
company website - https://www.flibco.com/en
mobile application - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flibco.customerapp
The largest train station in Brussels, located on the southern edge of the city center. Here, you can transfer to a tram that will take you to your accommodation.
Travel Brussels Midi → Accommodation:
Tram 81 from Brussels Midi towards Ichec, get off at Janson stop. Travel time approx. 13 min, price 2.2 EURO.
Ticket - tap your credit card on the card reader at the turnstile when entering the platform. You do not need to tap again when exiting the tram.
Experience the magic of Brussels on your very first day! Take a walk to the heart of the historic center, where you'll be captivated by the majestic architecture and the legendary Grand Place – a square rightly considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Let yourself be carried away by the city's atmosphere, discover the famous Manneken Pis and its lesser-known siblings, and then head to a neighborhood where time seems to stand still. Explore the flea market, enjoy coffee or beer in one of the stylish cafes, and wander through the romantic cobbled streets. And what would a trip be without tasting waffles and the famous fries with a huge variety of sauces? Brussels will simply get to you with all your senses!
Public Transportation:
The metro, trams, and buses are operated by the same company, STIB-MIVB. All types of public transport are interconnected and have unified fares, allowing transfers between them.
Single journey - 2.2 EURO when paying with a contactless payment card. Valid for 1 hour on all types of public transport.
Ticket purchase - tap your payment card on the card reader at the turnstile when entering the metro platform or inside the tram and bus. No need to tap again when exiting the tram or bus. When using the metro, you go through the turnstile again, so you tap. If you transfer between different vehicles, tap the same card in each new vehicle. If less than 1 hour passes between the first tap and exiting the last vehicle, all connecting journeys are free; you only pay the 2.2 EURO.
Daily fare - if you use public transport more than once a day, tap each time you board a new vehicle. The system will calculate the most suitable fare at the end of the day. The maximum the system will charge you is 8 EURO, meaning after the 4th individual journey, the rest are free.
Public transport website (connections, routes, timetables...) - https://www.stib-mivb.be/home
Brussels card - if you plan to visit several museums, purchasing a Brussels card may be worthwhile. There is a choice of 3 options (24 hours for 39 EURO, 48 hours for 51 EURO, 72 hours for 57 EURO)
The price includes:
Free entry to 49 museums
Discounts on other selected attractions, shops, and bars
Maps and guides
Optional add-on - discount on entry to the Atomium (12 EURO adult), all-day travel pass (not worth it with the 24-hour option)
Purchase and activation:
Purchase online - https://shop.brusselscard.be/en?_gl=1*7cqy9n*_gcl_au*MTY5NDg4MDg1NC4xNzM4MDg3MzUy
You have 1 year to activate after purchase
Activate by tapping when entering the 1st attraction you visit
More about Brussels - https://www.visit.brussels/en/visitors
Gateway to the city center (literally). Here you start your tour of the beauties of the historic city center. This distinctive and dominant historical building is a remnant of the medieval city fortifications and the first attraction you will encounter on your journey. Today it serves as a lookout point (after climbing 169 steps) and a museum.
Museum entrance fee:
adults (19-64 years) - 7 EURO
seniors (65+) and group (min 15) adults - 5 EURO
students with a valid ID and persons with health restrictions - 3 E
children and youth (0-18 years) - free
Opening hours:
MON - THU - 9:30 - 17:00
SAT, SUN, holidays - 10:00 - 17:00
closed - FRI, January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11, December 25
Access:
can be reached comfortably on foot from the accommodation or train station (10-15 min)
metro - ring lines 2 (orange) and 6 (blue), Porte de Hal stop
tram (3,55,90) - Porte de Hal stop
bus (48, 365A) - Porte de Hal stop
A traditional neighborhood in the southern part of the center, near the Hallepoort gate. Soak up the specific atmosphere of old Brussels here and sail into the local artistic streets with shops and cafes. Plan your visit so you can catch the flea market in the center of all the action of this district - Place du Jeu de Balle square. The markets are held daily in the morning and early afternoon (approximately until 1 p.m.).
On the north side of the square, I recommend visiting the Charlotte buffet with excellent local sausages with cabbage or potatoes with bacon and cream sauce.
A public elevator takes you to the square in front of the monumental Palace of Justice, the largest building serving judicial purposes in the world. It lies on a hill next to the square with the Ferris wheel and is therefore one of the city's landmarks visible from afar. At the same time, there is a beautiful view of the center and surrounding parts of the city. The interior of the palace building is not open to the public, so you can only admire its imposing dimensions from the outside.
On the way from the Palace of Justice along Regentschapstraat towards Koningsplein (Royal Square), you can peek into the Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Sablon (roughly halfway along the left side, can be viewed on maps). After a short walk, you will reach Koningsplein (Royal Square), in the vicinity of which you will find several museums, e.g.:
The Royal Palace serves as a workplace for the Belgian monarchs (the residence is at Laeken Castle on the northwestern outskirts of the city). If the Belgian flag is flying, the King is present and fulfilling state duties - e.g., receiving important domestic and foreign visits, discussing state matters, signing documents, etc.
The exterior, along with the extensive park, can of course be seen without restriction and for free. A visit to the interior is only possible during a limited period (July - end of August with prior reservation).
On the way to Monts des Arts, it is possible to visit the Brussels Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels) located nearby (walk through the Royal Park and then turn left on the main street and you will see it soon).
A beautifully landscaped park with fountains, the Palace of the Dynasty or the statue of Queen Elisabeth and perhaps the most famous view of the city, with the spire of the nearby Brussels City Hall looming in the background, to which we will head next. There are also some museums in the vicinity of the park.
And here it is!! The first of the expected peeing statues, and immediately the most famous and oldest. The legendary statue (or rather fountain) Manneken Pis, or Peeing Boy. It is located quite discreetly on the corner of Eikstraat and Stoofstraat. Were it not for the larger or smaller groups of photographing tourists, you might not even notice it. Yet, along with the Atomium, it is probably the most famous symbol of the city, which must be included in all photos, promotional materials or postcards.
According to legend, the two-year-old Duke Godfried II of Brabant supported his soldiers by being hung in a basket on a tree and peeing on the heads of enemies. With his help, the Brabantian units finally won a resounding battle against the Berthouts.
One of the most beautiful squares in the world. A magnificent open space surrounded by the iconic Town Hall building and Gothic houses, many of which hide cafes, bars or restaurants. Due to high prices and crowds, I recommend choosing one of the many establishments in the surrounding streets for refreshments. You can visit the Town Hall building with a view and the adjacent Museum of the City of Brussels (see below).
Beautiful but busy cobbled street with many cafes, souvenir shops etc. If you want to buy postcards, magnets or even a wine opener in the shape of a peeing little boy, or refresh yourself with some of the famous local delicacies, this street (along with the ostentatious streets around the main square) is for you. On every corner here you'll find stalls selling cone fries (prices around 5 E including sauce), waffles (prices varying from 3 E for a "dry" one to 15 E for the most filling ones - chocolate, Nutella, whipped cream, various fruits and sprinkles...) or (how else in this country) chocolate shops. You can sit inside the establishment with your purchased goodies or take them to go in a cone/box.
If the peeing boy was described as an inconspicuous fountain, this is doubly true for the statue of the girl. It lies in an inconspicuous dead end that you probably wouldn't visit if it weren't for the fact that it's a turn off the busy Rue des Bouchers full of cafes and souvenir shops. The statue of the girl is also less touristy (many tourists still don't know about it), but you certainly won't be alone here.
You'll say goodbye to the peeing statues with the third and final piece - this time a dog. The statue is located on the corner of Rue de Chartreux and Rue du Vieux-Marché and is definitely the least known and least visited of the trio.
On the way to this statue, we can visit several interesting places, such as St. Nicholas Church, the Brussels Stock Exchange building (which also houses the museum of the famous Belgian beer) or St. Catherine's Church.
Tram 10, direction Churchill, stop Horta
Today's program starts with a visit to Sacré-Coeur...you read that right, and no, you haven't moved to Paris...you will see the Brussels version, which is no less majestic than its more famous namesake. But you will also visit Paris today, as well as many other European cities, thanks to the amazing MiniEurope park, where you can travel all over the old continent on the area of a small park thanks to miniatures of the main European monuments. Another of the city's icons will be watching over you - the Atomium, or a model of the crystal lattice of iron reduced by 165 billion times. On the other side of the city, you will then briefly take on the role of EU officials and take a look at the places that determine the direction of the whole of Europe.
MHD - today you will be transferring more often, so you will use a full-day ticket, see the information in the description of the city of Brussels. When boarding each connection, you tap in (with the same card), and the system will deduct 8 EURO at the end.
Tram 81 from the Janson stop, direction Marius Renard → Gare du Midi stop (approx. 15 min), transfer to the metro.
metro 6 (blue) from gare du Midi, direction Roi Baudouin → stop Simonis, then walk through the park for about 1 km
Named after the more famous Paris cathedral, but worth a visit. It is one of the largest sacred buildings in the world. It is built in the Art Deco style. It stands on a slight hill on the western edge of the center in the Koekelberg district and can be seen from a distance. In addition to the basilica itself, it is possible to climb to the observation deck.
Entrance to the basilica:
free
8:00 - 18:00 - summer time
8:00 - 17:00 - winter time
View:
entrance - 8 EURO
9:00 - 17:30 (last entry 17:00) - summer time
9:00 - 16:30 (last entry 16:00) - winter time
metro 6 (blue) from Simonis stop, direction Roi Baudouin → Heysel stop, then walk about 500 m.
Iconic structure on the northern edge of Brussels built for the EXPO World's Fair. It is a system of 9 domes connected by corridors, which symbolize a 165 billion times reduced model of the crystal lattice of iron. Some domes are open to the public, and you move between them on escalators accompanied by light and music effects. Inside are interactive exhibitions, displays, information about the technical parameters of the building, examples of the history of the building and other interesting information. In the upper floors there is a restaurant, where a reservation is required.
Opening hours:
MON - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
24/12 and 31/12 - 10:00 - 16:00 (last entry 15:30)
25/12 and 1/1 - 12:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Entrance fee:
adults (19-64 years) - 16 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with health restrictions - 14 EURO
child over 115 cm to 17 years - 8.5 EURO
child under 115 cm - free
students - 8.5 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
! The price includes entry to the nearby Design Museum!
TIP: If you are also planning to visit the neighboring MINI EUROPE park, buy a more advantageous combined ticket (see below)
COMBINED TICKET WITH MINI EUROPE:
(!!MINI EUROPE is not in operation 6/1 - 7/3)
adults (19-64 years) - 32.2 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with health restrictions - 30.5 EURO
teenager 12 - 17 years - 25 EURO
child over 115 cm and up to 11 years - 20.4 EURO
child under 115 cm - free
students - 25 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
!!long queues form during weekends and holidays!!
- I recommend arriving about 30 minutes before opening hours or buying tickets online via https://atomium.be/tickets
Popular park next to the Atomium, which will be appreciated not only by children but also by adults. It displays about 350 scale models of world-famous buildings across the cities of the European Union in 1:25 ratio, supplemented by interesting elements such as moving trains, ships, and even rockets. "Travel" across Europe in this small park and "visit" landmarks such as the Eiffeil Tower, London's Big Ben, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Prague Astronomical Clock.
Opening Hours:
Mon - Sun - 9:30am - 6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
24/12 & 31/12 - 10:00am - 4:00pm (last entry 3:30pm)
25/12 & 1/1 - 12:00pm - 6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
!!closed 6/1 - 7/3
Admission:
Adults (19-64 years old) - 19 EURO
children - 13,5 EURO
COMBINED TICKET WITH MINI EUROPE:
(!!MINI EUROPE is not open 6/1 - 7/3)
adults (19-64 years old) - 32,2 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with disabilities - 30.5 EURO
teenager 12 - 17 years - 25 EURO
child over 115 cm and under 11 years - 20,4 EURO
child under 115 cm - free of charge
students - 25 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
web - https://www.minieurope.com/
metro 6 (blue) from stop Heysel, direction Simons → stop Osseghem
metro 1 (purple), direction Stockel → stop Merode
Exit the metro near the Arc de Triomphe
The extensive park is a popular place for locals to relax (picnics, walks, running and cycling are held here). There is also a football field or a pétanque court. In addition to sports, fans of architecture and culture will also enjoy themselves, especially thanks to the Triumphal Arch of the Palais du Cinquantenaire and several museums (e.g. automobiles or armed forces and military history).
Tip: if you didn't manage to get refreshments elsewhere, you can use one of the food trucks selling waffles, fries, coffee or chilled drinks directly at the Arc de Triomphe.
After crossing the Parc du Cinquantenaire, you will enter the European Quarter, where several key institutions of the European Union are located. Perhaps the most unfamiliar building is the X-shaped Berlaymont - the European Commission. Brussels is known as the "capital of Europe" and it is this building that probably has the most "feel" for this association, thanks to the shape of the building familiar from the media and the EU flags in its western part. Just across the street is another important institution - the Council of the European Union and next to it another well-known building, the "Europa".
Perhaps the most interesting stop in the European Quarter is the European Parliament complex, which houses the interactive museum Parlamentarium. Here, using an audio guide (free in your native language), you will learn everything about the history and present of the EU, including its fundamental problems that it addresses. Admission is also free, you just register at the reception and get a guide.
Opening hours:
MON - 13:00 - 18:00
TUE - FRI - 9:00 - 18:00
SAT - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00
last entry always 30 minutes before closing time
admission - free
metro 2 (orange), direction Simonis → stop Louise
Tram 92, direction Fort-Jaco → stop Janson
The city of Antwerp will excite you as soon as you step out of the main train station, thanks to the magnificent historical station building. You'll immediately recognize the city's reputation as a major diamond trading center when you enter the diamond district, full of diamond shops and luxury jewelry stores. You already know that Belgium is the land of chocolate. It's time to explore this delicacy more closely and, above all, to taste it!! You can do this right next to the station in the world's largest chocolate museum. In the heart of the city, a lively shopping district awaits you with a luxurious shopping center with a monumentally decorated interior. You'll immerse yourself in the city's history and explore its underworld, or rather the intricate network of underground streets with a guide.
Train Brussels - Midi → Antwerp-Central: runs every 20-30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable
Fares:
Adults (26+) - 8.9 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.30 EURO, otherwise 8.9 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 5.10 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.5 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the counter or vending machine, the easiest way is via the app
!!TIP!! - you can buy a package of 10 rides throughout Belgium, called Standard Multi (in the SNCB app for 102 EURO)
From this package, you can use any train journeys throughout Belgium. 1 package can be used for multiple people
When purchasing the package, the average price per 1 journey is 10.2 EURO. It pays off in these cases:
1) during the trip I undertake several longer transfers, where the price per trip exceeds 10.2 EURO / person
2) I travel in a larger group and use the pass for more expensive transfers (e.g. Bruges → Waterloo Memorial) for several people, shorter routes can then be purchased separately
Activation of the journey - after purchasing the pass, I see the number of journeys available. If I want to pay for the journey from the pass, then I find the route in the app and activate it. At that moment, the journey is "bought" and the appropriate number of journeys is deducted (according to the number of passengers selected). During the journey, I can get off and get back on another connection, but it must be on the same route that I activated. You can use this, for example, on the Antwerp → Bruges route, where you get off in Ghent and later continue to Bruges on the same ticket.
It is not often said that the station building is one of the "highlights" of the city. In the case of Antwerp's main railway station, this is indeed the case. Exploring the beauty of the city therefore begins immediately after getting off the train. Locals sometimes proudly call the building "railway cathedral". You will understand the significance when you see this building consisting of a steel platform covering the platform and the magnificent stone station building. Compared to, for example, Czech railway stations, waiting for a train in Antwerp can be a cultural experience.
Belgium = chocolate. Almost everyone who is at least a little interested in the world knows this equation. This museum offers an excellent opportunity to explore this delicious symbiosis in more depth and, above all, to taste samples of local high-quality chocolate. It is the largest museum of Belgian chocolate in the country and in the world. In this interactive museum full of attractive animations and effects, you will gradually go through the entire chocolate making process - from the selection, harvesting and initial processing of cocoa beans in the African jungle, through their transport to world ports, factories, subsequent processing into various forms and distribution to customers. An audio guide is included in the entrance fee. The individual rooms of the exhibition are stylized into specific themes, so at the beginning we find ourselves in the "jungle", later in a factory, in a port, etc. Everything culminates in tasting different chocolate samples - first in the solid form of granules, then liquid.
Opening hours:
daily 10:15 - 18:30 (last entry 17:00)
Entrance fees:
children - 0-3 years - free
children 4-11 - 14.5 EURO
youth 12 - 17 - 18.5 EURO
students - 18.5 EURO
group over 15 people - 18.5 EURO
adults - 19.9 EURO
Antverpy is a world-famous diamond trading centre and the proof is in this neighbourhood of artisans and diamond merchants, where every other shop window dazzles with the sparkle of luxury jewellery. It's a lively neighbourhood full of jewellery shops, jewellers and workshops to process these gems. The streets of the district are bustling with people of all nationalities rushing about for business, and you'll often see members of the Jewish community in traditional dress. As is well known, Jews and business just go together :)
The way from the station and the chocolate museum to the centre is through the main shopping street Meir. Here you will enjoy especially shopping lovers - you will find branches of all kinds of world's more or less luxury brands of clothing, cosmetics etc.
For lovers of luxury - enter the Stadsfeestzaal shopping mall with its magnificent interior consisting of a glass dome with golden elements, staircases and marble columns.
St. James Church - Turn right down Elkenstraat and you will reach this beautiful church, known as the starting point for pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. The interior of the church includes, among other things, the Rubens Chapel with paintings by this famous painter and local native.
Antwerp is known in the world of culture for the work of its native son and one of the most famous painters in the world - Rubens. In the place where he was born and worked, there is now a museum where you can admire 3 main parts:
1) on the ground floor there is an interactive exhibition called "Rubens experience" about his life and work. A popular part of the tour is the possibility of creating your own portrait in the style of Rubens' famous self-portrait
2) in the entrance hall you pass into the courtyard with a garden, which is a beautiful escape from the otherwise busy surroundings of the bustling city center. It serves as a small botanical garden
3) on the 2nd floor you will find a library, where you can see various books, letters and other publications about the painter's life
opening hours RUBENS EXPERIENCE and GARDEN:
MON - FRI - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 17:00)
WED - CLOSED
SAT - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00
1.1., 1.5., 1.11, 25.12 - closed
24.12 and 31.12 - until 15:00
opening hours LIBRARY:
MON - FRI - 9:30 - 17:00
SAT - SUN - closed
1.1., 1.5., 1.11, 25.12 - closed
24.12 and 31.12 - until 15:00
admission:
library - free
rest:
children and youth up to 18 years - free
students and groups of over 12 people - 8 EURO
adults - 12 EURO
Visit the Antwerp canals, a unique attraction, and walk through the former canals and sewers of Antwerp. During a slightly bizarre and adventurous underground walk, you will discover the fascinating and rich history of the city.
The "Ruien" (sewers), "vlieten" (canals) and "vesten" (moats) have crisscrossed Antwerp since the Middle Ages. This network of waterways provided Antwerp with drinking water and an inland port. Later, the canals served as sewers and were eventually backfilled. This unique piece of heritage thus disappeared from the city's panorama.
Rediscover this hidden heritage and walk along with a live and virtual guide on a tablet (in English, Dutch, French) around the old vaults, canals, bridges, sewers and locks and take a look into the underground of the city. Listen to mysterious anecdotes and fascinating trivia from the distant and recent past
The visit starts at Ruihuis, Suikerrui 21, 2000 Antwerp, and ends at Stadsmagazijn, Keistraat 5, 2000 Antwerp.
To descend into The Ruien, visitors will receive a protective suit, boots and a backpack to store shoes and other personal belongings during the walk.
!!ATTENTION!! Age limit from 10 years - this is a relatively challenging walk, sometimes through mud and dampness
Tour times: (tour lasts 90 min)
TUE - SUN - 11:00, 13:00, 15:00
Each tour is max for 16 people, so I recommend booking in advance
Antwerp city pass holders have free admission, book your place by email at reservaties@deruien.be
Admission:
children and youth 10 - 16 years - 12 EURO
adults - 19 EURO
A beautiful baroque church standing on the picturesque Conscienceplein square. The interior is decorated with artifacts from the famous native Rubens, and the dominant feature is the imposing main altar. Also visit the sacristy or the lace museum (open on Wednesdays only).
Entrance to the church can be combined with a visit to Antwerp's underground canals, De Ruien (see next item). With a guide, you can descend into the crypt and then through a secret entrance to the Antwerp underground canals.
!!BUT!!
1) the tour is only in Dutch
2) the price of 27 EURO does not include the ANtwerp city pass. So, if you decide to purchase the pass, you pay the entrance fee separately.
details about the combined entry - https://en.ruien.be/individuele-bezoeken/combi-wandeling-sint-carolus-borromeus
church opening hours:
MON - SAT - 10:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 17:00
lace museum - WED 10:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 16:00
admission: (the admission price includes the lace museum)
children - 0-13 years - free
students and seniors (60+) - 3 EURO
group of over 20 people - 3 EURO
adults - 5 EURO
web - https://mkantwerpen.be/en/churches/st-charles-borromeo-church/
This striking church is the only place in the world where you will find paintings by Anthropolitan masters Rubens, Van Dyck and Jordaens together in the exact place for which they were created. You can admire over 50 paintings, 200 magnificent sculptures and a gorgeous organ. Outside you will find the epic Calvary Garden dedicated to Christ's passion and resurrection.
!!!ATTENTION!!! From 3/2 to 31/3 2025 the church is undergoing a complete renovation and the entrance will be closed. The church will reopen to the public in April
.
Church Hours:
April - October:
daily - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
November - March:
SAT and SUN - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
From 3/2 to 3/31, the church is undergoing a complete renovation and the entrance will be closed
Admission: (1st Tuesday of each month free for all)
children and youth 0-19 years - free
students - 3 EURO
group of more than 15 people - 3 EURO
adults - 5 EURO
web - https://mkantwerpen.be/en/churches/st-pauls-church/
Perhaps the most distinctive building in the city, appearing on all postcards, pictures, and promotional materials. Near the Scheldt River, the local port, and the modern Eilandje district, stands this designer building housing various museums with permanent and constantly changing exhibitions about the city's history, the port, and the river. However, the main reason to visit is the free opportunity to take escalators across the promenades to the roof and admire the panoramic view of the harbor, the river, and the historic city center.
Opening hours:
Museums and exhibitions:
Tue - Sun - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:00)
Panorama:
Tue - Sun - 9:30 - 22:00 (may be closed in case of bad weather)
Summer season (1.5 - 31.10) - open until 00:00 (last entry 23:30)
!!Museums and panorama are closed from 3 PM on 24.12 and 31.12!!
!!Closed all day - every Monday, 1.1, 1.5., 25.12
Admission:
Permanent exhibitions
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-25, group of 12 people or more - 6 EURO
Adults - 10 EURO
Permanent + temporary exhibitions:
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-25, group of 12 people or more - 8 EURO
Adults - 12 EURO
Originally a working-class district between the city center and the modern Eilandje district. As mentioned in the introduction, Antwerp is and has been an important port, and this part of the city near the port was and is a center of entertainment (even the darker kind) for the sailors and workers of the time, and today for locals and tourists. The main attraction is the local Red Light District, where prostitution is practiced in the style of Amsterdam (but on a much smaller scale). Women of various nationalities, ethnicities, and physical proportions sit behind red-lit windows, waiting for their clients in just a few streets around Schipperstraat. In addition to this somewhat controversial form of entertainment, it is also an area of bars and restaurants. The center of the area is Falconplein Square.
Tram 7, direction Mortsel, stop Mechelseplein
What are Antwerp and Belgium in general famous for? You can learn about the journey of raw diamonds from their deposits in African mines to their cutting and jewelry making in the Diamond Museum. In the very heart of this beautiful city, a beautiful square with an imposing cathedral and a famous statue awaits you. The extensive Royal Museum of Fine Arts, with its magnificent pieces, especially by local artists, will be a feast for the eyes. And how do you wash down this busy day? In Belgium, what else but beer, specifically the local De Koninck brewery, which you can also see with the help of an interactive exhibition. Proost!! (Cheers!!)
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (commonly referred to as KMSKA) has undergone more than 10 years of reconstruction and is reopened to visitors in a beautifully renovated building. It houses works by leading artists, led by Ensor, Rubens, Van Dyck and Van Eyck. The building is very extensive and in addition to paintings you will also find sculptures and various interactive elements. Reserve approximately 2 hours for the visit, art fans even longer.
Opening hours:
MON, TUE, WED, FRI - 10:00 - 17:00
THU - 10:00 - 22:00
SAT, SUN, public holidays - 10:00 - 18:00
school holidays - 10:00 - 18:00
July - August - 10:00 - 17:00
!!24.12 and 31.12 the museum is closed from 5 pm!!
!!closed all day - 1.1, 25.12!!
entrance fee:
children and youth 0-18 years - free
youth 18-26 - 10 EURO
adults - 20 EURO
This UNESCO museum and monument is home to the famous printing family of the same name. A tour with an audio guide (included in the admission price) will take you deep into the history of printing, you will see the printing technique, a collection of works, and you can also print your own text, in the old way using physical force. You can then take the printed text with you as a souvenir. The building also includes a courtyard garden.
opening hours:
TU - SU - 10:00 - 17:00
!!24.12 and 31.12 the museum is closed from 3 pm!!
!!closed all day - every MONDAY, 1.1, 1.5., 1.11., 25.12!!
admission:
children and youth 0-18 years - free
youth 18-25 and group 12 + persons - 8 EURO
adults (26+) - 12 EURO
A very unusual experience. It is an approximately 1 km tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists leading under the Scheldt River, which connects the city center with the left bank of the river - the Linkeroever district, from where there is a beautiful view of the panorama of the center and a little further also the SintAnna river beach. An elevator leads to the tunnel, but I recommend using the authentic wooden escalator. If you don't like returning the same way, you can use the ferry from the nearby port for the return trip.
