places to visit in belgium near luxembourg

10 Beautiful Day Trips from Luxembourg

These day trips from Luxembourg provide the perfect opportunity to explore outside the country’s capital city.

Luxembourg, officially the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, is a tiny yet beautiful country located between France, Belgium and Germany.

It’s known for its many fortifications and castles set atop hillsides and along rivers. It’s capital Luxembourg City serves as one of the three capitals of the European Union, along with Brussels and Stasbourg.

Due to its location in the middle of western Europe, there are many other fun European cities close to Luxembourg.

If you’re planning a visit to Luxembourg soon and know you’ll have extra time to explore the region further, I’ve put together these fun ideas for day trips from Luxembourg.

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Table of Contents

Day Trips from Luxembourg

This guide to the best day trips from Luxembourg City is intended to inspire you to explore outside the capital.

This region of Europe has so much to offer. If you have extra time after exploring Luxembourg City, these weekend trips from Luxembourg will be the perfect addition to your vacation.

Guided tours from Luxembourg are also available if you’d like to join other travelers and leave the planning for someone else.

1. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is one of my favorite day trips from Luxembourg because it has a compact city center with tons of fun things to do.

Plus, it’s super easy to get from Luxembourg to Brussels since both destinations are so popular.

Once you’ve made your way out of the train station, I recommend making a bee line for Grand Place.

It’s a beautiful square surrounded by government offices in historic buildings and cafes with outdoor seating.

It’s one of the most popular stops for tourists in Brussels. In the area surrounding Grand Place you’ll find plenty of shopping and restaurants.

Since you’re in Belgium, you’ll need to try both Belgium waffles and fries.

A short walk from Grand Place you’ll also find the famous Delirium Cafe where you can relax and have an ice-cold Belgian beer.

They have hundreds of beers on tap so there’s something for everybody. Just outside the door to Delirium Cafe you’ll find one of the three famous statues placed throughout the city.

The one near Delirium Cafe is called Jeanneke Pis, which depicts a little girl urinating (don’t ask!). The most famous of the three statues is Manneken Pis, which depicts, you guessed it, a little boy urinating.

Manneken Pis can often be found wearing various costumes gifted to the city by various heads of state during their visits to Brussels.

Before you head back to Luxembourg at the end of your visit, be sure to grab a box of Belgian chocolates.

There are many chocolate shops scattered throughout the city center, most of which will also offer free samples.

Luxembourg City to Brussels travel time:

• Car: about 2 hours
• Bus: about 3 hours
• Train: about 4 hour

2. Vianden, Luxembourg

Vianden is located less than a 1 hour drive from Luxembourg City. The city is most popular for the Vianden Castle, which was built between the 11th and 14th centuries.

Ownership of the castle changed hands many times over the years but became state-owned in 1977.

After that time, the country restored the castle and it is now considered one of the most significant historical monuments in Europe.

Visitors may explore the interior of the castle on their own or as part of a guided tour. For just a few Euros, there is also a chair lift that will take you up to the castle.

The views of the surrounding countryside are well worth the small fee.

In addition to Vianden Castle, the town of Vianden is a beautiful place to spend a day walking around and exploring.

There are several popular museums in the area along with plenty of shops and cafes.

A guided tour from Luxembourg to Vianden is also available if you’d like to make this day trip stress free.

Luxembourg City to Vianden travel time:

• Car: about 40 minutes
• Bus: about 1 hour 50 minutes
• Train: about 1 hour 20 minutes

3. Paris, France

If you’ve never been to Paris, make this your top priority from this list of day trips from Luxembourg.

There’s so much you can see and do in Paris in 12 hours , making a day trip here well worth the travel time.

The metro system in Paris is also incredibly convenient, so you’ll be able to take the train to just about everywhere you want to go.

I recommend getting an early start if at all possible, so you have the most amount of time.

You’ll find the Louvre museum and Notre Dame Cathedral in the city center and about a 20 minute walk from each other.

It’s a pretty walk along the Seine, so it’s not at all inconvenient. If you’re interested in visiting the Louvre during your visit, make sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time online.

You don’t want to waste your time standing in line for 2 hours.

I also encourage you to visit the Sacre Coeur if you have extra time. It’s an incredibly beautiful cathedral that sits atop a hill in the trendy and fun Montmartre neighborhood.

This is the perfect destination for a sunrise or sunset if you can time it right. There’s a large viewing platform down the steps from the cathedral with great views of the city below.

Before you leave Paris, be sure to visit the Eiffel Tower. If this is your first visit, it’s worth spending the time and money for a ticket to the top.

These will also need to be purchased online ahead of time. The view from the top is incredible and an experience I recommend for anyone who hasn’t done it before.

In the middle of all this, be sure to stop for lunch along the way to try French cuisine.

Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass (or two) of wine or champagne. If you’re in a hurry you can always grab a croissant or baguette like the locals.

Luxembourg City to Paris travel time:

• Car: about 3 hours 30 minutes
• Bus: about 7 hours 30 minutes
• Train: about 2 hours 10 minites

4. Beaufort, Luxembourg

You’ll find beautiful Beaufort in eastern Luxembourg surrounded by rolling green hills and pastures. The main attraction in the small town is the Beaufort Castle.

The oldest part of the castle dates back to the 11th century though additional sections were built many years after that.

On occasion, there are special live concert events held at the castle that feature live music, a light show, and food and drinks. These events are free to the public.

I’ve included a teaser video from the 2018 show up above. Check the Beaufort Castle website for more information and to read about upcoming special events held at the castle.

Luxembourg City to Beaufort travel time:

• Car: about 30 minutes
• Bus: about 1 hours 40 minutes
• Train: about 1 hour 40 minutes

5. Mullerthal, Luxembourg

Mullerthal is another region found in eastern Luxembourg. The area is also commonly referred to as Little Switzerland.

While there are no mountains here, there are lots of hills and rock formations, giving it a bit of a Switzerland feel.

There are tons of hiking trails in Mullerthal and a really cool waterfall you can hike to called the Schiessentumpel waterfall.

Some of these trails in Mullerthal will actually take you past the Beaufort Castle, along with another one a short distance away.

If you enjoy the outdoors but prefer biking to hiking, there are also plenty of bike trails in Mullerthal.

Also, many of the hotels have bikes available for rent if you’d like to bike the trails or explore the city on two wheels.

If you prefer to be on the water, you’ll be happy to know there is also the River Sure running through Mullerthal.

Visitors can rent kayaks to take out on the river for just a few Euros.

Luxembourg City to Mullerthal travel time:

• Car: about 25 minutes
• Bus: about 1 hour 20 minutes
• Train: not available

6. Cologne, Germany

One of the most convenient day trips from Luxembourg is to the ancient city of Cologne, Germany.

The city is compact and walkable with the main train station situated right in the city center. You’ll find the medieval Cologne Cathedral just outside the train station exit.

The cathedral was completed around 1322 and designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Visitors may view the interior of the cathedral at no cost.

Located right next to the Cologne Cathedral is the famous Romano-Germanic Museum.

This is an archaeological museum home to many Roman artifacts and is actually the original site of a Roman town villa.

In the basement of the museum you will find a large mosaic, still in its original place, dating back to about A.D. 230.

The Roman town villa was actually discovered in 1941 during the construction of an air raid shelter during WWII.

Entrance to the museum is only a few Euros for adults and they are open Tuesday through Sunday.

There are several large shopping districts in Cologne, but the most popular is Schildergasse, which is a pedestrian-friendly outdoor shopping area on one of the city’s most popular streets.

Visitors will find small boutique style shops selling unique clothing and accessories along with some larger more popular stores as well.

Luxembourg City to Cologne travel time:

• Car: about 2 hours 10 minutes
• Bus: about 4 hours 20 minutes
• Train: about 4 hours 20 minutes

7. Trier, Germany

Trier is located on the Mosel River and happens to be the oldest city in Germany. One of the biggest attractions in Trier is the Porta Nigra pictured above.

The Porta Nigra is a Roman city gate, and is the largest of its kind north of the Alps. The gate has also been designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The interior of the gate is open to visitors, which includes access to the upper floors. Guided tours are also available.

A short walk from the Porta Nigra you’ll find the equally impressive Saint Peter’s Cathedral.

The cathedral features Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture. It was finished in 1270 and is the oldest church in Germany.

You’ll find several other similarly important structures and cathedrals as you walk through the streets of Trier.

You’ll also find plenty of shopping opportunities in the city center area, along with plenty of options for coffee and food.

Luxembourg City to Trier travel time:

• Bus: about 50 minutes
• Train: about 50 minutes

8. Basel, Switzerland

Basel is another beautiful European city just perfect for one of your day trips from Luxembourg.

The city is situated along the Rhine River, which many visitors will float down during the hot summer months.

Vendors sell large waterproof bags to visitors to place their valuables in, which double as a sort of flotation device to carry you down the river.

If you prefer not to get wet during your visit, you can also take a ferry across the river for just a few Euros.

During your visit to Basel, be sure to visit the old city area to view all the Medieval architecture and enjoy the many unique shops lining the sidewalks.

Basel is also home to over 40 museums, including the famous Kunstmuseum Basel which holds the largest and most significant public art collection in Switzerland.

You’ll see works from thousands of artists including van Gogh, Picasso, Monet, and many others.

After your visit to Kunstmuseum, head over to the trendy Kleinbasel neighborhood for popular cafes, unique clothing stores and vintage shopping.

Luxembourg City to Basel travel time:

• Car: about 3 hours 20 minutes
• Bus: about 5 hours
• Train: about 3 hours

9. Reims, France

Reims is an especially fun choice from this list of day trips from Luxembourg. First and foremost, Reims is the capital of the Champagne region of France.

You’ll have the option to take a tour of the cellars and sample champagne from one of the city’s many tasting rooms.

Advance reservations are strongly suggested if you’re planning to visit here. Some of the most popular cellar tours are offered by Tattinger , Mumm and Veuve Clicquot .

In addition to champagne tasting, you’ll also want to explore the impressive Reims Cathedral.

The cathedral was built around 1271 and is quite the remarkable display of Gothic architecture.

Visitors are free to tour both the interior and exterior at no charge, though guided tours are available for purchase from local tour operators.

In the summer months, there is even a sound and light show projected onto the front of the cathedral.

You can view the show from the lawn in front or from the outdoor seating at some of the surrounding cafes.

Following your visit to the Reims Cathedral, take a walk down the popular Rue de Vesle for shopping and cafes.

Be sure to stop into one of the many boulangeries (bakeries) for a fresh baguette or pastry.

Luxembourg City to Reims travel time:

• Bus: about 5 hours 15 minutes

10. Clervaux, Luxembourg

Clervaux is a pretty little town in northern Luxembourg. The town is best known for the Clervaux Castle which sits alongside the River Clerve.

Clervaux Castle was originally built in the 12 century, but burned down during World War II when it caught fire in the Battle of the Bulge.

The castle has since been fully rebuilt and is a popular tourist destination for visitors to Clervaux.

Visitors are welcome to explore the castle on their own or as part of a guided tour.

In addition to the castle, Clervaux is also home to a famous photography exhibit called the Family of Man .

The exhibit can be found inside Clervaux Castle and features 503 photographs by 273 artists from 68 countries.

The exhibition was conceived as a “manifesto for peace and the fundamental equality for humankind.”

The exhibit was first presented back in 1955, and was installed permanently inside Clervaux Castle in 1994.

The rest of Clervaux is picturesque and walkable. You’ll find small restaurants and cafes in the small city center.

The area is also extremely popular for hikers as there are over 40 trails in the surrounding hills and countryside.

Wear some comfortable sneakers so you can walk the trails as many have some fantastic views along the way.

Luxembourg City to Clervaux travel time:

• Bus: about 1 hour 15 minutes
• Train: about 40 minutes

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these beautiful day trips from Luxembourg. I’d love to know if you’ve visited any of the smaller towns on this list.

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The Perfect Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg Itinerary for 2 Weeks

• Post author By Melissa
• Post date March 6, 2024
• No Comments on The Perfect Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg Itinerary for 2 Weeks

Are you embarking on a two-week adventure through the landscapes of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg soon? You are in for a sweet treat, and we aren’t just talking about the delectable chocolate that Belgium is known for . Storybook towns, picturesque canals, and cultural marvels await you on your journey! 

From the canals of Amsterdam to the medieval beauty of Luxembourg City, this Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg itinerary is filled with 14 days of unforgettable experiences in the Benelux nations.

Table of Contents

About this Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg itinerary 

A vacation to the Benelux region of Europe, which encompasses the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg is sure to offer culture, beautiful scenery, and a lot of unique experiences. 

Benelux is an economic alliance between the three neighboring countries. But Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands have shared historical ties and cultural similarities, as well. And given their close proximity and the ease of traveling between the three, many people visit the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg on the same trip.

If you are looking to plan a vacation to this region of Western Europe, we have laid out our ideal 2-week Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg itinerary.

How to get around the Benelux Region

Western Europe is well connected by public transportation. You can easily get around the region using mostly trains and buses. 

Buying a Eurorail Benelux Pass through Rail Europe would likely save you money if you plan to follow this itinerary. 

READ OUR FULL REVIEW OF RAIL EUROPE HERE

If you prefer to road trip in Europe , you can easily get around the three countries by car. However, if you decide to rent a car and drive, be aware that the Netherlands is known for having more cyclists on the road than cars, so be extra cautious and look out for cyclists.  

2-Week Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg itinerary in a nutshell

Although this 2-week itinerary for Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands takes you to all three countries, you won’t get to see everything this region has to offer in such a short time. 

You could easily spend 2 weeks in the Netherlands alone seeing all the best places to visit in the Netherlands .

But with limited time, here is a breakdown of our Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg itinerary for 14 days. You’ll spend nearly half your time – 6 or 7 days in the Netherlands, and then split your second week between Belgium and Luxembourg. 

• Days 1-3 – Amsterdam

Day 4 – Giethoorn

• Days 5-6 – The Hague
• Days 7-8 – Bruges

Day 9 – Ghent

• Days 10-11 – Brussels

Day 12 – Dinant

• Days 13-14 – Luxembourg City

If you have more than 2 weeks in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg, we’ve included a few extra ideas of places to visit that you can add to your itinerary to customize it for your ideal travel style and tailor it for the length of your trip.

Day-by-Day breakdown of this itinerary for the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg

Now that you have a general idea of where you’ll spend your time during this itinerary, let’s break down your travels day by day.

Ideally, you will want to fly into one city and out of another to maximize your time in these three countries. We recommend flying into Amsterdam and out of Brussels, although you could also fly out of Luxembourg City and save yourself the 4 hour train ride back to Brussels from Luxembourg. 

Day 1 – Amsterdam

WHERE TO STAY IN AMSTERDAM: 

• Art’Otel Amsterdam
• Hotel Sint Nicolaas

Your first day you’ll basically be familiarizing yourself with Amsterdam. Whether this is the day you land or your first full day in Amsterdam, you’ll likely be a bit jet lagged and don’t want to plan too much. 

Spend this day walking around, stop for a photo at the iconic Damrak , go see Dam Square and the Royal Palace. Be sure to get your first taste of Dutch food by indulging in Stroopwafel and Dutch Pancakes. 

With full tummies, spend the rest of your afternoon leisurely exploring the beautiful Jordaan District , home to some of the most famous bridges in Europe .

End your day with an evening Flagship Canal Tour . It’s a great way to relax and see the city from the water.

Day 2 – Amsterdam

After  breakfast on your second day in Amsterdam, head directly to the Anne Frank House , where you will tour the hidden home where young Anne Frank and her family hid for 2 years from the Nazis. Be sure to book your tickets in advance because this powerful museum sells out.

From there, head to the Bloemenmarkt on the Singel Canal. This is the city’s famous floating flower market. Every Monday through Saturday, vendors sell colorful tulips, both fresh and wooden, as well as Dutch souvenirs and other trinkets. Unless you are visiting the Netherlands in spring, this is the closest you’ll get to seeing the gorgeous tulips the country is known for.

After the Bloemenmarkt, grab some lunch and head to the museum district, where you’ll find Rijksmuseum , the Van Gogh Museum and Vondelpark . Like for the Anne Frank House, if you want to visit either of Amsterdam’s most popular art museums, you’ll want to book your tickets ahead of time . 

Day 3 – Day trip to Zaanse Schans and Volendam

Your third day on this Benelux itinerary will take you to two of the most popular day trip destinations from Amsterdam .

Your first stop will be the charming windmill village of Zaanse Schans .

Located just 15-20 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal by train, there are lots of fun things to do in Zaanse Schans like the Verkade Chocolate Experience at the Zaans Museum , touring a working cheese farm, and going inside a working Dutch windmill.

After a lovely morning in Zaanse Schans, grab lunch and then make your way to Volendam. Volendam is a quaint fishing village about 20 kilometers north of Amsterdam.

You’ll want to spend some time strolling through the cute streets in the oldest part of the village center. Wander along the harbor, admiring the view and taking in the atmosphere in the town, and stop into one of the restaurants to try smoked eel, a specialty in Volendam.

If you’re looking to commemorate your trip, you can also have your photo taken in traditional Dutch costumes, including wooden clogs! While it may be considered a bit touristy, it is one of the best things to do in Volendam !

While you can get to both Zaanse Schans and Volendam by public transport, you have to take the train back to Amsterdam from Zaanse Schans and then transfer to a bus to go to Volendam. This is one of those instances where a guided tour works best and saves you about an hour of commute time.

WHERE TO STAY IN GIETHOORN: 

• De Dames Van De Jonge Hotel
• Gieters Mooist

A day trip to Giethoorn from Amsterdam is a wonderful way to spend your fourth day in the Netherlands. However, if you want to experience the “village with no roads” without crowds of other visitors, we recommend you spend one night in Giethoorn. 

Getting to Giethoorn takes a bit of effort, as you’ll either have to rent a car, book a guided tour , or have to take a train to Zwolle or Steenwijk and then transfer to a bus. If you are traveling by public transport, it will take you at least 2 hours to get to Giethoorn. 

Once there, you’ll want to rent your own whisper boat and let yourself get lost in the enchanting canals that wind around thatched-roof homes, beneath tall canopies of trees, and under small pedestrian bridges. It is such a peaceful and serene experience, particularly after leaving the bustling streets of Amsterdam.

Day 5 – The Hague

WHERE TO STAY IN THE HAGUE: Babylon Hotel

Whether you spend the night in Giethoorn or head back to Amsterdam on day four, on your fifth day on your Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg  itinerary, you’ll want to pack up and head to The Hague. 

The third largest city in the Netherlands and the seat of power for the Dutch Royal Family, there are a lot of things to do in The Hague for families . 

Spend your first day exploring the Old City, Binnenhof Castle , and visiting Madurodam , a park with miniature replicas of Dutch buildings and landmarks.

Day 6 – The Hague (or a day trip to Rotterdam, Delft, or Gouda)

On day six, spend a fun day at the beach, walking along the Scheveningen Pier , ride the ferris wheel , and visit the SEA Life Aquarium . 

If the beach isn’t your scene or you’re visiting during the cold months, you can easily day trip to Rotterdam to see the Cube Houses, visit the charming city of Delft, known for their ceramics that make great souvenirs from the Netherlands, or visit the town of Gouda – the birthplace of one of the most famous Dutch cheeses. 

Day 7 – Bruges

WHERE TO STAY IN BRUGES: 

• Hotel de Castillion
• Hotel Het Gheestelic Hof

On day seven, bid farewell to the Netherlands and take the morning train from Den Haag Centraal to Bruges, Belgium . Your train ride will take approximately 3 hours, with a couple transfers in cities like Rotterdam, Antwerp and/or Ghent. 

Many people choose a day trip to Bruges from Ghent or Brussels, but this enchanting city is well worth spending a night or two. It is especially magical at night and early in the morning before the day trip crowds descend.

However, if you prefer to stay in fewer hotels and pack up and move around less, you can easily take day trips to both Bruges and Ghent from Brussels or even book a guided day tour to both cities .

Spend time wandering through the colorful Market Square , climb the Belfry for awesome views of the city, visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood to see the holy relic believed to contain the blood of Jesus Christ. 

After a leisure lunch in Market Square, take a canal cruise and admire the swans at Minnewater Lake . There are so many things to do in Bruges, you could definitely spend a couple days here.

Day 8 – Bruges

On day 8, wake up and walk the cobbled streets of the historic center Bruges before they get too crowded. This is the perfect time to take photos of this UNESCO World Heritage site that looks like a page from a storybook. 

You’ll want to wander through the serene Begijnhof , currently home to the Benedictine nuns, but previously was the home of beguines – a group of widowed women who chose not to remarry and live a holy life in a setting similar to a convent.

After a walk through the Begijnhof, stop in for Belgian waffles somewhere, and then take a group tour De Halve Maan Brewery – the only brewery in the world that transports its beer through a pipeline to the bottling plant. You’ll learn how their beer is made, transported, and then of course, you’ll want to sample one!

Finally, visit the Church of Our Lady . This beautiful church contains one of Michelangelo’s most famous sculptures, Madonna and Child .

Spend your evening taking in the beauty of this town before you have to say goodbye. Follow your nose into any of the countless chocolate shops and buy whichever truffles your heart desires! Or, take a chocolate making class and learn the art of making the country’s famous chocolates.

WHERE TO STAY IN GHENT:

• Hotel Harmony
• Hotel Carlton

Ghent is located about halfway between Bruges and Brussels. It is only 22 minutes by train. 

Begin your morning at Graslei and Korenlei, picturesque canals lined with historic guild houses that reflect on the water. Wander through the cobblestone streets and discover landmarks such as Saint Bavo’s Cathedral , home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece. 

Make your way to the medieval fortress, Gravensteen Castle . This castle, surrounded by a moat, will make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time to an age of knights and court jesters. 

For lunch, indulge in local delicacies at one of the many eateries in the Patershol neighborhood, known for its quaint atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings. Then spend your afternoon at the Museum of Fine Arts or take a leisurely boat tour along the canals to admire Ghent’s architecture from a different perspective. 

As the day winds down, enjoy the sunset over the city then finish your day with dinner at one of the riverside restaurants, savoring Belgian specialties like moules-frites. 

Day 10 – Brussels

WHERE TO STAY IN BRUSSELS: Ibis Hotel Brussels

On day 10 of your 2-week Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg itinerary, you’ll take a short train ride to the Belgian capital of Brussels where you’ll spend 2 days .

After dropping your luggage off at the hotel, take a stroll through the Galeries Royales Saint -Hubert before making your way to Grand Place.

Grand Place is Brussels’ main public square. Surrounded on all four sides with beautiful historic buildings crowned with opulent gold accents, the square is not only picturesque, it is typically teeming with activity. 

A short walk from the square, you’ll find one of Europe’s most famous statues – Manneken Pis . Pause to admire this 24-inch statue of a little boy peeing in a fountain before continuing your journey through the city. Be sure to stop somewhere for Belgian Frites or waffles and shop for your Belgian souvenirs . You won’t tire of these two foods in Belgium!

Take time finding the numerous murals of comics scattered around the city center. You can buy a fun digital game to guide you through Brussel’s Comic Book Route – escape room style!

Make your way to Mont des Arts or head to Place Sainte-Catherine for dinner. This plaza is another area lined with restaurants and always bustling with activity.

Day 11 – Brussels

On day 11, you’ll want to take a brief walk to Mont des Arts, if you didn’t visit it on your first day in Brussels. This is one of the most photographed spots in Brussels, and if you get there in the morning, the historic site, which sits between Grand Place and the Royal Palace, won’t be near as crowded.

If you’re visiting from July through late September, head to the Royal Palace next. You can only tour the official palace during those months, as it is the administrative offices of the Belgian monarchy and closed to the public the rest of the year. 

Across from the Royal Palace, Parc de Bruxelles , is the largest green space in the city and is a beautiful, shady park with walking trails, fountains, and outdoor cafes where you can stop for a mid-morning snack. 

In the afternoon, head to the Atomium . It is about a 15 minute metro ride from the city center. This massive public art sculpture shaped like an atom is actually a building. You’ll definitely want to book tickets to go inside , as the interior is often compared to the inside of a spaceship. 

After visiting Atomium, head to Miniature Europe . Like Madurodam, this miniature world has 350 tiny replicas of buildings and monuments from 90 different European cities.

WHERE TO STAY IN DINANT: Les Terrasses de Sax

Your time in Belgium is winding down. On day 12, head east to Dinant. When you arrive at the train station, stroll along the riverbank and cross the Charles de Gaulle Bridge adorned with saxophones, paying homage to Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone who was born in Dinant. 

Stop off at your hotel to store your bags, before heading to the Citadel of Dinant . Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Meuse River, the citadel provides a stunning introduction to the town below. 

Continue your day by visiting the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame , an impressive Gothic masterpiece with its onion-domed bell tower. 

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the riverside cafes while taking in the scenic surroundings. 

In the afternoon, cruise along the Meuse River or visit the Maison de Monsieur Sax , a museum dedicated to the life and work of Adolphe Sax. 

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot along the river to enjoy the town’s illuminated beauty on your last night in Belgium.

