With cutting edge art museums, magical market squares and traditional breweries that serve some of the planet’s finest beers, our Belgium trips let you discover the best of the country on foot or by bike.
On our cycling holidays in Belgium, you’ll enjoy flat cycling routes that steer you in the direction of world-class exhibitions from famous Flemish artists and along the famous Comic Strip Trail in Brussels before pedalling through the medieval heart of Antwerp and Leuven. Passing through the Green Heart of Holland and the archetypal windmills of Kinderdijk en route, you will also have the opportunity to try delicious local delicacies of triple-fried frites, hot waffles (gaufres), and refreshing pints of Trappist Belgian beer in the “Venice of Northern Flanders”, Bruges.
One of Europe’s finest cities, the capital city of Brussels is a must-visit destination on any Belgium tours as it gives you an insight into the country’s rich heritage and culture. Explore historical sites and iconic landmarks as well as visiting the wealth of museums, galleries and local parks. The world-famous Grand Place and the Atomium are of particular interest for anyone with a love of architecture.
Bruges, the capital of West Flanders in the Flemish region of Belgium is particularly beautiful. Its ancient, cobbled streets and squares are lined with medieval buildings that could have jumped straight out of a children’s storybook, and a series of canals wind alongside traditional houses. The city has unsurprisingly been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cycling in Belgium
8 Daysfrom£ 1589
Self-Guided Holidays (Excl. Flights)
Cycle from Belgium to the Netherlands from the beautiful city of Bruges through West Flanders, along the coast, and into Amsterdam.
Cycling
8 Daysfrom£ 1169
Self-Guided Holidays (Excl. Flights)
Visit the iconic cities of Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges.
Cycling
8 Daysfrom£ 1339
Self-Guided Holidays (Excl. Flights)
Linear trip cycling between two of Europe's historic capitals.
Brussels’ Grand-Place – Hidden from view and accessible only through one of six cobbled alleyways, the Grand-Place is bound to impress with its intricate baroque guild houses, the spectacular “Kings House” and the City Hall that was built in the 15th century. Do not miss the chance to visit one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval plazas.
The Old Market Square (Oude Markt) in Leuven – Try the world-famous Belgian beers in the old university town of Leuven. The magical square is nicknamed “the longest bar counter in the world” because of the huge number of bars and quaint cafes in the square. It’s a great place to try the local beers on tap and regional delicacies such as hot waffles, decadent chocolates and triple-fried frites.
The Old Town of Ghent – Named a designated Creative City of Music by UNESCO in 2009, Ghent is full of culture, arts, and events to enjoy. Like an open-air museum, Ghent has more listed buildings here than any other Belgian city so take your time to explore Ghent’s 1,000 year-old fortress, the Gravensteen castle, three medieval towers and the scenic old Graslei harbour, all in cycling distance of each other.
Top 5 Things to do on Belgium Trips
Try the Belgian Food: Food lovers from all over the world will agree that when visiting a country, one of the first things you should do is sample the local delicacies. And Belgium has lots of tantalising treats in store, especially for anyone with a sweet tooth. If you haven’t heard of Belgian waffles, where have you been? These sweet snacks not only look incredible, but they taste incredible too. Whether they’re drizzled with chocolate sauce or topped with strawberries, they’re simply delicious. Or if you prefer something more savoury, try the moules frites, mussels cooked in either Belgian beer or white wine and served with fries.
Cycle through the Sonian Forest: Lying on the outskirts of Brussels, the Sonian Forest covers more than 4,000 acres and is a natural paradise best explored by bike. The cycle paths, bridges and tunnels make a thrilling outdoor playground for anyone who loves to get around on two wheels. This enchanting green space showcases Belgium’s wonderful wildlife and is home to UNESCO listed nature reserves, the former Augustinian abbey Rouge-Cloitre and towering, primeval beech trees.
Sightseeing in Brussels: The Belgian capital of Brussels is a vibrant cocktail of UNESCO sites, Art Nouveau architecture, ornate shopping arcades and a wide selection of galleries and museums. The main attraction is undoubtedly the magnificent Grand Place, a striking 17th century palace in the central square, now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other sights of interest include the statue of Mannekin Pis, Atomium, Villa Empain, and Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. And as Belgium is the birthplace of Tintin, it’s worth looking out for the colourful Comic Strip murals that adorn many of the buildings.
Climb St Rumbold’s Tower in Mechelen: Peering over Mechelen market square, the Gothic St Rumbold’s Cathedral houses this 97-metre-high belfry where you can witness the most spectacular panoramic views over Mechelen, Antwerp Cathedral and the Atomium in Brussels on a clear day. Although the climb up the 583 steps might leave you feeling a little breathless, you can take a rest on the bell tower chambers and learn more about this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site before being rewarded with unparalleled views from the top.
Explore Bruges: Arguably one of the prettiest and most inspiring cities on our Belgium tours, Bruges resembles a scene from a fairy tale. Medieval buildings teeter on the banks of canals, creating photogenic reflections, and cobbled alleyways wind among boutiques and ancient landmarks. As the capital of West Flanders, you’ll find Flemish architecture and art everywhere you look. When you’re not too busy sampling the traditional beers and chocolate, head to the 14th-century City Hall to marvel at its elaborate carved ceiling or visit the famous Markt Square which houses the 13th-century belfry and bell tower.