One of the city's highlights. The Steen, a river fortress that serves as a landmark and the heart of the city, also houses a tourist information center. It serves as a viewpoint of the city (mainly the right bank of the river), a terminal for boat trips, a shop with city souvenirs, and also a museum called "The Antwerp Story", where you gradually discover the history and personalities of this cultural and vibrant port city in a total of 11 rooms.
Opening hours:
daily - 10:00 - 18:00, viewpoint 10:00 - 22:00
!!Closed from 16:00 on 24.12 and 31.12!!
!!Closed - 1.1, 25.12!!
Entrance fees: (free visitor center, viewpoint and selected rooms of The Antwerp Story)
The Antwerp Story:
children 0-5 years - free
children and youth 6-17 - 5 EURO
adults (18+) - 7 EURO
For centuries, Antwerp has been known as the world's diamond center. In the Diamond Museum, we will learn about the journey of rough diamonds from their deposits in African mines to their cutting and jewelry making, and the differences between natural and laboratory-created diamonds. The tour also includes interactive elements and a workshop.
Opening hours:
Daily - 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:45)
WED - CLOSED
!!24.12 and 31.12 closed from 3 PM!!
!!Closed - 1.1, 1.5, 1.11., 25.12!!
Entrance fee:
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-26, group 12+ persons - 8 EURO
Adults (26+) - 12 EURO
You can see this majestic UNESCO-listed building from all corners of the city, at least its tower. The imposing cathedral is the largest Gothic building in BENELUX and, in addition to its magnificent exterior, it also contains many gems inside, such as the works of the local native and most famous personality, the master Rubens.
In front of the cathedral, in the vast square, an unusual sculpture depicting the figure of a boy and his dog covered with a "blanket" made of paving stones will catch your eye. These are the characters Nello and Patrasch from the world-famous novel The Hound of Flanders, set in Antwerp.
opening hours:
Mon - Fri - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 17:45)
SAT - 10:00am - 3:00pm
SUN - 13:00 - 17:00
!!closed - 1.1.
opening hours have a few exceptions throughout the year, watch the website below
admission:
children and young people 0-18 years - free
students, seniors 60+, groups of 20+ people - 10 EURO
adults (18+) - 12 EURO
web - https://www.dekathedraal.be/en/visit
An inconspicuous alleyway hidden in the immediate vicinity of the modern centre is a bit of a revelation. Walk through the gate on the Oude Koornmarkt near the cathedral and you'll find yourself "in the past" and an oasis of calm from the otherwise bustling centre in this picturesque medieval alleyway, once inhabited by the poor, whose job it was to ring the bell of the nearby cathedral in case of danger. Today you will find cafes, restaurants and art shops.
Tram 7, direction Mortsel, stop Berchem De Merode
What better way to end a busy day than with a delicious beer? And how about learning something about it too? Our last stop will fulfill both parts. The local brewery has been brewing beer for over a century and is best known for the famous "Bolleke" beer. During the brewery tour, we are guided by virtual guides and in each room, we are taught about the history, production processes, and types of local beer. Of course, there is a tasting session where you will be poured a third of a pint of beer at the reception, which you can take with you on the tour or drink on the spot. You will also receive a token that you can use during the tour to pour yourself another third of a pint, or you can use it at the end of the tour in the brewery restaurant, where the staff will pour you a third of a pint of beer and properly cut the foam with a knife. During the tour, pay attention, at the end your knowledge will be tested with a quiz.
Opening hours:
TUE - SUN - 11:00 - 17:30
MON CLOSED
Entrance fee: (extra charge for visiting on Saturday - 2 EURO)
children 0-4 years - free
children 5-15 years - 14 EURO
students, teachers - 14 EURO
adults (16-64) - 16 EURO
seniors (65+) - 16 EURO
Tram 7, direction Eilandje, stop Mechelseplein
We will explore this beautiful city with the highest number of historical gems in all of Belgium. We will walk along the romantic quays of the water canals, or discover the beauty of the buildings from a boat during a ride. We will wander together into romantic corners and picturesque squares. We will visit the city's icons - Gravensteen water castle towering directly at the confluence of local canals, the legendary Ghent belfry (the city's tallest building) listed as a UNESCO site, and the monumental cathedral. We will see the unconventional "schizophrenic" architecture of the local town hall, visit the market with local delicacies, and taste local beer with a captivating name and logo - Delirium tremens.
Tram 1, direction P+R Luchtbal, stop Antwerp opera
If you have purchased a 48-hour Antwerp pass, plan your journey so that it is also valid for this trip.
Train Antwerp-Central → Gent Dampoort: runs every 15 - 20 min, connections are punctual and comfortable
Fares:
Adults (26+) - 11.7 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.5 EURO, otherwise 11.7 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 6.6 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Buying a ticket - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, easiest via the app
!!ATTENTION!! Buy a ticket directly to the city of Bruges, where we will move from Ghent in the evening. The ticket is valid all day and we can change the connection, so we do not have to pay separately for two rides
Info about Ghent:
The beautiful historical city of Ghent lies at the confluence of the Leie and Lieve canals. The city is very pleasant for walking. There is an almost unbelievable concentration of historical monuments, which you come across literally every 100 meters. The experience is enhanced by the beautiful promenades around the local canals and the possibility of boat trips. Compared to the more famous Bruges, it is not such a touristy place, so you can walk through the city without large crowds.
Public Transport:
You probably won't need it, the city is ideal for walking - a small, compact center and the sights are in close proximity to each other. You might only use it to get to the train station, but even that is not far (about 2 km) and it is also a pleasant walk along the canal.
- Public transport consists of buses and trams, operated by the carrier DeLijn
- Public transport website
Not really worth it for a 1-day visit, as there are only options for 2 (48 EURO) or 3 (48 EURO) days
If you extend your stay in the city by a day, the city card is worth considering
Includes:
Admission to all attractions
Temporary exhibitions in museums
All city transport including bicycle and "watertram"
The main, oldest and largest religious building in Ghent is one of the city's landmarks that you really can't miss. This originally Romanesque church was built in the 10th century and later rebuilt into the current Gothic-style cathedral. The interior is decorated with beautiful columns and stained glass windows, and the most famous artifact of the church is located in the adjacent chapel - the famous Ghent altarpiece by the famous painter Van Eyck.
Opening hours:
Cathedral
MON - SAT - 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
SUN - 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Closed on January 1st.
Chapel with the Ghent Altarpiece:
MON - SAT - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SUN - 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Closed on January 1st.
Entrance fee:
The cathedral is free, there is a fee to enter the chapel with the Ghent Altarpiece
Children 0-12 years - 8 EURO (including augmented reality)
12+ years - 12.5 EURO (altarpiece only) / 16 EURO (including augmented reality)
The panorama of Ghent is mainly made up of 3 dominant tower-like buildings in the Gothic style - the Gent bell tower is the middle one, located between St Bavo's Cathedral and St Nicholas Church. In the past, the bell tower symbolised the prosperity of the city - the taller the bell, the richer the city. It was also used to announce important events or dangers. Today, it is listed on the UNESCO list and serves as a lookout for the city centre and the wider area. Every Sunday between 11-12am you can hear the chimes.
opening hours:
daily 10am - 6pm
Closed - 1/1, 12/24, 12/25, 12/31
admission:
adults - 11 EURO
children 0-12 - free
children and youth 12 - 19 - 2,2 EURO
students under 26 - 5 EURO
web: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/ghent-belfry-world-heritage
Along with the nearby bell tower and St Bavo's Cathedral, it is the most dominant building in the city. The unique feature of this Gothic church is the lucern tower reflecting light. The interior houses beautiful works of art headed by an altarpiece with the work of the painter Nicolas De Liemaecker and a Romantic-style organ designed by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
admission:
free
website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-nicholas-church
This schizophrenic building consists of two parts - the facade to Hoogpoort Street is created in a Late Gothic style, which contrasts sharply with the part of the building on Botnmarkt Street with Renaissance elements inspired by Italian palaces.
Since its construction, the church has been a meeting place for locals and pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. At the main entrance of the church, a shell is integrated into one of the tiles. The scallop shell refers to the Apostle Saint James, who is buried in Santiago de Compostela, where these shells were formerly abundant. It marks the starting points or milestones of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
Opening hours:
TUE - SAT 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Mon, Sun - closed
During the year, some months are also closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays (check the website below)
admission:
free
website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-james-church
The largest square in Ghent and the main venue in Belgium for the very popular farmers' markets with local, high-quality, and very tasty products (try, for example, one of the sausages). The markets take place on Fridays and Saturdays, usually in the morning. Soak up the atmosphere in the streets surrounding the square and admire the beautiful facades. Then go and enjoy the local Delirium Tremens beer in one of the cozy pubs, such as Dulle Griet. It is a place you won't soon forget with its famous boot-for-glass ritual. Find out for yourself how it works! Just be careful not to break the glass... although if worst comes to worst, there are plenty of shoe stores nearby.
Take a trip to the main quayside along the canals for a bit of street art in graffitti alley - a narrow short alley connecting the Onderstraat near nám. vrijdagmarkt and Hoogpoort Street. The street plays with all kinds of colours and shapes, and you can find all kinds of more and less hilarious works on the facades.
If you like the local beer and want to "get on the other foot", or if you fancy a local classic or a coffee and dessert (such as the local speciality Gentleman's Nose or Krocouberdon) while admiring the beautiful local architecture, you can visit the hub of the action - the lively Korenmarkt Square, where most of the major events take place and also the Christmas Market during Advent.
The focal point of the city's tourist life and the main "stars" of postcards and promotional photos from Ghent are two medieval docks and now tourist promenades lined with townhouses with beautiful facades and cafes with outdoor gardens - Graslei and the opposite Korenlei. Ships have been docking here since the 11th century, and this is still the case today, but the original commercial purposes of the cruises have been replaced by sightseeing cruises. Hop on one of the boats and enjoy a cruise on the canals, or sit in a cafe or pub and enjoy the view of the silhouettes of houses reflected on the calm surface of the Leie canal.
Step onto the Grasbrug bridge and enjoy the view of both docks, the Leie canal with moored or floating ships, and the local houses.
boat trip - on the Korenlei embankment you will find a booth selling tickets for a boat trip around Ghent.
boat operating hours:
November - March: daily 10:45 - 15:45
April - October: daily 10:00 - 18:00
price for 40 min cruise:
youth and adults - 10 EURO
children 0-12 - 6.5 EURO
seniors (65+) - 9 EURO
Another of the city's landmarks and main attractions is this castle located at the confluence of the canals Leie and Lieve. It is the only medieval castle with a moat and largely intact defense system in Flanders. You can admire the entrance gates, ramparts, fortress, the Count's residence and stables here.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 - 18:00
closed 1.1., 24.12., 25.12., 31.12.,
Admission:
adults (26+) - 13 EURO
children 0-12 - free
children and youth 12 - 19 - 2.7 EURO
students up to 26 years - 8 EURO
The center of the city's tourist activity and the main "stars" of postcards and promotional photos from Ghent are two medieval docks and today's tourist promenades lined with townhouses with beautiful facades and cafes with outdoor gardens - Graslei and the opposite Korenlei. Ships have been docking here since the 11th century, and it is still the case today, but the original commercial purposes of the cruises have been replaced by sightseeing cruises. Get on one of the boats and enjoy a cruise on the canals, or sit in a cafe or pub and enjoy the view of the silhouettes of the houses reflected on the calm surface of the Leie canal.
Step onto the Grasbrug bridge and enjoy the view of both docks, the Leie canal with moored or floating boats, and the local houses.
boat trip - you will find a booth selling tickets for a boat trip around Ghent on the Korenlei embankment.
boat operating hours:
November - March: daily 10:45 - 15:45
April - October: daily 10:00 - 18:00
price for 40 min cruise:
adults - 10 EURO
children 0-12 - 6.5 EURO
seniors (65+) - 9 EURO
According to the original plans, the church was supposed to have the tallest tower in the city, but the plans were eventually abandoned and the tower is now only 46 m high. Only later did it become clear how lucky this decision was - it was discovered that the ground under the church was unstable and the church would probably not be able to bear more weight. The interior contains beautiful works by the famous painter Van Dyck, among others.
Opening Hours:
APRIL - OCTOBER, daily 14:00 - 17:00
CLOSED MONDAY
admission:
free
web:https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-michaels-church
The bridge spanning the Leie Canal between St Michael's and St Nicholas churches is probably the most popular spot for photos, whether selfies or cityscapes. Thanks to its location, you have a 360-degree view of the city's beauty from the bridge, with the canal, the two aforementioned churches, and the Ghent bell tower right in the palm of your hand.
The city tour is over. Head south with a beautiful walk along the Leie canal, which will take you to the Sint Pieters southern station in about 30 minutes (note that this is a different station than the arrival station).
Train Ghent - Sint-Pieters → Bruges: runs every 15 - 20 min, connections are accurate and comfortable, journey time approx. 25 min
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 8.1 EURO
Senior (65+) - 8.1 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children accompanied by parents (0-12) - 4.8 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is via the application
!!ATTENTION!! If you stayed in Ghent for only 1 day without overnight stay according to this itinerary and purchased a ticket in Antwerp all the way to Bruges, you do not need to buy another ticket and can use the one you already purchased
A free electric shuttle departs near the Bruges train station four times per hour.
- You can find the schedule here
Get off at the Brugge Howest stop
Stroll along the romantic waterfronts and admire the beautiful facades of buildings reflected in the calm waters of the local canals. And how about saving your steps and enjoying an even better view directly from the water during a cruise across the city? See the Relic of the Holy Blood in the basilica of the same name and walk through the picturesque square with a dominant belfry inscribed on the UNESCO list. Sit in one of the many cafes and bistros and treat yourself, as is tradition, to local delicacies overlooking the swans floating on the water surface. Delight your loved ones or yourself by purchasing souvenirs of all kinds in one of the many chocolate shops or other shops.
Info about Bruges:
"Venice of the North" - this is probably the most frequently used pseudonym for this fabulously beautiful town with beautiful canals, swans and floating boats, pedestrian promenades, picturesque squares and waffle and chocolate stands on every corner. Bruges will impress everyone. In the summer, it suffers a bit from the influx of tourists, so I recommend visiting in winter, when it is no less beautiful, but you will be able to move around more easily.
Public transport:
you probably won't need it, the city is ideal for walking - a small, compact center and the sights are in close proximity to each other. For more significant transfers, you can use the free electric shuttle transport, see the description of the journey from the station to the accommodation
The living heart of the city and the main square. Here is the centre of action in the whole city and the venue for events, including Christmas markets in Advent. The square is dominated by the 83 m high bell tower with a panoramic view of the city and the imposing provincial courthouse. An interesting experience, especially for children, can be a carriage ride through the town - this is where the coachmen wait for clients. The area around the square is "dotted" with cafes, pubs and stalls selling goodies.
One of the dominants of Bruges, dating back to the 13th century, is 83 metres high and is listed on the UNESCO. After climbing the 366 steps from the top, you will have a beautiful view of the city and its surroundings. On the way up, you can stop at the treasury, which in the Middle Ages held the city's charters, seals and coffers. A few steps further on, you'll see the impressive musical drum that controls the chimes and keyboard that the town carillonneur uses to play the tower's 47 bells.
Opening Hours:
April - October:
daily - 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November - March:
SO - 9:00am - 8:00pm
other days - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
admission:
adults and seniors (18+) - 15 EURO
children and youth (7-17) - 13 EURO
children (0-7) - free
website:https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/belfort-belfry
While Grote Square is the centre of the city's action, this square serves as the centre of government and power. The Gothic building of the Council House has housed the city's rulers since the 14th century. Inside the building, you can especially admire the Gothic hall with its beautiful vaulted ceiling and murals depicting the history of the city and its past leaders. In addition to the town hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood also stands on the square.
Opening hours:
Daily - 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
admission:
adults and seniors (26+) - 8 EURO
youth (18-25) - 7 EURO
children and youth (13-17) - 4 EURO
children (0-13) - free
website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/stadhuis-city-hall
This basilica consists of two parts - a rather simply decorated lower chapel, from which a staircase leads to the main part, after which the basilica is named.The upper chapel houses the Relic of the Holy Blood, which is said to have been brought to Bruges by the Crusaders. The basilica also houses a museum of the basilica themed around the Relic of the Holy Blood
Opening hours:
Daily - 10:00 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
admission:free
In the upper chapel at the Reliquary, the priest collects voluntary donations, so it's nice to drop a coin, but it's voluntary nonetheless
website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/basiliek-van-het-heilig-bloed-basilica-holy-blood
Probably the most popular place for photos. A very busy place overlooking the most beautiful parts of the city - bridges spanning the canals, beautiful facades of townhouses... Especially in the summer months, you certainly won't be alone here. Before continuing to the next point on the itinerary, take a walk further along the canal, climb one of the several bridges and wave to the boats passing by.
When you're tired of walking, take a boat trip on the canals and see the city from an unusual perspective. There are several boarding points in the vicinity of this place, the prices, lengths and routes of the cruises are more or less the same.
Opening hours:
from March to mid-November - cruises guaranteed
daily 10:00 - 18:00 (last cruise starts at 17:30)
from mid-November to February
cruises take place, but may be cancelled on certain days depending on the weather
no sailing in the dark, last cruise starts 30 minutes before dusk
Price: (30-30 min cruise)
adults - 15 EURO
children (4-11) - 9 EURO
children (0-4) - free
Continue along the canal in a southwesterly direction and turn into Arentshof park, cross the bridge over the canal and you will arrive in front of the Gothic cathedral, which houses, among other things, a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary or an interestingly shaped pulpit. Those who climb the 264 steps to the top will find themselves on the observation deck of the church tower.
Opening hours:
May - September - daily 10:00 - 17:00
October - April - daily 10:00 - 16:00
Price: free
During our journey so far, we have certainly consumed several cones of fries with various sauces, so it's time to learn something about this delicacy. To do this, we will use the Fries Museum, where we will learn everything from growing potatoes and their varieties, through their processing and history, to their consumption in this form. Among other things, we can kill some of the biggest enemies of potatoes - larvae and adults of the Colorado potato beetle (of course, only virtually using a game console). Finally, in the restaurant located on the ground floor of the museum, we will taste this notorious Belgian product.
!!ATTENTION!! Tasting is not included in the price; when purchasing a ticket, we only receive a coupon for a 50-cent discount.
Opening hours:
Daily 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:15)
24.12., 31.12. - closed from 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
Closed all day - 25.12., 1.1.
Price:
Adults - 11 EURO
Students, seniors (65+) - 9.5 EURO
Children (3-11) - 6.50 EURO
Children (0-3) - free
If the chocolate tasting in Antwerp wasn't enough for you, not far from the fries museum there is another chocolate museum - Choco story. A visit to both museums can be combined with a discounted admission.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:00)
24.12., 31.12. - closed from 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
closed all day - 25.12., 1.1.
Price of combined ticket with Friet museum:
adults - 20 EURO (14 EURO separate)
students, seniors (65+) - 17 EURO (12 EURO separate)
children (3-11) - 12 EURO (8,5 EURO separate)
children (0-3) - free
On your way to the station, say goodbye to this beautiful city with a tour of the monastery quarter listed on the UNESCO list, enjoy a last romantic view of the Lake of Love from the bridge and delight your loved ones with a souvenir purchase. Then, later in the day, head to an inconspicuous place of great importance to the development of Europe and follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest battles in human history.
The ideal place to buy souvenirs - a shopping street full of stalls with the usual souvenirs (postcards, magnets, etc. items with motifs of Bruges and Belgium in general) and chocolate shops on every corner, where you can buy a whole range of Belgian pralines, chocolates of different sizes and all sorts of characters, buildings, etc. While shopping, refresh yourself with hot chocolate in a cup at local shops.
This picturesque beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once home to beguines who led a devout and celibate life. Today, some nuns from the Order of St. Benedict and the Order of Vincent de Paul live there, as well as single women from Bruges.
opening hours:
November - March: daily 7:30 - 18:30
April - October: daily 7:30 - 20:30
admission - free
Once upon a time, people believed that water nymphs ("minnen" in Dutch) lived here, which is how the lake got its name. Add to this a tragic love story, mysterious trees and abundant greenery and you have a place brimming with romance. A beautiful place to relax, take romantic walks and take selfies, preferably from the Lake of Love Bridge.
Train Bruges → Braine-l´Alleud: runs approximately every 30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable, travel time approximately 1 hour: 30 minutes, change at Brussels-Midi
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 19.9 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.5 EURO, otherwise 19.9 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 7.7 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Buying a ticket - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is through the app
way to the memorial:
in front of the train station building (east exit) take bus W towards Brussels
pay 2.7 EURO to the driver
get off at the BRAINE-L'ALLEUD Route de Nivelles stop
walk along Route du Lion about 300 m and you will reach the monument
The memorial of this famous battle, where the famous French leader Napoleon was defeated, consists of several parts: The text below describes the museum, which is adjacent to the Panorama, the artificial Lion's mound and the somewhat more distant Hougoumont farm. These are described in separate sub-sections.
In the Memorial Museum, an interactive tour awaits you, which will guide you step by step through this famous battle, where the history of Europe was written. Here you will see important milestones of the battle - what preceded it, a timeline of the two warring camps, tactical layout on the battlefield, etc. Everything is presented or narrated in a very attractive form supplemented by various audiovisual effects including a 3D film and audio guide.
opening hours:
Memorial, Panorama and Lion's mound:
September - October - daily 10:00 - 18:30
November - March - daily 10:00 - 17:30
April - June - daily 10:00 - 18:30
July - August - daily 10:00 - 19:30
Hougoumont:
September - October - daily 11:00 - 18:00
November - March - daily 10:00 - 17:00
April - June - daily 10:00 - 18:00
July - August - daily 10:00 - 19:00
admission: (Memorial, Panorama and Lion's mound, Hougoumont)
high season (April - October):
adults (18-59) - 24 EURO
students, seniors (60+) - 22 EURO
children and youth (10-17) - 12 EURO
children (0-9) - free
off season (November - March):
adults (18-59) - 20.5 EURO
students, seniors (60+) - 18.5 EURO
children and youth (10-17) - 10.25 EURO
children (0-9) - free
Panorama is a large circular building with a screen. Its spectacular dimensions - 110 metres in circumference and 12 metres in height - and exceptional soundtrack will immerse you right in the middle of the battles. On all sides you will be surrounded by battle scenes, sabres clashing, cavalry charges and cannon fire.
This monument was erected in 1826 at the request of William I, King of the Netherlands, who wished to commemorate the spot where his elder son, the Prince of Orange, was probably wounded on 18 June. Above is a statue of a mighty lion, which symbolizes the victory of the monarchy.
From the top of the 226 steps there is a view of the entire battlefield. An orientation plan and various markers help you understand troop movements and understand the square infantry formations, cavalry deployments and the importance of the topography of the site.
This historic farm was the scene of a bloody battle because it was in a forward position protecting the Allied right flank. Here Napoleon's brother unleashed a battle that eventually became the nbloodiest battle, in which the main building burned. As well as a museum with artefacts of the battle, a café with a shop, there is also a private screening in the farmhouse of an authentic film about this "battle within a battle."
Our wandering around the Belgian kingdom is over and it's time to fly back to our country. So we take the train to Charleroi, which, by the way, is said to be the ugliest city in the world. There, we will take a bus to the airport.
Train Braine-l'Alleud → Charleroi Central: Runs approximately every 20-30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable, travel time approximately 35 minutes
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 7.6 EURO
Senior (65+) - 7.6 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child above 4 children accompanied by parents (0-12) - 4.5 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.6 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is via the app
TEC's A1 buses
stop in front of the station building, platform 18 near the ticket shop
frequency - bus runs every 30 min
travel time - approx. 20 min (depending on traffic)
price: 6 EURO
Brussels South Airport
Your journey through this small coastal monarchy is over and now you can look back in the comfort of the airport terminal or on board the plane. The journey has been packed with attractions. You have seen beautiful historic cities with majestic cathedrals, beautiful facades of historic houses, water canals and cobbled streets with mysterious nooks and crannies. You met people of all different nationalities and cultures. You tasted local specialties - beer, waffles in different ways, chocolate, and what else but fries. You took a boat ride on the beautiful waterways and were transported back in time as you visited one of the bloodiest and most important battles in the history of the continent. If you enjoyed the trip and would like to return sometime to explore this interesting country in more depth and add some natural beauty, you can take advantage of the (not only) summer version of the itinerary, expanded to include the North Sea coast with its beaches and sand dunes and the mountains (more like highlands) of the Ardennes. You can also extend your trip by visiting neighbouring Luxembourg for a few days.
Discover this small kingdom on the North Sea coast, where the aroma of chocolate, beer, fries, and waffles in various forms will accompany you every step of the way. Visit the "Venice of the North" and stroll along the romantic embankments around the canals, or take a boat ride and watch the reflections of historical buildings mirrored on the water's surface. Walk through the European Quarter in the "European Capital" with the legendary Atomium building, a magnificent square, and statues of urinating figures. Immerse yourself in history and be drawn into the legendary Battle of Waterloo, where the history of Europe was written. A diverse range of culture (museums, architecture, festivals), gastronomy, linguistic and cultural diversity of the local people, comfortable and fast travel, and year-round pleasant weather - all this makes Belgium an ideal destination for comfortable travel throughout the year.
After arriving at Brussels South Charleroi Airport, go through the airport hall to the FLIBCO bus station, which departs from the area in front of the arrival hall. You will travel approximately 1 hour to Brussels South Station (Brussels Midi), where you will transfer to a tram and then reach your accommodation. It is a very multicultural city that connects otherwise nationally divided Belgium. Here, it doesn't matter whether locals identify as Flemish or Walloon. They live side by side with people of many different ethnicities and with temporary European officials. You will come across mosques, bazaars, and you can taste cuisine from all over the world. Brussels is definitely not just a formal metropolis of European institutions, it is a city of museums, markets and peeing statues.
Southern Brussels Airport in Charleroi.