Day 13 – Luxembourg City

WHERE TO STAY IN LUXEMBOURG CITY: 

• Hotel le Place d’Armes
• Park Inn by Radisson

Your final two days on this Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg itinerary will be spent in the tiniest country in the Benelux region. Take the train from Dinant to Luxembourg city where you will spend your first day exploring the medieval charm of the beautiful, clean, and safe capital. 

After getting your luggage situated at your hotel, take a leisure stroll and cross the Pont Adolphe , one of the most picturesque bridges in the city. From the bridge, you’ll have a great view of Constitution Square and the two-tiered city in the background. 

Walk by and admire Constitution Square and the Monument of Remembrance before checking out Place d’Armes . This central square in the new city is a great place to grab breakfast or lunch, depending on what time you arrive in Luxembourg City. 

You can tour the Grand Ducal Palace if you are visiting during summer. Like in Brussels, the palace is only open during certain times of the year. You’ll also want to stop inside Notre Dame Cathedral and explore the crypt below before heading down to the lower level of the city and into the casemates. 

Touring the Bock Casemates is one of the best things to do in Luxembourg City . The new city is built on a network of underground tunnels called the casemates. These tunnels date back to 1745 when medieval fortifications were built as a stronghold to protect the city. 

After exploring the casemates, continue to the lower portion of the city which is the historic quarter of Luxembourg city. This preserved area is a great place to visit both during the day or night.

Day 14 – Luxembourg castles day trip

On your final day of your Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg itinerary, you’ll head out of the city on a guided day tour to see the beautiful nature and some of the castles that the small country is known for. 

Explore scenic trails, vast forests and ancient ruins before heading to Vianden Castle . Located in the northern part of the country along the German border, this imposing castle overlooks the town of Vianden and is one of the largest fortified castles west of the Rhine River. Set against Luxembourg’s stunning natural scenery, it is often considered one of the most beautiful castles in the world. 

After your day trip, head back to Luxembourg City for a final night, or to make your way back to Brussels for a flight out the next morning. Wherever you spend your final night, you’re sure to sit back and reflect on all the experiences and memories made on your trip!

Best time of year to travel to the Benelux region

The Benelux region is a great year-round destination. The holiday markets, particularly in Belgium and Luxembourg make it a great place to spend Christmas in Europe .

Of course, spring a popular time to visit as the weather becomes milder, and the landscapes burst into vibrant colors. Tulip season in the Netherlands, particularly in April, is a highlight. 

Summer, which is when we personally visited, is the peak tourist season, and it brings warm temperatures and longer days. It’s ideal for exploring the cities and enjoying outdoor cafes and activities.

Fall offers crisp weather, a jacket will be needed, but the crowds begin to thin out compared.

Tips for following this Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands itinerary

If you like this Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg itinerary for 2 weeks, here are a few travel tips that will make following this travel route easier.

Travel with minimal luggage

If you plan to move around a lot and switch hotels every few days, it is imperative that you travel with minimal luggage. We typically carry backpacks like this one or a carry-on rolling bag, like this one .

Having smaller, more portable bags makes getting on and off trains and navigating to your hotels from the train stations much easier. 

Book hotels close to the train stations

We typically book hotels that are within a 10 minute walk from the train station. This allows us to drop off our luggage at our hotel shortly after arriving in a new city and begin exploring luggage-free.

Store luggage at your hotel when you arrive in a new location

Most hotels will allow you to store your luggage for the day if you arrive before your room is ready to check in. Keep in mind, if you book an Airbnb or a guest house, this isn’t always an option. So, that is something to consider when selecting your accommodations.

Don’t like moving around as much? Consider day trips

If the idea of packing up and switching hotels every few days sounds exhausting and unappealing you can still follow this basic itinerary and limit your hotels to 2 or 3. 

The Hague and Giethoorn can both be done as day trips from Amsterdam. So, you could spend the first 6-7 nights in Amsterdam and take short journeys out to explore much of the small country of the Netherlands.

Best guided day trips from Amsterdam

• Zaanse Schans and Volendam
• Keukenhof Tulip Farm (spring)
• The Hague, Rotterdam and Delft

Additionally, you could spend another 7 days in Brussels and take day trips to Bruges, Ghent, and even Dinant and Luxembourg City, although that is admittedly, a long day trip.

Best guided day trips from Brussels

• Bruges and Ghent
• Bruges only
• Dinant and Luxembourg

Other places to visit if you have more time

If you have additional time, you could easily add cities like Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Antwerp to your itinerary. There are so many great places to visit in the Netherlands , Belgium and Luxembourg! 

Is a 2 week trip to the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg enough?

Two weeks is a good amount of time to see the highlights on this Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg itinerary, however the amount of time you’ll have in each country will be limited. 

If you love museums and culture, you could definitely spend a lot more time in the large cities exploring the many museums offered. History lovers could spend more time in Belgium exploring the multiple World War monuments and battlefields. 

Additionally, if you simply love to travel slowly, have more time to relax, sleep in, take your kids to playgrounds, join walking tours, and do less in a day, you could either extend this itinerary to allow more time in each destination, or dedicated the full 2 weeks to one single country, like the Netherlands.    

If you’re limited to 2 weeks in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg, just prioritize the places and experiences that matter most to you. 

Do you have a question or comment about this Netherlands Belgium and Luxembourg itinerary? We’d love to hear from you. Leave your thoughts or your own ideas in the comments below.

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• The Ultimate 10-Day Luxembourg & Belgium Itinerary

By alison - January 25, 2018 (Updated: July 26, 2019)

Some of our most frequently asked questions about travelling to Belgium are regarding itineraries to maximise precious holiday hours. While we think you could spend months (or years!) exploring Belgium, we know the vast majority of visitors only get a few weeks holiday each year. So how do you balance the concepts of slow travel with getting the most bang for your holiday buck on a trip to Belgium?

Often, travellers want to take advantage of the proximity of countries in the Low Lands, and typical vacations range from 1 to 2 weeks. I’ve decided to split the difference and create a 10-day Belgium itinerary with a side trip to Luxembourg that will allow you to see a wide range of what each country has to offer, without leaving you feeling exhausted at the end of your holiday. Of course, this is merely meant to be a guideline. You can adapt this itinerary to suit your own needs, and I’ve given you plenty of options so you can customise to your liking. Let’s go!

Table of Contents

Luxury Option – The Dominican Hotel

Budget-friendly option – motel one, galeries royales saint-hubert, eat & drink – quiche & belgian beer, grand place at night, grand place in daylight, manneken pis & brussels city museum, eat & drink – belgian waffles, mont des arts, option 1 – musical instrument museum, option 2 – belvue museum & coudenberg palace, option 3 – royal museums of fine arts & magritte museum, shopping in the marolles, palais du justice, eat & drink – frites, sablon chocolate shops, dinner at l’idiot du village, park cinquantenaire & museums, eat & drink – nordzee, belgian beer – moeder lambic, discover victor horta’s art nouveau, eat & drink – international brussels, explore villers abbey, experience the battle of the bulge in bastogne, day trip option – luxembourg and dinant, luxury option – hotel restaurant de la gaichel, budget option – hotel martha, luxembourg city tour, eat & drink – gourmet lunch, discover dinant, eat & drink in dinant, chateau de freÿr & namur, luxury option – marriott hotel ghent, budget option – b&b lieven bauwens, quirky option – hotel the boatel, castles, canals & counts in ghent, eat & drink – gruut brewery, museums galore, option one – bruges day-trip, option two – antwerp day-trip, eat & drink – de foyer, unesco’s only listed museum, day 10 – return to brussels for your flight home, 1. languages in belgium, 2. tipping in belgium, 3. driving in belgium, 4. what to pack for belgium, 5. public transportation in belgium, 6. belgian customer service, 7. belgian picnic foods, 8. belgian local dish, 9. beware of the belgian beer, 10. emergency numbers in belgium, where to stay in brussels center.

The Dominican Hotel offers a luxurious night’s sleep, just steps away from Brussels stunning Grand Place. Nestled on a quiet side street, the Dominican’s award-winning design is a contemporary interpretation of the 15 th century Dominican Abbey, from which it takes its name. Enjoy a drink in the trendy lounge bar before heading out to explore the historic centre of Brussels. Check current prices here.

After testing this German design hotel chain in Munich, I was thrilled when Motel One opened in Brussels Centre. While the word ‘motel’ may conjure up images of seedy roadside stop-over spots to North Americans, this hotel is anything but. What the rooms lack in size they make up for in amenities and design. This is a beautiful, clean, modern design hotel, just minutes away from Central Station all for a very wallet-friendly price. Check current prices here.

For more hotel options, read our article on Where to Stay in Brussels – The Top 30 Hotels

Day One –  Arrive in Brussels

Arrive in Brussels at Central Station – close to some excellent hotel in the city centre.

Today is light on activities to give you time to arrive, battle jet-lag, and give you time to settle in at your hotel and get your bearings.

Give yourself plenty of time to get from the airport to the city centre, especially if you’re arriving during rush hour (anywhere from 7-9am and 4-7pm).

TOP TIP : Save money (and traffic frustration) by taking the train, located in the basement of the airport direct to Central Station (which is a short walk to both hotels listed above). The train journey takes 15-25 minutes and a standard-fare, one-way ticket costs €8.90. If you opt for a taxi, the trip can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours (in peak-traffic) and cost upwards of €45.

Window shop through the world’s oldest covered shopping mall.

From your hotel, pass through Europe’s first covered shopping arcade, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert . Window shop for luxury goods or taste test some of Belgium’s best chocolates (but save room for your chocolate experience in Sablon on Day 3!) on your way to Grand Place.

If you’re feeling peckish, pop into Arcadi Café at the far end of the Galeries. This Belgian classic is a favourite for their wide selection of homemade quiches and pastries.

If you’d prefer to dive right into the Belgian Beer scene, across the street from Arcadi, you’ll find A La Mort Subite (the sudden death). This classic Belgian bar dates from 1928 and offers a selection of Belgian beer varieties including Gueuze, Lambic, Cherry, Raspberry, and Peach.

Don’t miss seeing the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Grand Place at night. While the square bustles with tourists and locals during the day, in the evening it is quietly elegant, under the lights of the Brussels Town Hall and Maison du Roi.

Day 2 – Visit Brussels Museums

The unmissable UNESCO-Listed Brussels Grand Place

Visit Grand Place during the early morning, to best admire the detailed carvings on the guild-houses surrounding the square. Try to guess the guild by the decorations on each building. You probably won’t be too surprised to learn; the largest guild-house is owned by the Belgian Brewers Association. For more insight on the buildings and Brussels history, consider arranging a guided tour . Options range from free walks with locals to exclusive custom tours on a theme of your choice by foot, bike, or vehicle.

You can’t come to Brussels without a visit to this guy!

You can’t visit Brussels without a quick visit to the city’s dubious mascot. You can check the schedule ahead of time to see if he’ll be sporting one of his 900+ costumes. If you have time, check out his entire wardrobe at the Brussels City Museum on Grand Place. This recently renovated museum highlights Brussels history and achievements and includes a stunning display of art and tapestries.

Looking for the best Belgian waffle in Brussels? Look no farther than Maison Dandoy’s Tea Room

Avoid the over-priced shops and restaurants on and near Grand Place and head instead for a Brussels institution, Maison Dandoy . This famous bakery has been making cookies since 1829, including Belgian favourite, speculoos, a gingerbread type cookie, often served with coffee. Although you can find Maison Dandoy outlets around the city, only one has a Tea-Room (Rue Charles Buls 14), upstairs, serving Belgium’s best waffles . Choose from the light and flakey Brussels waffle or the dense and sweet Liege waffle (or better yet, try both to make a comparison.)

Pretty Monts des Arts is a hub for Brussels cultural scene.

Mont des Arts is home to some of Belgium’s best museums and architecture. Wander through the small formal garden before heading up the stairs towards Place Royale. Don’t forget to look back towards the arch, to see the unique Jacquemart Carillion clock with 24 bells. From the top of the stairs is one of the best views of central Brussels. From here you can see the spire of the Town Hall building and, on a clear day, all the way to the Atomium.

The Musical Instrument Museum is one of the best things to do in Brussels

Located in one of Brussels most stunning buildings the Musical Instrument Museum or MIM is one of the city’s most unique museums. The collection includes over 7000 instruments from around the world. As you wander through the collection, your audio-guide, included with the price of admission, automatically starts to play the music of the instrument you are standing beside. Be sure to visit the museum cafe on the top floor as its terrace offers one of the best views of central Brussels.

Alternatively, learn about the history of Brussels and visit the remains of its former palace at the BELvue Museum and Coudenberg Palace . The BELvue offers a condensed and interactive history of this tiny, yet diverse country. Beneath the BELvue, lies the entrance to Coudenberg, which was entirely lost until 1986. While workers were creating the Mont des Arts we know today, they unearthed the remains of the 12th-century palace of the Dukes of Brabant. Inside the site, you are underneath the busy Place Royal. (You can even feel the trams rumble by overhead). You eventually emerge on the other side of the square in a museum of findings from the dig.

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts comprises six different museums and more than 20,000 works of art. Located on Mont des Arts, you can find the Musée Old Masters Museum, the Musée Modern Museum, the new Musée Fin-de-Siècle Museum, and the Musée Magritte Museum. Visit any combination of eras that interest you. (My favourite is the Fin-de-Siècle Museum highlighting the stunning Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods). To get a handle on Belgian Surrealism, don’t miss the Rene Magritte Museum, dedicated to the country’s most famous surrealist painter.

Read more about Brussels Best Museums in this article .

Day 3 – Brussels Marolles & Sablon Neighbourhoods

Begin your day by strolling through Brussels’ lively Marolles neighbourhood, where you can see one of the remaining towers of the former city walls. Walk up Rue Haute (Hoogstraat in Flemish) towards Place du Jeu de Balle and explore some of the quirky boutiques and antique shops along the way.

Take a free tour of the Palace du Justice in Brussels

Take the elevator at Zwardstraat, up to Place Poleart to admire the Palais du Justice , Brussels Supreme Court. Don’t be afraid to step behind the scaffolding to admire the architecture of this enormous building, larger than St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

If your adventure through the Marolles makes you peckish, stop at one of the city’s best Friteries (French fry stands) at Place de la Chapelle. Belgians invented French fries and take cooking them very seriously. Fries are hand cut and deep fried twice at two different temperatures to make the inside soft and the outside crisp. Try one of the dozens of different sauces and enjoy your frites like a local.

From the Palais du Justice, head down Rue de la Régence towards Place du Grand Sablon, known by locals as Chocolate Square . Here you will find Brussels’ top chocolatiers in one convenient location. Two not to miss are traditional Wittamer, chocolatier to the Belgian Royal family, and Pierre Marcolini, whose luxurious shop resembles a jewellery store. If you’re in need of a pick-me-up, head to the Wittamer Cafe, upstairs from the pastry shop and order their Véritable chocolat chaud Wittamer .

L’idiot du Village is one of our top restaurants in Brussels.

This restaurant is everything I love about Brussels. It’s small and intimate, has knowledgeable and friendly staff, is hard to find and open at odd times, has a very short hand-written menu of seasonal dishes, and has a quirky, fun interior. You absolutely need reservations .

Day 4 – A Walk in the Park and Belgian Cuisine

Jog, walk, stroll, or just sit and people watch in Parc Cinquantenaire.

Begin your day in Parc du Cinquantenaire. Admire the triumphal arch commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of Belgian independence. For a view of the entire 40-hectare park, you can access the top of the arch through the free Royal Military Museum. Opposite the Military Museum, you can visit the 350 vintage vehicles at the AutoWorld Museum. Or, head instead to the excellent Cinquantenaire Museum , part of the Royal Museums for Art and History, for their collection of antiquities from civilisations from around the world. There’s a unique collection of Art Nouveau decor inside as well.

For lunch, sample Brussels’ seafood favourites at Noordzee (Mer du Nord in French). Located on Place St. Catherine, this fishmonger’s snack counter is a local favourite. On cold days, warm up with their delicious fish soup or enjoy a plate of fresh oysters with champagne, for a decadent afternoon. Whichever you choose, be sure to sample Belgian shrimp croquettes, crispy on the outside and filled with tiny, sweet grey shrimps from the North Sea.

You can’t visit Brussels without sampling some of the hundreds of Belgian beer offerings. Avoid the overly touristy Delerium Bar and head instead to Moeder Lambic , where they are trained to educate you all about Belgium’s best brews. If you aren’t full after Noordzee, order a cheese plate and taste some of Belgium and France’s best dairy products.

The afternoon is all about Brussels Art Nouveau and what better place to learn about the city’s most renowned architectural style than the home of its most famous architect. The Horta Museum is located in Victor Horta’s former studio on Rue Américaine in the Saint-Gilles neighbourhood. After the museum, go for a stroll through the surrounding streets to admire the beautiful Art Nouveau details.

In addition to the Horta Museum, Rue Américaine is also home to a lively restaurant quarter, popular with locals and expats. You’ll find a wide variety of cuisines to choose from. Try the excellent Mexican at Chez Wawa or authentic Italian at La Piola or simply grab a spot anywhere busy and bustling. If the choosy locals love it, it’s likely a good choice.

Day 5 – Discover Wallonia

Beautiful and atmospheric Villers Abbey is one of the top attractions in Wallonia, Belgium

Get up early to enjoy the scenic route to Luxembourg. Take a break from driving at Villers Abbey , in Villers-la-Ville. This crumbling Cistercian abbey is filled with atmosphere and history. Wander through the medicinal garden and restored abbey vineyard. Walk through the pretty little town of Villers-la-Ville and grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes.

Make your next pit-stop at Bastogne, to visit the city liberated by the Allies in 1944. Visit the Mardasson Memorial, just outside the city, honouring the American soldiers wounded or killed during the Battle of the Bulge. Then head to the excellent Bastogne War Museum , opened in 2014. Military history buffs will also enjoy the Bastogne Barracks and Vehicle Restoration Center .

If you have limited time and/or aren’t up for driving yourself, there is an excellent bus tour option from Brussels . The 12-hour day-trip covers Luxembourg City, Dinant, and a stop at the Mardasson-Memorial at Bastogne.

Where to Stay in Luxembourg

Our top pick for the best hotel in Luxembourg for the next two nights is the lovely countryside boutique hotel La Gaichel in Eischen. Located in the heart of Luxembourg’s “Valley of the Seven Castles” la Gaichel ideally placed for exploring this beautiful region and is a short 30-minute drive to Luxembourg City. Enjoy fine dining in their Michelin-Starred restaurant and walking through their exquisite gardens and parkland. Check current prices here .

A great budget hotel in Luxembourg is the Hotel Martha, in Beringen. The hotel is under 20km to Luxembourg City and doesn’t skimp on amenities. There’s a full-service restaurant offering Luxembourgian and French specialities, a free sauna, and on-site bakery.  Check current prices here .

Day 6 – Explore Luxembourg City

Spend the day in Luxembourg City exploring by foot. Visit the UNESCO listed city fortifications, the Casemates Bock, built in the 18th century. Enjoy the view from the Viaduc (Passerelle), stroll through the pedestrianized Old Town, visit the lovely Notre Dame Cathedral and admire the architecture of the Palace of the Grand Dukes (Palais Grand-Ducal). For an easy way to get around and an overview of the city’s history, book a seat on the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus tour .

While dining in Luxembourg is an expensive experience at the best of times, the exclusive Clairefontaine Restaurant offers an economical four-course lunch menu for 57€ (excluding drinks). The restaurant is cosy, yet elegant and provides a fine-dining experience making it a local favourite.

Day 7 Discover the Meuse River

Don’t miss Dinant. The city is a top attraction in Belgium.

Return to Belgium taking in one of its most scenic drives along the Meuse River. First, drive to Dinant on the E411 highway. Stop in the city to take in the dramatic Citadel and Notre-Dame Collegiate Church . Watch out for the many saxophone statues decorating Dinant, the birthplace of Adolphe Sax.

In the heart of Dinant, dine at the small and intimate La Broche restaurant . Monthly lunch menus feature seasonal, local ingredients for 20€ (or 26€ including two glasses of wine.) Service is warm and friendly and the dishes are hearty yet elegant.

Visit one of Belgium’s most famous castles, the Chateau de Freyr.

If the weather is co-operative, double back to Freyr to visit one of Wallonia’s most famous castles. Then continue along the Meuse River (Route N69) to the fortified city of Namur . From Namur, hop on the highway (A4-A10) to the Flemish city of Ghent, where you will spend your final days in Belgium.

Where to Stay in Ghent

The Marriott Hotel in Ghent is no ordinary chain hotel. Located in a historic building on the beautiful Graslei waterfront, the location doesn’t get any better than this in Ghent. The exterior of the hotel, facing the water, is beautifully restored and blends seamlessly into the surrounding architecture. The interior public areas are bright and airy and the rooms are modern and spacious. Underground parking and wifi are available. Request a room on the top floor for a view of the castle.  Check current prices here .

This charming 2 room B&B puts you in the heart of the art gallery district just a 15-minute ride on public transport from Ghent’s historic centre. With an exceptional breakfast, a lovely terrace and garden, and access to a shared kitchen, you may never want to leave. This is an excellent option for families.  Check current prices here.

What better way to experience the canal city of Ghent than by staying on a boat? Smack in the middle of the historic city centre, you can fall asleep to the lapping water. Enjoy a fabulous breakfast while being in the heart of the action and have a great story to share with your friends back home. (I bet they’ve never slept in a boat hotel!) Check current prices here.

Day 8 – Explore Ghent

Alluring Ghent – One of our favourite cities in Belgium.

Start your day in Ghent by strolling along the Graslei waterfront on your own or with a private guide . You can catch one of the popular canal boat tours here, or continue on foot to the imposing Gravensteen Castle . The ‘castle of the Count’ dates from 1180 and was the seat of the Counts of Flanders until the 14th century. The castle served as a courthouse, a prison and even a factory and was slated to be demolished at the end of the 19th century. Luckily, it was saved and, over the years, it has been restored and opened to the public. Inside is a rather gruesome display of torture devices used in Ghent’s past. The highlight of a visit to the Gravensteen is the view from the ramparts of Ghent’s stunning skyline with its three medieval towers and many historic buildings.

If you fancy an original drink, stop by Ghent’s Gruut Brewery for a unique brew. The name comes from Gruit, an old-fashioned spice and herb mixture popular before the use of hops. There are five beers to choose from, and you can enjoy them inside the modern brewery cafe or canal-side on the terrace.

Ghent has a wealth of museums for every taste. History buffs shouldn’t miss the excellent interactive STAM museum for an overview of Ghent’s fascinating past, present, and future. Art-lovers have three excellent choices: Ghent’s Contemporary Art Gallery SMAK, the Museum of Fine Arts MSK, and the Design Museum Gent. ( Get an overview of each in this article .)

Day 9 Day-trip to Bruges or Antwerp

The colourful Unesco-listed centre of Bruges, Belgium

Compare Flemish canal cities with a day-trip to Bruges. The historic centre is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list and is picturesque if crowded in the high-season. In the off-season, you should have the city-streets more-or-less to yourselves to enjoy the canal-side restaurants and shops. Visit the interactive Historium Museum , the city’s famous belfry and the tranquil begijnhof.

The stunning interior of Antwerp’s central train station.

Alternatively , make your day-trip to bustling Antwerp. Leave your car parked safely in Ghent and take the reliable Belgian rail system to arrive in style at the country’s most beautiful train station. Head to the Grote Markt (Main market square) to admire the architecture of the town hall and the stunning Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal (Cathedral of our Lady). Don’t miss the fountain that shows the (rather gruesome) legend of how Antwerp got its name. Legend has it, the giant Antigoon forced everyone who passed on the river Scheldt to pay a toll. If they refused, he cut off their hand and threw it in the river. Silvius Brabo, a Roman soldier, killed the giant and threw his hand into the Scheldt. The name Antwerp is said to have come from the Flemish hand werpen (hand throw). From the Grote Markt, continue a little further to the Scheldt waterfront to view Antwerp’s bustling port and Het Steen castle.

There can be no more dramatic place to enjoy a coffee or take your lunch than the Bourla theatre’s cafe, De Foyer .  Dine in style under the stunning high-ceilinged cupola beside windows dripping with red velvet curtains. The dessert cart alone is worth the trip.

The Plantin Moretus Printing Museum in Antwerp is the only museum on the UNESCO World Heritage sites list.

While it may sound a bit dry and boring, the under-rated Plantin Moretus Printing Museum is such a gem, it was recognised by UNESCO as part of the Memory of the World Programme in 2005. The collection of rare books and manuscripts, as well as the world’s oldest printing presses, not to mention the beautiful house and garden, are but a few reasons not to overlook it.

Don’t forget to stock up on chocolate and Belgian beer!

10 Things to Know About Travel to Belgium for First-Timers

Although Belgium has three official languages (French, Flemish and German) which language you speak where can be a very touchy subject. In Northern Flanders, Flemish (the Belgian form of Dutch) is spoken. In southern Wallonia, the language is French. German is only used in a tiny area called the Eastern Cantons. When in doubt, it is better to default to English than speak French to a Flemish person or vice-versa.

Tipping for good service in restaurants is generally accepted, however, most Belgians typically just round off the bill as most places already include a service change.

