Brussels is in the heart of Belgium.
As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is the main center of the country and the entire European Union.
It is not surprising that Brussels offers a wealth of exciting attractions including street markets, stunning Royal Palace, more than a dozen fantastic museums, numerous Breweries and shops. All these places guarantee you maximum pleasure. When visiting Brussels, do not forget that outside the city there are also very interesting places. These day trips from Brussels does not cover only Belgium, but also neighboring countries. So let’s start our journey in the vicinity of Brussels.
Turney
About an hour’s drive West of Brussels is the Belgian city of Turney with a unique history. Within a short period of time the city was under the British power, which was reflected in its architecture and culture. Today, many visitors head to a Tournament, to see its magnificent Cathedral. Be sure to climb the bell tower, which offers stunning views of the entire city centre. Much of the architecture around the Cathedral belongs to the 12th and 13th century, so even a brief self-guided tour may be a fascinating dive into the history of the middle Ages. Museum of fine arts Tourney significantly undervalued and holds works of Rubens, Monet and van Gogh. Thus, after a day of sightseeing Brussels you can diversify your leisure and to visit other cities in Belgium.
The Field Of Waterloo
Even if you don’t consider yourself to be lovers of history, you probably still heard about the Battle of Waterloo. It is in this historic battle Napoleon lost his final battle against the Duke of Wellington. Today you can visit the field of this epic defeat in 1815. A place marked by an artificial hill known as the Lion’s Mound. Climb the stairs to the top of the mound, where houses beautiful sculpture of a lion. The observation deck offers a 360-degree view of the entire field of battle. In closest to the battle anniversary weekend (18 June) conducted a large-scale reconstruction, which are attended by tens of thousands of spectators. Waterloo is located just 30 km South of Brussels, which is very convenient for daily trips.
Amsterdam
A two-hour train ride North from Brussels takes you to Amsterdam. The Dutch capital is a fascinating city with incredible scenic beauty. Nicknamed the Venice of North Amsterdam has many canals, which stretch along the entire city and far beyond. If you came here just one day, you better spend it in the medieval centre of the city. This part of the famous Amsterdam Royal Palace-17th century, and home of the legendary painter Rembrandt. Do not miss also slightly touristy but undeniably beautiful floating flower market on the canal Singel. On the journey, in the vicinity of Amsterdam you can read in a separate collection.
Dinant
Located in the South-Western part of Belgium, Dinant is in the Francophone region of Wallonia, only a 90-minute drive from Brussels. Dinant is located on the banks of the Meuse river, and among its main attractions stands out a striking Citadel of Dinant. The citadel was built in the 19th century on the coastal cliffs, revealing breathtaking views. To get to the Citadel of Dinant, will have to overcome several hundred carved into the rock steps, or choose the cable car. Don’t miss your chance to see the adjacent Museum with medieval exhibits and interesting art objects of the region. Dinant is on the list of the most beautiful cities in Belgium that are worth visiting.
Antwerp
A short 45-minute trip by train or car to the North of Brussels will take you to Antwerp. The city is famous as a center for trade and Economics in Belgium. Antwerp is a place with a thriving fashion industry and the jewelry industry, but there are also many cultural attractions. If you love art, you will certainly find time to visit the so-called Rubenshuis. In this house once was a Baroque painter Rubens. Also don’t miss your chance to visit the Museum of arts of Antwerp. To buy Souvenirs, go to the Meir is one of the most known shopping places in all of Belgium.
Maastricht
To the East of Brussels is Dutch region of Limburg, where the very interesting city of Maastricht. The city is a real mixture of architectural styles and culture thanks to its location just a few kilometers from Germany and Belgium. Walking through Maastricht is well worth a visit, the two major squares: the Markt and Vrijthof. In addition to the historical architecture and world-class museums, guests may be intrigued by the caves of St. Petersburg. These caves were created as a shelter in the past century, and during the Second World war there was hidden in famous works of art.
Luxembourg
Just two hours drive South-East of Brussels is located in Luxembourg. The capital of Luxembourg is divided into different areas. If you are interested in medieval architecture, you should focus on the High City or Haute Ville. Be sure to visit the Side – a series of natural fortifications, built in the 10th century. They were designed to protect the city from invasion and preserved to our days. If something more modern will like the Museum of modern art Grand-Duc Jean, commonly known among locals simply as the MUDAM. Here you can find a lot of outstanding works from famous contemporary artists.
Ghent
North of Brussels lies the Ghent – a city with a unique mixture of history and modern attractions. In the middle ages Ghent was a major center of Belgium, and this effect is clearly seen during a walk around the city. Ghent is also famous for its beautiful the Ghent Altarpiece the image of the 15th century, or a painting by van Eyck called “the adoration of the mystic lamb.” Today, this wonderful artwork is in the Cathedral. Bavo. Cruises on the canals of Ghent are also extremely popular. This is a great way to see more attractions during a day trip from Brussels.
Bruges
Heading to the North-West of Brussels in the direction of the North sea, in about one hour you get to Bruges. Bruges is a beautiful Belgian city, which has preserved much of its past charm. Mainly pedestrianised historic city centre is best explored on foot. Bruges is surrounded by a circular channel, which is easy to navigate the city. The Central square of the Grote Markt is home to the famous bell tower. You can climb to the top and will be rewarded with amazing panoramic views of the city.
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