Travel from the airport to Brussels:
FLIBCO buses to Brussels run every day every 20 minutes
the bus stop is right in front of the arrival hall, you can reach it within 10 minutes of getting off the plane
first bus from the airport to Brussels - 7:20
last bus from the airport to Brussels - 0:40
travel time - approx. 55 min (depending on traffic conditions)
ticket - 19.95 EURO, purchase online on the company's website/mobile application, on-site at the vending machine (payment cards accepted), the ticket is valid for the whole day to the purchased day until 04:00 the following day, it can be canceled 1 day before the date of travel
company website - https://www.flibco.com/en
mobile application - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flibco.customerapp
The largest train station in Brussels, located on the southern edge of the city center. Here, you can transfer to a tram that will take you to your accommodation.
Travel Brussels Midi → Accommodation:
Tram 81 from Brussels Midi towards Ichec, get off at Janson stop. Travel time approx. 13 min, price 2.2 EURO.
Ticket - tap your credit card on the card reader at the turnstile when entering the platform. You do not need to tap again when exiting the tram.
Experience the magic of Brussels on your very first day! Take a walk to the heart of the historic center, where you'll be captivated by the majestic architecture and the legendary Grand Place – a square rightly considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Let yourself be carried away by the city's atmosphere, discover the famous Manneken Pis and its lesser-known siblings, and then head to a neighborhood where time seems to stand still. Explore the flea market, enjoy coffee or beer in one of the stylish cafes, and wander through the romantic cobbled streets. And what would a trip be without tasting waffles and the famous fries with a huge variety of sauces? Brussels will simply get to you with all your senses!
Public Transportation:
The metro, trams, and buses are operated by the same company, STIB-MIVB. All types of public transport are interconnected and have unified fares, allowing transfers between them.
Single journey - 2.2 EURO when paying with a contactless payment card. Valid for 1 hour on all types of public transport.
Ticket purchase - tap your payment card on the card reader at the turnstile when entering the metro platform or inside the tram and bus. No need to tap again when exiting the tram or bus. When using the metro, you go through the turnstile again, so you tap. If you transfer between different vehicles, tap the same card in each new vehicle. If less than 1 hour passes between the first tap and exiting the last vehicle, all connecting journeys are free; you only pay the 2.2 EURO.
Daily fare - if you use public transport more than once a day, tap each time you board a new vehicle. The system will calculate the most suitable fare at the end of the day. The maximum the system will charge you is 8 EURO, meaning after the 4th individual journey, the rest are free.
Public transport website (connections, routes, timetables...) - https://www.stib-mivb.be/home
Brussels card - if you plan to visit several museums, purchasing a Brussels card may be worthwhile. There is a choice of 3 options (24 hours for 39 EURO, 48 hours for 51 EURO, 72 hours for 57 EURO)
The price includes:
Free entry to 49 museums
Discounts on other selected attractions, shops, and bars
Maps and guides
Optional add-on - discount on entry to the Atomium (12 EURO adult), all-day travel pass (not worth it with the 24-hour option)
Purchase and activation:
Purchase online - https://shop.brusselscard.be/en?_gl=1*7cqy9n*_gcl_au*MTY5NDg4MDg1NC4xNzM4MDg3MzUy
You have 1 year to activate after purchase
Activate by tapping when entering the 1st attraction you visit
More about Brussels - https://www.visit.brussels/en/visitors
Gateway to the city center (literally). Here you start your tour of the beauties of the historic city center. This distinctive and dominant historical building is a remnant of the medieval city fortifications and the first attraction you will encounter on your journey. Today it serves as a lookout point (after climbing 169 steps) and a museum.
Museum entrance fee:
adults (19-64 years) - 7 EURO
seniors (65+) and group (min 15) adults - 5 EURO
students with a valid ID and persons with health restrictions - 3 E
children and youth (0-18 years) - free
Opening hours:
MON - THU - 9:30 - 17:00
SAT, SUN, holidays - 10:00 - 17:00
closed - FRI, January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11, December 25
Access:
can be reached comfortably on foot from the accommodation or train station (10-15 min)
metro - ring lines 2 (orange) and 6 (blue), Porte de Hal stop
tram (3,55,90) - Porte de Hal stop
bus (48, 365A) - Porte de Hal stop
A traditional neighborhood in the southern part of the center, near the Hallepoort gate. Soak up the specific atmosphere of old Brussels here and sail into the local artistic streets with shops and cafes. Plan your visit so you can catch the flea market in the center of all the action of this district - Place du Jeu de Balle square. The markets are held daily in the morning and early afternoon (approximately until 1 p.m.).
On the north side of the square, I recommend visiting the Charlotte buffet with excellent local sausages with cabbage or potatoes with bacon and cream sauce.
A public elevator takes you to the square in front of the monumental Palace of Justice, the largest building serving judicial purposes in the world. It lies on a hill next to the square with the Ferris wheel and is therefore one of the city's landmarks visible from afar. At the same time, there is a beautiful view of the center and surrounding parts of the city. The interior of the palace building is not open to the public, so you can only admire its imposing dimensions from the outside.
On the way from the Palace of Justice along Regentschapstraat towards Koningsplein (Royal Square), you can peek into the Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Sablon (roughly halfway along the left side, can be viewed on maps). After a short walk, you will reach Koningsplein (Royal Square), in the vicinity of which you will find several museums, e.g.:
The Royal Palace serves as a workplace for the Belgian monarchs (the residence is at Laeken Castle on the northwestern outskirts of the city). If the Belgian flag is flying, the King is present and fulfilling state duties - e.g., receiving important domestic and foreign visits, discussing state matters, signing documents, etc.
The exterior, along with the extensive park, can of course be seen without restriction and for free. A visit to the interior is only possible during a limited period (July - end of August with prior reservation).
On the way to Monts des Arts, it is possible to visit the Brussels Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels) located nearby (walk through the Royal Park and then turn left on the main street and you will see it soon).
A beautifully landscaped park with fountains, the Palace of the Dynasty or the statue of Queen Elisabeth and perhaps the most famous view of the city, with the spire of the nearby Brussels City Hall looming in the background, to which we will head next. There are also some museums in the vicinity of the park.
And here it is!! The first of the expected peeing statues, and immediately the most famous and oldest. The legendary statue (or rather fountain) Manneken Pis, or Peeing Boy. It is located quite discreetly on the corner of Eikstraat and Stoofstraat. Were it not for the larger or smaller groups of photographing tourists, you might not even notice it. Yet, along with the Atomium, it is probably the most famous symbol of the city, which must be included in all photos, promotional materials or postcards.
According to legend, the two-year-old Duke Godfried II of Brabant supported his soldiers by being hung in a basket on a tree and peeing on the heads of enemies. With his help, the Brabantian units finally won a resounding battle against the Berthouts.
One of the most beautiful squares in the world. A magnificent open space surrounded by the iconic Town Hall building and Gothic houses, many of which hide cafes, bars or restaurants. Due to high prices and crowds, I recommend choosing one of the many establishments in the surrounding streets for refreshments. You can visit the Town Hall building with a view and the adjacent Museum of the City of Brussels (see below).
Beautiful but busy cobbled street with many cafes, souvenir shops etc. If you want to buy postcards, magnets or even a wine opener in the shape of a peeing little boy, or refresh yourself with some of the famous local delicacies, this street (along with the ostentatious streets around the main square) is for you. On every corner here you'll find stalls selling cone fries (prices around 5 E including sauce), waffles (prices varying from 3 E for a "dry" one to 15 E for the most filling ones - chocolate, Nutella, whipped cream, various fruits and sprinkles...) or (how else in this country) chocolate shops. You can sit inside the establishment with your purchased goodies or take them to go in a cone/box.
If the peeing boy was described as an inconspicuous fountain, this is doubly true for the statue of the girl. It lies in an inconspicuous dead end that you probably wouldn't visit if it weren't for the fact that it's a turn off the busy Rue des Bouchers full of cafes and souvenir shops. The statue of the girl is also less touristy (many tourists still don't know about it), but you certainly won't be alone here.
You'll say goodbye to the peeing statues with the third and final piece - this time a dog. The statue is located on the corner of Rue de Chartreux and Rue du Vieux-Marché and is definitely the least known and least visited of the trio.
On the way to this statue, we can visit several interesting places, such as St. Nicholas Church, the Brussels Stock Exchange building (which also houses the museum of the famous Belgian beer) or St. Catherine's Church.
Tram 10, direction Churchill, stop Horta
Today's program starts with a visit to Sacré-Coeur...you read that right, and no, you haven't moved to Paris...you will see the Brussels version, which is no less majestic than its more famous namesake. But you will also visit Paris today, as well as many other European cities, thanks to the amazing MiniEurope park, where you can travel all over the old continent on the area of a small park thanks to miniatures of the main European monuments. Another of the city's icons will be watching over you - the Atomium, or a model of the crystal lattice of iron reduced by 165 billion times. On the other side of the city, you will then briefly take on the role of EU officials and take a look at the places that determine the direction of the whole of Europe.
MHD - today you will be transferring more often, so you will use a full-day ticket, see the information in the description of the city of Brussels. When boarding each connection, you tap in (with the same card), and the system will deduct 8 EURO at the end.
Tram 81 from the Janson stop, direction Marius Renard → Gare du Midi stop (approx. 15 min), transfer to the metro.
metro 6 (blue) from gare du Midi, direction Roi Baudouin → stop Simonis, then walk through the park for about 1 km
Named after the more famous Paris cathedral, but worth a visit. It is one of the largest sacred buildings in the world. It is built in the Art Deco style. It stands on a slight hill on the western edge of the center in the Koekelberg district and can be seen from a distance. In addition to the basilica itself, it is possible to climb to the observation deck.
Entrance to the basilica:
free
8:00 - 18:00 - summer time
8:00 - 17:00 - winter time
View:
entrance - 8 EURO
9:00 - 17:30 (last entry 17:00) - summer time
9:00 - 16:30 (last entry 16:00) - winter time
metro 6 (blue) from Simonis stop, direction Roi Baudouin → Heysel stop, then walk about 500 m.
Iconic structure on the northern edge of Brussels built for the EXPO World's Fair. It is a system of 9 domes connected by corridors, which symbolize a 165 billion times reduced model of the crystal lattice of iron. Some domes are open to the public, and you move between them on escalators accompanied by light and music effects. Inside are interactive exhibitions, displays, information about the technical parameters of the building, examples of the history of the building and other interesting information. In the upper floors there is a restaurant, where a reservation is required.
Opening hours:
MON - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
24/12 and 31/12 - 10:00 - 16:00 (last entry 15:30)
25/12 and 1/1 - 12:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Entrance fee:
adults (19-64 years) - 16 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with health restrictions - 14 EURO
child over 115 cm to 17 years - 8.5 EURO
child under 115 cm - free
students - 8.5 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
! The price includes entry to the nearby Design Museum!
TIP: If you are also planning to visit the neighboring MINI EUROPE park, buy a more advantageous combined ticket (see below)
COMBINED TICKET WITH MINI EUROPE:
(!!MINI EUROPE is not in operation 6/1 - 7/3)
adults (19-64 years) - 32.2 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with health restrictions - 30.5 EURO
teenager 12 - 17 years - 25 EURO
child over 115 cm and up to 11 years - 20.4 EURO
child under 115 cm - free
students - 25 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
!!long queues form during weekends and holidays!!
- I recommend arriving about 30 minutes before opening hours or buying tickets online via https://atomium.be/tickets
Popular park next to the Atomium, which will be appreciated not only by children but also by adults. It displays about 350 scale models of world-famous buildings across the cities of the European Union in 1:25 ratio, supplemented by interesting elements such as moving trains, ships, and even rockets. "Travel" across Europe in this small park and "visit" landmarks such as the Eiffeil Tower, London's Big Ben, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Prague Astronomical Clock.
Opening Hours:
Mon - Sun - 9:30am - 6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
24/12 & 31/12 - 10:00am - 4:00pm (last entry 3:30pm)
25/12 & 1/1 - 12:00pm - 6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
!!closed 6/1 - 7/3
Admission:
Adults (19-64 years old) - 19 EURO
children - 13,5 EURO
COMBINED TICKET WITH MINI EUROPE:
(!!MINI EUROPE is not open 6/1 - 7/3)
adults (19-64 years old) - 32,2 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with disabilities - 30.5 EURO
teenager 12 - 17 years - 25 EURO
child over 115 cm and under 11 years - 20,4 EURO
child under 115 cm - free of charge
students - 25 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
web - https://www.minieurope.com/
metro 6 (blue) from stop Heysel, direction Simons → stop Osseghem
metro 1 (purple), direction Stockel → stop Merode
Exit the metro near the Arc de Triomphe
The extensive park is a popular place for locals to relax (picnics, walks, running and cycling are held here). There is also a football field or a pétanque court. In addition to sports, fans of architecture and culture will also enjoy themselves, especially thanks to the Triumphal Arch of the Palais du Cinquantenaire and several museums (e.g. automobiles or armed forces and military history).
Tip: if you didn't manage to get refreshments elsewhere, you can use one of the food trucks selling waffles, fries, coffee or chilled drinks directly at the Arc de Triomphe.
After crossing the Parc du Cinquantenaire, you will enter the European Quarter, where several key institutions of the European Union are located. Perhaps the most unfamiliar building is the X-shaped Berlaymont - the European Commission. Brussels is known as the "capital of Europe" and it is this building that probably has the most "feel" for this association, thanks to the shape of the building familiar from the media and the EU flags in its western part. Just across the street is another important institution - the Council of the European Union and next to it another well-known building, the "Europa".
Perhaps the most interesting stop in the European Quarter is the European Parliament complex, which houses the interactive museum Parlamentarium. Here, using an audio guide (free in your native language), you will learn everything about the history and present of the EU, including its fundamental problems that it addresses. Admission is also free, you just register at the reception and get a guide.
Opening hours:
MON - 13:00 - 18:00
TUE - FRI - 9:00 - 18:00
SAT - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00
last entry always 30 minutes before closing time
admission - free
metro 2 (orange), direction Simonis → stop Louise
Tram 92, direction Fort-Jaco → stop Janson
The city of Antwerp will excite you as soon as you step out of the main train station, thanks to the magnificent historical station building. You'll immediately recognize the city's reputation as a major diamond trading center when you enter the diamond district, full of diamond shops and luxury jewelry stores. You already know that Belgium is the land of chocolate. It's time to explore this delicacy more closely and, above all, to taste it!! You can do this right next to the station in the world's largest chocolate museum. In the heart of the city, a lively shopping district awaits you with a luxurious shopping center with a monumentally decorated interior. You'll immerse yourself in the city's history and explore its underworld, or rather the intricate network of underground streets with a guide.
Train Brussels - Midi → Antwerp-Central: runs every 20-30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable
Fares:
Adults (26+) - 8.9 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.30 EURO, otherwise 8.9 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 5.10 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.5 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the counter or vending machine, the easiest way is via the app
!!TIP!! - you can buy a package of 10 rides throughout Belgium, called Standard Multi (in the SNCB app for 102 EURO)
From this package, you can use any train journeys throughout Belgium. 1 package can be used for multiple people
When purchasing the package, the average price per 1 journey is 10.2 EURO. It pays off in these cases:
1) during the trip I undertake several longer transfers, where the price per trip exceeds 10.2 EURO / person
2) I travel in a larger group and use the pass for more expensive transfers (e.g. Bruges → Waterloo Memorial) for several people, shorter routes can then be purchased separately
Activation of the journey - after purchasing the pass, I see the number of journeys available. If I want to pay for the journey from the pass, then I find the route in the app and activate it. At that moment, the journey is "bought" and the appropriate number of journeys is deducted (according to the number of passengers selected). During the journey, I can get off and get back on another connection, but it must be on the same route that I activated. You can use this, for example, on the Antwerp → Bruges route, where you get off in Ghent and later continue to Bruges on the same ticket.
It is not often said that the station building is one of the "highlights" of the city. In the case of Antwerp's main railway station, this is indeed the case. Exploring the beauty of the city therefore begins immediately after getting off the train. Locals sometimes proudly call the building "railway cathedral". You will understand the significance when you see this building consisting of a steel platform covering the platform and the magnificent stone station building. Compared to, for example, Czech railway stations, waiting for a train in Antwerp can be a cultural experience.
Belgium = chocolate. Almost everyone who is at least a little interested in the world knows this equation. This museum offers an excellent opportunity to explore this delicious symbiosis in more depth and, above all, to taste samples of local high-quality chocolate. It is the largest museum of Belgian chocolate in the country and in the world. In this interactive museum full of attractive animations and effects, you will gradually go through the entire chocolate making process - from the selection, harvesting and initial processing of cocoa beans in the African jungle, through their transport to world ports, factories, subsequent processing into various forms and distribution to customers. An audio guide is included in the entrance fee. The individual rooms of the exhibition are stylized into specific themes, so at the beginning we find ourselves in the "jungle", later in a factory, in a port, etc. Everything culminates in tasting different chocolate samples - first in the solid form of granules, then liquid.
Opening hours:
daily 10:15 - 18:30 (last entry 17:00)
Entrance fees:
children - 0-3 years - free
children 4-11 - 14.5 EURO
youth 12 - 17 - 18.5 EURO
students - 18.5 EURO
group over 15 people - 18.5 EURO
adults - 19.9 EURO
Antverpy is a world-famous diamond trading centre and the proof is in this neighbourhood of artisans and diamond merchants, where every other shop window dazzles with the sparkle of luxury jewellery. It's a lively neighbourhood full of jewellery shops, jewellers and workshops to process these gems. The streets of the district are bustling with people of all nationalities rushing about for business, and you'll often see members of the Jewish community in traditional dress. As is well known, Jews and business just go together :)
The way from the station and the chocolate museum to the centre is through the main shopping street Meir. Here you will enjoy especially shopping lovers - you will find branches of all kinds of world's more or less luxury brands of clothing, cosmetics etc.
For lovers of luxury - enter the Stadsfeestzaal shopping mall with its magnificent interior consisting of a glass dome with golden elements, staircases and marble columns.
St. James Church - Turn right down Elkenstraat and you will reach this beautiful church, known as the starting point for pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. The interior of the church includes, among other things, the Rubens Chapel with paintings by this famous painter and local native.
Antwerp is known in the world of culture for the work of its native son and one of the most famous painters in the world - Rubens. In the place where he was born and worked, there is now a museum where you can admire 3 main parts:
1) on the ground floor there is an interactive exhibition called "Rubens experience" about his life and work. A popular part of the tour is the possibility of creating your own portrait in the style of Rubens' famous self-portrait
2) in the entrance hall you pass into the courtyard with a garden, which is a beautiful escape from the otherwise busy surroundings of the bustling city center. It serves as a small botanical garden
3) on the 2nd floor you will find a library, where you can see various books, letters and other publications about the painter's life
opening hours RUBENS EXPERIENCE and GARDEN:
MON - FRI - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 17:00)
WED - CLOSED
SAT - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00
1.1., 1.5., 1.11, 25.12 - closed
24.12 and 31.12 - until 15:00
opening hours LIBRARY:
MON - FRI - 9:30 - 17:00
SAT - SUN - closed
1.1., 1.5., 1.11, 25.12 - closed
24.12 and 31.12 - until 15:00
admission:
library - free
rest:
children and youth up to 18 years - free
students and groups of over 12 people - 8 EURO
adults - 12 EURO
Visit the Antwerp canals, a unique attraction, and walk through the former canals and sewers of Antwerp. During a slightly bizarre and adventurous underground walk, you will discover the fascinating and rich history of the city.
The "Ruien" (sewers), "vlieten" (canals) and "vesten" (moats) have crisscrossed Antwerp since the Middle Ages. This network of waterways provided Antwerp with drinking water and an inland port. Later, the canals served as sewers and were eventually backfilled. This unique piece of heritage thus disappeared from the city's panorama.
Rediscover this hidden heritage and walk along with a live and virtual guide on a tablet (in English, Dutch, French) around the old vaults, canals, bridges, sewers and locks and take a look into the underground of the city. Listen to mysterious anecdotes and fascinating trivia from the distant and recent past
The visit starts at Ruihuis, Suikerrui 21, 2000 Antwerp, and ends at Stadsmagazijn, Keistraat 5, 2000 Antwerp.
To descend into The Ruien, visitors will receive a protective suit, boots and a backpack to store shoes and other personal belongings during the walk.
!!ATTENTION!! Age limit from 10 years - this is a relatively challenging walk, sometimes through mud and dampness
Tour times: (tour lasts 90 min)
TUE - SUN - 11:00, 13:00, 15:00
Each tour is max for 16 people, so I recommend booking in advance
Antwerp city pass holders have free admission, book your place by email at reservaties@deruien.be
Admission:
children and youth 10 - 16 years - 12 EURO
adults - 19 EURO
A beautiful baroque church standing on the picturesque Conscienceplein square. The interior is decorated with artifacts from the famous native Rubens, and the dominant feature is the imposing main altar. Also visit the sacristy or the lace museum (open on Wednesdays only).
Entrance to the church can be combined with a visit to Antwerp's underground canals, De Ruien (see next item). With a guide, you can descend into the crypt and then through a secret entrance to the Antwerp underground canals.
!!BUT!!
1) the tour is only in Dutch
2) the price of 27 EURO does not include the ANtwerp city pass. So, if you decide to purchase the pass, you pay the entrance fee separately.
details about the combined entry - https://en.ruien.be/individuele-bezoeken/combi-wandeling-sint-carolus-borromeus
church opening hours:
MON - SAT - 10:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 17:00
lace museum - WED 10:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 16:00
admission: (the admission price includes the lace museum)
children - 0-13 years - free
students and seniors (60+) - 3 EURO
group of over 20 people - 3 EURO
adults - 5 EURO
web - https://mkantwerpen.be/en/churches/st-charles-borromeo-church/
This striking church is the only place in the world where you will find paintings by Anthropolitan masters Rubens, Van Dyck and Jordaens together in the exact place for which they were created. You can admire over 50 paintings, 200 magnificent sculptures and a gorgeous organ. Outside you will find the epic Calvary Garden dedicated to Christ's passion and resurrection.
!!!ATTENTION!!! From 3/2 to 31/3 2025 the church is undergoing a complete renovation and the entrance will be closed. The church will reopen to the public in April
.
Church Hours:
April - October:
daily - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
November - March:
SAT and SUN - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
From 3/2 to 3/31, the church is undergoing a complete renovation and the entrance will be closed
Admission: (1st Tuesday of each month free for all)
children and youth 0-19 years - free
students - 3 EURO
group of more than 15 people - 3 EURO
adults - 5 EURO
web - https://mkantwerpen.be/en/churches/st-pauls-church/
Perhaps the most distinctive building in the city, appearing on all postcards, pictures, and promotional materials. Near the Scheldt River, the local port, and the modern Eilandje district, stands this designer building housing various museums with permanent and constantly changing exhibitions about the city's history, the port, and the river. However, the main reason to visit is the free opportunity to take escalators across the promenades to the roof and admire the panoramic view of the harbor, the river, and the historic city center.
Opening hours:
Museums and exhibitions:
Tue - Sun - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:00)
Panorama:
Tue - Sun - 9:30 - 22:00 (may be closed in case of bad weather)
Summer season (1.5 - 31.10) - open until 00:00 (last entry 23:30)
!!Museums and panorama are closed from 3 PM on 24.12 and 31.12!!
!!Closed all day - every Monday, 1.1, 1.5., 25.12
Admission:
Permanent exhibitions
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-25, group of 12 people or more - 6 EURO
Adults - 10 EURO
Permanent + temporary exhibitions:
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-25, group of 12 people or more - 8 EURO
Adults - 12 EURO
Originally a working-class district between the city center and the modern Eilandje district. As mentioned in the introduction, Antwerp is and has been an important port, and this part of the city near the port was and is a center of entertainment (even the darker kind) for the sailors and workers of the time, and today for locals and tourists. The main attraction is the local Red Light District, where prostitution is practiced in the style of Amsterdam (but on a much smaller scale). Women of various nationalities, ethnicities, and physical proportions sit behind red-lit windows, waiting for their clients in just a few streets around Schipperstraat. In addition to this somewhat controversial form of entertainment, it is also an area of bars and restaurants. The center of the area is Falconplein Square.
Tram 7, direction Mortsel, stop Mechelseplein
What are Antwerp and Belgium in general famous for? You can learn about the journey of raw diamonds from their deposits in African mines to their cutting and jewelry making in the Diamond Museum. In the very heart of this beautiful city, a beautiful square with an imposing cathedral and a famous statue awaits you. The extensive Royal Museum of Fine Arts, with its magnificent pieces, especially by local artists, will be a feast for the eyes. And how do you wash down this busy day? In Belgium, what else but beer, specifically the local De Koninck brewery, which you can also see with the help of an interactive exhibition. Proost!! (Cheers!!)
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (commonly referred to as KMSKA) has undergone more than 10 years of reconstruction and is reopened to visitors in a beautifully renovated building. It houses works by leading artists, led by Ensor, Rubens, Van Dyck and Van Eyck. The building is very extensive and in addition to paintings you will also find sculptures and various interactive elements. Reserve approximately 2 hours for the visit, art fans even longer.
Opening hours:
MON, TUE, WED, FRI - 10:00 - 17:00
THU - 10:00 - 22:00
SAT, SUN, public holidays - 10:00 - 18:00
school holidays - 10:00 - 18:00
July - August - 10:00 - 17:00
!!24.12 and 31.12 the museum is closed from 5 pm!!
!!closed all day - 1.1, 25.12!!
entrance fee:
children and youth 0-18 years - free
youth 18-26 - 10 EURO
adults - 20 EURO
This UNESCO museum and monument is home to the famous printing family of the same name. A tour with an audio guide (included in the admission price) will take you deep into the history of printing, you will see the printing technique, a collection of works, and you can also print your own text, in the old way using physical force. You can then take the printed text with you as a souvenir. The building also includes a courtyard garden.
opening hours:
TU - SU - 10:00 - 17:00
!!24.12 and 31.12 the museum is closed from 3 pm!!
!!closed all day - every MONDAY, 1.1, 1.5., 1.11., 25.12!!
admission:
children and youth 0-18 years - free
youth 18-25 and group 12 + persons - 8 EURO
adults (26+) - 12 EURO
A very unusual experience. It is an approximately 1 km tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists leading under the Scheldt River, which connects the city center with the left bank of the river - the Linkeroever district, from where there is a beautiful view of the panorama of the center and a little further also the SintAnna river beach. An elevator leads to the tunnel, but I recommend using the authentic wooden escalator. If you don't like returning the same way, you can use the ferry from the nearby port for the return trip.
