Weekend Getaways: Short Trips from Brussels Belgium & Video

Weekend Getaways: Short Trips from Brussels Belgium

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Weekend Getaways: Short Trips from Brussels Belgium

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a vibrant and bustling hub with a rich history and cultural heritage. While exploring the city itself can be an exciting experience, taking short trips to nearby destinations can add more variety and depth to your weekend getaway. Here are ten fantastic options for short trips from Brussels, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences:

Bruges

  • Historic City Center: Explore the well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque canals of Bruges. Don’t miss the iconic Belfry Tower and the Church of Our Lady.
  • Choco-Story Museum: Indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the history of chocolate at this fascinating museum.
  • Boat Trip: Take a relaxing boat trip along Bruges’ canals to admire the city from a different perspective.
  • Markt Square: Visit the bustling Markt Square, surrounded by colorful buildings and filled with local vendors and cafes.

Keywords: Bruges, historic city center, canals, Belfry Tower, Church of Our Lady, Choco-Story Museum, boat trip, Markt Square

Ghent

  • Gravensteen Castle: Step back in time and explore the medieval fortress of Gravensteen Castle, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • St. Bavo’s Cathedral: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and visit the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers.
  • Graslei and Korenlei: Wander along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei waterfront, lined with charming guild houses.
  • Ghent City Museum: Immerse yourself in the city’s history and art at the Ghent City Museum, located in a former monastery.

Keywords: Ghent, Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, Ghent Altarpiece, Graslei, Korenlei, Ghent City Museum

Brussels Belgium

Antwerp

  • Antwerp Central Station: Marvel at the stunning architecture of one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.
  • Rubenshuis: Visit the former home and studio of the renowned painter Peter Paul Rubens, now turned into a museum.
  • Antwerp Zoo: Explore one of the oldest zoos in the world, home to a wide variety of animals and beautifully landscaped gardens.
  • Meir Shopping Street: Indulge in some retail therapy along the bustling Meir, known for its fashion boutiques and department stores.

Keywords: Antwerp, Antwerp Central Station, Rubenshuis, Antwerp Zoo, Meir Shopping Street

Waterloo

  • Battlefield of Waterloo: Step into history and visit the site where the famous Battle of Waterloo took place.
  • Visitor Center: Learn about the battle’s significance and explore the interactive exhibits at the Visitor Center.
  • Lion’s Mound: Climb the Lion’s Mound for a panoramic view of the battlefield and surrounding countryside.
  • Hougoumont Farm: Discover the well-preserved farm that played a crucial role in the battle and learn about its history.

Keywords: Waterloo, Battlefield of Waterloo, Visitor Center, Lion’s Mound, Hougoumont Farm

Brussels Belgium

Leuven

  • Grand Beguinage: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, a well-preserved medieval complex of houses and gardens.
  • Stella Artois Brewery: Take a tour of the famous brewery and learn about the brewing process of one of Belgium’s most popular beers.
  • Leuven Town Hall: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the town hall, a masterpiece of Brabantine Gothic style.
  • University Library: Visit the historic library, housing a vast collection of books and manuscripts.

Keywords: Leuven, Grand Beguinage, Stella Artois Brewery, Leuven Town Hall, University Library

Mechelen

  • St. Rumbold’s Cathedral: Climb the tower for breathtaking views and explore the artistic treasures inside the cathedral.
  • Kazerne Dossin: Learn about the Holocaust and the history of deportation from this former transit camp.
  • Planckendael Zoo: Enjoy a day surrounded by nature and encounter a wide variety of animals at this beautiful zoo.
  • Groot Begijnhof: Wander through the peaceful streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, once home to a community of religious women.

Keywords: Mechelen, St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, Kazerne Dossin, Planckendael Zoo, Groot Begijnhof

Leuven

  • Grand Beguinage: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, a well-preserved medieval complex of houses and gardens.
  • Stella Artois Brewery: Take a tour of the famous brewery and learn about the brewing process of one of Belgium’s most popular beers.
  • Leuven Town Hall: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the town hall, a masterpiece of Brabantine Gothic style.
  • University Library: Visit the historic library, housing a vast collection of books and manuscripts.

Keywords: Leuven, Grand Beguinage, Stella Artois Brewery, Leuven Town Hall, University Library

The Ardennes

  • Hiking and Nature: Explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Ardennes and embark on scenic hikes through forests, valleys, and rivers.
  • Castle of Bouillon: Visit the impressive medieval castle overlooking the town of Bouillon.
  • La Roche-en-Ardenne: Discover this charming town nestled in the heart of the Ardennes, known for its medieval castle ruins.
  • Durbuy: Experience the enchanting atmosphere of the smallest city in the world, with its narrow streets and picturesque buildings.

Keywords: The Ardennes, hiking, nature, Castle of Bouillon, La Roche-en-Ardenne, Durbuy

Brussels Belgium

Leuven

  • Grand Beguinage: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, a well-preserved medieval complex of houses and gardens.
  • Stella Artois Brewery: Take a tour of the famous brewery and learn about the brewing process of one of Belgium’s most popular beers.
  • Leuven Town Hall: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the town hall, a masterpiece of Brabantine Gothic style.
  • University Library: Visit the historic library, housing a vast collection of books and manuscripts.

Keywords: Leuven, Grand Beguinage, Stella Artois Brewery, Leuven Town Hall, University Library

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many incredible short trips you can take from Brussels, Belgium. Each destination offers its own unique charm and attractions, allowing you to create unforgettable memories during your weekend getaway. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, nature, or gastronomy, there’s something for everyone within easy reach of Brussels.

References

  • visitbruges.be
  • visitgent.be
  • visitantwerpen.be
  • waterloo1815.be
  • leuven.be
  • visitmechelen.be
  • ardennes.com