Belgian drivers are known for their aggressive style, and there are several rules of the road here that trip up foreign drivers. One worth reading up on is the priority to the right rule. Marked by an inverted “yield” sign with a red “X” in the middle, the “priority from the right” rule means that cars coming from the right always have priority, unless a yellow diamond sign or other priority road sign has been posted. This does not apply on motorways, roundabouts, and roads sign-posted with an orange diamond within a white background. Driving in Brussels is not recommended, nor is it necessary with the city’s excellent public transportation network.

Belgian weather is erratic and often rainy. Pack and wear plenty of layers and always have a waterproof coat and/or umbrella handy.

Public transportation in Brussels usually is reliable and is an affordable way to get around the city. Purchase a “10 jump card” and validate it each time you use the metro, tram or bus. One “jump” is good for an hour of travel within the entire Brussels system, allowing you to transfer from metro to bus, or tram, within that time frame.

Belgian customer service can be a bit frosty, particularly in Brussels. Don’t take it personally. In good restaurants, the service will be efficient and pleasant but less forceful than in America. You must always ask your server for the bill, as it is considered rude and pushy for them to bring it to you before asking.

Some of Belgium’s best foods are perfect for picnics. For an affordable lunch pick up a fresh baguette, some local cheeses and salamis to eat on the go. Don’t forget a bottle of wine (bring a corkscrew) or some Belgian beer, to quench your thirst.

For a hearty and traditional local dish, try Carbonnade a la Flamande (French) Stoofvlees (Flemish). This is essentially beef, stewed in Belgian beer until it melts in your mouth. It is typically served with Belgian Frites or mashed potatoes.

With almost 180 breweries in this tiny country, by all means, be sure to sample a variety of Belgian beer. Just beware of its alcohol content. Belgian beer is much stronger than most American brands; some are well over 10%.

Hopefully, you will never need to use them, but the Pan-European Emergency Services number is 112. This number can be dialled for free from any phone, including mobiles. The Belgian fire and medical emergency number is 100 and for police dial 101.

Some links to hotels and activities in this article are affiliate links meaning we will make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please know we will never recommend a product or service we would not use ourselves. 

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Benelux Itinerary: The Highlights in 10 Days (+ Map)

If you want to see the best of the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg in 10 days, this Benelux itinerary is for you!

With medieval cities like Amsterdam and Bruges, historical sites like the Castle of Vianden and plenty of local specialities ( Belgian chocolates , anyone?), this part of Europe has much to offer.

As I’m from Belgium and travelled around the Netherlands and Luxembourg extensively, I’ve gotten to know these countries pretty well. In this guide, I will share the best places to visit in the Benelux in 10 days.

So, let’s dive right into it, here’s the perfect 10-day itinerary for the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg.

Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam

Whether you’re arriving in the Netherlands by train, flight bus or car, day one of this Benelux itinerary is all about getting to Amsterdam.

It all depends on the time you will arrive, but if it’s not too late you, can start visiting this city already. There are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam , after all.

Day 2: Amsterdam

With its famous canals, interesting museums and vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam has something to offer to nearly any type of traveller . This is one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe, after all.

Some of the most famous things to do here are to take a boat ride on the canals, visit the red light district and perhaps head to one of the city’s coffee shops , but there’s more to Amsterdam than this alone!

From visiting the House of Anne Frank to discovering street art and heading to Madame Tussaud, there’s an abundance of things to do in this city, it all depends on your preferences.

Where to stay in Amsterdam: INK Hotel

Check out my post featuring the best Amsterdam souvenirs if you would like to bring something back from this city.

Day 3: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans (or Keukenhof)

Zaanse Schans is less than an hour from Amsterdam by train and this town is most famous for its traditional windmills. In fact, this is one of the last places in the world where you can see functional windmills!

If you would like to learn more about Dutch culture and history, Zaanse Schans is a must-visit. Apart from windmills, you will also find plenty of museums and workshops here.

Some of the best things to do at Zaanse Scham are to visit the Zaans Museum , which will teach you more about the region, visit the Bakery Museum and learn how Dutch cheese is made.

Alternative: If you’re visiting the Netherlands between March and May, you can also head to the Keukenhof Gardens to see the tulips.

Day 4: Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a 1-hour train ride from Amsterdam, and it’s completely different. This city was bombed during World War II and the historic centre was entirely destroyed. Because of this, Rotterdam is a pretty modern city full of unique architecture.

Some of the best things to do in Rotterdam are to check out the modern architecture, visit the old harbour and see the historic Delfshaven district.

One of my favourite places in this city is the Cube Houses , and if you’re into architecture or photography, this is a place you will love too. The Cube Houses were built by Dutch architect Piet Blom in the 1980s and they’re pretty unique, to say the least!

Where to stay in Rotterdam: Savoy Hotel

Day 5: Rotterdam to Brussels

It takes just 1 to 2 hours to reach Brussels from Rotterdam by train or car, so today, you have the choice to either spend more time in Rotterdam or head straight to Brussels, the Belgian capital.

Day 6: Brussels

Belgium’s capital, Brussels is one of the best places to visit in Belgium . This is also the capital of the EU and there are plenty of things to see and do here.

One day in Brussels will give you just enough time to see the city’s highlights. Some of the places that you cannot miss are the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, the Mont des Arts and the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries.

If you like visiting museums, it’s good to know that there are also plenty of great museums in Brussels . The Musée Magritte Museum, which features the work of the Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte is my personal favourite.

Where to stay in Brussels: Happy Guesthouse

Day 7: Day trip to Bruges

The medieval city of Bruges, a 1-hour train ride from Brussels, is one of these places that you cannot miss when you’re in Belgium. With its twisting canals, medieval architecture and cobblestone street, this is one of the country’s most enchanting sights.

If you’re heading to Bruges for one day , you will have enough time to see the best of what this city has to offer. Some of the best places that you cannot miss are the Quay of the Rosary, Markt, Burg Square, the Bonifacius Bridge, the Church of Our Lady and the Beguinage.

It’s good to know that it’s also possible to visit Bruges and Ghent in one day . This will give you less time to explore these places, though.

You can also spend the night in one of Bruges’ canal hotels , which is an amazing experience. However, it will take longer to head to Dinant from Bruges the next day, which is why I included Bruges as a day trip from Brussels in this itinerary for the Benelux.

Day 8: Dinant & Castles

Dinant, the city where the saxophone was born, is another great stop on a Benelux itinerary. It takes a little less than 2 hours to reach this city from Brussels by train.

Not only are there some interesting things to do in Dinant , but two of my favourite Belgian castles, Vêves Castle and Walzin Castle, are just a short drive from here.

The best way to visit these places is by visiting Dinant first, then head to Vêves Castle , which can be visited, and then hike to Walzin Castle. Although the latter cannot be visited, it’s perched high on top of a rock and it’s pretty spectacular!

Where to stay in Dinant: Les Terrasses de Sax

Note that Vêves and Walzin Castle are the only places on this itinerary that are not easily accessible by public transport. You will either have to rent a car or take a taxi from Dinant to reach them.

>> Read: 15 Castle Hotels in Belgium for an Enchanting Stay

Day 9: Luxembourg City

Today, it’s time to head to Luxembourg City, the capital of Luxembourg. It takes about 3 hours to reach this city by train from Dinant.

Luxembourg is a city that’s often overlooked by tourists, but it has some nice things to offer. This city has a rich history and its old part is full of medieval buildings and cobblestone streets.

The best part is that this city is walkable, so the best way to explore it is by spending the afternoon wandering around its streets and alleys.

Where to stay in Luxembourg City: Albergo Aida

Day 10: Day Trip to Vianden Castle

The charming town of Vianden is a 1.5-hour train ride from Luxembourg City and it’s home to one of Europe’s most important historical landmarks : Vianden Castle. It was built between the 11th and 14th centuries and was once home to the powerful Counts of Vianden.

There are plenty of things to see at Vianden Castle , from its Byzantine Gallery to the Arms Hall and the chapels. After all, this is one of the largest fortified castles west of the Rhine.

Apart from visiting the castle, I also loved seeing it from a distance. It looks like something straight out of a fairytale!

Map of the Benelux Itinerary

How to Get Around the Benelux

Except for Vêves Castle and Walzin Castle, all the places mentioned on this list are easily accessible by train.

If you’re using public transport, you will find how long it takes to get from one place to another below:

• Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans : 1 hour
• Amsterdam to Rotterdam : 1 hour
• Rotterdam to Brussels : 1 hour
• Brussels to Bruges : 1 hour (+ short bus ride or 20-minute walk to the city centre)
• Brussels to Dinant : 1,5 hours (+ 15-minute taxi ride to Vêves Castle)
• Dinant to Luxembourg City: 3 hours
• Luxembourg City to Vianden: 1,5 hours

If you want to rent a car in Belgium, I recommend using   Discover Cars .  This company compares car rental companies so that you can get the best price.

Benelux Itinerary: Final Thoughts

Spending 10 days in the Benelux will give you just enough time to see the highlights of Belgium , the Netherlands and Luxembourg. These countries have a lot to offer, especially if you like visiting medieval cities and enchanting castles.

Happy exploring!

• Backpacking Belgium: A Local’s Guide
• 28 Famous Landmarks in Belgium Worth Seeing
• 20 Amazing Places to Visit in The Netherlands

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Hi – Love the itinerary – perfect. Hydraulics is of interest; any museums / tours? Castles, per se, would be on the bottom of our list. Thanks!

Hi Andrea, I’m glad you like this itinerary. If you’d like to visit museums, I would recommend staying in Amsterdam or Brussels for an extra day instead of visiting the castles. There are plenty of interesting museums in both of these cities!

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Perfect Weekend Breaks in Belgium: The Ardennes

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: June 7, 2018  - Last updated: January 25, 2024

A guide to the best things to do in Ardennes, Belgium on a weekend break

I am a huge fan of weekend breaks! Who isn’t, right?

It’s just the perfect way to discover the surroundings of your current base. It’s not only a way of slow traveling but also to travel in a more sustainable way.    

Now that I am back in my home country, Luxembourg , I love to discover its surroundings with “ new ” eyes. In the end, even home countries can satisfy the chronic wanderlust of a frenetic traveler like me. Luckily there are a lot of great day trips from Luxembourg .

Let me take you on a weekend break, right across the Luxembourgish border. To the green lung of Belgium: the Ardennes ! A region that will make every foodie’s and outdoor lover’s heart beat faster!

Belgium seems to have something to satisfy any traveler’s needs. Bruges ’ the most romantic town in Europe (for me), Brussels has the urban lifestyle, the coast is for relaxation seekers, Antwerp for fashionistas, Liege for the off-the-beaten-track traveler…

I have become a convert for cheap weekend breaks to Belgium! Whenever I can, I take one of these short breaks to Belgium to explore further.

The good news is that there are many options for short breaks in Belgium, especially in Ardennes, so you can sample this unique country.

If you’re not sure where to start, you can find some tremendous Belgian Ardennes vacation packages. But read on for inspiration!

Find all locations on a map at the end of the post!

I have been a guest of Ardennes Marketing. All my opinions, as always, are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I will earn a small commission that will help me run this blog. All opinions are always mine. Thanks a lot!

Where to stay in ardennes, belgium.

There are plenty of Ardennes vacation rentals available. However, if you’re looking for a Belgian Ardennes hotel, here are my top recommendations!

THE Place to Stay in Ardennes, Belgium

  Le Florentin (spacious, luxury rooms with selected interior design)

Woodstone Hotel Au Coeur de Lacuisine Hotel Le Barbouillon

Hotel Panorama Château de Grandvoir (stay in a real castle) Le Gastronome

Hotel Sanglier des Ardennes Hostellerie Le Prieuré De Conques Hotel de la Poste – Relais de Napoleon III Hotel des Ardennes

Table of Contents

1. Torgny, the most beautiful village in Ardennes, Belgium

When you enter Torgny in the Gaume region, also known as the southernmost village of Belgium, you might feel like in Southern France for a second.

Nestled in one of the most remote, southern corners in Belgium, close to the French border, Torgny is famous for its Mediterranean-like charm. 

Indeed, the hand-hewn stones, colorful flowers growing along the ochre-colored house fronts with their red curved tiles, rather remind Southern France than Wallonia, Belgium. 

But Torgny is not only reminiscent of the Mediterranean by the outside, but it also boasts a very particular micro-climate that allows the cultivation of wines.   

The best way to explore and enjoy the beauty of Torgny is by strolling around and absorbing the Mediterranean vibe.

I loved to see how only 200 inhabitants cherish their village, and each house front is covered by a different type and color of flowers. 

Torgny can also be visited by day trip from Brussels .

Book here your Ardennes tours

Exploring Torgny feels like traveling back in time within one of these classical Southern French movies. Just a perfect way to spend your weekend in Belgium. 

If you can’t get enough of cute, picturesque villages, you might want to visit more villages bearing the label “ Wallonia’s Most Beautiful Villages ” such as Celles,  Clermont-sur-Berwinne, Crupet, Laforêt, Nobressart, Ny, Ragnies, Soiron, Sosoye, Soulme or Wéris .

Without any doubt, Durbuy completes this list of the most beautiful villages in Belgium.

Avoid tourist traps and get the “ Belgium Like a Local ” itinerary. – Get it  here .

2. Hiking in Ardennes, Belgium

The Ardennes region in the Belgian Luxembourg province is heaven for hiking and trekking lovers. In case you love well-indicated trails leading through lush green, dense forests, Ardennes will be like your playground. It’s one of the best hiking places in Belgium .

Indeed, the region is very variated when it comes to landscapes as high plateaus contrast with picturesque valleys created by the rivers Ourthe, Semois, Salm , or Lesse.  

Hundreds of well-maintained trails adaptable for every level make it very hard to choose only one. The longest and most famous trails are the  Transardenneaise , the Transgaumaise-Trans Semoisienne , or the Escapardenne-Eisleck Trail connecting Belgium to Luxembourg .

This trail can also be done if you are based in Brussels since it is one of the best hiking trails near Brussels .

We didn’t go for any of these super long hikes (we wanted to see as much as possible from the Ardennes in one weekend). Instead we opted for the playful trail “ Sentier des Fees ” (“The Trail of the Fairies”) between Virton and Etalle  (at the parking of Croix Rouge crossing, see map below) in the Gaume region below the Ardennes.

Indeed, the setting reminded me of an enchanted forest and I wouldn’t be surprised to spot a little fairy… The trail is about 1.5 km and leads through a magical forest, with curious rock formations, home to the fairies of course.

During the summer months, thematic trails are organized for kids (and supposed grown-ups like me) where a fairy will guide you through the enchanted woods and you’ll need to meet certain challenges to work for the fairies.

But the Ardennes region cannot only be explored by foot but also by bike , by horse or following the routes of former stagecoaches . It’s simply a paradise for people that enjoy traveling slow and sustainable.

You can find here a selection with the most popular hikes in the Ardennes, Wallonia .

3. Visit Orval Abbey in Ardennes, Belgium

You can’t leave the Ardennes region in southern Belgium without having visited at least one of its legendary Trappist abbeys.  

Not only are all of them absolutely stunning attractions and spiritual retreats, but they also produce delicious food and the world-wide coveted Trappist beers. 

There are a few Trappist abbeys in the Belgian Luxembourg province, but we opted to visit the imposing Orval abbey in the Gaume region, south of the Ardennes . Surrounded by lush forests, Orval Abbey is close to the French corner and one of the remotest corners of Belgium. It’s an absolute oasis of peace, tranquility and spirituality. 

Supporting the Cistercian regulations, the monastery boasts a cheese factory, bakery and confectionery. All of their products can be found in the restaurants or grocery shops in the Ardennes region. 

The roots of Orval abbey go back to 1070 when it was founded by Benedictine monks. Later on in 1132, the abbey was incorporated into the Cistercian Order. Many locals gave their lands to the monastery hoping for the eternal prayer of the community.

Slowly, Orval Abbey became one of the richest monasteries in southern Belgium.

However, wars and fires disrupted the routine several times. After the passage of the French Revolutionaries, the abbey was left abandoned for over a century. It simply became uninhabitable due to the massive destruction. 

The old abbey was used as a stone quarry as long as it was seen worth to be protected by the Belgian government. Soon, the territory was sold again to the Cistercian Order and became a new home for French monks.

I particularly liked the contrast of the old, medieval ruins with the modern, imposing abbey which boasts gorgeous Art Deco details. Monks came back to Orval in 1927 and they follow the spiritual traditions of the Trappist Order until today. 

Only a part of Orval abbey can be visited as several patios and buildings are restricted to the monks and accommodated guests at the guesthouse. Guests can even eat together with the monks and the meals are often prepared with Orval beer and the delicious Orval cheese. I’d might start thinking to do a retreat at Orval abbey…

Other Trappist abbeys in southern Belgium that are open to the public (and brew delicious artisan, Trappist beer) are Abbey of Our Lady of Scourmont in Chimay, and Abbey of Our Lady of Saint-Rémy in Rochefort. Visiting Trappist abbeys is just the perfect road trip for your weekend in Belgium. 

Don’t forget to stop by at one of the 2 restaurants ( À l’Ange Gardien and L’Hostellerie d’Orval ) near the abbey to taste some typical Belgian meals prepared with Orval cheese and beer. 

Avoid tourist traps and get the “ Belgium Like a Local ” itinerary. Get it  here .

4. Trappist Beer Tasting in Ardennes, Belgium

Of course, you cannot visit Belgium without tasting (at least) one of its world-famous Trappist beers.

The Belgian Luxembourg province boast several small and larger breweries producing high-quality beers like l’Ardwen, la Woinic, la Cuvée d’Arthur, la Margoulette, la Sedane, l’Oubliette…

However, the most intriguing beer productions are the Trappist beers that are only produced in monasteries.

Only 12 beers in the world can bear the label “Trappist”: the beers of A chel, Chimay, La Trappe, Orval, Mont des Cats, Rochefort, Westvleteren, Westmalle, Mont des Cats  Stift Engelszell, Zundert (NL), Spencer (USA) and Tre Fontane (IT). Most of them are thus produced in Belgium.

In order to be a Trappist beer, the breweries need to respect strict standards when it comes to production, advertising, and communication.

The beer must be produced within the walls of a Trappist abbey, either by monks or under their supervision. 

Spiritual life should still be more important than the beer production and the brewery shouldn’t be a profit-making venture. The income from the beers should cover the production fees, expenses of the monks, and maintain the buildings and ground of the abbey. All the rest is supposed to go into charity, social welfare , and people in need of help.

When it comes to marketing, the advertising language of the beers should be marked by honesty and modesty and with respect to the religious setting of the beer production.

As we visited Orval abbey, we couldn’t leave without a Trappist beer and cheese tasting at the À l’Ange Gardien which served us 3 kinds of Orval beers and 3 different Orval kinds of cheese . A delight!

Orval beer was first brewed in 1931 by a brewmaster originally from Bavaria. It has a fruity note with a little bitter hint. The brewing process only uses spring water, hop cones, barley malt, candy sugar, and the special Trappist yeast.

The special characters in the Orval beer production are the 2 stages in the brewery process.

First, in the brewing room, a large quantity of very fine hops are added, creating the famous bitter taste and is the reason why the beer keeps for a longer period of time. In a second stage, hops are once again added. These 2 stages produce the very characteristic Orval aroma.

The Orval beer makes a great match with the Trappist cheese from the Abbey, an uncooked, semi-soft cheese , with a natural washed rind. It is not very strong in taste, but characteristic, thus it appeals to a large public. Just the perfect way to enjoy your weekend break in Belgium.

Orval beer and cheese can be enjoyed in the surrounding shops and restaurants of Orval abbey. However, the restaurants next to the abbey created a unique menu card incorporating Orval cheese and beer in their pasta, meat dishes, or even their desserts! It’s the perfect stop after visiting the abbey.

5. Bouillon Castle

The town of Bouillon will immediately enchant you by its fairytale setting . It is one of my favorite places to visit for Belgium short breaks.

Located along the Semois river, this charming town with its towering castle on a rock, boasts an impressive history that goes back to the medieval ages.  

Indeed, the castle of Bouillon was first mentioned in 988, and still today, it impacts its size and good condition.

In 1082, Bouillon Castle was inherited by Godfrey of Bouillon , who sold it to the Bishop of Liège in order to finance the first crusade. The castle was later fitted for heavy artillery by Vauban, Louis XIV’s military architect in the late 17th century. 

In order to have the best view of the castle , I recommend taking the road to Le Panorama. If you want to enjoy a view on the backside of the castle, you should take the road down to the gothic bridge from 1935 on the Semois river in order to admire the castle in all its beauty.

Sitting on the old bridge and being surrounded by lush forests just made me feel like a fairytale. 

Bouillon Castle, one of the prettiest Belgian castles , is open to visitors and the entrance fee includes a falcon and owl show . A treasure hunt can be organized upon request. Visiting the Bouillon Castle is definitely a highlight of your weekend break in Belgium.  

Schedules and opening times depend on the time of the year you want to visit.

Related: The best hotel in Bouillon

6. Town Center of Bouillon, Belgium

After visiting the castle, you shouldn’t leave Bouillon immediately! The charming city center of Bouillon is perfect for strolling around and along its river.

And of course, enjoy Belgian cuisine in one of its numerous restaurants. In fact, Bouillon is perfect for a foodie day trip !

Also known as the “pearl of the Semois” river, Bouillon is one of the most important tourist attractions in the Belgian province of Luxembourg.  

For those that are interested in the medieval past of Bouillon, I recommend visiting the Musée Ducal who boasts a dedicated section to the crusades and the architectural evolution of Bouillon castle.  

When in the city center of Bouillon, you’ll pass along the Liege Bridge , which was the first structure to be built over the Semois River.

It was part of an important trade route connecting Verdun and Liege. No wonder that the town is often considered as one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium .

If you hope to stay in Bouillon when you visit Ardennes, Belgium, I recommend the Hotel de la Poste – Relais de Napoleon III **** , one of the prettiest hotels in Bouillon.

Following the Semois river to the north, you’ll also pass along the stronghold of French-Brittany which is part of the remaining ruins of the city fortification.

It is a particularly picturesque place located near the river which invites you to sit down for a moment and enjoy the place in all its beauty.  

I particularly liked how different each quarter of Bouillon was. There’s the old town, right below the castle which has vast streets, open plazas, and bright colored houses.

Then, right next to it, you’ll find yourself in the Quartier de Bretagne (Brittany Neighbourhood) where soldiers from Brittany used to live.

They were in charge of the protection of the town in the 17th century. The houses have a very particular style and it is the perfect place to relax.  

7.  Chocolate Tasting in Ardennes, Belgium

Chocolate is the undoubted star in Belgium. It doesn’t matter the region or the town, you’ll always find a shop selling the most creative chocolate creations. A chocolate tasting is definitely a must-do on your weekend break to Belgium. 

Even though most Maitre Chocolatiers are located in the larger Belgian towns such as Brussels , Antwerp or Bruges , the Ardennes, and the Gaume region boasts several chocolate makers as well.

READ: Where to Eat Traditional Food in Brussels

I visited Les Chocolats D’Edouard , Chocolat Consultant, and ice-cream maker in Florenville, aka the man that you need in your life . And, dear readers, after this visit, I see chocolate and ice-cream with different eyes . There’s a before and after having tasted the ice-creams of Edouard.  

Following living for 8 years in Italy, where Edouard needed to adapt his knowledge about Belgian chocolates to the Italian public. After working in Turkey and Lebanon, he came back to Florenville where he opened his shop, tea-room, and atelier.

Visiting Edouard is not about eating, but about “ giving yourself a pleasure ”. From the tea-room, you have a direct into the atelier where Edouard’s team is preparing tasteful delicacies. 

But first, let’s talk about chocolate! Edouard prepares his creative chocolate creations with only the best and finest ingredients. Quality and selection standards are very high.

He generally prefers the combination of 1 or 2 high-quality ingredients than mixing 10 of less quality. His creations are real and surprising in taste. Eating chocolate at Edouard’s is like going back to the origins of chocolate making. 

Edouard’s chocolates are creative but not daring. It’s all about the absolute quality standard of the primary ingredients.

The combination of the finest cocoa and top ingredients from all over the world results in such alluring creations like melting praliné with rosemary, chocolate with violet flowers, black chocolate with black tea from China, and with a hint of pear and hazelnut.

The one that will definitely leave you speechless is his Gianduja with the finest hazelnuts from Piemont. When it slowly melts in your mouth, you’ll get an idea what heaven must taste like. 

If heaven tastes like chocolate, paradise must have the flavour of Edouard’s ice-cream ! Edouard learned the art of ice-cream making in Italy and nowadays he gives lessons at the University of Ice-Cream in Bologna! And trust me, eating ice-cream will never be the same again after having tasted Edouard’s Black Chocolate or Madagascar Vanilla Ice-cream!

His artisan sorbets are a refreshing and light mix of fruits like pineapple, mango, and banana or pineapple, mango and basilic!

Edouard shares his god-like knowledge with anybody who’s interested in doing a workshop at his atelier. Here, you’ll learn about the fine art of combining flavors with chocolate and the history of chocolate production. Tailor-made workshops are available upon request.  

Edouard will be one of the reasons why you should include Florenville in any Ardenne, Belgium itinerary. And even if it means a detour, I would run miles for his ice-creams!!