One of the city's highlights. The Steen, a river fortress that serves as a landmark and the heart of the city, also houses a tourist information center. It serves as a viewpoint of the city (mainly the right bank of the river), a terminal for boat trips, a shop with city souvenirs, and also a museum called "The Antwerp Story", where you gradually discover the history and personalities of this cultural and vibrant port city in a total of 11 rooms.
Opening hours:
daily - 10:00 - 18:00, viewpoint 10:00 - 22:00
!!Closed from 16:00 on 24.12 and 31.12!!
!!Closed - 1.1, 25.12!!
Entrance fees: (free visitor center, viewpoint and selected rooms of The Antwerp Story)
The Antwerp Story:
children 0-5 years - free
children and youth 6-17 - 5 EURO
adults (18+) - 7 EURO
For centuries, Antwerp has been known as the world's diamond center. In the Diamond Museum, we will learn about the journey of rough diamonds from their deposits in African mines to their cutting and jewelry making, and the differences between natural and laboratory-created diamonds. The tour also includes interactive elements and a workshop.
Opening hours:
Daily - 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:45)
WED - CLOSED
!!24.12 and 31.12 closed from 3 PM!!
!!Closed - 1.1, 1.5, 1.11., 25.12!!
Entrance fee:
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-26, group 12+ persons - 8 EURO
Adults (26+) - 12 EURO
You can see this majestic UNESCO-listed building from all corners of the city, at least its tower. The imposing cathedral is the largest Gothic building in BENELUX and, in addition to its magnificent exterior, it also contains many gems inside, such as the works of the local native and most famous personality, the master Rubens.
In front of the cathedral, in the vast square, an unusual sculpture depicting the figure of a boy and his dog covered with a "blanket" made of paving stones will catch your eye. These are the characters Nello and Patrasch from the world-famous novel The Hound of Flanders, set in Antwerp.
opening hours:
Mon - Fri - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 17:45)
SAT - 10:00am - 3:00pm
SUN - 13:00 - 17:00
!!closed - 1.1.
opening hours have a few exceptions throughout the year, watch the website below
admission:
children and young people 0-18 years - free
students, seniors 60+, groups of 20+ people - 10 EURO
adults (18+) - 12 EURO
web - https://www.dekathedraal.be/en/visit
An inconspicuous alleyway hidden in the immediate vicinity of the modern centre is a bit of a revelation. Walk through the gate on the Oude Koornmarkt near the cathedral and you'll find yourself "in the past" and an oasis of calm from the otherwise bustling centre in this picturesque medieval alleyway, once inhabited by the poor, whose job it was to ring the bell of the nearby cathedral in case of danger. Today you will find cafes, restaurants and art shops.
Tram 7, direction Mortsel, stop Berchem De Merode
What better way to end a busy day than with a delicious beer? And how about learning something about it too? Our last stop will fulfill both parts. The local brewery has been brewing beer for over a century and is best known for the famous "Bolleke" beer. During the brewery tour, we are guided by virtual guides and in each room, we are taught about the history, production processes, and types of local beer. Of course, there is a tasting session where you will be poured a third of a pint of beer at the reception, which you can take with you on the tour or drink on the spot. You will also receive a token that you can use during the tour to pour yourself another third of a pint, or you can use it at the end of the tour in the brewery restaurant, where the staff will pour you a third of a pint of beer and properly cut the foam with a knife. During the tour, pay attention, at the end your knowledge will be tested with a quiz.
Opening hours:
TUE - SUN - 11:00 - 17:30
MON CLOSED
Entrance fee: (extra charge for visiting on Saturday - 2 EURO)
children 0-4 years - free
children 5-15 years - 14 EURO
students, teachers - 14 EURO
adults (16-64) - 16 EURO
seniors (65+) - 16 EURO
Tram 7, direction Eilandje, stop Mechelseplein
We will explore this beautiful city with the highest number of historical gems in all of Belgium. We will walk along the romantic quays of the water canals, or discover the beauty of the buildings from a boat during a ride. We will wander together into romantic corners and picturesque squares. We will visit the city's icons - Gravensteen water castle towering directly at the confluence of local canals, the legendary Ghent belfry (the city's tallest building) listed as a UNESCO site, and the monumental cathedral. We will see the unconventional "schizophrenic" architecture of the local town hall, visit the market with local delicacies, and taste local beer with a captivating name and logo - Delirium tremens.
Tram 1, direction P+R Luchtbal, stop Antwerp opera
If you have purchased a 48-hour Antwerp pass, plan your journey so that it is also valid for this trip.
Train Antwerp-Central → Gent Dampoort: runs every 15 - 20 min, connections are punctual and comfortable
Fares:
Adults (26+) - 11.7 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.5 EURO, otherwise 11.7 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 6.6 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Buying a ticket - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, easiest via the app
!!ATTENTION!! Buy a ticket directly to the city of Bruges, where we will move from Ghent in the evening. The ticket is valid all day and we can change the connection, so we do not have to pay separately for two rides
Info about Ghent:
The beautiful historical city of Ghent lies at the confluence of the Leie and Lieve canals. The city is very pleasant for walking. There is an almost unbelievable concentration of historical monuments, which you come across literally every 100 meters. The experience is enhanced by the beautiful promenades around the local canals and the possibility of boat trips. Compared to the more famous Bruges, it is not such a touristy place, so you can walk through the city without large crowds.
Public Transport:
You probably won't need it, the city is ideal for walking - a small, compact center and the sights are in close proximity to each other. You might only use it to get to the train station, but even that is not far (about 2 km) and it is also a pleasant walk along the canal.
- Public transport consists of buses and trams, operated by the carrier DeLijn
- Public transport website
Not really worth it for a 1-day visit, as there are only options for 2 (48 EURO) or 3 (48 EURO) days
If you extend your stay in the city by a day, the city card is worth considering
Includes:
Admission to all attractions
Temporary exhibitions in museums
All city transport including bicycle and "watertram"
The main, oldest and largest religious building in Ghent is one of the city's landmarks that you really can't miss. This originally Romanesque church was built in the 10th century and later rebuilt into the current Gothic-style cathedral. The interior is decorated with beautiful columns and stained glass windows, and the most famous artifact of the church is located in the adjacent chapel - the famous Ghent altarpiece by the famous painter Van Eyck.
Opening hours:
Cathedral
MON - SAT - 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
SUN - 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Closed on January 1st.
Chapel with the Ghent Altarpiece:
MON - SAT - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SUN - 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Closed on January 1st.
Entrance fee:
The cathedral is free, there is a fee to enter the chapel with the Ghent Altarpiece
Children 0-12 years - 8 EURO (including augmented reality)
12+ years - 12.5 EURO (altarpiece only) / 16 EURO (including augmented reality)
The panorama of Ghent is mainly made up of 3 dominant tower-like buildings in the Gothic style - the Gent bell tower is the middle one, located between St Bavo's Cathedral and St Nicholas Church. In the past, the bell tower symbolised the prosperity of the city - the taller the bell, the richer the city. It was also used to announce important events or dangers. Today, it is listed on the UNESCO list and serves as a lookout for the city centre and the wider area. Every Sunday between 11-12am you can hear the chimes.
opening hours:
daily 10am - 6pm
Closed - 1/1, 12/24, 12/25, 12/31
admission:
adults - 11 EURO
children 0-12 - free
children and youth 12 - 19 - 2,2 EURO
students under 26 - 5 EURO
web: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/ghent-belfry-world-heritage
Along with the nearby bell tower and St Bavo's Cathedral, it is the most dominant building in the city. The unique feature of this Gothic church is the lucern tower reflecting light. The interior houses beautiful works of art headed by an altarpiece with the work of the painter Nicolas De Liemaecker and a Romantic-style organ designed by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
admission:
free
website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-nicholas-church
This schizophrenic building consists of two parts - the facade to Hoogpoort Street is created in a Late Gothic style, which contrasts sharply with the part of the building on Botnmarkt Street with Renaissance elements inspired by Italian palaces.
Since its construction, the church has been a meeting place for locals and pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. At the main entrance of the church, a shell is integrated into one of the tiles. The scallop shell refers to the Apostle Saint James, who is buried in Santiago de Compostela, where these shells were formerly abundant. It marks the starting points or milestones of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
Opening hours:
TUE - SAT 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Mon, Sun - closed
During the year, some months are also closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays (check the website below)
admission:
free
website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-james-church
The largest square in Ghent and the main venue in Belgium for the very popular farmers' markets with local, high-quality, and very tasty products (try, for example, one of the sausages). The markets take place on Fridays and Saturdays, usually in the morning. Soak up the atmosphere in the streets surrounding the square and admire the beautiful facades. Then go and enjoy the local Delirium Tremens beer in one of the cozy pubs, such as Dulle Griet. It is a place you won't soon forget with its famous boot-for-glass ritual. Find out for yourself how it works! Just be careful not to break the glass... although if worst comes to worst, there are plenty of shoe stores nearby.
Take a trip to the main quayside along the canals for a bit of street art in graffitti alley - a narrow short alley connecting the Onderstraat near nám. vrijdagmarkt and Hoogpoort Street. The street plays with all kinds of colours and shapes, and you can find all kinds of more and less hilarious works on the facades.
If you like the local beer and want to "get on the other foot", or if you fancy a local classic or a coffee and dessert (such as the local speciality Gentleman's Nose or Krocouberdon) while admiring the beautiful local architecture, you can visit the hub of the action - the lively Korenmarkt Square, where most of the major events take place and also the Christmas Market during Advent.
The focal point of the city's tourist life and the main "stars" of postcards and promotional photos from Ghent are two medieval docks and now tourist promenades lined with townhouses with beautiful facades and cafes with outdoor gardens - Graslei and the opposite Korenlei. Ships have been docking here since the 11th century, and this is still the case today, but the original commercial purposes of the cruises have been replaced by sightseeing cruises. Hop on one of the boats and enjoy a cruise on the canals, or sit in a cafe or pub and enjoy the view of the silhouettes of houses reflected on the calm surface of the Leie canal.
Step onto the Grasbrug bridge and enjoy the view of both docks, the Leie canal with moored or floating ships, and the local houses.
boat trip - on the Korenlei embankment you will find a booth selling tickets for a boat trip around Ghent.
boat operating hours:
November - March: daily 10:45 - 15:45
April - October: daily 10:00 - 18:00
price for 40 min cruise:
youth and adults - 10 EURO
children 0-12 - 6.5 EURO
seniors (65+) - 9 EURO
Another of the city's landmarks and main attractions is this castle located at the confluence of the canals Leie and Lieve. It is the only medieval castle with a moat and largely intact defense system in Flanders. You can admire the entrance gates, ramparts, fortress, the Count's residence and stables here.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 - 18:00
closed 1.1., 24.12., 25.12., 31.12.,
Admission:
adults (26+) - 13 EURO
children 0-12 - free
children and youth 12 - 19 - 2.7 EURO
students up to 26 years - 8 EURO
The center of the city's tourist activity and the main "stars" of postcards and promotional photos from Ghent are two medieval docks and today's tourist promenades lined with townhouses with beautiful facades and cafes with outdoor gardens - Graslei and the opposite Korenlei. Ships have been docking here since the 11th century, and it is still the case today, but the original commercial purposes of the cruises have been replaced by sightseeing cruises. Get on one of the boats and enjoy a cruise on the canals, or sit in a cafe or pub and enjoy the view of the silhouettes of the houses reflected on the calm surface of the Leie canal.
Step onto the Grasbrug bridge and enjoy the view of both docks, the Leie canal with moored or floating boats, and the local houses.
boat trip - you will find a booth selling tickets for a boat trip around Ghent on the Korenlei embankment.
boat operating hours:
November - March: daily 10:45 - 15:45
April - October: daily 10:00 - 18:00
price for 40 min cruise:
adults - 10 EURO
children 0-12 - 6.5 EURO
seniors (65+) - 9 EURO
According to the original plans, the church was supposed to have the tallest tower in the city, but the plans were eventually abandoned and the tower is now only 46 m high. Only later did it become clear how lucky this decision was - it was discovered that the ground under the church was unstable and the church would probably not be able to bear more weight. The interior contains beautiful works by the famous painter Van Dyck, among others.
Opening Hours:
APRIL - OCTOBER, daily 14:00 - 17:00
CLOSED MONDAY
admission:
free
web:https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-michaels-church
The bridge spanning the Leie Canal between St Michael's and St Nicholas churches is probably the most popular spot for photos, whether selfies or cityscapes. Thanks to its location, you have a 360-degree view of the city's beauty from the bridge, with the canal, the two aforementioned churches, and the Ghent bell tower right in the palm of your hand.
The city tour is over. Head south with a beautiful walk along the Leie canal, which will take you to the Sint Pieters southern station in about 30 minutes (note that this is a different station than the arrival station).
Train Ghent - Sint-Pieters → Bruges: runs every 15 - 20 min, connections are accurate and comfortable, journey time approx. 25 min
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 8.1 EURO
Senior (65+) - 8.1 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children accompanied by parents (0-12) - 4.8 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is via the application
!!ATTENTION!! If you stayed in Ghent for only 1 day without overnight stay according to this itinerary and purchased a ticket in Antwerp all the way to Bruges, you do not need to buy another ticket and can use the one you already purchased
A free electric shuttle departs near the Bruges train station four times per hour.
- You can find the schedule here
Get off at the Brugge Howest stop
Stroll along the romantic waterfronts and admire the beautiful facades of buildings reflected in the calm waters of the local canals. And how about saving your steps and enjoying an even better view directly from the water during a cruise across the city? See the Relic of the Holy Blood in the basilica of the same name and walk through the picturesque square with a dominant belfry inscribed on the UNESCO list. Sit in one of the many cafes and bistros and treat yourself, as is tradition, to local delicacies overlooking the swans floating on the water surface. Delight your loved ones or yourself by purchasing souvenirs of all kinds in one of the many chocolate shops or other shops.
Info about Bruges:
"Venice of the North" - this is probably the most frequently used pseudonym for this fabulously beautiful town with beautiful canals, swans and floating boats, pedestrian promenades, picturesque squares and waffle and chocolate stands on every corner. Bruges will impress everyone. In the summer, it suffers a bit from the influx of tourists, so I recommend visiting in winter, when it is no less beautiful, but you will be able to move around more easily.
Public transport:
you probably won't need it, the city is ideal for walking - a small, compact center and the sights are in close proximity to each other. For more significant transfers, you can use the free electric shuttle transport, see the description of the journey from the station to the accommodation
The living heart of the city and the main square. Here is the centre of action in the whole city and the venue for events, including Christmas markets in Advent. The square is dominated by the 83 m high bell tower with a panoramic view of the city and the imposing provincial courthouse. An interesting experience, especially for children, can be a carriage ride through the town - this is where the coachmen wait for clients. The area around the square is "dotted" with cafes, pubs and stalls selling goodies.
One of the dominants of Bruges, dating back to the 13th century, is 83 metres high and is listed on the UNESCO. After climbing the 366 steps from the top, you will have a beautiful view of the city and its surroundings. On the way up, you can stop at the treasury, which in the Middle Ages held the city's charters, seals and coffers. A few steps further on, you'll see the impressive musical drum that controls the chimes and keyboard that the town carillonneur uses to play the tower's 47 bells.
Opening Hours:
April - October:
daily - 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November - March:
SO - 9:00am - 8:00pm
other days - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
admission:
adults and seniors (18+) - 15 EURO
children and youth (7-17) - 13 EURO
children (0-7) - free
website:https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/belfort-belfry
While Grote Square is the centre of the city's action, this square serves as the centre of government and power. The Gothic building of the Council House has housed the city's rulers since the 14th century. Inside the building, you can especially admire the Gothic hall with its beautiful vaulted ceiling and murals depicting the history of the city and its past leaders. In addition to the town hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood also stands on the square.
Opening hours:
Daily - 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
admission:
adults and seniors (26+) - 8 EURO
youth (18-25) - 7 EURO
children and youth (13-17) - 4 EURO
children (0-13) - free
website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/stadhuis-city-hall
This basilica consists of two parts - a rather simply decorated lower chapel, from which a staircase leads to the main part, after which the basilica is named.The upper chapel houses the Relic of the Holy Blood, which is said to have been brought to Bruges by the Crusaders. The basilica also houses a museum of the basilica themed around the Relic of the Holy Blood
Opening hours:
Daily - 10:00 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
admission:free
In the upper chapel at the Reliquary, the priest collects voluntary donations, so it's nice to drop a coin, but it's voluntary nonetheless
website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/basiliek-van-het-heilig-bloed-basilica-holy-blood
Probably the most popular place for photos. A very busy place overlooking the most beautiful parts of the city - bridges spanning the canals, beautiful facades of townhouses... Especially in the summer months, you certainly won't be alone here. Before continuing to the next point on the itinerary, take a walk further along the canal, climb one of the several bridges and wave to the boats passing by.
When you're tired of walking, take a boat trip on the canals and see the city from an unusual perspective. There are several boarding points in the vicinity of this place, the prices, lengths and routes of the cruises are more or less the same.
Opening hours:
from March to mid-November - cruises guaranteed
daily 10:00 - 18:00 (last cruise starts at 17:30)
from mid-November to February
cruises take place, but may be cancelled on certain days depending on the weather
no sailing in the dark, last cruise starts 30 minutes before dusk
Price: (30-30 min cruise)
adults - 15 EURO
children (4-11) - 9 EURO
children (0-4) - free
Continue along the canal in a southwesterly direction and turn into Arentshof park, cross the bridge over the canal and you will arrive in front of the Gothic cathedral, which houses, among other things, a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary or an interestingly shaped pulpit. Those who climb the 264 steps to the top will find themselves on the observation deck of the church tower.
Opening hours:
May - September - daily 10:00 - 17:00
October - April - daily 10:00 - 16:00
Price: free
During our journey so far, we have certainly consumed several cones of fries with various sauces, so it's time to learn something about this delicacy. To do this, we will use the Fries Museum, where we will learn everything from growing potatoes and their varieties, through their processing and history, to their consumption in this form. Among other things, we can kill some of the biggest enemies of potatoes - larvae and adults of the Colorado potato beetle (of course, only virtually using a game console). Finally, in the restaurant located on the ground floor of the museum, we will taste this notorious Belgian product.
!!ATTENTION!! Tasting is not included in the price; when purchasing a ticket, we only receive a coupon for a 50-cent discount.
Opening hours:
Daily 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:15)
24.12., 31.12. - closed from 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
Closed all day - 25.12., 1.1.
Price:
Adults - 11 EURO
Students, seniors (65+) - 9.5 EURO
Children (3-11) - 6.50 EURO
Children (0-3) - free
If the chocolate tasting in Antwerp wasn't enough for you, not far from the fries museum there is another chocolate museum - Choco story. A visit to both museums can be combined with a discounted admission.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:00)
24.12., 31.12. - closed from 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
closed all day - 25.12., 1.1.
Price of combined ticket with Friet museum:
adults - 20 EURO (14 EURO separate)
students, seniors (65+) - 17 EURO (12 EURO separate)
children (3-11) - 12 EURO (8,5 EURO separate)
children (0-3) - free
On your way to the station, say goodbye to this beautiful city with a tour of the monastery quarter listed on the UNESCO list, enjoy a last romantic view of the Lake of Love from the bridge and delight your loved ones with a souvenir purchase. Then, later in the day, head to an inconspicuous place of great importance to the development of Europe and follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest battles in human history.
The ideal place to buy souvenirs - a shopping street full of stalls with the usual souvenirs (postcards, magnets, etc. items with motifs of Bruges and Belgium in general) and chocolate shops on every corner, where you can buy a whole range of Belgian pralines, chocolates of different sizes and all sorts of characters, buildings, etc. While shopping, refresh yourself with hot chocolate in a cup at local shops.
This picturesque beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once home to beguines who led a devout and celibate life. Today, some nuns from the Order of St. Benedict and the Order of Vincent de Paul live there, as well as single women from Bruges.
opening hours:
November - March: daily 7:30 - 18:30
April - October: daily 7:30 - 20:30
admission - free
Once upon a time, people believed that water nymphs ("minnen" in Dutch) lived here, which is how the lake got its name. Add to this a tragic love story, mysterious trees and abundant greenery and you have a place brimming with romance. A beautiful place to relax, take romantic walks and take selfies, preferably from the Lake of Love Bridge.
Train Bruges → Braine-l´Alleud: runs approximately every 30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable, travel time approximately 1 hour: 30 minutes, change at Brussels-Midi
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 19.9 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.5 EURO, otherwise 19.9 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 7.7 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Buying a ticket - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is through the app
way to the memorial:
in front of the train station building (east exit) take bus W towards Brussels
pay 2.7 EURO to the driver
get off at the BRAINE-L'ALLEUD Route de Nivelles stop
walk along Route du Lion about 300 m and you will reach the monument
The memorial of this famous battle, where the famous French leader Napoleon was defeated, consists of several parts: The text below describes the museum, which is adjacent to the Panorama, the artificial Lion's mound and the somewhat more distant Hougoumont farm. These are described in separate sub-sections.
In the Memorial Museum, an interactive tour awaits you, which will guide you step by step through this famous battle, where the history of Europe was written. Here you will see important milestones of the battle - what preceded it, a timeline of the two warring camps, tactical layout on the battlefield, etc. Everything is presented or narrated in a very attractive form supplemented by various audiovisual effects including a 3D film and audio guide.
opening hours:
Memorial, Panorama and Lion's mound:
September - October - daily 10:00 - 18:30
November - March - daily 10:00 - 17:30
April - June - daily 10:00 - 18:30
July - August - daily 10:00 - 19:30
Hougoumont:
September - October - daily 11:00 - 18:00
November - March - daily 10:00 - 17:00
April - June - daily 10:00 - 18:00
July - August - daily 10:00 - 19:00
admission: (Memorial, Panorama and Lion's mound, Hougoumont)
high season (April - October):
adults (18-59) - 24 EURO
students, seniors (60+) - 22 EURO
children and youth (10-17) - 12 EURO
children (0-9) - free
off season (November - March):
adults (18-59) - 20.5 EURO
students, seniors (60+) - 18.5 EURO
children and youth (10-17) - 10.25 EURO
children (0-9) - free
Panorama is a large circular building with a screen. Its spectacular dimensions - 110 metres in circumference and 12 metres in height - and exceptional soundtrack will immerse you right in the middle of the battles. On all sides you will be surrounded by battle scenes, sabres clashing, cavalry charges and cannon fire.
This monument was erected in 1826 at the request of William I, King of the Netherlands, who wished to commemorate the spot where his elder son, the Prince of Orange, was probably wounded on 18 June. Above is a statue of a mighty lion, which symbolizes the victory of the monarchy.
From the top of the 226 steps there is a view of the entire battlefield. An orientation plan and various markers help you understand troop movements and understand the square infantry formations, cavalry deployments and the importance of the topography of the site.This historic farm was the scene of a bloody battle because it was in a forward position protecting the Allied right flank. Here Napoleon's brother unleashed a battle that eventually became the nbloodiest battle, in which the main building burned. As well as a museum with artefacts of the battle, a café with a shop, there is also a private screening in the farmhouse of an authentic film about this "battle within a battle."
Our wandering around the Belgian kingdom is over and it's time to fly back to our country. So we take the train to Charleroi, which, by the way, is said to be the ugliest city in the world. There, we will take a bus to the airport.
Train Braine-l'Alleud → Charleroi Central: Runs approximately every 20-30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable, travel time approximately 35 minutes
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 7.6 EURO
Senior (65+) - 7.6 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child above 4 children accompanied by parents (0-12) - 4.5 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.6 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is via the app
TEC's A1 buses
stop in front of the station building, platform 18 near the ticket shop
frequency - bus runs every 30 min
travel time - approx. 20 min (depending on traffic)
price: 6 EURO
Brussels South Airport
Your journey through this small coastal monarchy is over and now you can look back in the comfort of the airport terminal or on board the plane. The journey has been packed with attractions. You have seen beautiful historic cities with majestic cathedrals, beautiful facades of historic houses, water canals and cobbled streets with mysterious nooks and crannies. You met people of all different nationalities and cultures. You tasted local specialties - beer, waffles in different ways, chocolate, and what else but fries. You took a boat ride on the beautiful waterways and were transported back in time as you visited one of the bloodiest and most important battles in the history of the continent. If you enjoyed the trip and would like to return sometime to explore this interesting country in more depth and add some natural beauty, you can take advantage of the (not only) summer version of the itinerary, expanded to include the North Sea coast with its beaches and sand dunes and the mountains (more like highlands) of the Ardennes. You can also extend your trip by visiting neighbouring Luxembourg for a few days.
itinerary by Jakub
Discover this small kingdom on the North Sea coast, where the aroma of chocolate, beer, fries, and waffles in various forms will accompany you every step of the way. Visit the "Venice of the North" and stroll along the romantic embankments around the canals, or take a boat ride and watch the reflections of historical buildings mirrored on the water's surface. Walk through the European Quarter in the "European Capital" with the legendary Atomium building, a magnificent square, and statues of urinating figures. Immerse yourself in history and be drawn into the legendary Battle of Waterloo, where the history of Europe was written. A diverse range of culture (museums, architecture, festivals), gastronomy, linguistic and cultural diversity of the local people, comfortable and fast travel, and year-round pleasant weather - all this makes Belgium an ideal destination for comfortable travel throughout the year.
After arriving at Brussels South Charleroi Airport, go through the airport hall to the FLIBCO bus station, which departs from the area in front of the arrival hall. You will travel approximately 1 hour to Brussels South Station (Brussels Midi), where you will transfer to a tram and then reach your accommodation. It is a very multicultural city that connects otherwise nationally divided Belgium. Here, it doesn't matter whether locals identify as Flemish or Walloon. They live side by side with people of many different ethnicities and with temporary European officials. You will come across mosques, bazaars, and you can taste cuisine from all over the world. Brussels is definitely not just a formal metropolis of European institutions, it is a city of museums, markets and peeing statues.
