Brussels is the capital and largest city of Belgium, it is also the administrative center of the European Union. Because of this fact Brussels has earned the title Capital of Europe. In the capital of Brussels there are two official languages which are; French and Dutch. Brussels has a population of about 1 million people.
Ghent, formerly known as Gaunt in English is a city and municipality situated in the Flemish region of Belgium. It’s the capital and biggest city of the East Flanders province. Ghent once started as a settlement situated at the banks of the Scheldt and Lys Rivers in the Middle Ages and became one of the largest and richest cities of North Europe. Today it’s a city with a population of 250 thousand people.
In a unique and brilliant way, Ghent has managed to keep its Middle Ages power while keeping up with present time. Ghent has turned to the third biggest city of Belgium, and according to locals and tourists the most beautiful one. The city center alone proves it, which is a showcase of Middle Ages wealth and commercial success. It may remind some of Bruges, yet it’s slightly better and expanded. Ghent has more of a city feel, with a good combination of cultural sightseeing, nightlife, fine dining and shopping experiences without a overwhelming tourist flavor.
Of course, Modern Ghent cannot be missed, the city has an important port where large boat arrive and depart through the Ghent-Terneuzen canal. It’s possible for tourists to take a tour and see the port with their own eyes, it’s also advised to bring a digital camera. While the port is an interesting attraction other sightseeing’s may not be missed including the Count’s Castle, the Belfry, the Graslei and Saint Bavon’s Cathedral. The city is also famous for Ghent Festivities, the biggest street theater festival in Europe hold each year at the end of July. A 10 day festival where every hour a street performance is taking place from street artists from all over the world.
Travelers to Ghent need a valid passport and return ticket. For stays that do not exceed 90 days a visa is not required. English is not widely spoken in Ghent, might as well bring yourself a French and Dutch dictionary or learn a few words. The best time to visit Ghent is during the summer months from July till August.
Antwerp is a Belgium city and municipality, as well the capital of the Antwerp province. It’s situated on the right bank of the river Scheldt, which is linked to the North Sea. Antwerp has a long history of being a important city in the Benelux as well economically and culturally. As of latest measurement Antwerp has a population of 490 thousand people.
Antwerp has an international reputation for being the “world’s leading diamond city” as more than 70% of all diamonds are traded in Antwerp. It’s also a popular travel destination for many travelers, the overwhelming friendliness of the Belgium locals, and their urge for a quality living and food, combined with an overall low stress lifestyle, makes it a relaxing and desirable travel destination.
In the heart of Antwerp lies a irregularly shaped square named Grote Markt which is being surrounded by decorative guild buildings aging from the 16th century. The Grote Markt is home to the statue of Brabo, according to the 16th century legend, his actions led to the city’s name. It’s said that Silvius Brabo had flung the hand of Antigonus, a giant who terrorized ships passing by. Antwerp’s city hall is located right on the square, which has great Italian and Belgium characteristics. Furthermore the city of Antwerp has several historical sightseeing including museums and churches, as well fine dining opportunities with both local and international cuisine.
Travelers to Antwerp need a valid passport and return ticket. For stays that do not exceed 90 days a visa is not required. English is not widely spoken in Antwerpen, might as well bring yourself a French dictionary or pick up a few French lines. The best time to visit Antwerpen is during the summer months from July till August.
With its compact size Bruges is often referred to as the Venice of the North. This city in the northwest of Belgium has a historic medieval city that is placed on the World Heritage List of UNECO. Bruges is located in the Dutch speaking part of Belgium, Flanders. It has a total population of around 118 thousand people.
Bruges is a romantic city that shouldn’t be missed on any tour around Europe. The center of the city has remained its medieval architecture and appearance, although some parts have been renovated over and over again. There are small canals, bridges, market squares and old city houses that resemble a world long since gone. There is nothing preventing you jut walking around the city, enjoying the sights and perhaps get a fine Belgium beer near the Great Market square.
There are lots of medieval sights to visit in Bruges as well as other places. Famous buildings in this city include the brick stone Church of Our Lady, with the sculpture Madonna and Child, the 13th-century Belfry of Bruges, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Saint Salvatore’s Cathedral, The City Hall, the Provincial Court and many preserved old city gates. The city has a wealth of museums, including the Groeninge Museum with paintings of Dutch and Belgium masters, 11 historical museum named as the Bruges Museum and the Mernling Museum.
Travelers to Bruges need a valid passport and visa. American citizens will be issued a 90-day holiday visa on arrival. The weather in Bruges can be cold and damp. The best period to visit the city is in the summer in July and August, when temperatures are around 70 Fahrenheit.
Liege is the fourth largest city in Belgium and the capital of the province Liege. It is the principal economic and cultural center of Wallonia, the French region in Belgium. The city is located in the valley of the Meuse River, near the eastern borders with the Netherlands and Germany. It has a population of almost 200 thousand people and has the nickname “La Cité ardente” or The Fierce City.
Liege is mostly an industrial city with iron and steel industry. Most tourists will tell you that Liege is a place to love or hate, because of its industrial character. Nowadays it is developed into a city where old meets new. The center of Liege is a mix of historic town center and beautiful private houses with a new elegant town with wide boulevards, tall apartment buildings and a few parks. The new modern part of the city situates around the central Saint Lambert square. The center has traffic-free alleys and shopping streets.
Heart of the city is the Palace of the Prince-Bishops and the large Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame and Saint Lambert. Liege has a large city museum with great medieval religious art. For people who love Mosan style, the Curtius Museum is a must. You will get the best view over the city when climbing The Mountain of Bueren and the slopes of the Citadel. Liege is also the birthplace of Georges Simenon, writer of the police detective Maigret. The local specialty is the Waffle of Liege, so try to taste one, the waffles are sold in every bakery.
Travelers to Liege need a valid passport and return ticket. A visa is not required for stays up to 90 days. The people of Liege don’t speak English that well, so it is wise to pick up a few French lines. The best time to visit Liege is in the summer months July and August. Liege is a real university city with lots of students studying here.