LES CHOCOLATS D’EDOUARD Place Albert 1er, 36 B-6820 Florenville

8. Visit Ardennes Sausage Factory and Tasting

You’ll leave never Belgium being hungry! Especially the Ardennes region is famous for its hearty and delicious food.

But the Belgian Luxembourg province has something more to offer than only beer and chocolate: le Saucisson d’Ardenne , the Ardennes Sausage. You just can’t miss tasting them on your perfect weekend in Belgium. 

Recently recognized as a protected geographic product, the Ardennes sausage is a dry sausage with pork or mixed pork and beef meat. After being minced and spiced, the meat is stuffed into the natural gut.

It’s then fermented and smoked with beech and oak wood and finally dried. The main characteristic of the Ardennes sausage is its pronounced smoked taste. 

In fact, the Ardennes sausage was only created by the producers of Ardennes ham to enhance its by-products. 

The other star of Ardennes’ meat production is the Ardennes Ham which is obtained from the pig’s hind leg by immersion into saltwater, dry salting or rubbing with salt, maturing in cold storage and finally being smoked using different wood types. In order to wear the label, the meat must be produced in the Belgian province of Luxembourg. 

Several factories can be visited, but we opted for the Salaisons G. Blaise (G. Blaise Saltings) in Florenville founded in 1910. The craft of salting meat is family-run since three generations. The mid-scale factory is specialized in high-quality artisan products based upon traditional methods and recipes. 

Blaise Salaisons produces Ardennes ham, pâtés, regional specialties , a

nd, of course, the Ardennes sausage. I particularly liked the creative variations of the traditional sausage by adding Orval beer, shallots, or even honey. 

But the best of the Blaise Salaisons is definitely the power ladies behind this business! Indeed, the business is managed by women for 60 years!

You can still greet Andree , the wife of the founder aged 96, at her butcher shop where she follows her passion for selling top quality, artisan products. Stephanie , Andree’s granddaughter, is running the company today with her aunt.

She also manages Le Florentin Hotel and a few shops in the region. A real business lady to look up to!

Visits can be arranged as part of your stay in the Le Florentin *** or upon request here .

9.  Canoe Ride on Semois River

The Ardennes region offers a wide range of possibilities for those that are looking for a more active getaway. You can choose among equestrian excursions, skiing (in winter), golf, swimming and climbing activities.

But is there a more relaxing and enchanting way to enjoy Ardenne’s beauty than by canoe ? While there are several routes on different rivers that can be explored by canoe, we went from Poupehan to Frahan with Semois Kayaks .

Semois Kayaks  also rents kayaks, Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUP), and pedalos . Kayak and canoes routes can be adapted to your needs upon request.

It is an easy ride of 1 hour (there’s the option to do 4 hours as well) which will let you immerse in Ardenne’s beautiful natural landscapes . I did the ride with my sister and it was the perfect opportunity to chat while enjoying the absolutely relaxing movement of our boat. A canoe ride makes any weekend trips to Belgium even more relaxing.

After your ride, you might want to enjoy a refreshing bath while you wait for Kayak Semois’ pick-up service. Followed by some crunchy French fries or a Belgian chocolate ice-cream at their friterie in Poupehan.

If you don’t want to rent a kayak, you can bring your own whitewater inflatable kayak .

Check rates here

10.  Food in the Ardennes, Belgium

In case you might still be hungry, you should also try other typical dishes from the Ardennes. The lands of the Belgian Province de Luxembourg have very rich soil which makes it easy to grow a large variety of vegetables and Northern European fruits.

The large forests gave birth to a long tradition of wild game meals and the rivers teem with fish like trout, carp, and perch.

You can’t miss indulging typical Belgian food during your weekend break in Belgium.

Other typical meals (some of them can be found in other parts of Belgium too )  that you need to try when visiting the Ardennes region are:

• French Fries: The best ones are sold in a traditional friterie . These fry shops can be anything from a small truck or established restaurant with a dining room. They also serve all kinds of other deep-fried food ( frikandels, currywurst, bitterballen , chicken skewers…), but the main star of the kitchen is the crispy French fries. What makes Belgian fries so different? The perfect fry is two-fold! The potato must be soft and fried twice. You can choose among a large variety of sauces in any friterie
• Boterhammen / Tartines : Slices of rustic bread and an uncovered spread, often pâté or soft cheese, typically accompanied by a glass of beer
• Filet américain: One of my favorite Belgian meals. Finely minced ground beef eaten raw and cold. Usually served with fries. When served as a dinner, it is mixed with onions and capers like steak tartare , but it retains the name américain . You can optionally add chopped onions, mayonnaise, Tabasco, egg yolk, capers, salt, and a bunch of other things.
• Blood sausage: Type of meat sausage mixed with blood and breadcrumbs. Even if the mention of ‘blood’ might scare you from this, but you should give it a try! It can be served grilled, sauteed, barbecued or eaten raw and best served with potatoes and apple sauce.
• Wild game terrine with mushrooms
• Pâté gaumais:  Pâté with pork meat, wine and herbs
• Pikes and trouts
• Gratinated endives with ham and Bechamel sauce

Where to enjoy Belgian food in the Ardennes region:

More elaborated Belgian cuisine: Le Florentin L’Auberge de Rochehaut

Traditional Belgium food: Friterie La Grignotte La Vieille Ferme Chez Betty

11. Visit Durbuy, the smallest town in the world

If you’re looking for a short weekend break, Belgium is home Durbuy, the smallest town in the world. But don’t worry, it still has some great things to do. Plus, isn’t it just cool to say you visited the smallest town in the world?

The top site in Durbuy is the Castle, which seems to take up half the city and has an interesting history. There is also the nearby Topiary Park, a must for anyone who loves beautiful gardens and unique green spaces.

If you can, I recommend a visit near Christmas, as there is an abundance of things to do in Durbuy during winter , including one of the best Christmas markets in Belgium .

12. Visit the Bastogne War Museum

It’s hard to imagine a weekend trip to Belgium without visiting the Bastogne War Museum. This is an essential spot in the Ardennes, Belgium for history buffs.

The museum is dedicated to the Belgian Ardennes role in WWII, and focuses on the Battle of the Bulge. In case you’re unfamiliar, this was the last major German offensive on the Western Front during WWII. The Allies won and it was an important victory.

13. Go Hiking in Ourthe Valley

Some of the best weekend breaks to Belgium are for hiking. And hiking in Ourthe Valley is definitely a great reason to visit Ardennes, Belgium!

The Ourthe is a 165 kilometre long river that runs through Ardennes, Belgium. Naturally, the hikes along it are stunning! Of course, if hiking isn’t your thing, then you can also cycle or canoe Ardennes.

No wonder that the area is considered home to some of the best hiking trails in Belgium .

14. Enjoy a Trappist Beer in Chimay

Absolutely no Ardennes, Belgium weekend break is complete without a beer tasting in Chimay. Just make sure to check into a nearby Belgian Ardennes hotel so there’s no need to drive home afterwards.

The Chimay Brewery has been owned and operated by the monks as the Scourmont Abbey since 1862. However, most the local pubs and restaurants also serve Chimay. If you like cheese, make sure to ask for a Chimay cheese, as well – also made the abbey.

And yes, the monks can drink, so they know their product is worth the hype!

15. Do a day trip to Liege

A great Ardennes weekend option is a day (or overnight) trip to Liege. This city isn’t for everyone, but I enjoyed my time here. 

If you arrive by train, you’ll be blown away by the giant, curved silver ceiling that welcomes you to Liege. From there, wander through the picturesque city center and check out some of the best things to do in Liege .

The number one must do is to enjoy a Liege waffle! Liege waffles have rounded edges, and while you can find them throughout Belgium, they originated here!

If you can, I highly recommend a visit to the High Fens Nature Reserve, a marshland area just outside of Liege in lower Ardennes.

Why visit the Ardennes, Belgium?

In that sense, Ardennes  and the southern Gaume region, in southern Wallonia, is for outdoor and nature enthusiasts . And foodies ( the common point of all Belgian regions )! If you need a short break, Belgium will impress you, and the Ardennes is ideal for weekend breaks.

Ardennes, also spelled “Ardenne”, is a region of extensive forests, hills and enchanting rock creations covering most of the Belgian provinces of Namur, Liege , and Luxembourg .

It also stretches well into Germany and France. This post will mainly focus on the southernmost part of the Ardennes region: the Belgian Luxembourg province.  

Where is the Belgian Luxembourg province in the Ardennes?

The main towns of the Belgian Luxembourg province, the south of the Wallonia region (le Luxembourg Belge), are Durbuy , Bouillon , Bastogne, and Arlon, the provincial capital. For this weekend break itinerary, I mostly recommend sites in the western part of the Belgian Luxembourg province. 

You might wonder how the Belgian Luxembourg province ended up having the same name as the bordering Grand Duchy of Luxembourg ? Well, the territory of the Belgian province used to be part of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg until 1839.

However, the western, French-speaking region became part of a new country – Belgium, while the Germanic-speaking part became the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.  

As the Ardennes region is mostly covered by large, dense forests with the Semois and Ourthe rivers creating almost fairy-tale-like landscapes, the area is particularly coveted among outdoor and nature lovers. Tourism in the Ardennes is still small-scale and ecologically minded.  

Make sure to stop from time to time in one of its countless restaurants and enjoy the food from its local producers. 

I hope some of these, admittedly very personal, highlights of my visit to Ardennes Region in southern Belgium could convince you to include the region in your travel plans. Hopefully if you are considering a short break, Belgium is now on your radar!

Have you been to the Ardennes, Belgium? Did you enjoy it? I would love to hear about the things you loved (or loved less) in the comment form. 

⚘  Avoid tourist traps  and get the “ Belgium Like a Local ” itinerary. It’s 9,99€ only. Get it  here

Map: Highlights of Ardennes, Belgium

Where is Ardennes, Belgium?

It is a region of southeast Belgium, and extends into France, Germany and Luxembourg.

Where to stay in Ardennes, Belgium?

There are many great options for where to stay in Ardennes, Belgium, but my number one recommendation is Le Florentin in Florenville.

What are the most beautiful villages of Wallonia?

The Wallonia villages often listed as most beautiful are Celles, Clermont-sur-Berwinne, Crupet, Laforêt, Nobressart, Ny, Ragnies, Soiron, Sosoye, Soulme, Torgny or Wéris. My personal favorite is Torgny. Although it is technically a city, I also include Durbuy on this list as it is the size of a village!

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

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10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

Traveling in Belgium brings forth images of medieval rooftops, lovely canals, tasty beer, and even more indulgent chocolates. However, there is much for one to see in this remarkable European country, where time seems to move at a slower pace and the people are friendly and welcoming to tourists. From modern cities boasting designer shops and glamorous galleries to cobblestone streets laden with museums and native indulgences, the best places to visit in Belgium have something for everyone to enjoy on a vacation.

10. Mons [SEE MAP]

As the capital of the province of Hainaut, Mons is best known for the magical and surprising ringing of the town’s glorious Belfry bells, which hail from the 80 meter (270 foot) tower. Winding streets allow visitors to easily traverse the city sites that are a rich mixture of architectural styles. The Gothic-style Mons Town Hall is eye-catching, and the Collegiate Church of Sainte-Waudru boasts a highly impressive collection of 16th century Jacques Du Broeucq alabaster statues. Naturally, a stop by the Van Gogh House is a must to see amazing reproductions of this master’s works.

9. Dinant [SEE MAP]

This city lies along the sparkling Meuse River in the Namur province just 65 km (40 miles) south of the capital city. The Caves of Han and the Grotto of Dinant are some of the natural attractions that bring visitors here. These caves are some of Europe’s largest and most beautiful and are situated in within a Wildlife Reserve teeming with native flora and fauna. However, the city’s landmark, The Collegiate Church of Notre Dame is still remarkable after being partially rebuild post a massive landslide, as does the restored Citadel that overlooks the city. Accesses to most of Dinant’s sanctuaries are accessible with an appointment, but the Sanctuary of Beauraing is open daily.

8. Leuven [SEE MAP]

Home to the oldest Catholic university in the world, Leuven is home about 100,000 residents with nearly 35,000 of them being students that keep the city lively when classes are in session. Two seemingly endless streets are laden with interesting shops and galleries, while the more historical section of the city boasts sites such as the The Belfry on St. Peter’s Church and the Grand Beguinage. Visitors will find much action and things to do in the Grote Market in Leuven, where sites like the City Hall are adjacent to exceptional dining options and street side pubs and cafes. This city’s location makes it an ideal alternative to Brussels as a vacationer’s main hub to explore the rest of the country.

7. Tournai [SEE MAP]

Adjacent to France, the quaint and lovely community of Tournai is an excellent place to tune out the hustle and bustle of larger Belgium cities. More than 2000 years of rich cultural history can be explored here, and this city is home to what is believed to be one of the most beautiful churches in the world – the five-towered Gothic and Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral. Constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries, the cathedral houses the Shrine of Our Lady and works by Ruvens and Jordaens. The town Belfry is the oldest in the country and offers visitors 257 steps to the most remarkable views in the city of Tournai. The Museum of Fine Arts is filled with masterpieces from primitive and contemporary artists ranging from Campin and Rubens to Roger Van der Weyden and Van Gogh.

6. Mechelen [SEE MAP]

A vibrant town that doesn’t draw the tourism that many other Belgium cities do, Mechelen is actually one of the best places to visit in Belgium. From tours of the Beguinage Brewery to river boat tours, there’s much to see and do in this Flanders locale. A trip to the top of the St. Rombout Cathedral’s massive tower is the best way to get a panoramic view of the Antwerp Port and this lovely city. One don’t miss stop is the magnificent Carillion School, where students come from across the globe to get instruction on playing this complex instrument of bells.

5. Ardennes [SEE MAP]

For hiking, biking and camping, visitors to Belgium should head to the rugged hills of the Ardennes with their tight forests, caves and cliffs. They are home to wild boar, deer and lynx and hide a number of friendly villages, lots of castles and a few other notable sights. The impressive caves of Han-sur-Lesse, the castle of Bouillon and the modern Labyrinth of Barvaux are some of the best picks. The city of Namur makes a great base from where to explore the Ardennes and has some fine sights itself too.

4. Antwerp [SEE MAP]

Antwerp is a city with many faces. While it may not be as historically preserved as Bruges or Ghent, it is a very dynamic city, offering a perfect mix of history and present-day modern life. Lovers of great food, great beer, and good times, this city is most well-known for the Diamond District, where more than 70 percent of the world’s rough diamonds are traded. Art abounds in Antwerp , with Revenshuis celebrates the baroque works of Peter Paul Ruebens and the Plantin Moretus Museum is the home of printer and bookbinder Christoffel Plantin. Architectural wonders await with the 1351 construction the gothic Cathedral of Our Lady, and the majestic combination of baroque and Gothic architecture of the Saint Paul’s Church.

3. Ghent [SEE MAP]

Belgium’s best kept secret, Ghent is a city of history. During the Middle Ages, it was one of the richest and most powerful cities in Europe. It was once considered the second largest city north of the alps, after Paris. The impact of this rich past can be clearly seen when viewing the imposing architecture of churches and the houses of rich traders. The whole of the city center is restored in this fashion, and still breathes the atmosphere of a thriving late-medieval city state. This is particularly so along the scenic old Graslei harbour, and grand medieval cathedrals and the Gravensteen castle.

2. Brussels [SEE MAP]

Known for its diversity of sites and places of interest, Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and is likely where visitors will begin their sightseeing. As the headquarters of many European institutions, Brussels might also be considered something of a capital for the European Union.

Most notably, the Grand Place is the city’s center and was established in the 13th century. Terrace cafes and pubs are plentiful around this central square, as are other sites of interest such as the stunning Gothic style Town Hall. Shopping is plentiful amid the Galeries St. Hubert, a centrally located glass-roof arcade filled with shops, cafes, and theaters.

1. Bruges [SEE MAP]

Located in northwestern Belgium, Bruges is one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval towns, boasting an old world charm and romantic atmosphere. Once an important center for Flemish art and textiles, Bruges today is best known for its beautiful canals.

Bruges may be the largest city in the West Flanders province, but it is still small enough to explore by walking. The main attraction in Bruges is the postcard-perfect Old Town. Surrounded by picturesque canals and medieval walls, the historic district is teeming in beautiful old architecture including Romanesque and Gothic churches like the Church of Our Lady that houses a Michelangelo sculpture, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which claims to possess a vial of blood from Jesus Christ.

The city’s most famous landmark is the Markt Square belfry. Visitors can climb this 13th-century bell tower to admire spectacular views of the city. Other sites not to miss include the spectacular Gruuthuse Mansion, and the impressive Saint John’s Hospital, which was built in 1188.

Must-do activities in Bruges include visiting the museums, which exhibit the city’s culture, traditions and art works by famous Flemish artists. Strolls down cobblestone streets offer dozens of shops selling delicious chocolates, Belgian beer and traditional lacework. Scenic canal cruises are readily available, while horse-drawn carriage rides present romantic experiences.

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Belgium Itinerary: How to See the Best of Belgium in 3 or 4 Days

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 27, 2023

Visiting Belgium for the first time and are not sure where to start with planning your trip? Then this post is for you. In this article, we feature a suggested Belgium itinerary that brings you to the most beautiful places in Belgium in three or four days . Read on!

Our tiny country is squeezed in between the top-tourist destinations like London , Amsterdam , or Paris and is therefore often overlooked. But Belgium has a lot to offer to any type of traveler!

Since I know that many people don’t have a lot of time to explore Belgium deeper, here are my very best recommendations for a short first trip to Belgium .

Even if you are visiting Belgium for just one or two days, you will be able to plan your trip using our tips below. But if you have the time, I recommend spending at least 3 or 4 days in Belgium .

My recommended three day Belgium itinerary includes the capital city Brussels and the most beautiful towns of Flanders – Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges.

If you have four days in Belgium I also strongly recommend visiting one of the historic war sites in Belgium – either Ypres and WWI battlefields or Bastogne and its WWII museums and monuments.

TIP: The distances in Belgium are not big and there are good railway connections between all major towns. Therefore you can base yourself in any city and make day trips from there – that way you don’t have to pack/unpack all the time. But you can, of course, stay in a different town every day as well. Find out!

Good to know: Since most of the main highlights of Belgium are towns, you can visit Belgium in any season. 

Recommended Belgium itinerary:

Day 1: Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and a city every tourist has to see at least once. In my opinion, one day is plenty of time in order to see the main highlights of Brussels. If you want to visit museums (Musical Instruments Museum is my favorite and there are so many more) and less centrally located areas you will, of course, need more time.

Here is my suggested itinerary for Brussels in one day:

In the morning, take a walk in the town center and don’t miss the following places:

• Grand Place and the Town Hall. The central square of Brussels is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful town squares in the world. Surrounded by the decorative 17the century guild houses, the impressive City Hall and the Maison du Roi (now the Brussels City Museum) it’s a place not to be missed. My favorite time to go is in the evening when the crowds are smaller and the buildings are nicely lit.
• Manneken Pis.  According to one of the legends, the little peeing boy saved the city from the fire and is the ultimate symbol of Brussels. The iconic bronze statue will surprise you with its small size. Depending on the day you visit, you might see him naked or dressed. Manneken Pis has over 1000 costumes for all kinds of different occasions. Here you can read the real story of Manneken-Pis and how he became so popular.
• Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert . The 19th-century pedestrian gallery with numerous boutiques and restaurants is not to be missed.
• St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral . Finished at the beginning of the 16th century, the impressive Gothic cathedral took over 300 years to build. It is here that all significant Belgian monarchy’s celebrations take place: coronations, weddings, and state funerals.
• Royal Palace of Brussels.  The official palace of the Belgian King in the center of Brussels is used for all kinds of official events and can be visited from the end of July till the beginning of September. The Royal family itself lives in the Castle of Laeken, on the outskirts of Brussels.
• Mont des Arts. This ‘hill of the arts’ is a nice garden overlooking the Sablon area and the City Hall of Brussels.
• Brussels Stock Exchange . Impressive architecture.

In the afternoon take a metro to the Heysel area and visit   Atomium . If you have an hour to spare, you may want to visit Mini Europe  as well. It’s one of the nicest family-friendly attractions in Brussels. Combination tickets are available for both attractions.

In the evening head back to the city center of Brussels, see the nicely lit Grand Place, and check out the famous dining area –  Rue des Bouchers. I don’t advise dining here as the restaurants are real tourist traps, but this street has such a unique atmosphere that no visit to Brussels would be complete without passing by here.

A bit hidden out of sight, the ‘sister’ of the Manneken Pis – Jeanneke Pis can be found in a small alley next to the Rue des Bouchers.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Brussels

Some practical tips for visiting Brussels:

• Brussels is a good base for exploring Belgium. There are direct train connections to all the major towns.
• Where to eat. Like in many cities, there are many good restaurants in Brussels, but there are real tourist traps as well. One of our favorites for traditional Belgian food in the center of Brussels is ‘t Kelderke located right on Grand Place. Despite its central location, this restaurant managed to maintain high-quality standards for many years. Recently we discovered a really nice Italian restaurant – Spago that I would also recommend.
• Safety. Brussels is a rather safe city, but – as in any other big city – there are some areas to avoid and simple safety tips to follow. For more information, please check our guide – is Brussels safe?
• Where to stay. If you decide to use Brussels as your base for exploring Belgium, I would advise staying close to the Central Station (e.g. Hilton Grand Place ) – from there you can easily get to the airport and to the other towns. Here you can read our complete guide to the best places to stay in Brussels and here you can find the top 10 of the most popular hotels in Brussels center .

READ ALSO: Brussels Christmas Market & Brussels Flower Carpet

Day 2: Antwerp

Antwerp is my personal favorite Belgian town. It’s not as big as Brussels, not as touristic as Bruges or Ghent, and therefore has a more authentic feeling. I strongly suggest that you spend the whole day in Antwerp.

Since we live nearby, I have quite a few more detailed blog posts highlighting the  best things to do in Antwerp with kids ,  exploring Antwerp by bike , etc.

Below are my suggestions for the main places you have to see in Antwerp.  Below, you can find a link to our more detailed guide to the best things to do in Antwerp, including a suggested city walk with the map.

• Central Station
• Antwerp Zoo
• Rubens House
• Groenplaats
• Cathedral of Our Lady
• Grote Markt
• Steen Castle
• MAS rooftop terrace
• The New Port House
• Starline Museum

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Antwerp & Antwerp Hidden Gems

Some practical tips for visiting Antwerp:

• Antwerp is very well located and has excellent connections to Brussels Airport and Brussels city center (35-40 min), but also to Ghent (50 min) and Bruges (1h30).
• In my view, Antwerp is as good a place to base yourself for exploring Belgium as Brussels. Depending on when you visit, it’s likely that it will be somewhat cheaper to stay in Antwerp than in Brussels. Here you can find accommodation in Antwerp .

Day 3: Ghent and Bruges

While some people choose to spend the whole day in each Ghent and Bruges, you can see the very best these cities have to offer in just half a day as well. So if you are short on time, you can visit Ghent and Bruges on the same day. The train between the two towns only takes 35 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take an organized day trip from Brussels  – they will take you to the most beautiful spots of these two must-see Flemish towns.

I suggest that you go to Ghent first (you’ll see why later). The Dampoort Railway Station is the one closest to the old historic town center.

Here are the main places not to be missed in Ghent:

• Gravensteen. The 10th-century castle is worth a short visit.
• Leie river. Take a walk along Graslei and Korenlei and past  St Michael’s Bridge.  A great way to explore Ghent is by taking a short boat trip.
• Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral . Inside you can opt to visit the famous  Ghent Altarpiece , aka the Mystic Lamb painting.
• Belfry and Cloth Hall and St. Nicholas Church are also worth a short visit.

Have lunch in Ghent, then head back to the Dampoort Railway Station and take a train to Bruges.

I always advise visiting Bruges toward the evening because it’s crowded with tourists during the day. Bruges is a fairytale-like place, but it’s difficult to truly appreciate it if you have to squeeze your way through the crowds.

However, only a very small percentage of tourists actually stay in Bruges, so in the evening the city is completely deserted, and you can have the whole place to yourselves. 

If you come by train, plan to stay late in the evening and explore the beautiful canals after all the day tourists have left. It’s my very best tip for anyone visiting Bruges for the first time.

Here are the main things to do in Bruges for first-time visitors:

• Lake of Love – Minnewater .
• The old beguinage Ten Wijngaerde.
• Belfort of Bruges – you can climb this medieval tower for beautiful views.
• Market Place – the central town square of Bruges.
• Burg Square is really beautiful too. Take a narrow passageway left from the City Hall towards the Vismarkt (Fish Market), then go right (South) and follow the canals in the direction of the Church of Our Lady .
• A real must-do in Bruges is a boat ride on the canals .
• If you have some time left, you could visit one of the breweries – De Halve Maan Brewery or Bourgogne des Flanders Brewery .

Have dinner in one of the many restaurants in Bruges and head back to the canals. As I said, it’s a very different atmosphere in the evening.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Bruges

TIP: if you are planning to visit the WWI battlefields (see below), then it’s best to stay in Bruges to avoid driving up and down too much.