Southern Brussels Airport in Charleroi.
Travel from the airport to Brussels:
FLIBCO buses to Brussels run every day every 20 minutes
the bus stop is right in front of the arrival hall, you can reach it within 10 minutes of getting off the plane
first bus from the airport to Brussels - 7:20
last bus from the airport to Brussels - 0:40
travel time - approx. 55 min (depending on traffic conditions)
ticket - 19.95 EURO, purchase online on the company's website/mobile application, on-site at the vending machine (payment cards accepted), the ticket is valid for the whole day to the purchased day until 04:00 the following day, it can be canceled 1 day before the date of travel
company website - https://www.flibco.com/en
mobile application - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flibco.customerapp
The largest train station in Brussels, located on the southern edge of the city center. Here, you can transfer to a tram that will take you to your accommodation.
Travel Brussels Midi → Accommodation:
Tram 81 from Brussels Midi towards Ichec, get off at Janson stop. Travel time approx. 13 min, price 2.2 EURO.
Ticket - tap your credit card on the card reader at the turnstile when entering the platform. You do not need to tap again when exiting the tram.
Experience the magic of Brussels on your very first day! Take a walk to the heart of the historic center, where you'll be captivated by the majestic architecture and the legendary Grand Place – a square rightly considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Let yourself be carried away by the city's atmosphere, discover the famous Manneken Pis and its lesser-known siblings, and then head to a neighborhood where time seems to stand still. Explore the flea market, enjoy coffee or beer in one of the stylish cafes, and wander through the romantic cobbled streets. And what would a trip be without tasting waffles and the famous fries with a huge variety of sauces? Brussels will simply get to you with all your senses!
Public Transportation:
The metro, trams, and buses are operated by the same company, STIB-MIVB. All types of public transport are interconnected and have unified fares, allowing transfers between them.
Single journey - 2.2 EURO when paying with a contactless payment card. Valid for 1 hour on all types of public transport.
Ticket purchase - tap your payment card on the card reader at the turnstile when entering the metro platform or inside the tram and bus. No need to tap again when exiting the tram or bus. When using the metro, you go through the turnstile again, so you tap. If you transfer between different vehicles, tap the same card in each new vehicle. If less than 1 hour passes between the first tap and exiting the last vehicle, all connecting journeys are free; you only pay the 2.2 EURO.
Daily fare - if you use public transport more than once a day, tap each time you board a new vehicle. The system will calculate the most suitable fare at the end of the day. The maximum the system will charge you is 8 EURO, meaning after the 4th individual journey, the rest are free.
Public transport website (connections, routes, timetables...) - https://www.stib-mivb.be/home
Brussels card - if you plan to visit several museums, purchasing a Brussels card may be worthwhile. There is a choice of 3 options (24 hours for 39 EURO, 48 hours for 51 EURO, 72 hours for 57 EURO)
The price includes:
Free entry to 49 museums
Discounts on other selected attractions, shops, and bars
Maps and guides
Optional add-on - discount on entry to the Atomium (12 EURO adult), all-day travel pass (not worth it with the 24-hour option)
Purchase and activation:
Purchase online - https://shop.brusselscard.be/en?_gl=1*7cqy9n*_gcl_au*MTY5NDg4MDg1NC4xNzM4MDg3MzUy
You have 1 year to activate after purchase
Activate by tapping when entering the 1st attraction you visit
More about Brussels - https://www.visit.brussels/en/visitors
Gateway to the city center (literally). Here you start your tour of the beauties of the historic city center. This distinctive and dominant historical building is a remnant of the medieval city fortifications and the first attraction you will encounter on your journey. Today it serves as a lookout point (after climbing 169 steps) and a museum.
Museum entrance fee:
adults (19-64 years) - 7 EURO
seniors (65+) and group (min 15) adults - 5 EURO
students with a valid ID and persons with health restrictions - 3 E
children and youth (0-18 years) - free
Opening hours:
MON - THU - 9:30 - 17:00
SAT, SUN, holidays - 10:00 - 17:00
closed - FRI, January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11, December 25
Access:
can be reached comfortably on foot from the accommodation or train station (10-15 min)
metro - ring lines 2 (orange) and 6 (blue), Porte de Hal stop
tram (3,55,90) - Porte de Hal stop
bus (48, 365A) - Porte de Hal stop
A traditional neighborhood in the southern part of the center, near the Hallepoort gate. Soak up the specific atmosphere of old Brussels here and sail into the local artistic streets with shops and cafes. Plan your visit so you can catch the flea market in the center of all the action of this district - Place du Jeu de Balle square. The markets are held daily in the morning and early afternoon (approximately until 1 p.m.).
On the north side of the square, I recommend visiting the Charlotte buffet with excellent local sausages with cabbage or potatoes with bacon and cream sauce.
A public elevator takes you to the square in front of the monumental Palace of Justice, the largest building serving judicial purposes in the world. It lies on a hill next to the square with the Ferris wheel and is therefore one of the city's landmarks visible from afar. At the same time, there is a beautiful view of the center and surrounding parts of the city. The interior of the palace building is not open to the public, so you can only admire its imposing dimensions from the outside.
On the way from the Palace of Justice along Regentschapstraat towards Koningsplein (Royal Square), you can peek into the Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Sablon (roughly halfway along the left side, can be viewed on maps). After a short walk, you will reach Koningsplein (Royal Square), in the vicinity of which you will find several museums, e.g.:
The Royal Palace serves as a workplace for the Belgian monarchs (the residence is at Laeken Castle on the northwestern outskirts of the city). If the Belgian flag is flying, the King is present and fulfilling state duties - e.g., receiving important domestic and foreign visits, discussing state matters, signing documents, etc.
The exterior, along with the extensive park, can of course be seen without restriction and for free. A visit to the interior is only possible during a limited period (July - end of August with prior reservation).
On the way to Monts des Arts, it is possible to visit the Brussels Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels) located nearby (walk through the Royal Park and then turn left on the main street and you will see it soon).
A beautifully landscaped park with fountains, the Palace of the Dynasty or the statue of Queen Elisabeth and perhaps the most famous view of the city, with the spire of the nearby Brussels City Hall looming in the background, to which we will head next. There are also some museums in the vicinity of the park.
And here it is!! The first of the expected peeing statues, and immediately the most famous and oldest. The legendary statue (or rather fountain) Manneken Pis, or Peeing Boy. It is located quite discreetly on the corner of Eikstraat and Stoofstraat. Were it not for the larger or smaller groups of photographing tourists, you might not even notice it. Yet, along with the Atomium, it is probably the most famous symbol of the city, which must be included in all photos, promotional materials or postcards.
According to legend, the two-year-old Duke Godfried II of Brabant supported his soldiers by being hung in a basket on a tree and peeing on the heads of enemies. With his help, the Brabantian units finally won a resounding battle against the Berthouts.
One of the most beautiful squares in the world. A magnificent open space surrounded by the iconic Town Hall building and Gothic houses, many of which hide cafes, bars or restaurants. Due to high prices and crowds, I recommend choosing one of the many establishments in the surrounding streets for refreshments. You can visit the Town Hall building with a view and the adjacent Museum of the City of Brussels (see below).
Beautiful but busy cobbled street with many cafes, souvenir shops etc. If you want to buy postcards, magnets or even a wine opener in the shape of a peeing little boy, or refresh yourself with some of the famous local delicacies, this street (along with the ostentatious streets around the main square) is for you. On every corner here you'll find stalls selling cone fries (prices around 5 E including sauce), waffles (prices varying from 3 E for a "dry" one to 15 E for the most filling ones - chocolate, Nutella, whipped cream, various fruits and sprinkles...) or (how else in this country) chocolate shops. You can sit inside the establishment with your purchased goodies or take them to go in a cone/box.
If the peeing boy was described as an inconspicuous fountain, this is doubly true for the statue of the girl. It lies in an inconspicuous dead end that you probably wouldn't visit if it weren't for the fact that it's a turn off the busy Rue des Bouchers full of cafes and souvenir shops. The statue of the girl is also less touristy (many tourists still don't know about it), but you certainly won't be alone here.
You'll say goodbye to the peeing statues with the third and final piece - this time a dog. The statue is located on the corner of Rue de Chartreux and Rue du Vieux-Marché and is definitely the least known and least visited of the trio.
On the way to this statue, we can visit several interesting places, such as St. Nicholas Church, the Brussels Stock Exchange building (which also houses the museum of the famous Belgian beer) or St. Catherine's Church.
Tram 10, direction Churchill, stop Horta
Today's program starts with a visit to Sacré-Coeur...you read that right, and no, you haven't moved to Paris...you will see the Brussels version, which is no less majestic than its more famous namesake. But you will also visit Paris today, as well as many other European cities, thanks to the amazing MiniEurope park, where you can travel all over the old continent on the area of a small park thanks to miniatures of the main European monuments. Another of the city's icons will be watching over you - the Atomium, or a model of the crystal lattice of iron reduced by 165 billion times. On the other side of the city, you will then briefly take on the role of EU officials and take a look at the places that determine the direction of the whole of Europe.
MHD - today you will be transferring more often, so you will use a full-day ticket, see the information in the description of the city of Brussels. When boarding each connection, you tap in (with the same card), and the system will deduct 8 EURO at the end.
Tram 81 from the Janson stop, direction Marius Renard → Gare du Midi stop (approx. 15 min), transfer to the metro.
metro 6 (blue) from gare du Midi, direction Roi Baudouin → stop Simonis, then walk through the park for about 1 km
Named after the more famous Paris cathedral, but worth a visit. It is one of the largest sacred buildings in the world. It is built in the Art Deco style. It stands on a slight hill on the western edge of the center in the Koekelberg district and can be seen from a distance. In addition to the basilica itself, it is possible to climb to the observation deck.
Entrance to the basilica:
free
8:00 - 18:00 - summer time
8:00 - 17:00 - winter time
View:
entrance - 8 EURO
9:00 - 17:30 (last entry 17:00) - summer time
9:00 - 16:30 (last entry 16:00) - winter time
metro 6 (blue) from Simonis stop, direction Roi Baudouin → Heysel stop, then walk about 500 m.
Iconic structure on the northern edge of Brussels built for the EXPO World's Fair. It is a system of 9 domes connected by corridors, which symbolize a 165 billion times reduced model of the crystal lattice of iron. Some domes are open to the public, and you move between them on escalators accompanied by light and music effects. Inside are interactive exhibitions, displays, information about the technical parameters of the building, examples of the history of the building and other interesting information. In the upper floors there is a restaurant, where a reservation is required.
Opening hours:
MON - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
24/12 and 31/12 - 10:00 - 16:00 (last entry 15:30)
25/12 and 1/1 - 12:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Entrance fee:
adults (19-64 years) - 16 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with health restrictions - 14 EURO
child over 115 cm to 17 years - 8.5 EURO
child under 115 cm - free
students - 8.5 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
! The price includes entry to the nearby Design Museum!
TIP: If you are also planning to visit the neighboring MINI EUROPE park, buy a more advantageous combined ticket (see below)
COMBINED TICKET WITH MINI EUROPE:
(!!MINI EUROPE is not in operation 6/1 - 7/3)
adults (19-64 years) - 32.2 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with health restrictions - 30.5 EURO
teenager 12 - 17 years - 25 EURO
child over 115 cm and up to 11 years - 20.4 EURO
child under 115 cm - free
students - 25 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
!!long queues form during weekends and holidays!!
- I recommend arriving about 30 minutes before opening hours or buying tickets online via https://atomium.be/tickets
Popular park next to the Atomium, which will be appreciated not only by children but also by adults. It displays about 350 scale models of world-famous buildings across the cities of the European Union in 1:25 ratio, supplemented by interesting elements such as moving trains, ships, and even rockets. "Travel" across Europe in this small park and "visit" landmarks such as the Eiffeil Tower, London's Big Ben, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Prague Astronomical Clock.
Opening Hours:
Mon - Sun - 9:30am - 6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
24/12 & 31/12 - 10:00am - 4:00pm (last entry 3:30pm)
25/12 & 1/1 - 12:00pm - 6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
!!closed 6/1 - 7/3
Admission:
Adults (19-64 years old) - 19 EURO
children - 13,5 EURO
COMBINED TICKET WITH MINI EUROPE:
(!!MINI EUROPE is not open 6/1 - 7/3)
adults (19-64 years old) - 32,2 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with disabilities - 30.5 EURO
teenager 12 - 17 years - 25 EURO
child over 115 cm and under 11 years - 20,4 EURO
child under 115 cm - free of charge
students - 25 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
web - https://www.minieurope.com/
metro 6 (blue) from stop Heysel, direction Simons → stop Osseghem
metro 1 (purple), direction Stockel → stop Merode
Exit the metro near the Arc de Triomphe
The extensive park is a popular place for locals to relax (picnics, walks, running and cycling are held here). There is also a football field or a pétanque court. In addition to sports, fans of architecture and culture will also enjoy themselves, especially thanks to the Triumphal Arch of the Palais du Cinquantenaire and several museums (e.g. automobiles or armed forces and military history).
Tip: if you didn't manage to get refreshments elsewhere, you can use one of the food trucks selling waffles, fries, coffee or chilled drinks directly at the Arc de Triomphe.
After crossing the Parc du Cinquantenaire, you will enter the European Quarter, where several key institutions of the European Union are located. Perhaps the most unfamiliar building is the X-shaped Berlaymont - the European Commission. Brussels is known as the "capital of Europe" and it is this building that probably has the most "feel" for this association, thanks to the shape of the building familiar from the media and the EU flags in its western part. Just across the street is another important institution - the Council of the European Union and next to it another well-known building, the "Europa".
Perhaps the most interesting stop in the European Quarter is the European Parliament complex, which houses the interactive museum Parlamentarium. Here, using an audio guide (free in your native language), you will learn everything about the history and present of the EU, including its fundamental problems that it addresses. Admission is also free, you just register at the reception and get a guide.
Opening hours:
MON - 13:00 - 18:00
TUE - FRI - 9:00 - 18:00
SAT - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00
last entry always 30 minutes before closing time
admission - free
metro 2 (orange), direction Simonis → stop Louise
Tram 92, direction Fort-Jaco → stop Janson
The city of Antwerp will excite you as soon as you step out of the main train station, thanks to the magnificent historical station building. You'll immediately recognize the city's reputation as a major diamond trading center when you enter the diamond district, full of diamond shops and luxury jewelry stores. You already know that Belgium is the land of chocolate. It's time to explore this delicacy more closely and, above all, to taste it!! You can do this right next to the station in the world's largest chocolate museum. In the heart of the city, a lively shopping district awaits you with a luxurious shopping center with a monumentally decorated interior. You'll immerse yourself in the city's history and explore its underworld, or rather the intricate network of underground streets with a guide.
Train Brussels - Midi → Antwerp-Central: runs every 20-30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable
Fares:
Adults (26+) - 8.9 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.30 EURO, otherwise 8.9 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 5.10 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.5 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the counter or vending machine, the easiest way is via the app
!!TIP!! - you can buy a package of 10 rides throughout Belgium, called Standard Multi (in the SNCB app for 102 EURO)
From this package, you can use any train journeys throughout Belgium. 1 package can be used for multiple people
When purchasing the package, the average price per 1 journey is 10.2 EURO. It pays off in these cases:
1) during the trip I undertake several longer transfers, where the price per trip exceeds 10.2 EURO / person
2) I travel in a larger group and use the pass for more expensive transfers (e.g. Bruges → Waterloo Memorial) for several people, shorter routes can then be purchased separately
Activation of the journey - after purchasing the pass, I see the number of journeys available. If I want to pay for the journey from the pass, then I find the route in the app and activate it. At that moment, the journey is "bought" and the appropriate number of journeys is deducted (according to the number of passengers selected). During the journey, I can get off and get back on another connection, but it must be on the same route that I activated. You can use this, for example, on the Antwerp → Bruges route, where you get off in Ghent and later continue to Bruges on the same ticket.
It is not often said that the station building is one of the "highlights" of the city. In the case of Antwerp's main railway station, this is indeed the case. Exploring the beauty of the city therefore begins immediately after getting off the train. Locals sometimes proudly call the building "railway cathedral". You will understand the significance when you see this building consisting of a steel platform covering the platform and the magnificent stone station building. Compared to, for example, Czech railway stations, waiting for a train in Antwerp can be a cultural experience.
Belgium = chocolate. Almost everyone who is at least a little interested in the world knows this equation. This museum offers an excellent opportunity to explore this delicious symbiosis in more depth and, above all, to taste samples of local high-quality chocolate. It is the largest museum of Belgian chocolate in the country and in the world. In this interactive museum full of attractive animations and effects, you will gradually go through the entire chocolate making process - from the selection, harvesting and initial processing of cocoa beans in the African jungle, through their transport to world ports, factories, subsequent processing into various forms and distribution to customers. An audio guide is included in the entrance fee. The individual rooms of the exhibition are stylized into specific themes, so at the beginning we find ourselves in the "jungle", later in a factory, in a port, etc. Everything culminates in tasting different chocolate samples - first in the solid form of granules, then liquid.
Opening hours:
daily 10:15 - 18:30 (last entry 17:00)
Entrance fees:
children - 0-3 years - free
children 4-11 - 14.5 EURO
youth 12 - 17 - 18.5 EURO
students - 18.5 EURO
group over 15 people - 18.5 EURO
adults - 19.9 EURO
Antverpy is a world-famous diamond trading centre and the proof is in this neighbourhood of artisans and diamond merchants, where every other shop window dazzles with the sparkle of luxury jewellery. It's a lively neighbourhood full of jewellery shops, jewellers and workshops to process these gems. The streets of the district are bustling with people of all nationalities rushing about for business, and you'll often see members of the Jewish community in traditional dress. As is well known, Jews and business just go together :)
The way from the station and the chocolate museum to the centre is through the main shopping street Meir. Here you will enjoy especially shopping lovers - you will find branches of all kinds of world's more or less luxury brands of clothing, cosmetics etc.
For lovers of luxury - enter the Stadsfeestzaal shopping mall with its magnificent interior consisting of a glass dome with golden elements, staircases and marble columns.
St. James Church - Turn right down Elkenstraat and you will reach this beautiful church, known as the starting point for pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. The interior of the church includes, among other things, the Rubens Chapel with paintings by this famous painter and local native.
Antwerp is known in the world of culture for the work of its native son and one of the most famous painters in the world - Rubens. In the place where he was born and worked, there is now a museum where you can admire 3 main parts:
1) on the ground floor there is an interactive exhibition called "Rubens experience" about his life and work. A popular part of the tour is the possibility of creating your own portrait in the style of Rubens' famous self-portrait
2) in the entrance hall you pass into the courtyard with a garden, which is a beautiful escape from the otherwise busy surroundings of the bustling city center. It serves as a small botanical garden
3) on the 2nd floor you will find a library, where you can see various books, letters and other publications about the painter's life
opening hours RUBENS EXPERIENCE and GARDEN:
MON - FRI - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 17:00)
WED - CLOSED
SAT - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00
1.1., 1.5., 1.11, 25.12 - closed
24.12 and 31.12 - until 15:00
opening hours LIBRARY:
MON - FRI - 9:30 - 17:00
SAT - SUN - closed
1.1., 1.5., 1.11, 25.12 - closed
24.12 and 31.12 - until 15:00
admission:
library - free
rest:
children and youth up to 18 years - free
students and groups of over 12 people - 8 EURO
adults - 12 EURO
Visit the Antwerp canals, a unique attraction, and walk through the former canals and sewers of Antwerp. During a slightly bizarre and adventurous underground walk, you will discover the fascinating and rich history of the city.
The "Ruien" (sewers), "vlieten" (canals) and "vesten" (moats) have crisscrossed Antwerp since the Middle Ages. This network of waterways provided Antwerp with drinking water and an inland port. Later, the canals served as sewers and were eventually backfilled. This unique piece of heritage thus disappeared from the city's panorama.
Rediscover this hidden heritage and walk along with a live and virtual guide on a tablet (in English, Dutch, French) around the old vaults, canals, bridges, sewers and locks and take a look into the underground of the city. Listen to mysterious anecdotes and fascinating trivia from the distant and recent past
The visit starts at Ruihuis, Suikerrui 21, 2000 Antwerp, and ends at Stadsmagazijn, Keistraat 5, 2000 Antwerp.
To descend into The Ruien, visitors will receive a protective suit, boots and a backpack to store shoes and other personal belongings during the walk.
!!ATTENTION!! Age limit from 10 years - this is a relatively challenging walk, sometimes through mud and dampness
Tour times: (tour lasts 90 min)
TUE - SUN - 11:00, 13:00, 15:00
Each tour is max for 16 people, so I recommend booking in advance
Antwerp city pass holders have free admission, book your place by email at reservaties@deruien.be
Admission:
children and youth 10 - 16 years - 12 EURO
adults - 19 EURO
A beautiful baroque church standing on the picturesque Conscienceplein square. The interior is decorated with artifacts from the famous native Rubens, and the dominant feature is the imposing main altar. Also visit the sacristy or the lace museum (open on Wednesdays only).
Entrance to the church can be combined with a visit to Antwerp's underground canals, De Ruien (see next item). With a guide, you can descend into the crypt and then through a secret entrance to the Antwerp underground canals.
!!BUT!!
1) the tour is only in Dutch
2) the price of 27 EURO does not include the ANtwerp city pass. So, if you decide to purchase the pass, you pay the entrance fee separately.
details about the combined entry - https://en.ruien.be/individuele-bezoeken/combi-wandeling-sint-carolus-borromeus
church opening hours:
MON - SAT - 10:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 17:00
lace museum - WED 10:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 16:00
admission: (the admission price includes the lace museum)
children - 0-13 years - free
students and seniors (60+) - 3 EURO
group of over 20 people - 3 EURO
adults - 5 EURO
web - https://mkantwerpen.be/en/churches/st-charles-borromeo-church/
This striking church is the only place in the world where you will find paintings by Anthropolitan masters Rubens, Van Dyck and Jordaens together in the exact place for which they were created. You can admire over 50 paintings, 200 magnificent sculptures and a gorgeous organ. Outside you will find the epic Calvary Garden dedicated to Christ's passion and resurrection.
!!!ATTENTION!!! From 3/2 to 31/3 2025 the church is undergoing a complete renovation and the entrance will be closed. The church will reopen to the public in April
.
Church Hours:
April - October:
daily - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
November - March:
SAT and SUN - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
From 3/2 to 3/31, the church is undergoing a complete renovation and the entrance will be closed
Admission: (1st Tuesday of each month free for all)
children and youth 0-19 years - free
students - 3 EURO
group of more than 15 people - 3 EURO
adults - 5 EURO
web - https://mkantwerpen.be/en/churches/st-pauls-church/
Perhaps the most distinctive building in the city, appearing on all postcards, pictures, and promotional materials. Near the Scheldt River, the local port, and the modern Eilandje district, stands this designer building housing various museums with permanent and constantly changing exhibitions about the city's history, the port, and the river. However, the main reason to visit is the free opportunity to take escalators across the promenades to the roof and admire the panoramic view of the harbor, the river, and the historic city center.
Opening hours:
Museums and exhibitions:
Tue - Sun - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:00)
Panorama:
Tue - Sun - 9:30 - 22:00 (may be closed in case of bad weather)
Summer season (1.5 - 31.10) - open until 00:00 (last entry 23:30)
!!Museums and panorama are closed from 3 PM on 24.12 and 31.12!!
!!Closed all day - every Monday, 1.1, 1.5., 25.12
Admission:
Permanent exhibitions
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-25, group of 12 people or more - 6 EURO
Adults - 10 EURO
Permanent + temporary exhibitions:
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-25, group of 12 people or more - 8 EURO
Adults - 12 EURO
Originally a working-class district between the city center and the modern Eilandje district. As mentioned in the introduction, Antwerp is and has been an important port, and this part of the city near the port was and is a center of entertainment (even the darker kind) for the sailors and workers of the time, and today for locals and tourists. The main attraction is the local Red Light District, where prostitution is practiced in the style of Amsterdam (but on a much smaller scale). Women of various nationalities, ethnicities, and physical proportions sit behind red-lit windows, waiting for their clients in just a few streets around Schipperstraat. In addition to this somewhat controversial form of entertainment, it is also an area of bars and restaurants. The center of the area is Falconplein Square.
Tram 7, direction Mortsel, stop Mechelseplein
What are Antwerp and Belgium in general famous for? You can learn about the journey of raw diamonds from their deposits in African mines to their cutting and jewelry making in the Diamond Museum. In the very heart of this beautiful city, a beautiful square with an imposing cathedral and a famous statue awaits you. The extensive Royal Museum of Fine Arts, with its magnificent pieces, especially by local artists, will be a feast for the eyes. And how do you wash down this busy day? In Belgium, what else but beer, specifically the local De Koninck brewery, which you can also see with the help of an interactive exhibition. Proost!! (Cheers!!)
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (commonly referred to as KMSKA) has undergone more than 10 years of reconstruction and is reopened to visitors in a beautifully renovated building. It houses works by leading artists, led by Ensor, Rubens, Van Dyck and Van Eyck. The building is very extensive and in addition to paintings you will also find sculptures and various interactive elements. Reserve approximately 2 hours for the visit, art fans even longer.
Opening hours:
MON, TUE, WED, FRI - 10:00 - 17:00
THU - 10:00 - 22:00
SAT, SUN, public holidays - 10:00 - 18:00
school holidays - 10:00 - 18:00
July - August - 10:00 - 17:00
!!24.12 and 31.12 the museum is closed from 5 pm!!
!!closed all day - 1.1, 25.12!!
entrance fee:
children and youth 0-18 years - free
youth 18-26 - 10 EURO
adults - 20 EURO
This UNESCO museum and monument is home to the famous printing family of the same name. A tour with an audio guide (included in the admission price) will take you deep into the history of printing, you will see the printing technique, a collection of works, and you can also print your own text, in the old way using physical force. You can then take the printed text with you as a souvenir. The building also includes a courtyard garden.
opening hours:
TU - SU - 10:00 - 17:00
!!24.12 and 31.12 the museum is closed from 3 pm!!
!!closed all day - every MONDAY, 1.1, 1.5., 1.11., 25.12!!
admission:
children and youth 0-18 years - free
youth 18-25 and group 12 + persons - 8 EURO
adults (26+) - 12 EURO
A very unusual experience. It is an approximately 1 km tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists leading under the Scheldt River, which connects the city center with the left bank of the river - the Linkeroever district, from where there is a beautiful view of the panorama of the center and a little further also the SintAnna river beach. An elevator leads to the tunnel, but I recommend using the authentic wooden escalator. If you don't like returning the same way, you can use the ferry from the nearby port for the return trip.
One of the city's highlights. The Steen, a river fortress that serves as a landmark and the heart of the city, also houses a tourist information center. It serves as a viewpoint of the city (mainly the right bank of the river), a terminal for boat trips, a shop with city souvenirs, and also a museum called "The Antwerp Story", where you gradually discover the history and personalities of this cultural and vibrant port city in a total of 11 rooms.
Opening hours:
daily - 10:00 - 18:00, viewpoint 10:00 - 22:00
!!Closed from 16:00 on 24.12 and 31.12!!
!!Closed - 1.1, 25.12!!
Entrance fees: (free visitor center, viewpoint and selected rooms of The Antwerp Story)
The Antwerp Story:
children 0-5 years - free
children and youth 6-17 - 5 EURO
adults (18+) - 7 EURO
For centuries, Antwerp has been known as the world's diamond center. In the Diamond Museum, we will learn about the journey of rough diamonds from their deposits in African mines to their cutting and jewelry making, and the differences between natural and laboratory-created diamonds. The tour also includes interactive elements and a workshop.
Opening hours:
Daily - 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:45)
WED - CLOSED
!!24.12 and 31.12 closed from 3 PM!!
!!Closed - 1.1, 1.5, 1.11., 25.12!!
Entrance fee:
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-26, group 12+ persons - 8 EURO
Adults (26+) - 12 EURO
You can see this majestic UNESCO-listed building from all corners of the city, at least its tower. The imposing cathedral is the largest Gothic building in BENELUX and, in addition to its magnificent exterior, it also contains many gems inside, such as the works of the local native and most famous personality, the master Rubens.
In front of the cathedral, in the vast square, an unusual sculpture depicting the figure of a boy and his dog covered with a "blanket" made of paving stones will catch your eye. These are the characters Nello and Patrasch from the world-famous novel The Hound of Flanders, set in Antwerp.
opening hours:
Mon - Fri - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 17:45)
SAT - 10:00am - 3:00pm
SUN - 13:00 - 17:00
!!closed - 1.1.
opening hours have a few exceptions throughout the year, watch the website below
admission:
children and young people 0-18 years - free
students, seniors 60+, groups of 20+ people - 10 EURO
adults (18+) - 12 EURO
web - https://www.dekathedraal.be/en/visit
An inconspicuous alleyway hidden in the immediate vicinity of the modern centre is a bit of a revelation. Walk through the gate on the Oude Koornmarkt near the cathedral and you'll find yourself "in the past" and an oasis of calm from the otherwise bustling centre in this picturesque medieval alleyway, once inhabited by the poor, whose job it was to ring the bell of the nearby cathedral in case of danger. Today you will find cafes, restaurants and art shops.
Tram 7, direction Mortsel, stop Berchem De Merode
What better way to end a busy day than with a delicious beer? And how about learning something about it too? Our last stop will fulfill both parts. The local brewery has been brewing beer for over a century and is best known for the famous "Bolleke" beer. During the brewery tour, we are guided by virtual guides and in each room, we are taught about the history, production processes, and types of local beer. Of course, there is a tasting session where you will be poured a third of a pint of beer at the reception, which you can take with you on the tour or drink on the spot. You will also receive a token that you can use during the tour to pour yourself another third of a pint, or you can use it at the end of the tour in the brewery restaurant, where the staff will pour you a third of a pint of beer and properly cut the foam with a knife. During the tour, pay attention, at the end your knowledge will be tested with a quiz.
Opening hours:
TUE - SUN - 11:00 - 17:30
MON CLOSED
Entrance fee: (extra charge for visiting on Saturday - 2 EURO)
children 0-4 years - free
children 5-15 years - 14 EURO
students, teachers - 14 EURO
adults (16-64) - 16 EURO
seniors (65+) - 16 EURO
Tram 7, direction Eilandje, stop Mechelseplein
We will explore this beautiful city with the highest number of historical gems in all of Belgium. We will walk along the romantic quays of the water canals, or discover the beauty of the buildings from a boat during a ride. We will wander together into romantic corners and picturesque squares. We will visit the city's icons - Gravensteen water castle towering directly at the confluence of local canals, the legendary Ghent belfry (the city's tallest building) listed as a UNESCO site, and the monumental cathedral. We will see the unconventional "schizophrenic" architecture of the local town hall, visit the market with local delicacies, and taste local beer with a captivating name and logo - Delirium tremens.
Tram 1, direction P+R Luchtbal, stop Antwerp opera
If you have purchased a 48-hour Antwerp pass, plan your journey so that it is also valid for this trip.
Train Antwerp-Central → Gent Dampoort: runs every 15 - 20 min, connections are punctual and comfortable
Fares:
Adults (26+) - 11.7 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.5 EURO, otherwise 11.7 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 6.6 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Buying a ticket - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, easiest via the app
!!ATTENTION!! Buy a ticket directly to the city of Bruges, where we will move from Ghent in the evening. The ticket is valid all day and we can change the connection, so we do not have to pay separately for two rides
Info about Ghent:
The beautiful historical city of Ghent lies at the confluence of the Leie and Lieve canals. The city is very pleasant for walking. There is an almost unbelievable concentration of historical monuments, which you come across literally every 100 meters. The experience is enhanced by the beautiful promenades around the local canals and the possibility of boat trips. Compared to the more famous Bruges, it is not such a touristy place, so you can walk through the city without large crowds.
Public Transport:
You probably won't need it, the city is ideal for walking - a small, compact center and the sights are in close proximity to each other. You might only use it to get to the train station, but even that is not far (about 2 km) and it is also a pleasant walk along the canal.
- Public transport consists of buses and trams, operated by the carrier DeLijn
- Public transport website
Not really worth it for a 1-day visit, as there are only options for 2 (48 EURO) or 3 (48 EURO) days
If you extend your stay in the city by a day, the city card is worth considering
Includes:
Admission to all attractions
Temporary exhibitions in museums
All city transport including bicycle and "watertram"
The main, oldest and largest religious building in Ghent is one of the city's landmarks that you really can't miss. This originally Romanesque church was built in the 10th century and later rebuilt into the current Gothic-style cathedral. The interior is decorated with beautiful columns and stained glass windows, and the most famous artifact of the church is located in the adjacent chapel - the famous Ghent altarpiece by the famous painter Van Eyck.
Opening hours:
Cathedral
MON - SAT - 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
SUN - 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Closed on January 1st.
Chapel with the Ghent Altarpiece:
MON - SAT - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SUN - 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Closed on January 1st.
Entrance fee:
The cathedral is free, there is a fee to enter the chapel with the Ghent Altarpiece
Children 0-12 years - 8 EURO (including augmented reality)
12+ years - 12.5 EURO (altarpiece only) / 16 EURO (including augmented reality)
The panorama of Ghent is mainly made up of 3 dominant tower-like buildings in the Gothic style - the Gent bell tower is the middle one, located between St Bavo's Cathedral and St Nicholas Church. In the past, the bell tower symbolised the prosperity of the city - the taller the bell, the richer the city. It was also used to announce important events or dangers. Today, it is listed on the UNESCO list and serves as a lookout for the city centre and the wider area. Every Sunday between 11-12am you can hear the chimes.
opening hours:
daily 10am - 6pm
Closed - 1/1, 12/24, 12/25, 12/31
admission:
adults - 11 EURO
children 0-12 - free
children and youth 12 - 19 - 2,2 EURO
students under 26 - 5 EURO
web: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/ghent-belfry-world-heritage
Along with the nearby bell tower and St Bavo's Cathedral, it is the most dominant building in the city. The unique feature of this Gothic church is the lucern tower reflecting light. The interior houses beautiful works of art headed by an altarpiece with the work of the painter Nicolas De Liemaecker and a Romantic-style organ designed by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
admission:
free
website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-nicholas-church
This schizophrenic building consists of two parts - the facade to Hoogpoort Street is created in a Late Gothic style, which contrasts sharply with the part of the building on Botnmarkt Street with Renaissance elements inspired by Italian palaces.
Since its construction, the church has been a meeting place for locals and pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. At the main entrance of the church, a shell is integrated into one of the tiles. The scallop shell refers to the Apostle Saint James, who is buried in Santiago de Compostela, where these shells were formerly abundant. It marks the starting points or milestones of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
Opening hours:
TUE - SAT 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Mon, Sun - closed
During the year, some months are also closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays (check the website below)
admission:
free
website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-james-church
The largest square in Ghent and the main venue in Belgium for the very popular farmers' markets with local, high-quality, and very tasty products (try, for example, one of the sausages). The markets take place on Fridays and Saturdays, usually in the morning. Soak up the atmosphere in the streets surrounding the square and admire the beautiful facades. Then go and enjoy the local Delirium Tremens beer in one of the cozy pubs, such as Dulle Griet. It is a place you won't soon forget with its famous boot-for-glass ritual. Find out for yourself how it works! Just be careful not to break the glass... although if worst comes to worst, there are plenty of shoe stores nearby.
Take a trip to the main quayside along the canals for a bit of street art in graffitti alley - a narrow short alley connecting the Onderstraat near nám. vrijdagmarkt and Hoogpoort Street. The street plays with all kinds of colours and shapes, and you can find all kinds of more and less hilarious works on the facades.
If you like the local beer and want to "get on the other foot", or if you fancy a local classic or a coffee and dessert (such as the local speciality Gentleman's Nose or Krocouberdon) while admiring the beautiful local architecture, you can visit the hub of the action - the lively Korenmarkt Square, where most of the major events take place and also the Christmas Market during Advent.
The focal point of the city's tourist life and the main "stars" of postcards and promotional photos from Ghent are two medieval docks and now tourist promenades lined with townhouses with beautiful facades and cafes with outdoor gardens - Graslei and the opposite Korenlei. Ships have been docking here since the 11th century, and this is still the case today, but the original commercial purposes of the cruises have been replaced by sightseeing cruises. Hop on one of the boats and enjoy a cruise on the canals, or sit in a cafe or pub and enjoy the view of the silhouettes of houses reflected on the calm surface of the Leie canal.
Step onto the Grasbrug bridge and enjoy the view of both docks, the Leie canal with moored or floating ships, and the local houses.
boat trip - on the Korenlei embankment you will find a booth selling tickets for a boat trip around Ghent.
boat operating hours:
November - March: daily 10:45 - 15:45
April - October: daily 10:00 - 18:00
price for 40 min cruise:
youth and adults - 10 EURO
children 0-12 - 6.5 EURO
seniors (65+) - 9 EURO
Another of the city's landmarks and main attractions is this castle located at the confluence of the canals Leie and Lieve. It is the only medieval castle with a moat and largely intact defense system in Flanders. You can admire the entrance gates, ramparts, fortress, the Count's residence and stables here.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 - 18:00
closed 1.1., 24.12., 25.12., 31.12.,
Admission:
adults (26+) - 13 EURO
children 0-12 - free
children and youth 12 - 19 - 2.7 EURO
students up to 26 years - 8 EURO
The center of the city's tourist activity and the main "stars" of postcards and promotional photos from Ghent are two medieval docks and today's tourist promenades lined with townhouses with beautiful facades and cafes with outdoor gardens - Graslei and the opposite Korenlei. Ships have been docking here since the 11th century, and it is still the case today, but the original commercial purposes of the cruises have been replaced by sightseeing cruises. Get on one of the boats and enjoy a cruise on the canals, or sit in a cafe or pub and enjoy the view of the silhouettes of the houses reflected on the calm surface of the Leie canal.
Step onto the Grasbrug bridge and enjoy the view of both docks, the Leie canal with moored or floating boats, and the local houses.
boat trip - you will find a booth selling tickets for a boat trip around Ghent on the Korenlei embankment.
boat operating hours:
November - March: daily 10:45 - 15:45
April - October: daily 10:00 - 18:00
price for 40 min cruise:
adults - 10 EURO
children 0-12 - 6.5 EURO
seniors (65+) - 9 EURO
According to the original plans, the church was supposed to have the tallest tower in the city, but the plans were eventually abandoned and the tower is now only 46 m high. Only later did it become clear how lucky this decision was - it was discovered that the ground under the church was unstable and the church would probably not be able to bear more weight. The interior contains beautiful works by the famous painter Van Dyck, among others.
Opening Hours:
APRIL - OCTOBER, daily 14:00 - 17:00
CLOSED MONDAY
admission:
free
web:https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-michaels-church
The bridge spanning the Leie Canal between St Michael's and St Nicholas churches is probably the most popular spot for photos, whether selfies or cityscapes. Thanks to its location, you have a 360-degree view of the city's beauty from the bridge, with the canal, the two aforementioned churches, and the Ghent bell tower right in the palm of your hand.
The city tour is over. Head south with a beautiful walk along the Leie canal, which will take you to the Sint Pieters southern station in about 30 minutes (note that this is a different station than the arrival station).
Train Ghent - Sint-Pieters → Bruges: runs every 15 - 20 min, connections are accurate and comfortable, journey time approx. 25 min
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 8.1 EURO
Senior (65+) - 8.1 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children accompanied by parents (0-12) - 4.8 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is via the application
!!ATTENTION!! If you stayed in Ghent for only 1 day without overnight stay according to this itinerary and purchased a ticket in Antwerp all the way to Bruges, you do not need to buy another ticket and can use the one you already purchased
A free electric shuttle departs near the Bruges train station four times per hour.
- You can find the schedule here
Get off at the Brugge Howest stop
Stroll along the romantic waterfronts and admire the beautiful facades of buildings reflected in the calm waters of the local canals. And how about saving your steps and enjoying an even better view directly from the water during a cruise across the city? See the Relic of the Holy Blood in the basilica of the same name and walk through the picturesque square with a dominant belfry inscribed on the UNESCO list. Sit in one of the many cafes and bistros and treat yourself, as is tradition, to local delicacies overlooking the swans floating on the water surface. Delight your loved ones or yourself by purchasing souvenirs of all kinds in one of the many chocolate shops or other shops.
Info about Bruges:
"Venice of the North" - this is probably the most frequently used pseudonym for this fabulously beautiful town with beautiful canals, swans and floating boats, pedestrian promenades, picturesque squares and waffle and chocolate stands on every corner. Bruges will impress everyone. In the summer, it suffers a bit from the influx of tourists, so I recommend visiting in winter, when it is no less beautiful, but you will be able to move around more easily.
Public transport:
you probably won't need it, the city is ideal for walking - a small, compact center and the sights are in close proximity to each other. For more significant transfers, you can use the free electric shuttle transport, see the description of the journey from the station to the accommodation
The living heart of the city and the main square. Here is the centre of action in the whole city and the venue for events, including Christmas markets in Advent. The square is dominated by the 83 m high bell tower with a panoramic view of the city and the imposing provincial courthouse. An interesting experience, especially for children, can be a carriage ride through the town - this is where the coachmen wait for clients. The area around the square is "dotted" with cafes, pubs and stalls selling goodies.
One of the dominants of Bruges, dating back to the 13th century, is 83 metres high and is listed on the UNESCO. After climbing the 366 steps from the top, you will have a beautiful view of the city and its surroundings. On the way up, you can stop at the treasury, which in the Middle Ages held the city's charters, seals and coffers. A few steps further on, you'll see the impressive musical drum that controls the chimes and keyboard that the town carillonneur uses to play the tower's 47 bells.
Opening Hours:
April - October:
daily - 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November - March:
SO - 9:00am - 8:00pm
other days - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
admission:
adults and seniors (18+) - 15 EURO
children and youth (7-17) - 13 EURO
children (0-7) - free
website:https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/belfort-belfry
While Grote Square is the centre of the city's action, this square serves as the centre of government and power. The Gothic building of the Council House has housed the city's rulers since the 14th century. Inside the building, you can especially admire the Gothic hall with its beautiful vaulted ceiling and murals depicting the history of the city and its past leaders. In addition to the town hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood also stands on the square.
Opening hours:
Daily - 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
admission:
adults and seniors (26+) - 8 EURO
youth (18-25) - 7 EURO
children and youth (13-17) - 4 EURO
children (0-13) - free
website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/stadhuis-city-hall
This basilica consists of two parts - a rather simply decorated lower chapel, from which a staircase leads to the main part, after which the basilica is named.The upper chapel houses the Relic of the Holy Blood, which is said to have been brought to Bruges by the Crusaders. The basilica also houses a museum of the basilica themed around the Relic of the Holy Blood
Opening hours:
Daily - 10:00 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
admission:free
In the upper chapel at the Reliquary, the priest collects voluntary donations, so it's nice to drop a coin, but it's voluntary nonetheless
website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/basiliek-van-het-heilig-bloed-basilica-holy-blood
Probably the most popular place for photos. A very busy place overlooking the most beautiful parts of the city - bridges spanning the canals, beautiful facades of townhouses... Especially in the summer months, you certainly won't be alone here. Before continuing to the next point on the itinerary, take a walk further along the canal, climb one of the several bridges and wave to the boats passing by.
When you're tired of walking, take a boat trip on the canals and see the city from an unusual perspective. There are several boarding points in the vicinity of this place, the prices, lengths and routes of the cruises are more or less the same.
Opening hours:
from March to mid-November - cruises guaranteed
daily 10:00 - 18:00 (last cruise starts at 17:30)
from mid-November to February
cruises take place, but may be cancelled on certain days depending on the weather
no sailing in the dark, last cruise starts 30 minutes before dusk
Price: (30-30 min cruise)
adults - 15 EURO
children (4-11) - 9 EURO
children (0-4) - free
Continue along the canal in a southwesterly direction and turn into Arentshof park, cross the bridge over the canal and you will arrive in front of the Gothic cathedral, which houses, among other things, a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary or an interestingly shaped pulpit. Those who climb the 264 steps to the top will find themselves on the observation deck of the church tower.
Opening hours:
May - September - daily 10:00 - 17:00
October - April - daily 10:00 - 16:00
Price: free
During our journey so far, we have certainly consumed several cones of fries with various sauces, so it's time to learn something about this delicacy. To do this, we will use the Fries Museum, where we will learn everything from growing potatoes and their varieties, through their processing and history, to their consumption in this form. Among other things, we can kill some of the biggest enemies of potatoes - larvae and adults of the Colorado potato beetle (of course, only virtually using a game console). Finally, in the restaurant located on the ground floor of the museum, we will taste this notorious Belgian product.
!!ATTENTION!! Tasting is not included in the price; when purchasing a ticket, we only receive a coupon for a 50-cent discount.
Opening hours:
Daily 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:15)
24.12., 31.12. - closed from 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
Closed all day - 25.12., 1.1.
Price:
Adults - 11 EURO
Students, seniors (65+) - 9.5 EURO
Children (3-11) - 6.50 EURO
Children (0-3) - free
If the chocolate tasting in Antwerp wasn't enough for you, not far from the fries museum there is another chocolate museum - Choco story. A visit to both museums can be combined with a discounted admission.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:00)
24.12., 31.12. - closed from 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
closed all day - 25.12., 1.1.
Price of combined ticket with Friet museum:
adults - 20 EURO (14 EURO separate)
students, seniors (65+) - 17 EURO (12 EURO separate)
children (3-11) - 12 EURO (8,5 EURO separate)
children (0-3) - free
On your way to the station, say goodbye to this beautiful city with a tour of the monastery quarter listed on the UNESCO list, enjoy a last romantic view of the Lake of Love from the bridge and delight your loved ones with a souvenir purchase. Then, later in the day, head to an inconspicuous place of great importance to the development of Europe and follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest battles in human history.
The ideal place to buy souvenirs - a shopping street full of stalls with the usual souvenirs (postcards, magnets, etc. items with motifs of Bruges and Belgium in general) and chocolate shops on every corner, where you can buy a whole range of Belgian pralines, chocolates of different sizes and all sorts of characters, buildings, etc. While shopping, refresh yourself with hot chocolate in a cup at local shops.
This picturesque beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once home to beguines who led a devout and celibate life. Today, some nuns from the Order of St. Benedict and the Order of Vincent de Paul live there, as well as single women from Bruges.
opening hours:
November - March: daily 7:30 - 18:30
April - October: daily 7:30 - 20:30
admission - free
Once upon a time, people believed that water nymphs ("minnen" in Dutch) lived here, which is how the lake got its name. Add to this a tragic love story, mysterious trees and abundant greenery and you have a place brimming with romance. A beautiful place to relax, take romantic walks and take selfies, preferably from the Lake of Love Bridge.
Train Bruges → Braine-l´Alleud: runs approximately every 30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable, travel time approximately 1 hour: 30 minutes, change at Brussels-Midi
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 19.9 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.5 EURO, otherwise 19.9 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 7.7 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Buying a ticket - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is through the app
way to the memorial:
in front of the train station building (east exit) take bus W towards Brussels
pay 2.7 EURO to the driver
get off at the BRAINE-L'ALLEUD Route de Nivelles stop
walk along Route du Lion about 300 m and you will reach the monument
The memorial of this famous battle, where the famous French leader Napoleon was defeated, consists of several parts: The text below describes the museum, which is adjacent to the Panorama, the artificial Lion's mound and the somewhat more distant Hougoumont farm. These are described in separate sub-sections.
In the Memorial Museum, an interactive tour awaits you, which will guide you step by step through this famous battle, where the history of Europe was written. Here you will see important milestones of the battle - what preceded it, a timeline of the two warring camps, tactical layout on the battlefield, etc. Everything is presented or narrated in a very attractive form supplemented by various audiovisual effects including a 3D film and audio guide.
opening hours:
Memorial, Panorama and Lion's mound:
September - October - daily 10:00 - 18:30
November - March - daily 10:00 - 17:30
April - June - daily 10:00 - 18:30
July - August - daily 10:00 - 19:30
Hougoumont:
September - October - daily 11:00 - 18:00
November - March - daily 10:00 - 17:00
April - June - daily 10:00 - 18:00
July - August - daily 10:00 - 19:00
admission: (Memorial, Panorama and Lion's mound, Hougoumont)
high season (April - October):
adults (18-59) - 24 EURO
students, seniors (60+) - 22 EURO
children and youth (10-17) - 12 EURO
children (0-9) - free
off season (November - March):
adults (18-59) - 20.5 EURO
students, seniors (60+) - 18.5 EURO
children and youth (10-17) - 10.25 EURO
children (0-9) - free
Panorama is a large circular building with a screen. Its spectacular dimensions - 110 metres in circumference and 12 metres in height - and exceptional soundtrack will immerse you right in the middle of the battles. On all sides you will be surrounded by battle scenes, sabres clashing, cavalry charges and cannon fire.
This monument was erected in 1826 at the request of William I, King of the Netherlands, who wished to commemorate the spot where his elder son, the Prince of Orange, was probably wounded on 18 June. Above is a statue of a mighty lion, which symbolizes the victory of the monarchy.
From the top of the 226 steps there is a view of the entire battlefield. An orientation plan and various markers help you understand troop movements and understand the square infantry formations, cavalry deployments and the importance of the topography of the site.This historic farm was the scene of a bloody battle because it was in a forward position protecting the Allied right flank. Here Napoleon's brother unleashed a battle that eventually became the nbloodiest battle, in which the main building burned. As well as a museum with artefacts of the battle, a café with a shop, there is also a private screening in the farmhouse of an authentic film about this "battle within a battle."
Our wandering around the Belgian kingdom is over and it's time to fly back to our country. So we take the train to Charleroi, which, by the way, is said to be the ugliest city in the world. There, we will take a bus to the airport.
Train Braine-l'Alleud → Charleroi Central: Runs approximately every 20-30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable, travel time approximately 35 minutes
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 7.6 EURO
Senior (65+) - 7.6 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child above 4 children accompanied by parents (0-12) - 4.5 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.6 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is via the app
TEC's A1 buses
stop in front of the station building, platform 18 near the ticket shop
frequency - bus runs every 30 min
travel time - approx. 20 min (depending on traffic)
price: 6 EURO
Brussels South Airport
Your journey through this small coastal monarchy is over and now you can look back in the comfort of the airport terminal or on board the plane. The journey has been packed with attractions. You have seen beautiful historic cities with majestic cathedrals, beautiful facades of historic houses, water canals and cobbled streets with mysterious nooks and crannies. You met people of all different nationalities and cultures. You tasted local specialties - beer, waffles in different ways, chocolate, and what else but fries. You took a boat ride on the beautiful waterways and were transported back in time as you visited one of the bloodiest and most important battles in the history of the continent. If you enjoyed the trip and would like to return sometime to explore this interesting country in more depth and add some natural beauty, you can take advantage of the (not only) summer version of the itinerary, expanded to include the North Sea coast with its beaches and sand dunes and the mountains (more like highlands) of the Ardennes. You can also extend your trip by visiting neighbouring Luxembourg for a few days.
Discover this small kingdom on the North Sea coast, where the aroma of chocolate, beer, fries, and waffles in various forms will accompany you every step of the way. Visit the "Venice of the North" and stroll along the romantic embankments around the canals, or take a boat ride and watch the reflections of historical buildings mirrored on the water's surface. Walk through the European Quarter in the "European Capital" with the legendary Atomium building, a magnificent square, and statues of urinating figures. Immerse yourself in history and be drawn into the legendary Battle of Waterloo, where the history of Europe was written. A diverse range of culture (museums, architecture, festivals), gastronomy, linguistic and cultural diversity of the local people, comfortable and fast travel, and year-round pleasant weather - all this makes Belgium an ideal destination for comfortable travel throughout the year.