Day 4: World War I Battlefields near Ypres

To some people, WWI battlefields are the main reason to visit Belgium. But the majority of tourists never even consider it…

I have to admit that it took us many years to get there (and we live in Belgium), but it was so worth it! There is so much history in those war cemeteries, fields, and trenches! 

We now visited Ypres and the WWI battlefields several times, with our kids, and it’s an experience I would recommend to everyone. Below, you can find a link to a detailed guide for your visit.

Here are the main places not to miss when visiting the WWI battlefields:

• Ypres: In Flanders Fields Museum and the Menin Gate
• Tyne Cot Cemetery and Memorial
• Langemark German War Cemetery
• Yser Tower – IJzertoren Diksmuide
• Trench of Death, Diksmuide
• Essex Farm Cemetery
• Vladslo German War Cemetery

LEARN MORE: Ypres and the WWI Battlefields

Some practical tips for visiting the WWI battlefields:

• You will need a car to get there, or you can join an organized day tour from Bruges .

TIP: If you are interested in the history of the Second World War, you may want to visit Bastogne town in the French-speaking part of Belgium.

LEARN MORE: Bastogne War Museum & Mardasson Memorial

If you only have three or four days in Belgium, then this itinerary is all you need. If you have more time and are looking for ideas on what else to see, check our other blog posts about Belgium for more inspiration.

You could also consider visiting the French-speaking part of Belgium with beautiful places like Namur, Dinant , Durbuy, etc. Luxembourg is also just a 2,5 hours drive from Brussels and there are lots of beautiful places to visit near Luxembourg .

Winter TIP: If you are visiting Belgium in winter , don’t miss our Christmas markets. Here you can find our selection of the best Christmas markets in Belgium .

Summer TIP for families: If you are visiting Belgium with kids, take them to a theme park. Here you can read about our recommended Belgian theme parks .

Belgium FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions that our readers ask about visiting Belgium:

As a minimum, we recommend 3-4 days in Belgium. With 3 days, you can briefly visit the most beautiful cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. If you have 4 days, you can also visit some of the famous Belgian war sites.

Belgium is a year round destination and because most landmarks are located in the cities, you can visit at any time of the year. For the best weather, come between April and September. In summer, Belgium hosts lots of festivals and events. From mid-November until January, you can visit Belgian Christmas markets.

Belgium is a small country and it’s possible to stay in one place and see everything. For that, Brussels is probably the best place to stay. Alternatively, Antwerp or Ghent are also well located for exploring the main cities in Belgium. If you decide to stay in Brussels, we recommend staying close to the Central Station. That way, you can easily make day trips to other destinations in Belgium.

Yes, Belgium is absolutely worth visiting! There is so much history, stunning architecture, and arts. Also Belgian food is worth a trip in itself.

The main highlights of Belgium are its cities. Don’t miss Brussels, the canals of Bruges, Antwerp city center, and charming Ghent. If you are interested in war history, Belgium has some interesting war sites, especially around Ypres and Bastogne.

Belgium has a reputation for being a rainy country. However, in recent years, we often have very long periods with no rain at all. While there is always a chance that it will rain in Belgium, you can also have the most beautiful sunny weather during the entire trip. In principle, the driest months in Belgium are between April and September.

READ ALSO: Fun & Interesting Facts About Belgium

More tips for visiting Benelux:

• Brussels in summer: Brussels Flower Carpet
• Belgium in winter: What It’s Like to Travel in Belgium in Winter & Brussels Christmas Market & Antwerp Christmas Market & Bruges Christmas Market
• Antwerp: Best Things to Do in Antwerp & Hidden Gems of Antwerp
• Amsterdam: Best Things to Do in Amsterdam & 1 Day in Amsterdam & 2 Days in Amsterdam
• Netherlands: Best Day Trips in the Netherlands & Best Tulip Fields in the Netherlands
• Luxembourg: Best Day Trips from Luxembourg

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Joan Williams

Saturday 27th of April 2024

I saved your article for years (due to Covid). We were finally in Belgium this past week. I found your suggestions extremely helpful. We had dinner at Spago and it was very good. We toured Brussels and went to Bruges and Ghent in one day. We skipped Antwerp and went to Leuven instead. A local we met on the train suggested it. The people are very friendly and helpful. Thanks for a very helpful article.

Monday 29th of April 2024

Glad to hear that you enjoyed the trip, Joan, but it's a pity you missed Antwerp. Next time ;).

Priyank Malhotra

Friday 25th of August 2023

Hi, we are planning to come in end of February next year to Belgium for 3 days, can you advise if it rains a lot in February so that we can pack our clothes accordingly, we will be traveling with our 2 years old kid. And is it advisable to travel in February. Loved your blog but didn't see lot of festival and activities in February. Also in the cities, from one place to another do you advise to walk or use public transport. Planning to stay in Brussels and doing day trips to Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, hoping that won't be too tiring with the kid. Thank you!

Hi Priyank, if there is one thing you can't predict is the weather in Belgium (in any season). February is usually quite cold and rainy (can snow too), but we have had some amazing warm weather in February too. You really never know, but you can check the weather forecast a few days before you travel and you'll get a better idea of what to expect. As for whether it's advisable to travel to Belgium in February, it all depends on your expectations and what you want to see and do. February is the Carnival season, so there will be a lot going on. Google "Aalst Carnival" for example, and there are many other places where you can see carnival celebrations. Do some research and see if anything interests you. Most city centers are walkable, but there are lots of cobblestones. We also have good public transport if you need to cover bigger distances (trams, metros, buses, etc.). For intercity travel, take a train. With a child that age, be sure to pack a stroller (ideally with big wheels and a rain cover)! Also, you may want to plan some time visiting museums. Keep in mind that the days are rather short at that time of the year, so it gets dark early (around 6pm depending on when exactly you travel). You may also want to read this article to get a better idea of what it's like to visit Belgium in winter.

Diane Falconer

Friday 10th of March 2023

Can you suggest how we can create an itinerary that takes us from the Dinant/Durbuy area to Bruges/Ghent and on to the Netherlands (Delft, Hoorn, Giethoorn, Amsterdam)? How long should we plan on for Belgian portion? And the Dutch? We are driving. No children.

Hi Diane, unfortunately, I really have no time to help our readers with individual itinerary suggestions. There are just too many options and everything depends on your interests and the time that you have. You can spend just a few hours in most of these places, or a few days in each. You can find quite a few detailed guides for Belgian and Dutch destinations on our blog. So try to figure out what you really want to see, how much time you want to spend, and how you will travel/where you'll stay and park your car in the cities (or just outside), and then it will be easier to make an itinerary. Good luck!

Tess Lawler

Thursday 8th of December 2022

We've scheduled an upcoming Viking cruise which will end in Antwerp on 04/04/23 and I was considering your comments & like the itinerary on the 4-day Belgium tour. Maybe stay in Antwerp 2 nights; Bruges 1 night & 1 night Brussels and travel by train to see Ghent & battlefields?? Need to get to Brussels airport for exit. Any thoughts/suggestions for hotels, etc??

Monday 12th of December 2022

Hi Tess, sure, all this is doable if you want to change hotels and move around. You could also easily stay at any of these towns and visit others by train without having to take all your luggage with you. Trains go from early morning until late at night. If you want to visit the WWI battlefields, it's a bit difficult without a car, so it's best to take a tour. The best ones run from Bruges and start in the morning at the station, so it could indeed be somewhat easier if you are in Bruges already that day. Also, on your last day, depending on the flight time, you may want to stay closer to the airport or closer to the train station with a direct train to the airport. It's no big deal if your flight is later in the day, but if it's in the morning, be sure to check the train schedules so that you can easily get there on time. As for hotels, we have some suggestions under each city guide (Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges). For Brussels, we also have this guide to the best areas to stay. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Lori Maccarone

Monday 5th of December 2022

Hello! We are flying into AMS (Netherlands). Can we easily book and catch a train ticket to Brussels from the airport? If so, where? I plan to get a hotel in central station as you recommend. Should we buy a train pass so we can travel throughout Belgium over the three days on your suggested itinerary or should we just buy single ticket train rides as needed?

Hi Lori, if you don't mind taking the regular (=slower) train, then yes, you can just get the tickets on the spot and take the next train. If you prefer the faster one, book your tickets on the Thalys website in advance. I find that it's often not worth the price difference to go for the faster one (and you keep flexibility because the regular trains don't have assigned seating so it doesn't matter which one you take). But if you are in a hurry, Thalys can be worth it. In Belgium, you can just get your train tickets on the day itself or buy them on the website or via the app of Belgian Railways. Normally yes, we just get single or return tickets, but they also have all kinds of passes, seasonal tickets, passes for young people, etc. See the 'Tickets & Railcards' section on their website for more info (for some reason, I can't link directly to it). Here is a link to the ticket options for young people under 26. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Best things to do in Belgium

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updated 02.02.2023

We bet you a beer – hell, make that two – that Belgium will exceed your expectations. The country’s highlights range from the ancient and quirky to the oh-so-cool. You can bank on centuries-old castles and boisterous carnivals as well as home-grown haute couture, comic book museums and street art. To sum it all up, here's our list of the best things to do in Belgium.

• 1. Immerse yourself in Belgium's legendary beer culture

2. Enjoy the beach in Ostend

3. go kayaking and hiking in the ardennes, 4. see the famous altarpiece in st-baafskathedraal in ghent, 5. visit museés royaux des beaux arts in brussels, 6. take a walk around grand-place in brussels, 7. go to musée hergé, 8. see rubens paintings in antwerp’s cathedral, 9. take part in the carnivals, 10. explore bruges, 11. sample exquisite moules, 12. marvel at brussels’ art nouveau architecture, 13. honour the memory of those who died in the war at menin gate in flanders, 14. visit flanders fields museum, 15. study cubism and surrealism art at the musée magritte in brussels, 16. tasting famous belgian chocolate - one of the best things to do in belgium.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg , your essential guide for visiting Belgium .

Travel ideas for Belgium, created by local experts

8 days  / from 2834 USD

The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

This trip will bring you the best of two countries: the Netherlands and Belgium. From the quaint streets, canals and windmills of Holland to beer and Belgium chocolate tasting in three beautiful Belgium cities. This trip has it all.

9 days  / from 3052 USD

Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

Explore the path of the World War II Liberation Route through Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Visit important landmarks and museums on the way with this self drive itinerary, with enough time to explore cities such as Brussels and Rotterdam on the way.

10 days  / from 5668 USD

Taste of Three - Belgium, France and Switzerland

Start your journey in Belgium and explore Brussels, Ghent and Bruges. A high-speed train will then take you to Strasbourg, from where you'll discover the Alsace. Proceed to Basel as your base, from where you'll see plenty of Switzerland: Zermatt, Matterhorn, Mount Pilatus and much more.

1. Immerse yourself in Belgium's legendary beer culture

Belgium produces more beers than any other country in the world – around eight hundred and counting – making it a top destination for beer lovers looking for things to do in Belgium. There are strong, dark brews from a handful of Trappist monasteries, light wheat beers perfect for a hot summer’s day, fruity lambic beers bottled and corked like champagne, and unusual concoctions that date back to medieval times.

Any decent establishment will have a beer menu, as well as the glasses to go with them – no Belgian bar worth its salt would dare to serve a beer in anything other than its proper glass. To get the full picture of beer culture in Belgium explore our guide to the the top 20 best Belgian beers .

Tasting the variety of beers is on the top of the list of things to do in Belgium © Pennypayton/Shutterstock

Like many of the resorts along Belgium’s coast, Ostend boasts a glorious stretch of beach. From the far end of Visserskaai, there are fine coastal views with the assorted moles and docks of the harbour in one direction, Ostend’s main beach extending as far as the eye can see in the other.

On sunny summer days in Belgium, hundreds drive into town to enjoy the beach and participate in traditional seaside activities such as sandcastle building and kite flying. Soaking up the sun and swimming are also popular things to do in Belgium.

Looking for a perfect European beach holiday? Explore our guide to the 10 best beach holidays in Europe .

Where to stay in Ostend:

• Best for Art Deco design: Thermae Palace
• Best for location: C-Hotels Andromeda

Find more accommodation options to stay in Ostend

Ostend beach, Belgium © Illya Kryzhanivskyy/Shutterstock

The Ardennes’ stunning hills and valleys are perfect for a range of outdoor activities, and you don’t have to be a well-equipped expert to have a go. With access to two rivers – the wide and sluggish River Meuse and prettier River Lesse – and surrounded by steep, wooded cliffs, Dinant is the ideal base to try some sporting activities.

The Dinant tourist office sells the Carte Dinant, which shows nineteen signposted walks in the Dinant area, as well as two mountain-biking routes of 23km and 32km respectively. If you’re short on time, take a 20-minute walk north along the west bank of the Meuse to the medieval village of Bouvignes.

Kayaking on the River Lesse, which is wilder and prettier than the River Meuse, is a popular activity available from April to September in Belgium and is definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Belgium.

Frahan village in Ardennes, Belgium © trabantos/Shutterstock

Ghent’s centre is a joy to discover, and its cathedral is home to Jan van Eyck’s Adoration of the Mystic Lamb – one of the medieval world’s most astonishing paintings. The third church on this site, and 250 years in the making, the cathedral is a tad lop-sided, but there’s no gainsaying the imposing beauty of the west tower, with its long, elegant windows and perky corner turrets.

In a small chapel to the left of the cathedral entrance is Ghent’s greatest treasure, a winged altarpiece known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (De Aanbidding van het Lam Gods). This is a seminal work of the early 1430s, though of dubious provenance.

Where to stay in Ghent:

• Best for B&B: B&B Achilles
• Best for service: Van der Valk Hotel Gent

Find more accommodation options to stay in Ghent

Saint Bavons Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium © Alfiya Safuanova/Shutterstock

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You’d have to go an awfully long way to beat Belgium’s best art museum, with superb collections ranging from Jan van Eyck, Bosch and Bruegel to Ensor and beyond. On the edge of Place Royale, the Musées Royaux des Beaux Arts holds Belgium’s best all-round collection of fine art. This is a vast hoard that is exhibited in three interconnected museums:

• the Musée Old Masters, with art from the Renaissance to the early nineteenth century;
• the Musée Magritte, devoted solely to the work of the Belgian surrealist;
• and the Musée Fin-de-Siècle which covers art from the mid-nineteenth to the early twentieth century.

The museums also host a prestigious programme of temporary exhibitions for which a supplementary admission fee is usually required. Visiting Museés Royaux is among the essential things to do in Belgium for anyone who is interested in arts.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts, which features many drawings, paintings and sculptures, Brussels, Belgium © Shutterstock

The obvious place to begin any tour of Brussels is the Grand-Place, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, which sits at the centre of the Lower Town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Of the square’s medieval buildings, however, only parts of the Hôtel de Ville and one or two guild houses have survived, the consequence of an early example of the precepts of total war.

Each guild house has a name, usually derived from one of the statues, symbols or architectural quirks decorating its facade. Inevitably, such an outstanding attraction draws tourists in their droves. That said, there’s no better place to get a taste of Brussels’ past and Eurocapital present.

This tailor-made trip to the Netherlands and Belgium will bring you the best of two countries. From the quaint streets, canals and windmills of Holland to beer and Belgium chocolate tasting in three beautiful Belgium cities.

Where to stay in Brussels:

• Best for modern stays: nhow Brussels Bloom
• Best for retro vibes: The Scott Hotel Brussels

Find more accommodation options to stay in Brussels

Grand Place in Brussels © Galina Savina/Shutterstock

Everyone knows Tintin. This museum is an appropriately thoughtful homage to his creator, housed in a magnificent purpose-built structure. The brainchild of Hergé’s second wife, Fanny Rodwell, the museum concentrates on his life and work. However, his most celebrated creation inevitably grabs the attention.

The Rough Guides to Belgium and related travel guides

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A couple of rooms take you through Hergé’s “dreary but happy” childhood, his early cartoon creations and work in advertising and design. While later ones examine the inception of the Tintin stories in detail. Here there are displays on each of the principal characters as well as Hergé’s influences in creating them – travel, science and cinema among them.

Herge Museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Belgian cartoonist Georges Remi, creator of Tintin © Shutterstock

One of the most beautiful Gothic structures in Belgium, the interior of which is graced by four fine paintings by Rubens, is definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Belgium. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Mary and is the seat of the Archbishop of Antwerp. It is known for its towering spires, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows.

The cathedral is home to a number of important artworks, including paintings by Peter Paul Rubens, who was a member of the cathedral's choir and is buried in the cathedral.

Visitors to Antwerp's Cathedral can explore the interior of the cathedral, including the nave, the chapels, and the choir. The cathedral is open to the public and offers guided tours and other educational programs. Antwerp's Cathedral is a must-see destination for anyone interested in architecture and history.

Where to stay in Antwerp:

• Best for location: Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt
• Best for budget: Citybox Antwerp

Find more accommodation options to stay in Antwerp

Cathedral in Antwerp © Pigprox/Shutterstock

Belgium’s annual carnivals, which are held in February and early March, are a must-see event for anyone looking for unique and exciting things to do in Belgium. These carnivals are known for their originality, colour, and boisterous atmosphere. One of the most renowned is held in February at Binche, in Hainaut, when there’s a procession involving some 1500 extravagantly dressed dancers called Gilles.

There are also carnivals in Ostend and Aalst, and in Eupen. The action lasts over the weekend before Shrove Tuesday and culminates with Rosenmontag on Monday. This is a pageant of costumed groups and floats parading through the town centre. Most remarkable is Stavelot’s carnival, where the streets are overtaken by so-called Blancs Moussis, townsfolk clothed in white hooded costumes and equipped with long red noses.

Carnivals often reflect people's cultural heritage, read our guide to Europe's 10 best alternative carnivals and perhaps you will be inspired to visit at least one of them.

Binche carnival © Alexander Narraina/Shutterstock

Bruges, with its canals, museums, and gorgeous medieval architecture, is without question one of Europe’s most beguiling cities and a must-see destination for anyone looking for things to do in Belgium. The obvious place to start an exploration of the city is the two principal squares: the Markt, overlooked by the mighty belfry, and the Burg, flanked by the city’s most impressive architectural ensemble.

Almost within shouting distance are the three main museums, the pick of them being the Groeninge, which offers a wonderful sample of early Flemish art. Another short hop brings you to St-Janshospitaal and the important paintings of the fifteenth-century artist Hans Memling, as well as Bruges’ most impressive churches, the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk and St-Salvatorskathedraal.

Explore one of Europe's most intact medieval cities - Bruges, the Venice of the North on this Bruges & Ghent Full-Day Trip . Marvel at the ornate City Hall and the stunning market square in Ghent. Taste the famous Belgian chocolates, the national dish of Moules Frites and beer.

Where to stay in Bruges:

• Best for families: Grand Hotel Normandy
• Best for comfort: Hotel Ter Brughe

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bruges

Bruges © thesixthfloor89/Shutterstock

Belgian cuisine is second to none but has none of the pretentiousness of French food. The national dish — mussels and fries — proves the point. Mussels (moules/mosselen) are cooked in a variety of ways and served with chips. It is a national favourite at lunch or dinner – indeed it’s effectively Belgium’s national dish.

Traditionally, mussels are only served in season – i.e. when there is an “r” in the month (September to April). They are best eaten the time-honoured way, served in a vast pot with chips and mayonnaise on the side. They are served typically either à la marinière (steamed with white wine, shallots and parsley or celery), or à la crème (steamed with the same ingredients but thickened with cream and flour).

Moules © NeydtStock/Shutterstock

The capital’s middle class took to this style of architecture like ducks to water. Victor Horta and Paul Hankar are the names to conjure with. Some of the best-known Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels include the Atomium, the Cauchie House, and the Horta Museum. The Atomium is a futuristic-looking building that was built for the 1958 World's Fair and is now a popular tourist attraction.

The Cauchie House is a private residence that is known for its colourful and elaborate Art Nouveau decorations. The Horta Museum is a museum dedicated to the work of the Belgian Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta and is housed in his former residence.

Learn about the origins and the development of the Art Nouveau architectural style in Brussels on a 3-hour guided tour . Travel to the Bailli district to see several of the most important Art Nouveau houses in the city. Finish at the Victor Horta Museum.

Art Nouveau building © E. Pals/Shutterstock

World War I was decided on the plain of Flanders , a point hammered home by the interminable names on the hulking mass of the Menin Gate in Ieper . East of the Grote Markt, the massive Menin Gate war memorial was built on the site of the old Menenpoort, which served as the main route for British soldiers heading for the front.

It’s a simple, brooding monument, towering over the edge of the town, its walls covered with the names of those fifty thousand British and Empire troops who died in the Ypres Salient but have no grave. Volunteers from the local fire brigade sound the Last Post beneath the gate each and every evening at 8 pm.

Menin Gate Memorial to the Missing in Ypres, West Flanders, Belgium © Shutterstock

The outstanding In Flanders Fields Museum focuses on the experiences of those caught up in the war rather than the ebb and flow of the military campaigns, though these are sketched in too. At the start, there is an excellent introduction to the origins of the war, followed by a detailed section on the German invasion of Belgium in 1914, describing the damage the invaders inflicted and the atrocities they committed.

Thereafter, the museum outlines the creation of the Ypres Salient and the gruesome nature of trench warfare with discrete subsections on, for example, the evolution of mortars, the use of gas and tunnelling.

Explore the path of the World War II Liberation Route with this tailor-made trip through Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands . Visit important landmarks and museums on the way with this self drive itinerary, with enough time to explore cities such as Brussels and Rotterdam on the way.

The preserved trenches at Hill 62 Sanctuary Wood on the Western Front near Ypres, Belgium © Shutterstock

One of the unmissable things to do in Belgium is to visit the Musée Magritte. It displays the definitive collection of works by Belgium’s most famous modern artist. Musée Magritte's four floors are devoted to the life, times and work of René Magritte. Beginning on the top floor, the museum trawls through Magritte’s life chronologically, with original documents, old photos and snatches of film.

There is an early sketch of his wife Georgette, early Cubist efforts and the later surrealist works he became best known for – often perplexing pieces, whose weird, almost photographically realized images and bizarre juxtapositions aim to disconcert. There are posters by Magritte, too advertising drinks, films and commercial products, as well as a selection of the more Impressionistic works he produced in the 1940s.

Magritte Museum from the Rue Montagne de la cour, Brussels © Shutterstock

The Belgians picked up their love of chocolate via the most circuitous of historical routes. The Aztecs of Mexico were drinking chocolate when Hernando Cortéz’s Spanish conquistadors turned up in 1519. Cortéz took a liking to the stuff and brought cocoa beans back to Spain as a novelty gift for Emperor Charles V in 1528.

Within a few years, its consumption had spread across Charles’s empire, including today’s Belgium and Luxembourg. At first the making of chocolate was confined to a few Spanish monasteries. However, eventually, Belgians got in on the act and they now produce what are generally regarded as the world’s finest chocolates.

Even the smallest town will have at least one chocolate shop. Although some brands are everywhere – Leonidas, Godiva and Neuhaus are three big players. Try to seek out independent producers such as Wittamer or Pierre Marcolini in Brussels or The Chocolate Line in Bruges, as their chocolates are usually that bit better.

Discover Belgian chocolate and learn how to make these tasty treats with this Belgian Chocolate Workshop . Enjoy a workshop with the guidance of a chocolatier and make chocolates yourself.

Belgian pralines © Shutterstock

If you are looking for inspiration and new ideas for your European holiday, read our guide to the 20 best places to visit in Europe on a budget .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the Belgium without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Ready for a trip to Belgium ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg or Pocket Rough Guide Bruges . If you travel further in Belgium, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Belgium. For inspiration use the itineraries from our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © Sira Anamwong/Shutterstock

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17 Pretty Day Trips From Luxembourg City

If you are looking for inspirational Day Trips From Luxembourg, you’ve landed on the right page. These beautiful 17 locations are all easily reachable for a day trip from Luxembourg City, whether by car road trip or train journey. This post covers day trips from Luxembourg to Belgium, France, Germany and the Netherlands!

It all depends on how far you would wish to travel for a day trip, with the places listed below ranging from 1 hour to the maximum of 4 hours (depending on public transportation vs car travel). Some are better by car as well, simply based on the changes you may need to make by train etc. But don’t let that put you off, as they are all worth your time for an amazing day out.

*Post Updated September 2023*

We use affiliates on our website, so if you click through one of the links you will find yourself on the correct website, however there will be added information that links back to us. If you book through one of our links, we can make a small percentage from using the affiliate. It is at  no extra cost  for you, which is great!

17 Day Trips From Luxembourg City

Distance: 202 km

With just a short 2 hour 10 minute car trip from the city center of Luxembourg, you can be in the city center of Maastricht in the Netherlands . Maastricht is situated just across the border and the capital city of the province of Limburg.

The pretty Dutch city is perfect for a day trip for shopping along the cute cobblestone streets. There are lots of high end shops to local boutiques to explore. The main shopping area is on the left of the river Maas, but you can also find some great places on the right hand side too – all within walkable distance with the bridges.

Once you get hungry, there are restaurants everywhere, allowing you to eat whatever you fancy! For a delicious coffee to keep you going, head to Wij Maken Koffee and enjoy a freshly baked treat too. If you are a lover of books, head to the Dominicanen book shop to find a treasure inside this converted church.

Else if you want to explore more of the history of Maastricht, there are numerous tours you can join. Whether you prefer a walking tour in the city center (around the 13th century walls and ruins) to getting deep in the underground caves at Sint Pieter. You can also explore by bike, renting bikes from the train station or with a bike tour of the city.

P.s Maastricht is the only Dutch location in this list of day trips From Luxembourg since it’s located right in the South of the Netherlands! There are lots to do surrounding Maastricht too!

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Maastricht:

• Hotel Beaumont : Hotel Beaumont offers stylish and contemporary accommodations in the heart of Maastricht, with a cozy lounge and a renowned restaurant serving local cuisine.
• The Dutch Maastricht : Located along the Maas River, The Dutch Maastricht boasts modern rooms with river views and is just a short walk from the city’s historic landmarks.
• Kruisherenhotel Maastricht : Housed in a former monastery, Kruisherenhotel blends historic charm with luxury amenities, offering a unique and elegant stay in the city center.
• Hotel Bigarré Maastricht Centrum : Situated near the Vrijthof Square, Hotel Bigarré offers comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for exploring Maastricht’s cultural attractions.

Distance: 135 km

Just a short hour and a half drive from Luxembourg City and you can find yourself in a small but pretty location of Monschau . This gorgeous valley location is just across the border in Germany and the perfect destination for a day trip. Think timbered houses, cobblestone streets and cosy decorated terraces to get an idea!

Monschau has a gorgeous river flowing through, allowing you to sit at one of the many cafes and restaurants and enjoy the surroundings with the water relaxingly streaming past. For exploring, Monschau has many things on offer for all ages – from the gorgeous panoramic walk above, the World War One Monschau Castle and the Museum Rotes Haus. Monschau is also not that far away from Vogelsang Former Nazi Military Training Camp, which is a place you can now visit and learn more about the local history.

Since it’s Germany, find yourself stopping for a delicious schnitzel and beer for a lunch time treat. If you want to try more beer after that, head to the Felsenkeller Brauhaus where they have over 1000 bottles of beer in the brewery room for you to learn more about.

You can also do some local shopping, such as stopping at the Mustard Mill where they make and sell 22 different types of mustard. There are also some local boutiques selling clothes, jewellery and gifts.

This is an idyllic place on this list of day trips From Luxembourg and well worth your day!

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Monschau:

• Hotel Horchem : Nestled in the picturesque town of Monschau, Hotel Horchem offers cozy rooms, a charming garden terrace, and easy access to the town’s historic center.
• ACHAT Hotel Monschau : This hotel provides a tranquil retreat in the Eifel region, featuring a spa, indoor pool, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
• Hotel Alt Montjoie : Located in a historic half-timbered building, Hotel Alt Montjoie offers a rustic and inviting atmosphere, with comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving regional dishes.
• Hotel Graf Rolshausen : Situated in the heart of Monschau’s old town, Hotel Graf Rolshausen offers a traditional and charming stay, with well-appointed rooms and a welcoming ambiance.

Distance: 250 km

Located along the Rhine River,  Cologne and Dusseldorf  is a pair of popular twin travel destinations in the Rhine-Ruhr area that combines the best of the old and the new. Cologne celebrates over 2,000 years of rich history with an abundance of heritage sites, museums, and landmarks. The city also shares the passion for food with an exciting variety of dining places and the highest number of pubs per head in Germany.    

Amongst the many Romanesque and Gothic churches are scattered in Cologne’s old town , the majestic Cologne Cathedral dominates the city’s skyline; It is the most visited attraction in Cologne. The cathedral actually still holds the world’s record for being the tallest twin-spired church, standing 157 meters tall.   

Cologne is an easy day trip from Luxembourg. In the morning, explore one of the many museums in the city center that excites you, such as Kolumba Museum for church ruins, Ludwig Museum for contemporary art, Romano-Germanic Museum for ancient artifacts, or Wallraf-Richartz Museum for classical art and history; Then, check out the city’s architecture like Saint Maria im Kapitol and Groß Saint Martin; Don’t forget to explore the Belgian Quarter, the trendiest neighborhood with lots of galleries, cafes, theatres, boutiques, and more. No trip to Cologne is complete without buying a bottle of Cologne, a perfume originated in exactly this city, and it’s a perfect souvenir and gift.  

Cologne is about 250 kilometers away from Luxembourg which take about two and a half hour to drive there. There are a number of trains connecting the two cities daily and the journey takes about four hours.   

Written by Kenny from Knycx Journeying   

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Cologne:

• Hyatt Regency Cologne : Overlooking the Rhine River, the Hyatt Regency Cologne offers luxurious accommodations, stunning views of the city’s cathedral, and an array of upscale amenities for a memorable stay.
• Excelsior Hotel Ernst : This historic hotel, located directly across from Cologne Cathedral, combines timeless elegance with modern comforts, providing guests with a quintessential Cologne experience.
• art’otel cologne : Set in the vibrant city center, art’otel Cologne showcases contemporary art throughout the hotel, along with comfortable rooms and a stylish rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the city.
• Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln : Situated near the Old Town, the Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln offers spacious rooms, a spa, and easy access to Cologne’s major attractions, making it a convenient choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Distance: 220 km

If you have a car, then it’s possible to take a day trip to Brussels from Luxembourg City. The 220km journey will take just over 2 hours with light traffic, but with so many great things to do in Brussels , it’s well worth the effort.

Any visit to Brussels should include a trip to the Grand Place, Brussels’ central, historic square. The grand buildings around the square were built by the city’s trade guilds. It’s been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.

The area around the Grand Place has an unusual walking route to discover; the Comic Book Route. Brussels has taken street art to another level with comic book-inspired pieces of public art on buildings around the city centre. If you want to find out more about Brussels’ reputation as a centre for comic book creativity, visit the Belgian Comic Strip Centre, a museum dedicated to the art form.

Brussels is the unofficial “capital” of Europe and has many European Union buildings, some of which you can visit, including the European Parliament building.

If you love chips, chocolate, waffles and beer, you’ll be in heaven in Brussels . The city is famous for all four, and it’d be rude not to sample the local specialities. A couple of Brussels’ breweries are open for tours; the Cantillon Brewery is over 100 years old and brews beer in the traditional style, while the Brussels Beer Project is an inventive, crowdfunded brewery with an emphasis on co-creation.

Written by Helen from Helen On Her Holidays

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Brussels:

• Hotel Amigo : Located near the Grand Place, Hotel Amigo offers elegant rooms, exceptional service, and a central location that allows guests to explore Brussels’ historic and cultural treasures.
• The Dominican : Situated in the heart of Brussels, The Dominican blends modern design with historic architecture, providing guests with a stylish and comfortable base for city exploration.
• Steigenberger Wiltcher’s : This luxurious hotel on Avenue Louise boasts spacious rooms, gourmet dining options, and a spa, making it a top choice for those seeking a lavish stay in Brussels.
• MEININGER Hotel Brussels City Center : Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, MEININGER Hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodations within walking distance of the city’s main attractions, including the European Quarter.

Distance: 281 km

Ghent is a lovely city located in Belgium. You can get there from Luxembourg by train and it takes about 1 hour and costs roughly £20 in total for a return ticket. You can also get there by car but this would take almost 3 hours.

There are loads of things you can do once you arrive there, such as visit the many castles, architecture and stunning views. One castle you can visit is the Gravensteen Castle, which is a medieval castle that dates back to 1180. This castle is now a museum and a major city landmark after its restoration in 1893-1903 and it is absolutely gorgeous. It is located only an 8 minute walk North of the centre of Ghent, (or a two-minute drive).

Another activity you can do in Ghent is climb to the top of Ghent Belfry, which is a World Heritage Site and a medieval tower that overlooks the City. It is located just East of the Centre of Ghent and takes only 7 minutes to walk there making it another place that is very easy to get to. Don’t drive to this tower from the centre, as this will actually take longer. To complete the day, take a trip to Korenmarkt and experience some delicious food and Belgium waffles.

Written by Alice from Adventures of Alice

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Ghent:

• 1898 The Post : Housed in a historic post office building, 1898 The Post offers boutique-style accommodations with a blend of contemporary design and original architectural features, all within walking distance of Ghent’s landmarks.
• Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent : This upscale hotel in the heart of Ghent combines classic charm with modern luxury, featuring beautifully appointed rooms, a spa, and a sophisticated bar and restaurant.
• Ghent Marriott Hotel : Located along the banks of the River Lys, the Ghent Marriott Hotel provides comfortable rooms and stunning views of the city, while being conveniently close to Ghent’s historic district.

Distance: 157 km

If you’re looking to visit one of Belgium’s hidden gems on a day trip from Luxembourg City, then you should head to Namur. It’s an incredibly beautiful city that has so much to offer, yet it’s often overlooked by tourists.

Namur is located in the French side of Belgium, and it’s actually known as the capital of Wallonia. But Namur doesn’t feel like a big city because of its inhabitant’s calm and easygoing approach to everyday life. This is also seen in the city symbol, which is a snail.

There are so many great  things to do in Namur . Not only does it have some incredible old buildings you can visit counting multiple churches and a UNESCO belfry, Namur is also located right next to the Meuse- and Sambre River, which makes boat tours, kayaking, and many other water activities possible.

But the very best thing to see in Namur is the incredible citadel. Located on a hilltop between the confluence of the two rivers, this is where you’ll get the most beautiful views over Namur City.

A train leaves from Luxembourg City to Namur once every hour, which makes it easy to reach on a day trip if you dont have a car. The train ride takes approximately 2 hours and cost €21,5 for a one-way trip.

Written by Cecilie from Worldwide Walkers

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Namur:

• Château de Namur : Overlooking the city from a hilltop, Château de Namur offers a unique stay in a historic castle, complete with elegant rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and panoramic views of Namur.
• The Royal Snail Hote l : Located along the Meuse River, The Royal Snail Hotel combines modern design with comfort, offering a stylish atmosphere, a wellness center, and easy access to Namur’s attractions.
• Hotel Le 830 Namur : This contemporary hotel provides comfortable accommodations, a complimentary breakfast, and a convenient location for both business and leisure travelers exploring Namur.

Distance: 67 km

One of the best places to go on a day trip from Luxembourg is the quaint city of Metz in northern France. You can easily get there by train in under an hour and the trains run regularly throughout the day. It’s also an easy drive, and you can park in the streets outside the historical center.

That said, Metz is a great walkable city so you should pack your sustainable backpack with water and some snacks for the day. There are plenty of things to do in Metz in a day. You can see the main attractions like the cathedral, famous for its size and stained glass windows letting in a flow of light. You also want to check out Porte des Allemands, the medieval remains of a fortified gate and watch towers. Further, make sure you visit the Temple Neuf, beautifully situated on a little island in the middle of the Moselle river, connected to the mainland with old stone bridges.

For the rest of the day you should spend strolling around the historic center, have lunch at one of the cute cafes and restaurants and go for a walk at the esplanade. Metz is a lovely city full of charming small boutiques that’s perfect to visit in a day. Think about visiting Metz during Christmas , which is gorgeous for the markets and treats!

Written by Linn Haglund from Brainy Backpackers

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Metz:

• Hôtel La Citadelle Metz – MGallery : Set within a former military citadel, this boutique hotel offers luxurious rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a tranquil garden, all within walking distance of Metz’s historic center.
• Novotel Metz Centre : Conveniently located in the heart of Metz, Novotel Metz Centre provides comfortable and modern accommodations, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.
• Hôtel de la Cathédrale : With its charming, traditional façade, this hotel is situated near Metz Cathedral, offering cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere in a historic setting.

Distance: 227 km

While Luxembourg City is a beautiful place to visit you can do some amazing day trips from Luxembourg that add so much more to your vacation in Europe. One of those day trips is to Strasbourg France.

A day trip to Strasbourg from Luxembourg City will take you a little over 2.5 hours by car and it is well worth it. Strasbourg is known worldwide for its fairy tale houses, picturesque cobblestone streets and at Christmas time its world-famous market. Once you arrive, its also great to experience the city with a bike tour !

There are so many more things to do in Strasbourg  when you are there. After you have strolled the beautiful streets you can sit at one of the many restaurants in the city to have some traditional Alsacian cuisine. Tarte Flambe (Alsacian pizza) is a favourite for many and is a light meal if you don’t need something big. You can try Choucroute Garnie which is the French take on sauerkraut and it is served with a choice of pork or sausage in many places. This hearty dish will keep you going for hours! If you are looking for something on the run you can pick up a Bretzen (pretzel) from many shops. All of these must be accompanied by a glass or two of the amazing Alsace wines.

The Alsace region is also known for its gingerbread. Many of the souvenir shops will sell some Fortwenger gingerbread and it is delicious. It comes in so many different flavours you can try so many types. There are also small coconut macarons that are a great treat as you wander Strasbourg.

A visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral is a must as well as a cruise along the canals. You can see so much from the water and it gives you a different perspective of the town. You can see the European District, the Pont Couverts and Le Petite France easily if you are pressed for time.

Written by Bec from Wyld Family Travel

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Strasbourg:

• Hôtel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery : Nestled in a historic half-timbered building, this MGallery hotel offers a blend of classic charm and modern amenities, along with a central location in the heart of Strasbourg.
• Hotel Kammerzell : Overlooking Strasbourg Cathedral, Hotel Kammerzell is a historic boutique hotel known for its traditional Alsatian architecture, fine dining restaurant, and comfortable rooms.
• Hôtel Régent Petite France & Spa : Located in the picturesque La Petite France district, this luxury hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, and beautiful views of the Ill River, providing a tranquil escape in the city center.

Distance: 55 km

This small picturesque town is located in the northeast of Luxembourg. Its location, which is only 55 kilometres from the city center (about an hour’s journey), makes it a great day-trip destination for those who would like to see more of Luxembourg beyond its capital.

Highlights include the 14th-century Vianden Castle , which you can enter and explore , Victor Hugo’s house/museum, the National Museum of Military History, the Trinity Church and a local history museum.

Even if you’re not into museums, there’s still plenty you can do in this century-old town. For instance, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the river Our, discover shops and restaurants along the cobblestoned Grand Rue, or take a chairlift to the top of the hill for panoramic views. There’s also a cycle route and well-signposted walking trails in the area.

Depending on when you visit, you may be able to participate in one of Vianden’s annual events, such as the Medieval Festival in July, the Book and Paper Festival in September, and a walnut festival in October, where you can try a variety of walnut-based products including walnut cakes and walnut brandy.

To get there, take the train from Luxembourg Central Train Station to Ettelbruck and hop on bus #570 to Vianden. Keep in mind the public transportation is totally free to use in Luxembourg too!

Written by Ummi from Ummi Goes Where?

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Vianden:

• Hotel Belle-Vue : Overlooking the picturesque town of Vianden and its castle, Hotel Belle-Vue offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Hotel Petry : Located in the heart of Vianden, Hotel Petry provides cozy accommodations, a traditional tavern, and easy access to the town’s historic attractions, including Vianden Castle.
• Hotel Victor Hugo : Nestled along the Our River, Hotel Victor Hugo provides riverside views, modern rooms, and a convenient location for exploring Vianden’s medieval streets and attractions.

If you want to see more of what Luxembourg has on offer for a day trip in the country, check these:

Beautiful Luxembourg Castles That You Can Explore

Luxembourg City: A Day In The Capital

Mullterhal Trail: Hiking, Waterfalls & Forest Fun

Architecture Explorations In Kirchberg, Luxembourg

Distance: 237 km

Looking for unique day trips from Luxembourg City? The beautiful city of Mons  in Belgium is only a 2,5-hour drive away! Culture lovers should not miss out on this fascinating city, as it was declared Europe’s cultural capital in 2015. 

To be honest, the term “city” does not really fit a place like Mons, as it feels more like an open-air museum with all its amazing street art and stunning architecture. To see some of Mons’ greatest architecture, head to Mons’ Grand Place. Here you can find some of the city’s most beautiful buildings, including Mons Town Hall and its current city hall. When you are there, make sure to pet the Guardhouse Monkey for good luck.

Would you love to see more great architecture? Head to Saint Waltrude Church. Cross roads afterwards to visit Van Gogh House. This is the building where the famous Dutch painter van Gogh lived during 1879-1880.  

Learn more about Mons’ history during World War I and II at Mons Memorial Museum and combine it with a visit to St Symphorien Military Cemetery. Another museum that is definitely worth a visit when in Mons is the Doudou Museum. This museum is dedicated to the world-famous Doudou festival that is held each year over the Trinity weekend in Mons. You can also explore the city best by bike , with a small tour around while learning all about the places you visit and see.

End the day with a lovely dinner at one of Mons’ many cosy restaurants, before heading back to Luxembourg City.

Written by Stéphanie from Bey Of Travel

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Mons:

• Martin’s Dream Hotel : This boutique hotel combines contemporary design with comfort, featuring spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Mons’ historic skyline.
• Hotel Lido Mons Centre : Situated near the train station, Hotel Lido provides comfortable rooms, making it a convenient choice for travelers exploring Mons and its surrounding areas.

Distance: 321 km

In the north of Luxembourg’s neighbour, Belgium, lies the wonderful city of Bruges . With beautiful brick architecture and cobbled streets that give the city a small-town feel, visiting Bruges is like taking a step back in time and into a fairytale land. It’s easily reached in a few hours by train or car, making Bruges the perfect day trip from Luxembourg.

Spend your day in Bruges immersing in all the best that the Belgian city has to offer , namely, food! Bruges offers up some great street food specialities, like a cornet of fries from the main square, Markt, and waffles served on a stick. You can also delve even deeper into this foodie culture at the dedicated chocolate and fries museums in the city.

Visiting Bruges is also the perfect opportunity to discover the unique and culturally rich Flemish region of Belgium. There are many landmarks here that tell the story of Flanders’ prosperity throughout history, like the medieval Bruges Belfry in the main square, the Begijnhof, and the Church of Our Lady Bruges. One of the best ways to discover all of this is by booking a walking tour, so you can gain local knowledge of everything that Bruges has to offer. And of course, don’t forget to hop on a boat tour to discover Bruges’ beautiful canals from the water.

Written by Kirstie from Kirstie Will Travel

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Bruges:

• Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges : Set in a former ducal palace, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, lush gardens, and a serene atmosphere, all within walking distance of Bruges’ historic city center.
• Hotel de Orangerie : Overlooking the picturesque canal, Hotel de Orangerie provides charming accommodations with a view, a cozy lounge, and a central location for exploring Bruges’ medieval streets.
• Hotel Academie : Situated near the famous Minnewater Park, Hotel Academie provides modern rooms, a fitness center, and easy access to Bruges’ cultural attractions, including the Markt and Belfry.

Distance: 242 km

The bustling city of Frankfurt is mostly known as the European finance center and its airport is one of the most important ones worldwide. But the German city is way more than that.

First, there’s the old town with its half-timbered houses, a beloved destination for locals and tourists to enjoy a cup of coffee, do some shopping or visit one of the many great museums. It’s also the place where you’ll find the city hall (‘Römer’). This former patrician villa with its three-gabled roof is one of the most famous landmarks in Germany .

Just a few steps from the ‘Römer’ and really not to oversee is the huge St. Bartholomew Church. It’s possible to climb the Cathedral Tower via 328 steps. From the viewing platform at a height of 66 meters, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding Old Town with Römer and Paulskirche with the famous skyline in the background.

A day trip to Frankfurt is not complete without a stop at one of the most famous photo spots in the city: The Eiserner Steg bridge. This famous iron footbridge connects the city center and Römerberg with Sachsenhausen on the southern banks of the Main River and offers an excellent view of Frankfurt’s skyline.

Speaking of the skyline: Frankfurt is often called ‘Mainhattan’, due to its location at the river Main and its impressive skyscrapers that are rarely seen anywhere else in Europe! See more that you can do in Frankfurt here !

Written by Alina from World of Lina

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Frankfurt:

• Jumeirah Frankfurt : Offering a blend of modern luxury and exceptional service, Jumeirah Frankfurt boasts stylish rooms, a spa, and panoramic views of the city’s skyline from its central location.
• Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof : Situated in a historic building, this upscale hotel exudes old-world charm with elegant rooms, gourmet dining options, and a prime location near the financial district.
• Motel One Frankfurt-Römer : Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, Motel One Frankfurt-Römer provides stylish and affordable accommodations in a central location, just steps away from Römer Square and the Cathedral.
• Adina Apartment Hotel Frankfurt Neue Oper : Combining the comforts of home with hotel amenities, Adina Apartment Hotel offers spacious apartments, a fitness center, and a convenient location near the Opera House and River Main.

Distance: 265 km

Colmar is a great place to visit as one of these day trips from Luxembourg. This small city in France is located in the historic region of Alsace, not far from the German border. The distance Luxembourg – Colmar is 265 km by car, but it is a mere 2,5 hours train ride by direct, high-speed trains.

You can see lots within half a day, and I can totally recommend this half day tour for those who want to learn and see a lot in a short amount of time.

Colmar is a very walkable city, and once you leave the train station, you can visit everything on foot. The list of  things to do in Colmar is long and includes sightseeing, shopping, and local food. You will love Colmar’s cobbled streets and picturesque architecture made of half-timbered houses. Don’t miss the Petite Venice (Little Venice), an area crisscrossed by small canals. Historically this was the tanner’s neighbourhood, and their workshops are replaced today by lovely shops, small boutique hotels, and traditional restaurants (named winstubs).

Colmar also has fascinating museums like the Unterlinden Museum –  covering nearly 7,000 years of history, from the prehistoric era to 20th-century art -, the chocolate museum, or the Bartholdi Museum. The latest is dedicated to Auguste Bartholdi, a French sculptor born and raised in Colmar and author of the Statue of Liberty in New York.

From mid-November to the end of the year, don’t miss Colmar’s Christmas market but be sure you book your train tickets well in advance!

Written by Elisa from France Bucket List

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Colmar:

• Hôtel Le Colombier : Nestled in a charming half-timbered building, Hôtel Le Colombier offers cozy rooms, a tranquil courtyard, and a central location for exploring Colmar’s historic district.
• Hôtel Quatorze : This boutique hotel combines contemporary design with comfort, featuring uniquely themed rooms, a trendy bar, and easy access to the town’s picturesque canals and attractions.
• Hôtel Saint-Martin : Located in the heart of Colmar’s Old Town, Hôtel Saint-Martin provides traditional Alsatian charm with comfortable rooms and proximity to local restaurants and boutiques.
• James Boutique Hôtel : Set along the canals of Colmar, James Boutique Hôtel offers modern accommodations with a touch of elegance, a cozy lounge, and a short walk to landmarks like Little Venice and the Unterlinden Museum.

Distance: 121 km

Nancy is the capital of Meurthe-et-Moselle in Grant Est – one of the regions in France . Nancy has long been considered as one of Europe’s most attractive cities, and it remains an important centre for art, architecture and design.

Nancy achieved its highest point of fame when Stanislas Leszczynski, ex-king of Poland and father-in-law of Louis XV, became the Duke of Lorraine and Nancian ruler. He commissioned a series of construction projects that transformed the medieval town into a modern 18th-century city. the main axis: Rue Saint-Dizier, Place Stanislas and the Ville d’Hiver. Place Stanislaw is recognised as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Nancy is also known as a gastronomic destination. In addition to the museums and monuments, it is equally famous for its delicious food. Visit one of the many family-run, traditional restaurants for some hearty, regional fare.

While in Nancy you should visit the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the oldest fine arts museums in France. The museum has great collections of paintings, including works by Caravaggio, Rodin and Modigliani.

Nancy is a fantastic place from this day trips from Luxembourg post. It is easy to visit via train to Nancy’s main station Gare de Nancy-Ville with frequent departures from Luxembourg City, almost every hour during the week and a few times per day on weekends. the trip takes approx 2 hours by train and around takes only 1hour 30 minutes by car.

Written by Ania from The Travelling Twins

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Nancy:

• Hôtel de Guise : Set in a historic 16th-century building, Hôtel de Guise offers charming rooms, a cozy courtyard, and a central location near Nancy’s iconic Place Stanislas.
• Hôtel Mercure Nancy Centre Gare : This modern hotel provides comfortable accommodations, a restaurant serving regional cuisine, and proximity to both the train station and Nancy’s city center.
• Hôtel Stanislas : Located in the heart of Nancy, Hôtel Stanislas offers a combination of elegance and comfort with stylish rooms and easy access to the city’s major attractions.
• Hôtel d’Haussonville : Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion, Hôtel d’Haussonville offers boutique-style accommodations, a serene garden, and a sense of historic charm in the center of Nancy.

Distance: 47 km

Already saw all the things Luxembourg city centre has to offer and are now looking for amazing day trips? Short 50 minutes drive from the Luxembourg city you will reach a charming town on the banks of the river Saar. Saarburg was first mentioned in a document in 964 AD. It’s known for a spectacular water drop of almost 20 meters right in the city centre. The river Leuk was diverted through Saarburg in the Middle Ages in order to make a better use of the water power. At the bottom of the waterfall you can spot two mills, which nowadays host the mill museum.