After arriving at Brussels South Charleroi Airport, go through the airport hall to the FLIBCO bus station, which departs from the area in front of the arrival hall. You will travel approximately 1 hour to Brussels South Station (Brussels Midi), where you will transfer to a tram and then reach your accommodation. It is a very multicultural city that connects otherwise nationally divided Belgium. Here, it doesn't matter whether locals identify as Flemish or Walloon. They live side by side with people of many different ethnicities and with temporary European officials. You will come across mosques, bazaars, and you can taste cuisine from all over the world. Brussels is definitely not just a formal metropolis of European institutions, it is a city of museums, markets and peeing statues.
Southern Brussels Airport in Charleroi.
Travel from the airport to Brussels:
FLIBCO buses to Brussels run every day every 20 minutes
the bus stop is right in front of the arrival hall, you can reach it within 10 minutes of getting off the plane
first bus from the airport to Brussels - 7:20
last bus from the airport to Brussels - 0:40
travel time - approx. 55 min (depending on traffic conditions)
ticket - 19.95 EURO, purchase online on the company's website/mobile application, on-site at the vending machine (payment cards accepted), the ticket is valid for the whole day to the purchased day until 04:00 the following day, it can be canceled 1 day before the date of travel
company website - https://www.flibco.com/en
mobile application - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flibco.customerapp
The largest train station in Brussels, located on the southern edge of the city center. Here, you can transfer to a tram that will take you to your accommodation.
Travel Brussels Midi → Accommodation:
Tram 81 from Brussels Midi towards Ichec, get off at Janson stop. Travel time approx. 13 min, price 2.2 EURO.
Ticket - tap your credit card on the card reader at the turnstile when entering the platform. You do not need to tap again when exiting the tram.
Experience the magic of Brussels on your very first day! Take a walk to the heart of the historic center, where you'll be captivated by the majestic architecture and the legendary Grand Place – a square rightly considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Let yourself be carried away by the city's atmosphere, discover the famous Manneken Pis and its lesser-known siblings, and then head to a neighborhood where time seems to stand still. Explore the flea market, enjoy coffee or beer in one of the stylish cafes, and wander through the romantic cobbled streets. And what would a trip be without tasting waffles and the famous fries with a huge variety of sauces? Brussels will simply get to you with all your senses!
Public Transportation:
The metro, trams, and buses are operated by the same company, STIB-MIVB. All types of public transport are interconnected and have unified fares, allowing transfers between them.
Single journey - 2.2 EURO when paying with a contactless payment card. Valid for 1 hour on all types of public transport.
Ticket purchase - tap your payment card on the card reader at the turnstile when entering the metro platform or inside the tram and bus. No need to tap again when exiting the tram or bus. When using the metro, you go through the turnstile again, so you tap. If you transfer between different vehicles, tap the same card in each new vehicle. If less than 1 hour passes between the first tap and exiting the last vehicle, all connecting journeys are free; you only pay the 2.2 EURO.
Daily fare - if you use public transport more than once a day, tap each time you board a new vehicle. The system will calculate the most suitable fare at the end of the day. The maximum the system will charge you is 8 EURO, meaning after the 4th individual journey, the rest are free.
Public transport website (connections, routes, timetables...) - https://www.stib-mivb.be/home
Brussels card - if you plan to visit several museums, purchasing a Brussels card may be worthwhile. There is a choice of 3 options (24 hours for 39 EURO, 48 hours for 51 EURO, 72 hours for 57 EURO)
The price includes:
Free entry to 49 museums
Discounts on other selected attractions, shops, and bars
Maps and guides
Optional add-on - discount on entry to the Atomium (12 EURO adult), all-day travel pass (not worth it with the 24-hour option)
Purchase and activation:
Purchase online - https://shop.brusselscard.be/en?_gl=1*7cqy9n*_gcl_au*MTY5NDg4MDg1NC4xNzM4MDg3MzUy
You have 1 year to activate after purchase
Activate by tapping when entering the 1st attraction you visit
More about Brussels - https://www.visit.brussels/en/visitors
Gateway to the city center (literally). Here you start your tour of the beauties of the historic city center. This distinctive and dominant historical building is a remnant of the medieval city fortifications and the first attraction you will encounter on your journey. Today it serves as a lookout point (after climbing 169 steps) and a museum.
Museum entrance fee:
adults (19-64 years) - 7 EURO
seniors (65+) and group (min 15) adults - 5 EURO
students with a valid ID and persons with health restrictions - 3 E
children and youth (0-18 years) - free
Opening hours:
MON - THU - 9:30 - 17:00
SAT, SUN, holidays - 10:00 - 17:00
closed - FRI, January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11, December 25
Access:
can be reached comfortably on foot from the accommodation or train station (10-15 min)
metro - ring lines 2 (orange) and 6 (blue), Porte de Hal stop
tram (3,55,90) - Porte de Hal stop
bus (48, 365A) - Porte de Hal stop
A traditional neighborhood in the southern part of the center, near the Hallepoort gate. Soak up the specific atmosphere of old Brussels here and sail into the local artistic streets with shops and cafes. Plan your visit so you can catch the flea market in the center of all the action of this district - Place du Jeu de Balle square. The markets are held daily in the morning and early afternoon (approximately until 1 p.m.).
On the north side of the square, I recommend visiting the Charlotte buffet with excellent local sausages with cabbage or potatoes with bacon and cream sauce.
A public elevator takes you to the square in front of the monumental Palace of Justice, the largest building serving judicial purposes in the world. It lies on a hill next to the square with the Ferris wheel and is therefore one of the city's landmarks visible from afar. At the same time, there is a beautiful view of the center and surrounding parts of the city. The interior of the palace building is not open to the public, so you can only admire its imposing dimensions from the outside.
On the way from the Palace of Justice along Regentschapstraat towards Koningsplein (Royal Square), you can peek into the Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Sablon (roughly halfway along the left side, can be viewed on maps). After a short walk, you will reach Koningsplein (Royal Square), in the vicinity of which you will find several museums, e.g.:
The Royal Palace serves as a workplace for the Belgian monarchs (the residence is at Laeken Castle on the northwestern outskirts of the city). If the Belgian flag is flying, the King is present and fulfilling state duties - e.g., receiving important domestic and foreign visits, discussing state matters, signing documents, etc.
The exterior, along with the extensive park, can of course be seen without restriction and for free. A visit to the interior is only possible during a limited period (July - end of August with prior reservation).
On the way to Monts des Arts, it is possible to visit the Brussels Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels) located nearby (walk through the Royal Park and then turn left on the main street and you will see it soon).
A beautifully landscaped park with fountains, the Palace of the Dynasty or the statue of Queen Elisabeth and perhaps the most famous view of the city, with the spire of the nearby Brussels City Hall looming in the background, to which we will head next. There are also some museums in the vicinity of the park.
And here it is!! The first of the expected peeing statues, and immediately the most famous and oldest. The legendary statue (or rather fountain) Manneken Pis, or Peeing Boy. It is located quite discreetly on the corner of Eikstraat and Stoofstraat. Were it not for the larger or smaller groups of photographing tourists, you might not even notice it. Yet, along with the Atomium, it is probably the most famous symbol of the city, which must be included in all photos, promotional materials or postcards.
According to legend, the two-year-old Duke Godfried II of Brabant supported his soldiers by being hung in a basket on a tree and peeing on the heads of enemies. With his help, the Brabantian units finally won a resounding battle against the Berthouts.
One of the most beautiful squares in the world. A magnificent open space surrounded by the iconic Town Hall building and Gothic houses, many of which hide cafes, bars or restaurants. Due to high prices and crowds, I recommend choosing one of the many establishments in the surrounding streets for refreshments. You can visit the Town Hall building with a view and the adjacent Museum of the City of Brussels (see below).
Beautiful but busy cobbled street with many cafes, souvenir shops etc. If you want to buy postcards, magnets or even a wine opener in the shape of a peeing little boy, or refresh yourself with some of the famous local delicacies, this street (along with the ostentatious streets around the main square) is for you. On every corner here you'll find stalls selling cone fries (prices around 5 E including sauce), waffles (prices varying from 3 E for a "dry" one to 15 E for the most filling ones - chocolate, Nutella, whipped cream, various fruits and sprinkles...) or (how else in this country) chocolate shops. You can sit inside the establishment with your purchased goodies or take them to go in a cone/box.
If the peeing boy was described as an inconspicuous fountain, this is doubly true for the statue of the girl. It lies in an inconspicuous dead end that you probably wouldn't visit if it weren't for the fact that it's a turn off the busy Rue des Bouchers full of cafes and souvenir shops. The statue of the girl is also less touristy (many tourists still don't know about it), but you certainly won't be alone here.
You'll say goodbye to the peeing statues with the third and final piece - this time a dog. The statue is located on the corner of Rue de Chartreux and Rue du Vieux-Marché and is definitely the least known and least visited of the trio.
On the way to this statue, we can visit several interesting places, such as St. Nicholas Church, the Brussels Stock Exchange building (which also houses the museum of the famous Belgian beer) or St. Catherine's Church.
Tram 10, direction Churchill, stop Horta
Today's program starts with a visit to Sacré-Coeur...you read that right, and no, you haven't moved to Paris...you will see the Brussels version, which is no less majestic than its more famous namesake. But you will also visit Paris today, as well as many other European cities, thanks to the amazing MiniEurope park, where you can travel all over the old continent on the area of a small park thanks to miniatures of the main European monuments. Another of the city's icons will be watching over you - the Atomium, or a model of the crystal lattice of iron reduced by 165 billion times. On the other side of the city, you will then briefly take on the role of EU officials and take a look at the places that determine the direction of the whole of Europe.
MHD - today you will be transferring more often, so you will use a full-day ticket, see the information in the description of the city of Brussels. When boarding each connection, you tap in (with the same card), and the system will deduct 8 EURO at the end.
Tram 81 from the Janson stop, direction Marius Renard → Gare du Midi stop (approx. 15 min), transfer to the metro.
metro 6 (blue) from gare du Midi, direction Roi Baudouin → stop Simonis, then walk through the park for about 1 km
Named after the more famous Paris cathedral, but worth a visit. It is one of the largest sacred buildings in the world. It is built in the Art Deco style. It stands on a slight hill on the western edge of the center in the Koekelberg district and can be seen from a distance. In addition to the basilica itself, it is possible to climb to the observation deck.
Entrance to the basilica:
free
8:00 - 18:00 - summer time
8:00 - 17:00 - winter time
View:
entrance - 8 EURO
9:00 - 17:30 (last entry 17:00) - summer time
9:00 - 16:30 (last entry 16:00) - winter time
metro 6 (blue) from Simonis stop, direction Roi Baudouin → Heysel stop, then walk about 500 m.
Iconic structure on the northern edge of Brussels built for the EXPO World's Fair. It is a system of 9 domes connected by corridors, which symbolize a 165 billion times reduced model of the crystal lattice of iron. Some domes are open to the public, and you move between them on escalators accompanied by light and music effects. Inside are interactive exhibitions, displays, information about the technical parameters of the building, examples of the history of the building and other interesting information. In the upper floors there is a restaurant, where a reservation is required.
Opening hours:
MON - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
24/12 and 31/12 - 10:00 - 16:00 (last entry 15:30)
25/12 and 1/1 - 12:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Entrance fee:
adults (19-64 years) - 16 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with health restrictions - 14 EURO
child over 115 cm to 17 years - 8.5 EURO
child under 115 cm - free
students - 8.5 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
! The price includes entry to the nearby Design Museum!
TIP: If you are also planning to visit the neighboring MINI EUROPE park, buy a more advantageous combined ticket (see below)
COMBINED TICKET WITH MINI EUROPE:
(!!MINI EUROPE is not in operation 6/1 - 7/3)
adults (19-64 years) - 32.2 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with health restrictions - 30.5 EURO
teenager 12 - 17 years - 25 EURO
child over 115 cm and up to 11 years - 20.4 EURO
child under 115 cm - free
students - 25 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
!!long queues form during weekends and holidays!!
- I recommend arriving about 30 minutes before opening hours or buying tickets online via https://atomium.be/tickets
Popular park next to the Atomium, which will be appreciated not only by children but also by adults. It displays about 350 scale models of world-famous buildings across the cities of the European Union in 1:25 ratio, supplemented by interesting elements such as moving trains, ships, and even rockets. "Travel" across Europe in this small park and "visit" landmarks such as the Eiffeil Tower, London's Big Ben, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Prague Astronomical Clock.
Opening Hours:
Mon - Sun - 9:30am - 6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
24/12 & 31/12 - 10:00am - 4:00pm (last entry 3:30pm)
25/12 & 1/1 - 12:00pm - 6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
!!closed 6/1 - 7/3
Admission:
Adults (19-64 years old) - 19 EURO
children - 13,5 EURO
COMBINED TICKET WITH MINI EUROPE:
(!!MINI EUROPE is not open 6/1 - 7/3)
adults (19-64 years old) - 32,2 EURO
seniors (65+) and persons with disabilities - 30.5 EURO
teenager 12 - 17 years - 25 EURO
child over 115 cm and under 11 years - 20,4 EURO
child under 115 cm - free of charge
students - 25 EURO
teacher - 11 EURO
web - https://www.minieurope.com/
metro 6 (blue) from stop Heysel, direction Simons → stop Osseghem
metro 1 (purple), direction Stockel → stop Merode
Exit the metro near the Arc de Triomphe
The extensive park is a popular place for locals to relax (picnics, walks, running and cycling are held here). There is also a football field or a pétanque court. In addition to sports, fans of architecture and culture will also enjoy themselves, especially thanks to the Triumphal Arch of the Palais du Cinquantenaire and several museums (e.g. automobiles or armed forces and military history).
Tip: if you didn't manage to get refreshments elsewhere, you can use one of the food trucks selling waffles, fries, coffee or chilled drinks directly at the Arc de Triomphe.
After crossing the Parc du Cinquantenaire, you will enter the European Quarter, where several key institutions of the European Union are located. Perhaps the most unfamiliar building is the X-shaped Berlaymont - the European Commission. Brussels is known as the "capital of Europe" and it is this building that probably has the most "feel" for this association, thanks to the shape of the building familiar from the media and the EU flags in its western part. Just across the street is another important institution - the Council of the European Union and next to it another well-known building, the "Europa".
Perhaps the most interesting stop in the European Quarter is the European Parliament complex, which houses the interactive museum Parlamentarium. Here, using an audio guide (free in your native language), you will learn everything about the history and present of the EU, including its fundamental problems that it addresses. Admission is also free, you just register at the reception and get a guide.
Opening hours:
MON - 13:00 - 18:00
TUE - FRI - 9:00 - 18:00
SAT - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00
last entry always 30 minutes before closing time
admission - free
metro 2 (orange), direction Simonis → stop Louise
Tram 92, direction Fort-Jaco → stop Janson
The city of Antwerp will excite you as soon as you step out of the main train station, thanks to the magnificent historical station building. You'll immediately recognize the city's reputation as a major diamond trading center when you enter the diamond district, full of diamond shops and luxury jewelry stores. You already know that Belgium is the land of chocolate. It's time to explore this delicacy more closely and, above all, to taste it!! You can do this right next to the station in the world's largest chocolate museum. In the heart of the city, a lively shopping district awaits you with a luxurious shopping center with a monumentally decorated interior. You'll immerse yourself in the city's history and explore its underworld, or rather the intricate network of underground streets with a guide.
Train Brussels - Midi → Antwerp-Central: runs every 20-30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable
Fares:
Adults (26+) - 8.9 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.30 EURO, otherwise 8.9 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 5.10 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.5 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the counter or vending machine, the easiest way is via the app
!!TIP!! - you can buy a package of 10 rides throughout Belgium, called Standard Multi (in the SNCB app for 102 EURO)
From this package, you can use any train journeys throughout Belgium. 1 package can be used for multiple people
When purchasing the package, the average price per 1 journey is 10.2 EURO. It pays off in these cases:
1) during the trip I undertake several longer transfers, where the price per trip exceeds 10.2 EURO / person
2) I travel in a larger group and use the pass for more expensive transfers (e.g. Bruges → Waterloo Memorial) for several people, shorter routes can then be purchased separately
Activation of the journey - after purchasing the pass, I see the number of journeys available. If I want to pay for the journey from the pass, then I find the route in the app and activate it. At that moment, the journey is "bought" and the appropriate number of journeys is deducted (according to the number of passengers selected). During the journey, I can get off and get back on another connection, but it must be on the same route that I activated. You can use this, for example, on the Antwerp → Bruges route, where you get off in Ghent and later continue to Bruges on the same ticket.
It is not often said that the station building is one of the "highlights" of the city. In the case of Antwerp's main railway station, this is indeed the case. Exploring the beauty of the city therefore begins immediately after getting off the train. Locals sometimes proudly call the building "railway cathedral". You will understand the significance when you see this building consisting of a steel platform covering the platform and the magnificent stone station building. Compared to, for example, Czech railway stations, waiting for a train in Antwerp can be a cultural experience.
Belgium = chocolate. Almost everyone who is at least a little interested in the world knows this equation. This museum offers an excellent opportunity to explore this delicious symbiosis in more depth and, above all, to taste samples of local high-quality chocolate. It is the largest museum of Belgian chocolate in the country and in the world. In this interactive museum full of attractive animations and effects, you will gradually go through the entire chocolate making process - from the selection, harvesting and initial processing of cocoa beans in the African jungle, through their transport to world ports, factories, subsequent processing into various forms and distribution to customers. An audio guide is included in the entrance fee. The individual rooms of the exhibition are stylized into specific themes, so at the beginning we find ourselves in the "jungle", later in a factory, in a port, etc. Everything culminates in tasting different chocolate samples - first in the solid form of granules, then liquid.
Opening hours:
daily 10:15 - 18:30 (last entry 17:00)
Entrance fees:
children - 0-3 years - free
children 4-11 - 14.5 EURO
youth 12 - 17 - 18.5 EURO
students - 18.5 EURO
group over 15 people - 18.5 EURO
adults - 19.9 EURO
Antverpy is a world-famous diamond trading centre and the proof is in this neighbourhood of artisans and diamond merchants, where every other shop window dazzles with the sparkle of luxury jewellery. It's a lively neighbourhood full of jewellery shops, jewellers and workshops to process these gems. The streets of the district are bustling with people of all nationalities rushing about for business, and you'll often see members of the Jewish community in traditional dress. As is well known, Jews and business just go together :)
The way from the station and the chocolate museum to the centre is through the main shopping street Meir. Here you will enjoy especially shopping lovers - you will find branches of all kinds of world's more or less luxury brands of clothing, cosmetics etc.
For lovers of luxury - enter the Stadsfeestzaal shopping mall with its magnificent interior consisting of a glass dome with golden elements, staircases and marble columns.
St. James Church - Turn right down Elkenstraat and you will reach this beautiful church, known as the starting point for pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. The interior of the church includes, among other things, the Rubens Chapel with paintings by this famous painter and local native.
Antwerp is known in the world of culture for the work of its native son and one of the most famous painters in the world - Rubens. In the place where he was born and worked, there is now a museum where you can admire 3 main parts:
1) on the ground floor there is an interactive exhibition called "Rubens experience" about his life and work. A popular part of the tour is the possibility of creating your own portrait in the style of Rubens' famous self-portrait
2) in the entrance hall you pass into the courtyard with a garden, which is a beautiful escape from the otherwise busy surroundings of the bustling city center. It serves as a small botanical garden
3) on the 2nd floor you will find a library, where you can see various books, letters and other publications about the painter's life
opening hours RUBENS EXPERIENCE and GARDEN:
MON - FRI - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 17:00)
WED - CLOSED
SAT - SUN - 10:00 - 18:00
1.1., 1.5., 1.11, 25.12 - closed
24.12 and 31.12 - until 15:00
opening hours LIBRARY:
MON - FRI - 9:30 - 17:00
SAT - SUN - closed
1.1., 1.5., 1.11, 25.12 - closed
24.12 and 31.12 - until 15:00
admission:
library - free
rest:
children and youth up to 18 years - free
students and groups of over 12 people - 8 EURO
adults - 12 EURO
Visit the Antwerp canals, a unique attraction, and walk through the former canals and sewers of Antwerp. During a slightly bizarre and adventurous underground walk, you will discover the fascinating and rich history of the city.
The "Ruien" (sewers), "vlieten" (canals) and "vesten" (moats) have crisscrossed Antwerp since the Middle Ages. This network of waterways provided Antwerp with drinking water and an inland port. Later, the canals served as sewers and were eventually backfilled. This unique piece of heritage thus disappeared from the city's panorama.
Rediscover this hidden heritage and walk along with a live and virtual guide on a tablet (in English, Dutch, French) around the old vaults, canals, bridges, sewers and locks and take a look into the underground of the city. Listen to mysterious anecdotes and fascinating trivia from the distant and recent past
The visit starts at Ruihuis, Suikerrui 21, 2000 Antwerp, and ends at Stadsmagazijn, Keistraat 5, 2000 Antwerp.
To descend into The Ruien, visitors will receive a protective suit, boots and a backpack to store shoes and other personal belongings during the walk.
!!ATTENTION!! Age limit from 10 years - this is a relatively challenging walk, sometimes through mud and dampness
Tour times: (tour lasts 90 min)
TUE - SUN - 11:00, 13:00, 15:00
Each tour is max for 16 people, so I recommend booking in advance
Antwerp city pass holders have free admission, book your place by email at reservaties@deruien.be
Admission:
children and youth 10 - 16 years - 12 EURO
adults - 19 EURO
A beautiful baroque church standing on the picturesque Conscienceplein square. The interior is decorated with artifacts from the famous native Rubens, and the dominant feature is the imposing main altar. Also visit the sacristy or the lace museum (open on Wednesdays only).
Entrance to the church can be combined with a visit to Antwerp's underground canals, De Ruien (see next item). With a guide, you can descend into the crypt and then through a secret entrance to the Antwerp underground canals.
!!BUT!!
1) the tour is only in Dutch
2) the price of 27 EURO does not include the ANtwerp city pass. So, if you decide to purchase the pass, you pay the entrance fee separately.
details about the combined entry - https://en.ruien.be/individuele-bezoeken/combi-wandeling-sint-carolus-borromeus
church opening hours:
MON - SAT - 10:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 17:00
lace museum - WED 10:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 16:00
admission: (the admission price includes the lace museum)
children - 0-13 years - free
students and seniors (60+) - 3 EURO
group of over 20 people - 3 EURO
adults - 5 EURO
web - https://mkantwerpen.be/en/churches/st-charles-borromeo-church/
This striking church is the only place in the world where you will find paintings by Anthropolitan masters Rubens, Van Dyck and Jordaens together in the exact place for which they were created. You can admire over 50 paintings, 200 magnificent sculptures and a gorgeous organ. Outside you will find the epic Calvary Garden dedicated to Christ's passion and resurrection.
!!!ATTENTION!!! From 3/2 to 31/3 2025 the church is undergoing a complete renovation and the entrance will be closed. The church will reopen to the public in April
.
Church Hours:
April - October:
daily - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
November - March:
SAT and SUN - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
From 3/2 to 3/31, the church is undergoing a complete renovation and the entrance will be closed
Admission: (1st Tuesday of each month free for all)
children and youth 0-19 years - free
students - 3 EURO
group of more than 15 people - 3 EURO
adults - 5 EURO
web - https://mkantwerpen.be/en/churches/st-pauls-church/
Perhaps the most distinctive building in the city, appearing on all postcards, pictures, and promotional materials. Near the Scheldt River, the local port, and the modern Eilandje district, stands this designer building housing various museums with permanent and constantly changing exhibitions about the city's history, the port, and the river. However, the main reason to visit is the free opportunity to take escalators across the promenades to the roof and admire the panoramic view of the harbor, the river, and the historic city center.
Opening hours:
Museums and exhibitions:
Tue - Sun - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:00)
Panorama:
Tue - Sun - 9:30 - 22:00 (may be closed in case of bad weather)
Summer season (1.5 - 31.10) - open until 00:00 (last entry 23:30)
!!Museums and panorama are closed from 3 PM on 24.12 and 31.12!!
!!Closed all day - every Monday, 1.1, 1.5., 25.12
Admission:
Permanent exhibitions
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-25, group of 12 people or more - 6 EURO
Adults - 10 EURO
Permanent + temporary exhibitions:
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-25, group of 12 people or more - 8 EURO
Adults - 12 EURO
Originally a working-class district between the city center and the modern Eilandje district. As mentioned in the introduction, Antwerp is and has been an important port, and this part of the city near the port was and is a center of entertainment (even the darker kind) for the sailors and workers of the time, and today for locals and tourists. The main attraction is the local Red Light District, where prostitution is practiced in the style of Amsterdam (but on a much smaller scale). Women of various nationalities, ethnicities, and physical proportions sit behind red-lit windows, waiting for their clients in just a few streets around Schipperstraat. In addition to this somewhat controversial form of entertainment, it is also an area of bars and restaurants. The center of the area is Falconplein Square.
Tram 7, direction Mortsel, stop Mechelseplein
What are Antwerp and Belgium in general famous for? You can learn about the journey of raw diamonds from their deposits in African mines to their cutting and jewelry making in the Diamond Museum. In the very heart of this beautiful city, a beautiful square with an imposing cathedral and a famous statue awaits you. The extensive Royal Museum of Fine Arts, with its magnificent pieces, especially by local artists, will be a feast for the eyes. And how do you wash down this busy day? In Belgium, what else but beer, specifically the local De Koninck brewery, which you can also see with the help of an interactive exhibition. Proost!! (Cheers!!)
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (commonly referred to as KMSKA) has undergone more than 10 years of reconstruction and is reopened to visitors in a beautifully renovated building. It houses works by leading artists, led by Ensor, Rubens, Van Dyck and Van Eyck. The building is very extensive and in addition to paintings you will also find sculptures and various interactive elements. Reserve approximately 2 hours for the visit, art fans even longer.
Opening hours:
MON, TUE, WED, FRI - 10:00 - 17:00
THU - 10:00 - 22:00
SAT, SUN, public holidays - 10:00 - 18:00
school holidays - 10:00 - 18:00
July - August - 10:00 - 17:00
!!24.12 and 31.12 the museum is closed from 5 pm!!