In the upper city just before the waterfall you can admire brook bridges with flowers alongside the narrow rows of houses. This area is also know as Saarburg’s Little Venice. Take a walk through them to get to the largest preserved defence town, the Kunoturm, town hall on the fruit market, Pilgrimage Church of St. Marien, Parish Church of St. Laurentius, and House of Warsberg Edelhof. From there you can enjoy beautiful views of Saarburg from different angles.

The city of Saarburg also features a bell foundry, the Glockengießerei Mabilion, which was producing the bells for cathedrals all over the world until 2002.

You can find plenty of amazing restaurants around the upper part of the city or you can organise a picnic at the banks of the river with the view of the Saarburg.

Written by Tjasa from The Travel Momento

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Saarburg:

• Hotel Saarburger Hof : Located in the heart of Saarburg, Hotel Saarburger Hof offers comfortable rooms, a traditional restaurant, and easy access to the town’s famous waterfall and historic center.
• Hotel zum Schwan : Set within a historic half-timbered building, Hotel zum Schwan provides cozy and well-appointed rooms, a terrace overlooking the river, and a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Distance: 174 km

Koblenz is known as the place where the Rhine and Moselle come together. This impressive point, called the Deutsches Eck might be Koblenz most popular tourist spot. From there, you can take a cable lift up the hill across the river and have a very impressive view of the city and region. Else to take this beautiful tour that includes a boat trip!

Koblenz is a city with quite some history and during your visit to the city, you’ll encounter some pretty impressive buildings. When visiting don’t forget to take a look at the Liebfrauenkirche, the Vier Türme point, a crosspoint where you’ll see 4 historical houses on each corner, and the electoral palace, a very impressive building with a wonderful and very large garden. Plus, you can’t visit Koblenz without strolling along the waterside of the Rhine and Moselle, passing by the Deutsches Eck with the Memorial of German Unity.

From Luxembourg City, it’s only a 2-hour drive to get there. If you’re visiting by train this might take you a little longer. However, it’s highly recommended to go by car, since the region counts many very charming villages along the Rhine and Moselle you’ll certainly want to see as well. If you have the time, extend your trip and pass by the Lorelei, the village of Bacharach, and Castle Eltz.

Written by Emma from Emma’s Roadmap

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Koblenz:

• Mercure Hotel Koblenz : Overlooking the Rhine River, Mercure Hotel Koblenz offers comfortable rooms, a panoramic restaurant, and a central location for exploring Koblenz’s historic sites.
• Mosel Hotel Hähn : Located on the banks of the Moselle River, this hotel offers modern rooms, a vineyard terrace, and easy access to the Deutsches Eck and Koblenz’s picturesque Old Town.
• GHOTEL hotel & living Koblenz : GHOTEL Koblenz provides contemporary accommodations, a fitness center, and a convenient location near the Koblenz-Lützel train station.

Distance: 230 km

Mechelen is a vibrant city in the heart of Belgium, located smack in the middle between Brussels and Antwerp. This little city is still off the tourist radar, yet it has so much to offer. To start off with, it is quintessentially Flemish in every which way: Culturally, architecturally and gastronomically.  

Speaking of gastronomy,  Mechelen is a veritable paradise for any foodie. New hip eateries are mushrooming up across town on a daily basis. Grab a spot of lunch at the open air market (Vleeshalle or old meat market) where you can find everything from local Belgian fries to mouth-watering Irish pies. The city has a few vegan restaurants (Lief, The Kind Coconot) and plenty of  frietkoten  (little stalls to get fries).

Aside from gastronomy, there are a lot of beautiful corners and squares to discover simply by wandering around this very walkable city. Start with the 16 th  century colourful Haverwerf, quench your thirst with a famous Belgian beer at the Fishmarket (incidentally the best place for a night on the town) and marvel at the gabled buildings on the Central Square. Work up an appetite while climbing the 500+ steps of the Saint Rumbolds cathedral, catch your breath at the top to the tune of the most incredible views of the city.

Mechelen is an easy day trip from Luxembourg, provided you have a car. The drive is scenic 230km traversing right through the country of Belgium. Alternatively, public transport will also get you from Luxembourg to Brussels but it will require a bit more time (circa 4 hours) and patience.

Written by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

If you wish to stay longer, here are some hotels tips for Mechelen :

• Martin’s Patershof : This unique hotel is set within a former church, featuring stained glass windows, comfortable rooms, and a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of Mechelen.
• NH Mechelen : An ideal hotel located in the perfect location of the city, clean rooms and a delicious breakfast available before a day of exploration.

Summary Day Trips From Luxembourg

These beautiful 17 locations are all doable Day Trips From Luxembourg and all have something unique on offer, depending on your own interests.

• Plan your day trip in advance to not miss out on anything you’d love to see or do
• Check driving routes or train journeys in advance
• Take your passport, since you will be another country after all!

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Wow! I had no idea there were so many day trip options from here. I also didn’t know Cologne was so close, otherwise I would have done a day trip to Luxembourg City while I was there!

This article is quite timely as I’m currently in Austria and contemplating a trip to Luxembourg. I’ve really enjoyed reading about all the fun and inspirational nearby towns to visit. Thanks for the inspiration!

I have not been to Luxemburg yet. If I go I would be happy to add some day trips to enrich my visit. As I have been to some places on your list, it would be nice to explore Saarburg sometime in the future. Thanks for sharing!

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14 things you need to know about Belgium for a perfect trip

May 21, 2022 • 6 min read

With a few tips, it's easy to navigate Belgium's historic cities and calm countryside © olrat / Shutterstock

Despite being one of the smallest countries in Europe, Belgium has a lot to offer travelers – medieval castles, modern architecture, a world-renowned fashion scene, great food, and more than 1000 brands of beer – really!

Belgium also has not one, but three official languages. Luckily, more than half of Belgians speak English, so it’s easy to get around – just be aware of the monolingual road signage (the language will depend on where in Belgium you are). Here are our top tips to help you make the most of a trip to Belgium.

1. Pack a raincoat

Influenced by the weather systems of the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Belgium has a temperate maritime climate characterized by frequent precipitation and heavy cloud cover. The temperature rarely climbs above 22°C (72°F) in the summer, and thunderstorms are frequent – so you’ll want to pack rain gear, regardless of what time of year you visit.  

2. Make the most of your trip by traveling around

There’s so much to see in Belgium, and it’s easy to travel from one place to the next by car or train, so we recommend splitting your time between several destinations. Get lost in the atmospheric streets of Bruges , hit the museums and fashion boutiques in Antwerp , lace up your hiking boots in Hoge Kempen National Park – the country’s only national park – and visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grand Place in Brussels . Most cities are within a few hours of one another, making it easy to cover a lot of ground in a short period of time.

3. Bring pocket change in case you need to spend a penny

In Belgium, free public restrooms are virtually non-existent. Most public facilities charge and few accept credit cards, so you’ll want to carry loose some euros and cents in change. Expect to pay around €0.50 (US$0.54) per visit – get into the habit of using the washroom before leaving the hotel or restaurant.  

4. Swap taxis for public transport when you arrive in Brussels

Taxis in Brussels are among the most expensive in Europe – a cab ride between Brussels Airport and the city center will cost at least €3 (US$3.30) per km. While we won’t judge for splurging after a long-haul flight, the city’s excellent bus, tram and metro system will take you almost anywhere you need to go from 6am to midnight, seven days a week, including into town from the airport (for as little as €7/US$7.35 in total). For cheap, low-carbon transport, consider renting a bike through a bike-sharing platform, such as Villo! .

5. Don't rush to rent a car

Belgium is car-friendly in many ways – you can drive from one end of the country to the other in a matter of hours, and nearly all the country’s motorways are fully lit at night. It’s also super easy to rent a car on the fly, thanks to car-sharing apps such as Poppy and Cambio .

At the same time, driving in Belgium can be quite an undertaking. Signage is mostly monolingual, and the names of places depend on which language is spoken. For example, the German border city of Aachen might appear on Belgian signs as Aix-la-Chapelle, the Flemish city of Ghent is also Gand, and Liège is also Lîdje, Luik and Lüttich.

6. When in doubt, speak English

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French and German. Dutch (specifically, the Flemish dialect) is primarily spoken in Flanders in the north, while French is mostly spoken in the southern region of Wallonia, and German is the default in eastern regions of the province of Liège. Brussels (also known as Brussel and Bruxelles) is officially bilingual, speaking Dutch and French.

With language at the center of Belgium's knotty cultural identity debate, it's best to speak English if you’re unsure of the dominant tongue wherever you happen to be. You’ll likely find that most people, especially in big cities such as Antwerp and Brussels, speak flawless English anyway.

7. Recycle like a Belgian

Belgians take recycling very seriously. In fact, the country boasts the highest recycling rate for household packaging in all of Europe (an impressive 94.9%). While you should always take care to recycle and reduce when you’re on the road away from home, you’ll want to be especially mindful of this when traveling through Belgium.

8. There’s no need to tip in Belgium

Tipping in Belgium isn’t a standard practice, nor is it expected, as most service staff are paid a fair living wage. Furthermore, most restaurants automatically include a 10–15% tip in the bill. If you think the service was excellent and want to leave more, you can always leave a few euros on the table after your meal.

9. Extend a hand in greeting

How do you greet people in Belgium? It depends on where you are. Most people in Brussels prefer a handshake, while most folks in French-speaking Wallonia will turn a cheek for a kiss. To play it safe in these Covid-aware times, we recommend extending a hand to test the waters.

10. Don’t leave your shopping for Sunday

If you need to stock up at the supermarket or buy souvenirs, don’t plan on doing it on a Sunday. As most Belgians are Roman Catholic, many shops are closed on Sundays, including major grocery stores and banks. 

11. Drink beer, lots of lovely beer

Belgium is home to over 300 breweries and more than 1000 types of Belgian beer . So, it’s practically a requirement to imbibe while you’re there (and honestly, you might be judged if you order a glass of vino instead of a homegrown brew at the local pub). Try everything from pilsners and witbier to Trappist ales and naturally fermented lambics.

Oh, and don’t expect to chug your Duvel out of any old glass. Belgians love their glassware, and you'll find a dizzying array of options, from tulips and flutes to goblets and tankards. 

12. Can you drink tap water in Belgium?

Yes, you certainly can. Some even say the tap water is even better than the bottled mineral kind you get in the supermarket (bring a water bottle to save on plastic).

13. You can feel safe about being yourself

In 2003, Belgium became the second country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, and the country’s long-held progressive values and vibrant nightlife make it a top destination for LGBTIQ+ travelers. Brussels has long been the center of the scene – the city’s La Demence event draws partiers from all over the world 12 times a year – but even smaller towns such as Bruges and Ghent are getting in on the action.

14. Have fun – but be cautious of petty crime

Generally speaking, Belgium is a safe country with relatively low crime rates. For most travelers, the biggest risk is pickpocketing and bag-snatching in crowded areas. However, in recent years, there has been a rise in terrorist attacks across Belgium – travelers should exercise vigilance, particularly in Brussels, where international organizations, including NATO and the EU, are headquartered.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Bruxelles-Luxembourg - Brussel-Luxemburg Station

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Things to Do near Bruxelles-Luxembourg - Brussel-Luxemburg Station

The Top 10 Things To Do And See Near Place Du Luxembourg

Discover the main sights and features of the lively area surrounding the place du luxembourg in brussels, also known as the leopold quarter..

Museum of Natural Sciences

The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences , known also as the Dinosaur Museum, is dedicated to natural history. The dinosaur hall is the world’s largest museum hall completely dedicated to dinosaurs. Here, you can enjoy a unique experience, having a cocktail or dinner in the magnificent hall, while surrounded by dinosaur skeletons. The whole atmosphere creates the feeling that suddenly everything will become real and you will be part of the movie Jurassic Park or Night at the Museum. The museum also has numerous fascinating permanent exhibitions. Two highlights include the ‘Gallery of Humankind,’ which explores human evolution and the body; and ‘BiodiverCITY,’ which explains biodiversity within cities and how to protect it.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 9:30am to 4:45pm; Weekend and school holidays from 10am to 6pm.

Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Rue Vautier 29, Brussels, Belgium, +32 262 742 11

Place du Luxembourg

Place du Luxembourg, or as it’s affectionately known, Place Lux, is the heart of the Leopold Quarter. A small but busy square, Place Lux in located right in front of the European Parliament, and is surrounded by big European companies. Young professionals, lobbyists, lawyers, MEPs, and the expat community often converge in this square for a drink or a bite to eat . After 6pm, Place Lux becomes particularly populated, especially on Thursdays, with people taking advantage of happy hours and networking events. It can be difficult to find a table or a seat, but do not fret – you’ll often see people sitting on the grass in the middle of the square enjoying the atmosphere with drinks in hand.

Place du Luxembourg, Brussels, Belgium

Parc Léopold

Located near all the main European Union institutions, Parc Léopold is a great place to escape the chaos of the area and unwind. Inside the park, visitors can see the huge variety of unusual trees and birds such as mallards, moorhens, coots, and even Egyptian geese and rose-ringed parakeets. Walking around the little oasis and the twisting paths you can admire Eggevoort tower, the only remains of the former medieval estate located in the area. A beautiful park for the family to play ball games, picnic, or even relax and read a book under the shade of the trees.

Opening Hours: From 1 April to 30 September: 6am to 10pm. From 1 October to 31 March: 7 am to 9 pm.

Parc Léopold, Belliardstraat, Brussels, Belgium

Solvay Library is situated in the center of Parc Léopold. The Bibliothèque Solvay , as it’s known in French, houses a rich décor of wood, stained glass and mosaics; and plays host to all kinds of events. This renowned library hosts concerts, cocktails, gala dinners, exhibitions and conferences. It is a good example of the Brussels Schools of Eclecticism and Art Nouveau. The library took its name after Ernest Solvay , an important Belgian chemist who became one of the leading industrialists in Europe, and the founder of Solvay & Cie. The ground and first floors are built around a magnificent reading room surrounded by study rooms and galleries. The lower ground floor has been renovated in a contemporary style, and is ideal for lunches and coffee breaks during conferences or for finishing the evening around the bar.

Solvay Library, Parc Leopold, rue Belliard 137, Brussels, Belgium, +32 273 875 96

A great little bar with a huge selection of Belgian beers and others is the Beer Factory . Be brave and try the beer meter, seven sample-size beers covering their full range of draught beers. What makes this bar different from others is that here the visitor can learn about beer-making, including the types of grains that are used to make beer, as well as the actual brewing process. Another favorite, Fat Boy’s Sports Bar & Grill , is always filled with people from around the world who gather to watch their favorite teams play a variety of sports on the big screens. Here, you can try one of the best burgers on the square. Another place to try is Ralph’s Bar , where you can enjoy two cocktails for the price of one between 6 and 7pm. London Calling , as The Clash famously sang, is another great spot to sample a taste of Britain on Rue du Dublin.

European Parliament

A great attraction and one of the most famous in Brussels is the European Parliament; one of the three big European Union institutions. The majestic entrance with bridges and the big square make the Parliament stand out. It is always buzzing, not only with the large number of people who work there, but also with the presence of the media. An immense building nicely integrated in the city landscape, you can learn more about the Parliament by visiting the Parlamentarium.

European Parliament, Brussels, Belgium

Concert Noble

Concert Noble is a magnificent space designed to host social and cultural events such as banquets, fashion shows and press conferences, as it is one of the most exclusive venues in Brussels. It has become one of the preferred meeting points for major national and international dignitaries, and has welcomed the likes of the Dalai Lama, several heads of state, the members of the Belgian royal family, as well as members of other European royalty. With imposing tapestries that adorn the walls of a surprising height, words can not describe the elegant atmosphere of Concert Noble; so if you have the opportunity to visit this beautiful building, make sure you wear your finest clothes.

Concert Noble, Rue d’Arlon 82, Brussels, Belgium +32 273 875 96

As mentioned earlier, the Léopold Quarter is an area where people from all over the world work and mingle. Visitors can indulge in international cuisine at an array of restaurants located near the Place du Luxembourg. For Belgian fare, head to the restaurant Quartier Leopold or L’Antretemps . Fans of Italian food should definitely try the Gourmand Wine Bar or the Anciénne Poissonnerie , which has an open kitchen. Another great option is the Ergon, which serves gourmet Greek dishes. For a quick bite to eat, try a traditional Turkish kebab at Chez Bal.

Brussels-Luxembourg Railway Station

Formerly known as the Léopold Quarter Station, the Brussels-Luxembourg Railway Station is located right on the Place du Luxembourg next to the European Parliament. The original station, which now houses the information office of the European Parliament to the left of the modern structure, was built by Gustave Saintenoy in 1855. It was designed in a neo-classical style similar to other buildings surrounding the Place du Luxembourg. The current station, which is now completely underground, went through long periods of reconstruction and has been designed in such a way to ensure that a great amount of light can come through.

Brussels-Luxembourg Railway Station, Place du Luxembourg, Brussels, Belgium

Home » Travel Guides » Luxembourg » 15 Best Places to Visit in Luxembourg

15 Best Places to Visit in Luxembourg

Small but mighty Luxembourg has only half a million people but one of the world’s most developed economy – several key organizations for the European Union are run out of Luxembourg City. It shares borders with Germany , France , and Belgium and is ruled by a Grand Duke, making it the world’s last Grand Duchy. Luxembourg has three official languages (Luxembourgish, French, and German), and the culture is a wonderful mix of Germanic Europe and the romance cultures. It’s a wealthy country with an even wealthier medieval history.  The heart of the country has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and each region holds a ton of surprises for its visitors.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Luxembourg :

1. Echternach

This cosy little town near the German border is the oldest in all of Luxembourg. It’s the perfect base camp for exploring the region because of the laid-back “lazy afternoon ramble” atmosphere of the place. Plan to say here if you’re interested in hiking in Mullertal or Cycling along the River Sure.

For the last 500 years, pilgrims come every Whit Tuesday for the dancing procession in honour of the town’s founder, St. Willibrord. If you’re coming in May and June, enjoy the International Music Festival, and take a look at the Prehistory Museum, The Basilica, and recently discovered Roman villa at any time of year.

Also on the German border is Vianden, a quaint and hilly town on the River Our.  The two most striking features of the town are its old-world charm and Vianden Castle which stands high above the river. Built between the 11th and 14th centuries, the castle was a prominent home for Luxembourg royalty for hundreds of years before falling into ruin for almost as long. Restoration has been ongoing since the 1970’s and it’s once again returning to its former glory and now offers some of the most photogenic vistas in the entire country.

Above the castle is a fantastic restaurant, accessible only by chair lift, which has the best views of Vianden and the surrounding mountains. Be sure to visit the Victor Hugo museum located in the house he once lived it.

3. Diekirch

Diekirch takes its name from the nation’s most popular beer and is well-loved by tourists for the colourful local flavour that’s found here. Located in the north and sitting on the River Sure, the mountains that surround Diekirch make incredible vistas at each turn.

Check out the pedestrian zone for shopping, cafes, and public concerts and head to the old quarter to see St. Laurentius Church and other old-world homes. Three great museums to check out are the National Museum of Historical Vehicles, the beer museum, and the National Museum of Military History with an exhibit that thoroughly covers the Battle of the Bulge.

It’s also a good place for those that want a little nature in their holiday.  You can bicycle, hike, kayak, or fish while you’re here.

4. Beaufort

A small town that’s high in charm, Beaufort is most often visited because of its castle which lies across the valley from the town proper. Originally built as a Roman camp, the castle expanded over the years but has never recovered from the WWII Battle of the Ardennes.

Tourists can explore the many levels and interiors of the castle, though there is no décor. Afterwards enjoy an afternoon of cycling or hiking with several lovely trails to choose from.

5. City of Luxembourg

The country’s capital is also a UNESO World Heritage site and major financial centre for much of Europe. You’ll want to spend as much time as possible in the old town and see the Grand Ducal Palace, the Cathedral of Notre Dame, Place d’Armes, Adolphe Bridge, and the underground defences popularly known as the casemates.

But it’s not just historical beauty here; Luxembourg City is a thoroughly modern and cosmopolitan place that’s done an incredible job of merging history with modern progress. As an example, check out the fortress of Luxembourg that has been transformed many times over the centuries and now highlights the best of European culture.

6. The Moselle Valley

Covering 42km that stretch from Wasserbillig to Schengen, the Moselle Valley and the river that runs through it are lined with small villages, vineyards, and wine cooperatives. Schengen, famous due to the EU agreement that allows easy cross-border travel, has been attracting wine lovers for generations.

Each village in the valley has a distinct charm and is home to fine dining restaurants and a relaxing vibe that will make you wish you lived there. Villages of note include Remerschen, Remich, Greiveldange, Ehen, and Machtum. Known as d’Musel by the locals the valley has unbelievable fruit plantations to explore, themed hikes (like the wine route), water sports and small cruises, and a bit of medieval history as well.

7. Mullerthal

This region of Luxembourg is known as Little Switzerland because of the hilly green landscape. What you’ll notice first is the unique rock formations. They’re hard to describe but unforgettable once you’ve seen them.  Echternach is the main city within the region but there are all kinds of reasons to branch out.

World renown for a fantastic cuisine based on honey, liqueurs, and cheese, the restaurants in Mullerthal serve incredibly refined dishes – particularly in the valley of the Lower Sure. For experienced hikers, the Mullerthal Trail covers 112km of fields, forests, and rock formations.  For those less experienced but no less enthusiastic, there are plenty of easier hikes that will take you to some awe-inspiring vistas.

8. The Ardennes

For a truly exceptional nature experience, head straight to the Ardennes.  With both winding valleys and scenic highlands, tons of hiking and cycling trails, you’ll be able to explore the many forests and villages throughout the nature parks. Not surprisingly, some of the best maintained medieval ruins in all of Luxemburg can be found here. You’ll find everything from medieval revivals, traditional markets, and outdoor performances and concerts to transport you back to another time.

Within the Ardennes, you’ll find two nature parks, Naturpark Öewersauer and Our – both distinct destinations in their own right. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some Nordic walking along the Sûre or the Alzette.

9. The Nature Park Our

Created in 2005 within the Ardennes region, Nature Park Our is worthy of its own mention as a top tourist choice. Shaped by the snaking Our River, the park covers 309 square kilometres and alternates between deep valleys and high plateaus. The mission of the nature park creators is to focus on socio-cultural and economic developments while maintaining natural resources and respecting cultural heritage.

You won’t want to miss the photo exhibits in Clervaux Castle, the mining museum in Stolzembourg, or the Festival “Jardins à suivre.” Tourists are able to buy the regions agricultural produce direct from the farmers, which help both the local economy and the environment.

10. Larochette

Right in the centre of Luxembourg, Larochette is ideally located to be your home base for your entire trip through the Grand Duchy. It sits picturesquely between two rivers and the villages slate-roofed homes stand out dramatically beneath the cliff top ruins of a medieval castle.

If you do make it your home base, be sure to check out the surprising cafes and fine-dining restaurants. You’ll love coming back to Larochette after a day of exploring the different regions and attractions nearby.

11. Bourglinster

As you’re headed to Larochette, Bourglinster and the 18th century castle there, is a great place to stop for a meal or an espresso.  The castle sits inside the remains of an older 12th century fortress.  You’ll find exhibitions there and occasionally performances.

In each of the side wings are two fine dining restaurants, La Distillerie and Brasserie Côté Cour, both with incredible ambiance and décor that matches the castles as well as fantastic food.

12. The Land of the Red Rocks

This region gets its name from the red ore that drove the success of the Luxembourg industrial era. Known to locals as Terres Rouges, the area now combines new technology with ancient techniques to serve the current industrial needs of the country.

Three trendy and fun cities make up the core of Terres Rouges:  Differdange, Esch-sur-Alzette, and Dudelange. You’ll find plenty of culture in each city that ranges from rock festivals, street theatre, and other concerts. You can visit Rockhal to learn how Luxembourgers gave a new face to this area and so changed the country.

If you’re travelling with family, be sure to visit Parc Merveilleux in Bettembourg. Your kids will enjoy the monkeys, crocodiles, parrots, and more that the park showcases.

13. Rumelange

Also located in the Land of the Red Rocks, but worthy of its own mention, is the old mining town of Rumelange.  The main attraction here is the National Mine Museum – which is considered by many to be one of the top tourist attractions on earth. The museum allows guided walks through the old mine tunnels and you can enter by riding in an old mining train.

The town itself is located in the forest of the Kayl Valley with a ton of great trails to enjoy by foot or bike.

14. The Nature Park of the Upper Sûre

Known as Luxembourg’s “water area” because of the 380 ha lake, Naturpark Upper Sûre is the model of sustainable tourism.  The park was awarded the EDEN prize in 2010 for commitment to integrating tourism, culture, social and economic development with environmental protection.

If you’re looking to relax, this largely untouched land is the perfect place. You can join in a themed itinerary or go at your own pace as you like.  Most of the leisure activities are designed to highlight the region’s history, culture, and natural aspects.

15. Western Luxembourg

If you’re driving during your Luxembourg holiday and considering what routes to take, you must absolutely include the Eisch Valley of Western Luxembourg.  With the town of Arlon at one end and Ettelbrück at the other, you’ll have the most peaceful drive of your life as you wind your way through lush forest.

You’ll pass by a number of castles – some which are majestic ruins and others that are more mansion-esque châteaux.  You’ll want to stop in Ansemborg to view the castle there from the striking formal gardens. And if you like a good moat, then you’ll love the medieval castle at Hollenfels.