!!closed all day - 1.1, 25.12!!
entrance fee:
children and youth 0-18 years - free
youth 18-26 - 10 EURO
adults - 20 EURO
This UNESCO museum and monument is home to the famous printing family of the same name. A tour with an audio guide (included in the admission price) will take you deep into the history of printing, you will see the printing technique, a collection of works, and you can also print your own text, in the old way using physical force. You can then take the printed text with you as a souvenir. The building also includes a courtyard garden.
opening hours:
TU - SU - 10:00 - 17:00
!!24.12 and 31.12 the museum is closed from 3 pm!!
!!closed all day - every MONDAY, 1.1, 1.5., 1.11., 25.12!!
admission:
children and youth 0-18 years - free
youth 18-25 and group 12 + persons - 8 EURO
adults (26+) - 12 EURO
A very unusual experience. It is an approximately 1 km tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists leading under the Scheldt River, which connects the city center with the left bank of the river - the Linkeroever district, from where there is a beautiful view of the panorama of the center and a little further also the SintAnna river beach. An elevator leads to the tunnel, but I recommend using the authentic wooden escalator. If you don't like returning the same way, you can use the ferry from the nearby port for the return trip.
One of the city's highlights. The Steen, a river fortress that serves as a landmark and the heart of the city, also houses a tourist information center. It serves as a viewpoint of the city (mainly the right bank of the river), a terminal for boat trips, a shop with city souvenirs, and also a museum called "The Antwerp Story", where you gradually discover the history and personalities of this cultural and vibrant port city in a total of 11 rooms.
Opening hours:
daily - 10:00 - 18:00, viewpoint 10:00 - 22:00
!!Closed from 16:00 on 24.12 and 31.12!!
!!Closed - 1.1, 25.12!!
Entrance fees: (free visitor center, viewpoint and selected rooms of The Antwerp Story)
The Antwerp Story:
children 0-5 years - free
children and youth 6-17 - 5 EURO
adults (18+) - 7 EURO
For centuries, Antwerp has been known as the world's diamond center. In the Diamond Museum, we will learn about the journey of rough diamonds from their deposits in African mines to their cutting and jewelry making, and the differences between natural and laboratory-created diamonds. The tour also includes interactive elements and a workshop.
Opening hours:
Daily - 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:45)
WED - CLOSED
!!24.12 and 31.12 closed from 3 PM!!
!!Closed - 1.1, 1.5, 1.11., 25.12!!
Entrance fee:
Children and youth 0-18 years - free
Youth 18-26, group 12+ persons - 8 EURO
Adults (26+) - 12 EURO
You can see this majestic UNESCO-listed building from all corners of the city, at least its tower. The imposing cathedral is the largest Gothic building in BENELUX and, in addition to its magnificent exterior, it also contains many gems inside, such as the works of the local native and most famous personality, the master Rubens.
In front of the cathedral, in the vast square, an unusual sculpture depicting the figure of a boy and his dog covered with a "blanket" made of paving stones will catch your eye. These are the characters Nello and Patrasch from the world-famous novel The Hound of Flanders, set in Antwerp.
opening hours:
Mon - Fri - 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 17:45)
SAT - 10:00am - 3:00pm
SUN - 13:00 - 17:00
!!closed - 1.1.
opening hours have a few exceptions throughout the year, watch the website below
admission:
children and young people 0-18 years - free
students, seniors 60+, groups of 20+ people - 10 EURO
adults (18+) - 12 EURO
web - https://www.dekathedraal.be/en/visit
An inconspicuous alleyway hidden in the immediate vicinity of the modern centre is a bit of a revelation. Walk through the gate on the Oude Koornmarkt near the cathedral and you'll find yourself "in the past" and an oasis of calm from the otherwise bustling centre in this picturesque medieval alleyway, once inhabited by the poor, whose job it was to ring the bell of the nearby cathedral in case of danger. Today you will find cafes, restaurants and art shops.
Tram 7, direction Mortsel, stop Berchem De Merode
What better way to end a busy day than with a delicious beer? And how about learning something about it too? Our last stop will fulfill both parts. The local brewery has been brewing beer for over a century and is best known for the famous "Bolleke" beer. During the brewery tour, we are guided by virtual guides and in each room, we are taught about the history, production processes, and types of local beer. Of course, there is a tasting session where you will be poured a third of a pint of beer at the reception, which you can take with you on the tour or drink on the spot. You will also receive a token that you can use during the tour to pour yourself another third of a pint, or you can use it at the end of the tour in the brewery restaurant, where the staff will pour you a third of a pint of beer and properly cut the foam with a knife. During the tour, pay attention, at the end your knowledge will be tested with a quiz.
Opening hours:
TUE - SUN - 11:00 - 17:30
MON CLOSED
Entrance fee: (extra charge for visiting on Saturday - 2 EURO)
children 0-4 years - free
children 5-15 years - 14 EURO
students, teachers - 14 EURO
adults (16-64) - 16 EURO
seniors (65+) - 16 EURO
Tram 7, direction Eilandje, stop Mechelseplein
We will explore this beautiful city with the highest number of historical gems in all of Belgium. We will walk along the romantic quays of the water canals, or discover the beauty of the buildings from a boat during a ride. We will wander together into romantic corners and picturesque squares. We will visit the city's icons - Gravensteen water castle towering directly at the confluence of local canals, the legendary Ghent belfry (the city's tallest building) listed as a UNESCO site, and the monumental cathedral. We will see the unconventional "schizophrenic" architecture of the local town hall, visit the market with local delicacies, and taste local beer with a captivating name and logo - Delirium tremens.
Tram 1, direction P+R Luchtbal, stop Antwerp opera
If you have purchased a 48-hour Antwerp pass, plan your journey so that it is also valid for this trip.
Train Antwerp-Central → Gent Dampoort: runs every 15 - 20 min, connections are punctual and comfortable
Fares:
Adults (26+) - 11.7 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.5 EURO, otherwise 11.7 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 6.6 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Buying a ticket - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, easiest via the app
!!ATTENTION!! Buy a ticket directly to the city of Bruges, where we will move from Ghent in the evening. The ticket is valid all day and we can change the connection, so we do not have to pay separately for two rides
Info about Ghent:
The beautiful historical city of Ghent lies at the confluence of the Leie and Lieve canals. The city is very pleasant for walking. There is an almost unbelievable concentration of historical monuments, which you come across literally every 100 meters. The experience is enhanced by the beautiful promenades around the local canals and the possibility of boat trips. Compared to the more famous Bruges, it is not such a touristy place, so you can walk through the city without large crowds.
Public Transport:
You probably won't need it, the city is ideal for walking - a small, compact center and the sights are in close proximity to each other. You might only use it to get to the train station, but even that is not far (about 2 km) and it is also a pleasant walk along the canal.
- Public transport consists of buses and trams, operated by the carrier DeLijn
- Public transport website
Not really worth it for a 1-day visit, as there are only options for 2 (48 EURO) or 3 (48 EURO) days
If you extend your stay in the city by a day, the city card is worth considering
Includes:
Admission to all attractions
Temporary exhibitions in museums
All city transport including bicycle and "watertram"
The main, oldest and largest religious building in Ghent is one of the city's landmarks that you really can't miss. This originally Romanesque church was built in the 10th century and later rebuilt into the current Gothic-style cathedral. The interior is decorated with beautiful columns and stained glass windows, and the most famous artifact of the church is located in the adjacent chapel - the famous Ghent altarpiece by the famous painter Van Eyck.
Opening hours:
Cathedral
MON - SAT - 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
SUN - 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Closed on January 1st.
Chapel with the Ghent Altarpiece:
MON - SAT - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SUN - 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Closed on January 1st.
Entrance fee:
The cathedral is free, there is a fee to enter the chapel with the Ghent Altarpiece
Children 0-12 years - 8 EURO (including augmented reality)
12+ years - 12.5 EURO (altarpiece only) / 16 EURO (including augmented reality)
The panorama of Ghent is mainly made up of 3 dominant tower-like buildings in the Gothic style - the Gent bell tower is the middle one, located between St Bavo's Cathedral and St Nicholas Church. In the past, the bell tower symbolised the prosperity of the city - the taller the bell, the richer the city. It was also used to announce important events or dangers. Today, it is listed on the UNESCO list and serves as a lookout for the city centre and the wider area. Every Sunday between 11-12am you can hear the chimes.
opening hours:
daily 10am - 6pm
Closed - 1/1, 12/24, 12/25, 12/31
admission:
adults - 11 EURO
children 0-12 - free
children and youth 12 - 19 - 2,2 EURO
students under 26 - 5 EURO
web: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/ghent-belfry-world-heritage
Along with the nearby bell tower and St Bavo's Cathedral, it is the most dominant building in the city. The unique feature of this Gothic church is the lucern tower reflecting light. The interior houses beautiful works of art headed by an altarpiece with the work of the painter Nicolas De Liemaecker and a Romantic-style organ designed by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
admission:
free
website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-nicholas-church
This schizophrenic building consists of two parts - the facade to Hoogpoort Street is created in a Late Gothic style, which contrasts sharply with the part of the building on Botnmarkt Street with Renaissance elements inspired by Italian palaces.
Since its construction, the church has been a meeting place for locals and pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. At the main entrance of the church, a shell is integrated into one of the tiles. The scallop shell refers to the Apostle Saint James, who is buried in Santiago de Compostela, where these shells were formerly abundant. It marks the starting points or milestones of the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
Opening hours:
TUE - SAT 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Mon, Sun - closed
During the year, some months are also closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays (check the website below)
admission:
free
website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-james-church
The largest square in Ghent and the main venue in Belgium for the very popular farmers' markets with local, high-quality, and very tasty products (try, for example, one of the sausages). The markets take place on Fridays and Saturdays, usually in the morning. Soak up the atmosphere in the streets surrounding the square and admire the beautiful facades. Then go and enjoy the local Delirium Tremens beer in one of the cozy pubs, such as Dulle Griet. It is a place you won't soon forget with its famous boot-for-glass ritual. Find out for yourself how it works! Just be careful not to break the glass... although if worst comes to worst, there are plenty of shoe stores nearby.
Take a trip to the main quayside along the canals for a bit of street art in graffitti alley - a narrow short alley connecting the Onderstraat near nám. vrijdagmarkt and Hoogpoort Street. The street plays with all kinds of colours and shapes, and you can find all kinds of more and less hilarious works on the facades.
If you like the local beer and want to "get on the other foot", or if you fancy a local classic or a coffee and dessert (such as the local speciality Gentleman's Nose or Krocouberdon) while admiring the beautiful local architecture, you can visit the hub of the action - the lively Korenmarkt Square, where most of the major events take place and also the Christmas Market during Advent.
The focal point of the city's tourist life and the main "stars" of postcards and promotional photos from Ghent are two medieval docks and now tourist promenades lined with townhouses with beautiful facades and cafes with outdoor gardens - Graslei and the opposite Korenlei. Ships have been docking here since the 11th century, and this is still the case today, but the original commercial purposes of the cruises have been replaced by sightseeing cruises. Hop on one of the boats and enjoy a cruise on the canals, or sit in a cafe or pub and enjoy the view of the silhouettes of houses reflected on the calm surface of the Leie canal.
Step onto the Grasbrug bridge and enjoy the view of both docks, the Leie canal with moored or floating ships, and the local houses.
boat trip - on the Korenlei embankment you will find a booth selling tickets for a boat trip around Ghent.
boat operating hours:
November - March: daily 10:45 - 15:45
April - October: daily 10:00 - 18:00
price for 40 min cruise:
youth and adults - 10 EURO
children 0-12 - 6.5 EURO
seniors (65+) - 9 EURO
Another of the city's landmarks and main attractions is this castle located at the confluence of the canals Leie and Lieve. It is the only medieval castle with a moat and largely intact defense system in Flanders. You can admire the entrance gates, ramparts, fortress, the Count's residence and stables here.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 - 18:00
closed 1.1., 24.12., 25.12., 31.12.,
Admission:
adults (26+) - 13 EURO
children 0-12 - free
children and youth 12 - 19 - 2.7 EURO
students up to 26 years - 8 EURO
The center of the city's tourist activity and the main "stars" of postcards and promotional photos from Ghent are two medieval docks and today's tourist promenades lined with townhouses with beautiful facades and cafes with outdoor gardens - Graslei and the opposite Korenlei. Ships have been docking here since the 11th century, and it is still the case today, but the original commercial purposes of the cruises have been replaced by sightseeing cruises. Get on one of the boats and enjoy a cruise on the canals, or sit in a cafe or pub and enjoy the view of the silhouettes of the houses reflected on the calm surface of the Leie canal.
Step onto the Grasbrug bridge and enjoy the view of both docks, the Leie canal with moored or floating boats, and the local houses.
boat trip - you will find a booth selling tickets for a boat trip around Ghent on the Korenlei embankment.
boat operating hours:
November - March: daily 10:45 - 15:45
April - October: daily 10:00 - 18:00
price for 40 min cruise:
adults - 10 EURO
children 0-12 - 6.5 EURO
seniors (65+) - 9 EURO
According to the original plans, the church was supposed to have the tallest tower in the city, but the plans were eventually abandoned and the tower is now only 46 m high. Only later did it become clear how lucky this decision was - it was discovered that the ground under the church was unstable and the church would probably not be able to bear more weight. The interior contains beautiful works by the famous painter Van Dyck, among others.
Opening Hours:
APRIL - OCTOBER, daily 14:00 - 17:00
CLOSED MONDAY
admission:
free
web:https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/st-michaels-church
The bridge spanning the Leie Canal between St Michael's and St Nicholas churches is probably the most popular spot for photos, whether selfies or cityscapes. Thanks to its location, you have a 360-degree view of the city's beauty from the bridge, with the canal, the two aforementioned churches, and the Ghent bell tower right in the palm of your hand.
The city tour is over. Head south with a beautiful walk along the Leie canal, which will take you to the Sint Pieters southern station in about 30 minutes (note that this is a different station than the arrival station).
Train Ghent - Sint-Pieters → Bruges: runs every 15 - 20 min, connections are accurate and comfortable, journey time approx. 25 min
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 8.1 EURO
Senior (65+) - 8.1 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children accompanied by parents (0-12) - 4.8 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is via the application
!!ATTENTION!! If you stayed in Ghent for only 1 day without overnight stay according to this itinerary and purchased a ticket in Antwerp all the way to Bruges, you do not need to buy another ticket and can use the one you already purchased
A free electric shuttle departs near the Bruges train station four times per hour.
- You can find the schedule here
Get off at the Brugge Howest stop
Stroll along the romantic waterfronts and admire the beautiful facades of buildings reflected in the calm waters of the local canals. And how about saving your steps and enjoying an even better view directly from the water during a cruise across the city? See the Relic of the Holy Blood in the basilica of the same name and walk through the picturesque square with a dominant belfry inscribed on the UNESCO list. Sit in one of the many cafes and bistros and treat yourself, as is tradition, to local delicacies overlooking the swans floating on the water surface. Delight your loved ones or yourself by purchasing souvenirs of all kinds in one of the many chocolate shops or other shops.
Info about Bruges:
"Venice of the North" - this is probably the most frequently used pseudonym for this fabulously beautiful town with beautiful canals, swans and floating boats, pedestrian promenades, picturesque squares and waffle and chocolate stands on every corner. Bruges will impress everyone. In the summer, it suffers a bit from the influx of tourists, so I recommend visiting in winter, when it is no less beautiful, but you will be able to move around more easily.
Public transport:
you probably won't need it, the city is ideal for walking - a small, compact center and the sights are in close proximity to each other. For more significant transfers, you can use the free electric shuttle transport, see the description of the journey from the station to the accommodation
The living heart of the city and the main square. Here is the centre of action in the whole city and the venue for events, including Christmas markets in Advent. The square is dominated by the 83 m high bell tower with a panoramic view of the city and the imposing provincial courthouse. An interesting experience, especially for children, can be a carriage ride through the town - this is where the coachmen wait for clients. The area around the square is "dotted" with cafes, pubs and stalls selling goodies.
One of the dominants of Bruges, dating back to the 13th century, is 83 metres high and is listed on the UNESCO. After climbing the 366 steps from the top, you will have a beautiful view of the city and its surroundings. On the way up, you can stop at the treasury, which in the Middle Ages held the city's charters, seals and coffers. A few steps further on, you'll see the impressive musical drum that controls the chimes and keyboard that the town carillonneur uses to play the tower's 47 bells.
Opening Hours:
April - October:
daily - 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November - March:
SO - 9:00am - 8:00pm
other days - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
admission:
adults and seniors (18+) - 15 EURO
children and youth (7-17) - 13 EURO
children (0-7) - free
website:https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/belfort-belfry
While Grote Square is the centre of the city's action, this square serves as the centre of government and power. The Gothic building of the Council House has housed the city's rulers since the 14th century. Inside the building, you can especially admire the Gothic hall with its beautiful vaulted ceiling and murals depicting the history of the city and its past leaders. In addition to the town hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood also stands on the square.
Opening hours:
Daily - 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
admission:
adults and seniors (26+) - 8 EURO
youth (18-25) - 7 EURO
children and youth (13-17) - 4 EURO
children (0-13) - free
website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/stadhuis-city-hall
This basilica consists of two parts - a rather simply decorated lower chapel, from which a staircase leads to the main part, after which the basilica is named.The upper chapel houses the Relic of the Holy Blood, which is said to have been brought to Bruges by the Crusaders. The basilica also houses a museum of the basilica themed around the Relic of the Holy Blood
Opening hours:
Daily - 10:00 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
admission:free
In the upper chapel at the Reliquary, the priest collects voluntary donations, so it's nice to drop a coin, but it's voluntary nonetheless
website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/things-to-do/culture-and-heritage/basiliek-van-het-heilig-bloed-basilica-holy-blood
Probably the most popular place for photos. A very busy place overlooking the most beautiful parts of the city - bridges spanning the canals, beautiful facades of townhouses... Especially in the summer months, you certainly won't be alone here. Before continuing to the next point on the itinerary, take a walk further along the canal, climb one of the several bridges and wave to the boats passing by.
When you're tired of walking, take a boat trip on the canals and see the city from an unusual perspective. There are several boarding points in the vicinity of this place, the prices, lengths and routes of the cruises are more or less the same.
Opening hours:
from March to mid-November - cruises guaranteed
daily 10:00 - 18:00 (last cruise starts at 17:30)
from mid-November to February
cruises take place, but may be cancelled on certain days depending on the weather
no sailing in the dark, last cruise starts 30 minutes before dusk
Price: (30-30 min cruise)
adults - 15 EURO
children (4-11) - 9 EURO
children (0-4) - free
Continue along the canal in a southwesterly direction and turn into Arentshof park, cross the bridge over the canal and you will arrive in front of the Gothic cathedral, which houses, among other things, a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary or an interestingly shaped pulpit. Those who climb the 264 steps to the top will find themselves on the observation deck of the church tower.
Opening hours:
May - September - daily 10:00 - 17:00
October - April - daily 10:00 - 16:00
Price: free
During our journey so far, we have certainly consumed several cones of fries with various sauces, so it's time to learn something about this delicacy. To do this, we will use the Fries Museum, where we will learn everything from growing potatoes and their varieties, through their processing and history, to their consumption in this form. Among other things, we can kill some of the biggest enemies of potatoes - larvae and adults of the Colorado potato beetle (of course, only virtually using a game console). Finally, in the restaurant located on the ground floor of the museum, we will taste this notorious Belgian product.
!!ATTENTION!! Tasting is not included in the price; when purchasing a ticket, we only receive a coupon for a 50-cent discount.
Opening hours:
Daily 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:15)
24.12., 31.12. - closed from 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
Closed all day - 25.12., 1.1.
Price:
Adults - 11 EURO
Students, seniors (65+) - 9.5 EURO
Children (3-11) - 6.50 EURO
Children (0-3) - free
If the chocolate tasting in Antwerp wasn't enough for you, not far from the fries museum there is another chocolate museum - Choco story. A visit to both museums can be combined with a discounted admission.
Opening hours:
daily 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:00)
24.12., 31.12. - closed from 16:00 (last entry 15:00)
closed all day - 25.12., 1.1.
Price of combined ticket with Friet museum:
adults - 20 EURO (14 EURO separate)
students, seniors (65+) - 17 EURO (12 EURO separate)
children (3-11) - 12 EURO (8,5 EURO separate)
children (0-3) - free
On your way to the station, say goodbye to this beautiful city with a tour of the monastery quarter listed on the UNESCO list, enjoy a last romantic view of the Lake of Love from the bridge and delight your loved ones with a souvenir purchase. Then, later in the day, head to an inconspicuous place of great importance to the development of Europe and follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest battles in human history.
The ideal place to buy souvenirs - a shopping street full of stalls with the usual souvenirs (postcards, magnets, etc. items with motifs of Bruges and Belgium in general) and chocolate shops on every corner, where you can buy a whole range of Belgian pralines, chocolates of different sizes and all sorts of characters, buildings, etc. While shopping, refresh yourself with hot chocolate in a cup at local shops.
This picturesque beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once home to beguines who led a devout and celibate life. Today, some nuns from the Order of St. Benedict and the Order of Vincent de Paul live there, as well as single women from Bruges.
opening hours:
November - March: daily 7:30 - 18:30
April - October: daily 7:30 - 20:30
admission - free
Once upon a time, people believed that water nymphs ("minnen" in Dutch) lived here, which is how the lake got its name. Add to this a tragic love story, mysterious trees and abundant greenery and you have a place brimming with romance. A beautiful place to relax, take romantic walks and take selfies, preferably from the Lake of Love Bridge.
Train Bruges → Braine-l´Alleud: runs approximately every 30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable, travel time approximately 1 hour: 30 minutes, change at Brussels-Midi
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 19.9 EURO
Senior (65+) - after 9:00 AM - 8.5 EURO, otherwise 19.9 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child over 4 children with parents (0-12) - 7.7 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.7 EURO
Buying a ticket - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is through the app
way to the memorial:
in front of the train station building (east exit) take bus W towards Brussels
pay 2.7 EURO to the driver
get off at the BRAINE-L'ALLEUD Route de Nivelles stop
walk along Route du Lion about 300 m and you will reach the monument
The memorial of this famous battle, where the famous French leader Napoleon was defeated, consists of several parts: The text below describes the museum, which is adjacent to the Panorama, the artificial Lion's mound and the somewhat more distant Hougoumont farm. These are described in separate sub-sections.
In the Memorial Museum, an interactive tour awaits you, which will guide you step by step through this famous battle, where the history of Europe was written. Here you will see important milestones of the battle - what preceded it, a timeline of the two warring camps, tactical layout on the battlefield, etc. Everything is presented or narrated in a very attractive form supplemented by various audiovisual effects including a 3D film and audio guide.
opening hours:
Memorial, Panorama and Lion's mound:
September - October - daily 10:00 - 18:30
November - March - daily 10:00 - 17:30
April - June - daily 10:00 - 18:30
July - August - daily 10:00 - 19:30
Hougoumont:
September - October - daily 11:00 - 18:00
November - March - daily 10:00 - 17:00
April - June - daily 10:00 - 18:00
July - August - daily 10:00 - 19:00
admission: (Memorial, Panorama and Lion's mound, Hougoumont)
high season (April - October):
adults (18-59) - 24 EURO
students, seniors (60+) - 22 EURO
children and youth (10-17) - 12 EURO
children (0-9) - free
off season (November - March):
adults (18-59) - 20.5 EURO
students, seniors (60+) - 18.5 EURO
children and youth (10-17) - 10.25 EURO
children (0-9) - free
Panorama is a large circular building with a screen. Its spectacular dimensions - 110 metres in circumference and 12 metres in height - and exceptional soundtrack will immerse you right in the middle of the battles. On all sides you will be surrounded by battle scenes, sabres clashing, cavalry charges and cannon fire.
This monument was erected in 1826 at the request of William I, King of the Netherlands, who wished to commemorate the spot where his elder son, the Prince of Orange, was probably wounded on 18 June. Above is a statue of a mighty lion, which symbolizes the victory of the monarchy.
From the top of the 226 steps there is a view of the entire battlefield. An orientation plan and various markers help you understand troop movements and understand the square infantry formations, cavalry deployments and the importance of the topography of the site.This historic farm was the scene of a bloody battle because it was in a forward position protecting the Allied right flank. Here Napoleon's brother unleashed a battle that eventually became the nbloodiest battle, in which the main building burned. As well as a museum with artefacts of the battle, a café with a shop, there is also a private screening in the farmhouse of an authentic film about this "battle within a battle."
Our wandering around the Belgian kingdom is over and it's time to fly back to our country. So we take the train to Charleroi, which, by the way, is said to be the ugliest city in the world. There, we will take a bus to the airport.
Train Braine-l'Alleud → Charleroi Central: Runs approximately every 20-30 minutes, connections are punctual and comfortable, travel time approximately 35 minutes
Prices:
Adults (26+) - 7.6 EURO
Senior (65+) - 7.6 EURO
Up to 4 children traveling with parents (0-12) - free
Child traveling alone or each additional child above 4 children accompanied by parents (0-12) - 4.5 EURO
Youth (12-26) - 7.6 EURO
Ticket purchase - can be purchased at the station at the window or vending machine, the easiest way is via the app
TEC's A1 buses
stop in front of the station building, platform 18 near the ticket shop
frequency - bus runs every 30 min
travel time - approx. 20 min (depending on traffic)
price: 6 EURO
Brussels South Airport
Your journey through this small coastal monarchy is over and now you can look back in the comfort of the airport terminal or on board the plane. The journey has been packed with attractions. You have seen beautiful historic cities with majestic cathedrals, beautiful facades of historic houses, water canals and cobbled streets with mysterious nooks and crannies. You met people of all different nationalities and cultures. You tasted local specialties - beer, waffles in different ways, chocolate, and what else but fries. You took a boat ride on the beautiful waterways and were transported back in time as you visited one of the bloodiest and most important battles in the history of the continent. If you enjoyed the trip and would like to return sometime to explore this interesting country in more depth and add some natural beauty, you can take advantage of the (not only) summer version of the itinerary, expanded to include the North Sea coast with its beaches and sand dunes and the mountains (more like highlands) of the Ardennes. You can also extend your trip by visiting neighbouring Luxembourg for a few days.