15 Best Places to Visit in Luxembourg:

• City of Luxembourg
• The Moselle Valley
• The Ardennes
• The Nature Park Our
• Bourglinster
• The Land of the Red Rocks
• The Nature Park of the Upper Sûre
• Western Luxembourg

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Luxembourg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 26, 2022

Although a small country of just 600,000 people that only covers around 1,650 square kilometers, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg delivers a considerable diversity of attractions and fun things to do.

While many of the country's top sightseeing opportunities and points of interest lie in vibrant Luxembourg City (Stad Lëtzebuerg in Luxembourgish), the old quarter of which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Luxembourg's many small towns are equally lovely and are well worth exploring.

It's also an extremely easy country to travel around. Whether you're exploring on foot in the capital city, are planning on taking a driving tour through the picturesque countryside, or are doing some town-hopping by train, you'll never have to travel too far before finding something worth seeing.

Old fortresses and castles complement the country's beautiful scenery, making it a popular tourist destination that is frequently visited in combination with surrounding countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands.

You'll find the best places to visit in this charming West European country with our list of the top attractions in Luxembourg.

1. The Old Quarter of Luxembourg City

2. national museum of history and art, luxembourg city, 3. the bock casements, luxembourg city, 4. grand ducal palace, luxembourg city, 5. the walls of the corniche, luxembourg city, 6. william square (place guillaume ii), luxembourg city, 7. grand duke jean museum of modern art (mudam), luxembourg city, 8. echternach and its benedictine abbey, 9. the luxembourg ardennes, 10. luxembourg city history museum, 11. bourscheid castle, 12. mondorf-les-bains and the moselle, 13. upper sûre natural park and esch-sur-sûre, 14. walferdange and its castle, 15. notre-dame cathedral, luxembourg city, 16. larochette, 17. berdorf, 18. beaufort castle, 19. vianden castle, 20. parc merveilleux.

There's no better place to begin exploring beautiful Luxembourg City than in its historic Old Quarter. Often referred to locally as simply "d'Stad," this wonderfully preserved old city center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

The city's impressive ancient fortifications also ensured its place as one of the most strategically important of Europe's major cities. The fortress was so impregnable, in fact, it was dubbed the "Gibraltar of the North." Although the original fortress was dismantled between 1867 and 1883, its impact upon the Old Quarter is evident everywhere.

Today, the old fortifications have given way to beautifully laid out parks and gardens, while its cobbled streets are lined with charming old homes and buildings. It's a great place to spend a few hours exploring as you cross its many bridges, including the spectacular Adolphe Bridge , considered a city landmark. You'll also traverse many interesting alleyways. For an added dose of fun, don't make use of a map; instead just follow your nose and see where you end up!

While there's ample public parking, if you're arriving by car, consider using one of the city's excellent park-and-ride facilities. Better still, arrive by train and book a stay in an Old Quarter hotel.

If you were to judge Luxembourg City on the quality of its museums, never mind its status as one of Europe's most historically important cities, it would still rank extremely high on the list of the continent's must-see cities. Topping the list is the National Museum of History and Art (Nationalmusée fir Geschicht a Konscht, or (MNHA).

It's located in the historic Fish Market area, once the original town center. The MNHA's collections include art objects, archeological finds, furniture, tools, coins, arms, and documents dealing with the history of the country, all of them housed in a stunning new building.

There's a particular emphasis on the Gallo-Roman period, with numerous fine displays illustrating the artistic, social, religious, and intellectual life of Luxembourgers from the 16th to the early 20th centuries. The contemporary art section is also a must-see, and is furnished with works by many of the most important artists of the 20th century. Guided tours in English are also available, and a research library and shop are also located on-site..

The unique Am Tunnel , or Galerie d'Art Contemporain Am Tunnel, is also worthy of a visit for art lovers. Located, as the name suggests, in an old tunnel, this contemporary art gallery with its first-rate collection of visual arts offers a pleasant respite from the many larger, busier museums and galleries in the city.

Address: Marché-Aux-Poissons, 2345 Luxembourg City

Official site: www.mnha.lu/en/

Luxembourg's Bock cliff, or Bockfiels, with its fortifications and cannon-loopholes, is where you'll find the entrance to the famous Casemates (Casements du Bock), a 21-kilometer network of underground passages hewn from solid rock. Capable of sheltering thousands of defenders, as well as equipment and horses, it also housed workshops, kitchens, and slaughterhouses.

All told, the Casements, some of which date back to Spanish rule in 1644, cover an impressive 40,000 square meters. Today, much of these remarkable fortifications can be explored on foot, while organized guided tours are available for those wanting to learn more about the tunnels' fascinating history.

On the Bock plateau itself are the remains of the old castle, discovered in 1963. There are beautiful views of the suburb of Grund and the Rham Plateau, the old 19th-century barracks, and the big towers and remains of the Wenceslas wall dating from 1390.

Address: 10 Montée de Clausen, 1343 Luxembourg City

The Grand Ducal Palace (Groussherzogleche Palais) is a must-see landmark in Luxembourg City. This gorgeous Renaissance building dates from 1572 and serves as the official residence of the country's reigning monarch, Grand Duke Henri . It was built as the city's original city hall in 1572, a role it served until 1795 before switching eventually to its present use as the Grand-Ducal Place in 1890.

While it's still the full-time home of the Duke, the public are permitted an opportunity for a peek inside during special organized tours made available from mid-July to the first week of September, when it becomes one of the city's most visited attractions.

Nine tour options are available daily, and are conducted in a variety of different languages, including English. Tickets are made available through the Luxembourg City Tourist Office from their office in Place Guillaume II.

Highlights of the tour include a chance to see the plush, elegantly furnished interior, including the ceremonial rooms used on significant occasions, such as visits by foreign dignitaries.

Address: 17 Rue du marché-aux-Herbes, 1728 Luxembourg City

Official site: https://monarchie.lu/en/visit-grand-ducal-palace

The spectacular Walls of the Corniche (le Chemin de la Corniche) in Luxembourg City have been called "the most beautiful balcony in Europe." Towering over the old city in the river valley below, it's here you'll find the big Gate of the Grund dating from 1632. Its ramparts reveal several aristocratic houses and refuges, as well as the ancient convent of the Dominicans and St. Michael's church (987 CE).

In the suburb of Grund itself is a large cluster of buildings with the church and ancient Abbey of Neumünster . It's notable for its 17th-century cloister of Limoges, an organ dating from 1720, and a 14th-century "black virgin." The adjacent buildings are part of the ancient Hospice St.-Jean, founded by Emperor Henri VII, Count of Luxembourg, in 1309.

Address: Chemin de la Corniche, 1945 Luxembourg City

Luxembourg's William Square (Place Guillaume II) is one of the city's largest open spaces. The former site of a Franciscan convent, it has since been converted into a pedestrian zone. In the center is the equestrian statue of William II, King of Holland and Grand Duke of Luxembourg.

William Square is also where you'll find the lovely Town Hall and the famous Trémont's lions. Here, too, the city's popular weekly market is held, and is famous for its flowers and plants, as well as local produce.

Nearby is the 16th-century House of Raville with its beautiful façade, well-restored balcony, and spiral staircase. Other notable landmarks are the Spanish Turret with its superb views of the Pfaffenthal suburb, and the old cavalry-barracks of Vauban. Dominated by Fort Thüngen , it's also known as the "Three Acorns" for the three acorns that adorn each of its three towers.

And be sure to take your time exploring this beautiful area. It's a delightful spot to stop for a meal or beverage at any one of the many fine cafés and restaurants located here.

Address: 23 Rue du Fossé, 1536 Luxembourg City

Fans of modern art and ultra-modern architecture must visit the superb Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art (Musée d'art moderne Grand-Duc Jean). It's also referred to simply as MUDAM, and its contemporary art collections from world-renowned artists make it one of Europe's most important art galleries.

Since its opening in 2006, MUDAM has drawn consistent rave reviews for its large contemporary collection. Highlights include works from such well-known artists as Bruce Nauman, Andy Warhol, and Julian Schnabel, to name but a few.

In addition to its fine permanent artworks on exhibit, the museum features many visiting and temporary displays. Also available to the public are a variety of first-rate educational programs and workshops, including some geared specifically to kids.

A large shop selling related gifts and souvenirs is located on-site, as is a great café. Guided tours are also available in English.

Address: 3 Park Drai Eechelen, 1499 Luxembourg City

Official site: www.mudam.lu/en/home/

The beautiful town of Echternach lies on the bank of the River Sûre, which forms the border with neighboring Germany. The Mëllerdall and Germano-Luxembourg Nature Parks are located nearby, and the surrounding woods are crisscrossed with hundreds of footpaths leading to spectacular rock formations, waterfalls, a lake, and numerous lovely viewpoints.

The town itself is well known for its centuries-old dancing procession, which takes place on Whit Tuesday and attracts visitors from around the world. The old aristocratic houses, narrow streets, and ancient ramparts have helped Echternach maintain its medieval appearance.

A must-see is the seventh-century Abbey of Echternach. This former Benedictine monastery is popular for its superb museum and is notable for its four long wings built around a large square courtyard. The basilica, considered the most important religious building in the country, is home to a crypt with a magnificent white marble sarcophagus containing the remains of St. Willibrord, the founder of the abbey, and its vaults are painted with frescoes dating back to the 10th century.

Echternach is also famous for its international music festival , which runs from late May to late June. The town also offers great dining at its many restaurants, as well as numerous boutique shops and galleries, a variety of top-rated hotels, and camping.

Standing in stark contrast to the rather flat landscape around Luxembourg City, the Ardennes is where you'll find high forested plateaus, sheer cliffs, wooded hills, and hidden valleys, as well as countless impressive views. This picturesque region, famous as the place where Hitler staged his last major campaign of WWII, boasts numerous castles, fortresses, and fortified farms rising out of the hilltops.

One of the prettiest towns, Wiltz , consists of an upper and lower town and is famous for its open-air theater and music festival. There's also a Battle of the Bulge Museum in Wiltz Castle. Another WWII-themed museum of note in the Ardennes is the General Patton Museum and monument in Ettelbruck.

The quaint village of Clervaux is also worth checking out. While the village lies amid a deep and narrow valley beside the river Clerve, its Benedictine Abbey of St. Maurice and St. Maur . Also known as Clervaux Abbey, it was built in 1910 in Romanesque-Burgundian style and dominates the valley. Visitors here can enjoy exhibits relating to the monastic life, as well as Gregorian masses.

One of the newer attractions in Luxembourg, the Luxembourg City History Museum (Musée d'histoire de la Ville de Luxembourg) was opened in 1996 and provides a fascinating insight into the rich 1,000-plus-year history of the city.

The building itself is a stunning mix of the old and new, combining a number of old homes dating from the 17th and 19th centuries, some with even older medieval sections, such as recently discovered vaulted cellars. These contrast impressively with the museum's striking modern extensions.

Exhibits deal with the early settlement's first inhabitants and its growth and development through the centuries right up to the present day. In addition to its many fine exhibits and displays, the museum is home to a huge elevator and viewing area, which offers wonderful views over the city's historic Grund district. English language guided tours and workshops are also available.

If you're planning on doing some museum-hopping during your stay, be sure to also visit the National Museum of Natural History (Nationalmusée fir Naturgeschicht). This popular Luxembourg City attraction features exhibits dealing with the natural world, both locally and globally.

Address: 14 Rue du St Esprit, 2090 Luxembourg City

Official site: http://citymuseum.lu/en/

The village of Bourscheid stands high on a plateau and is bordered by the rivers Sûre and Wark. Here, you'll find excellent views and many pleasant hikes to other quaint villages, including Michelau in the Sûre Valley, Welscheid in the Wark Valley, and Kehmen on the plateau. For sun bathers, there are two river beaches at Bourscheid-Plage and Dirbach.

This region of the Ardennes is very much dominated by the ruins of the Bourscheid Castle. This fairy-tale-like fortress dominates the surrounding countryside, and looks down from a rocky peak 137 meters above the Sûre. Dating from the 10th century, the castle has been largely restored and is accessible to visitors. Self-guided audio tours are available, and English language guided tours are also available upon request.

If you are looking for something interesting to do at night, view the castle in the evening when it's lit up. One of the top free things to do in Luxembourg, it's a truly memorable experience, particularly when viewed from the village.

Address: 1 Schlasswee, L-9140 Bourscheid, Luxembourg

Official site: www.castle-bourscheid.lu/wp5/en/

The Moselle region of Luxembourg occupies much of the eastern part of the country and features slopes flanking the majestic Moselle River. The many picturesque villages tucked along the banks of the Moselle recall an ancient charm and are fun to explore and renowned for their varied cuisine produced from locally grown products.

It was also an area much favored by the Romans. As a result, many Roman archaeological remains can be found dispersed throughout the region.

One must-visit in the region is Mondorf-les-Bains, a small town famous for its thermal springs. One of the top tourist attractions here is Mondorf le Domaine Thermal , a large spa complex that houses a health center, sports and leisure club, and hotel. The complex's thermal installations are fed by springs supplying a mineral water of 24 degrees Celsius that is well known for its medicinal qualities.

Afterwards, stroll through Mondorf Park with its large collection of trees, shrubs, and flowerbeds. Other highlights include 18th-century St. Michael's Church , with its furniture and frescoes; the Castel , a little Roman fortress transformed into a hermitage during the Middle Ages; and the Art Nouveau houses.

Address: Avenue des Bains L-5601 Mondorf-les-Bains, Luxembourg

Official site: www.mondorf.lu/?___store=en

Beautiful Upper Sûre Natural Park (Naturpark Öewersauer) consists of plateaus, narrow valleys with wooded slopes, and the lake of the Upper Sûre dam. It's a popular destination for its leisure activities and water sports, as well as for its wildlife and ecotourism.

Numerous walking tours , including guided and self-guided options, include everything from pleasant circular tours to more arduous treks around the lake. A fun sculpture trail has also been added, as have excellent solar-powered boat tours across the large reservoir. Other fun things to do in Upper Sûre Natural Park include fishing, swimming, sailing, and diving.

The area also possesses a rich cultural heritage. The Nature Park Centre , located in an old cloth mill, includes a museum with interesting artifacts and exhibits relating to both the park and the local area. A number of regular events also take place here, the largest being the biennial Water Art Festival , which attracts more than 200 musicians under a theme of "Rock meets Classic."

A must-visit nearby is Esch-sur-Sûre . This spectacular small village set in the mountains and skirted by the river Sûre and widely regarded as one of the most outstanding sites in the country. The village is dominated by its ruined manor house, built in AD 927 and by the cliffs looking down to the river. The mansion is open year-round with free admission.

Address: Nature Park Centre, 15, Rue de Lultzhausen L-9650 Esch-sur-Sûre, Luxembourg

Official site: www.naturpark-sure.lu/en/

Walferdange Castle (Château de Walferdange), the Grand Ducal residence until the end of the 19th century, lies at the entrance to the Grunewald Wood. Located on one of Luxembourg's principal tourist routes and now a part of the University of Luxembourg, it makes for a great day trip as it's just a short distance from Luxembourg City .

The village of Walferdange itself boasts picturesque scenery due to its location at the junction of the Alzette Valley with its lovely wooded heights. In addition to its great views, the village is well known for its rose gardens. There's also a large archeological site worth visiting that includes a Roman villa and an underground aqueduct.

Walferdange is also become a popular shopping destination, too, since the opening of the Walfer Shopping Center .

Address: 28 Route de Diekirch, 7220 Helmsange, Luxembourg

The Roman Catholic Notre-Dame Cathedral (Kathedral Notre-Dame) in Luxembourg City was built in the early 17th century in late Gothic style, with a number of attractive Renaissance features added later. Notable features of what is the country's only cathedral include the two original choir bays, dating from 1621, along with its three distinctive towers, one of which, the west tower, dates from the same period.

Also of interest are the intricate sculpted Baroque angels around the organ tribune, also dating back to the early 1600s. There's also a sobering monument dedicated to the country's WW2 resistance movement and victims of deportation located in the cathedral cemetery.

Visiting Catholics will want to consider attending the cathedral's Sunday evening mass. This regular service usually includes the involvement of the Archbishop of Paris.

Address: Rue Notre Dame, 2240 Luxembourg City

Larochette is a quaint old market town that lies in a narrow, rocky valley surrounded by woods. The town is dominated by two old and partially rebuilt castles that stand on a crag high above the valley of the White Ernz.

The town boasts a superb medieval square as well as a free museum of industry that offers a fascinating look at the area's past as an important textile base and which is open year-round. There are also a number of historical monuments dotted along its many old streets. Be sure to pop into the Neo-Roman church for its Art Nouveau frescoes.

The village is a hiker's haven, with walks for all abilities heading through the woods and countryside. Most lead to notable viewpoints such as the castles of Meysembourg and Nommerlayen, with the remains of a Roman camp at Aalburg. In addition to its fine old hotels and inns, there are also numerous campsites that are welcoming to backpackers.

Berdorf is one of the main tourist areas in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and lies on a vast tableland overlooking the valleys of the Black Ernz, the Sûre, and the Aesbach rivers.

Numerous well-kept footpaths and hiking trails crisscross the valleys and chasms , where you'll find tall rocky hills with fine views and more than 300 acres of forest. One of the most popular is the 112-kilometer-long Mullerthal Trail, which connects the Berdorf to the picturesque village of Echternach.

Berdorf is also a tremendously popular area for rock climbers, hiking enthusiasts, and campers.

Beaufort lies on a plateau in the Mullerthal region and is well known for its near perfectly dimensioned 12th-century castle, as well as a Neo-Gothic church. Although much of Beaufort Castle (Buerg Beaufort) is now in ruins, it is still wonderful to explore.

Be sure to bring your walking shoes with you. There are a number of footpaths leading through the wooded hills to great views of the surrounding countryside, through spectacular rock formations and the gorges of the Hallerbach and the Saueracht towards Grundhof and Dillingen in the Sûre valley.

Address: 24 Rue du Château, 6310 Beaufort, Luxembourg

Official site: https://beaufortcastles.com

Vianden is an extremely picturesque town straddling both banks of the River Our. Its fine feudal manor , Vianden Castle (Buerg Veianen), dates back to the ninth century and is unrivaled in the Ardennes and Eifel for its architectural significance. Also of note is the medieval outer wall encircling the town with many impressive guard towers.

If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with the annual Vianden Medieval Festival . Held the first weekend of August, this popular family-friendly event is well-known for its jousting and sword fighting tournaments, its market, and knights' camp.

Also worth seeing is the parish church with its two naves. Built in Gothic style in 1248, it has since been completely restored. The former Trinitarian cloister, dating from 1250, houses a lapidary museum that traces the history of the region's once important stone- and gem trades. There's also a small art museum in a former mansion has a number of notable works from 18th- and 19th-century painters.

The house where author Victor Hugo lived during his exile in 1871 now houses a collection of souvenirs of his various visits to Vianden. A large network of walking paths, well maintained and signposted, offers access to the beautiful countryside of the Our Valley, and a chairlift climbs to a height of 440 meters where visitors can enjoy splendid views.

Address: Montée du Château, 9408 Vianden, Luxembourg

Official site: https://castle-vianden.lu/gb/

Located in the picturesque town of Bettembourg, just six miles from the capital city and three miles from the French border, Parc Merveilleux attracts thousands of visitors each year.

This amusement center, with its fairy-tale themed attractions and rides, features a game enclosure, playground, mini-train, pony express, mini-golf, restaurants, and concerts, all of them fun for all ages (but especially the kids).

There's also an interesting zoo component that houses a large collection of exotic birds, reptiles, and numerous cute and cuddly mammals.

Address: Rte de Mondorf, 3260 Bettembourg, Luxembourg

More on Luxembourg

25 places other than France where speaking French is helpful

Posted: May 6, 2024 | Last updated: May 7, 2024

Speaking another language is always helpful, especially if you love to travel. And French, commonly thought of as one of the most beautiful in the world, is also more useful than you might realize. Here are 25 destinations outside of France where you can put your French language skills to good use!

Home to delicious beer, chocolate, waffles, and fries (no, they actually didn’t originate in France), Belgium is also a French-speaking country. The language is one of three officially spoken in the country; the other two are Dutch and German. French is mostly spoken in the capital, Brussels, and in the south of the country.

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Another multilingual state that borders France, the Grand Duchy has French, German, and Luxembourgish as official languages. However, French is one most commonly used on signs and in written communication in the country. You’ll also find it most helpful for small talk and chatting with residents.

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Switzerland

Yet another European country with French as one of the official languages (the others are German, Italian, and Rhaeto-Romance). You’ll find French most useful in Geneva and the surrounding area, although it’s used throughout Switzerland.

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Many people make the mistake of assuming that this tiny state is a part of France. And while Monaco is surrounded by its’ much larger neighbor and uses the French language, it is a sovereign city-state with a monarchy. There is also a Monégasque language that has official status.

Aosta Valley

This region of Italy is located in the northwest of the country, near France. Latin was replaced by French as the official language after the fall of the Roman Empire and then, in the 19th century, was replaced with Italian. Today, the region is bilingual, and you’ll see French and Italian written on road signs and hear the two spoken by locals.

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The French Empire had a strong presence in North Africa, and thus many nations in the region still use French as an official language. Morocco is one of these, and French is widespread along with Arabic and various Berber dialects. As a visitor, you’ll find it extremely useful when speaking to locals or reading signs and menus.

Algeria’s official languages are Arabic and Berber, but French is also commonly understood. While not as widely used as in neighboring Morocco, it will be your best bet if you don’t speak one of the official languages. 

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Another former French colonial outpost, the language is used and understood throughout the country in addition to Arabic and Tunisian. It’s estimated over half the population speaks French, and it’s the teaching language of high schools in the country.

Cameroon was a colony of both the UK and France in the early 20th century. So, English and French are spoken in the country. However, French is the most prevalent, with eight of 10 regions considered Francophone. Locals also speak numerous other indigenous languages.

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Ivory Coast

Known as “Côte d’Ivoire” in French, this coastal nation uses the old colonial language as the official one. Additionally, numerous indigenous languages also have recognized status in the Ivory Coast.

Senegal has six recognized indigenous languages, the most well-known and commonly spoken is Wolof. However, French is still the official language of the country despite Wolof being more widely used and understood.

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Yet another multilingual former French colony, Burundi has three official languages. In addition to French, Kirundi, and Swahili are recognized by the government. In 2014, English also gained status in the country.

Republic of the Congo

Also known as the Congo or Congo-Brazzaville, it is not to be confused with its neighbor, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Formerly known as the French Congo, due to colonization, the language is still the official one of use to this day. The local Bantu language, Kituba, Lingala, and numerous other indigenous languages are also widely spoken.

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The DRC has four main languages: Kikongo (Kituba), Lingala, Swahili, and Tshiluba. However, as a former Belgian colony, French is still widely used and understood.

Togo is a very multilingual country, and in addition to the official language, French has over 40 in use throughout the country. Many signs will be in French, and most locals speak some.

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Yet another former French colony, visitors to Mali will find the language very useful in most interactions. Additionally, the country is home to more than 80 other local languages.

The British and French fought over Canada, with the former finally winning out, but the Francophone portion of the population remained influential. So much so that the country has two official languages: English and French, with over 70 indigenous languages in existence. And the province of Québec only has French as the official language (and frequently threatens to secede from Canada). Its neighbor, New Brunswick, is the only officially bilingual province.

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When the U.S. purchased Louisiana territory from the French in 1803, it probably wasn’t considered how long the language would stick around. In the 1960s, efforts were made to revive the language in the state after decades of suppression and Americanization. Now, French is spoken by an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 residents, ranging from traditional and Cajun (Louisiana) French.

The Spanish colonized this Caribbean island before the Brits and French arrived. Then in 1763, France took over, and in 1943, it became semi-autonomous before gaining its current status as an Overseas Department in 1946. French is the official language, and visitors will find it helpful to know basic phrases, but Martinique Creole is unofficially the local language of communication.

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Another current French Overseas Department first colonized by the Spanish, Guadalupe has French as its official language, but like Martinique, Creole is widely used by locals.

French Guiana

This small section of the South American continent, located between far northeastern Brazil and Suriname and Guyana, is a former colony that housed a penal colony of France. Today, it is a French Overseas Department. Thus, French is the official language, but Creole is the language of use by many residents.

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French Polynesia

Colonized by the French, the islands received the name “French Polynesia” after being designated a French Overseas Territory in the '50s. Then, in 1977, the country received autonomy and is now considered an overseas country of the French Republic, with French as the official language.

New Caledonia

The British initially colonized these islands in the South Pacific before the French took over in 1853. Recent years have brought referendums for independence, but a slim majority of the population has voted in favor of remaining part of France. French remains the official language of the territory.

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This Pacific country is very multilingual, with French, English, and Bislama all considered official languages. However, it doesn’t stop there, as over 100 languages are spoken on the island. After centuries of colonization, independence was finally declared in 1980. 

Wallis & Futuna

Made up of the Wallis, Futuna, and Alofi islands, all three were French protectorates and colonies until 1961. Then, the islands became a French Overseas Territory until 2003, when they received status as an Overseas Collectivity. French has been the official language throughout all the status changes.

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