Belgium, one of the most renowned countries in Europe, is on the bucket list for places to visit among many travellers. Famous for its medieval towns & cities, Renaissance architecture, and timeless monuments, Belgium is a place often visited by people back and forth. The small towns in Belgium are the hidden gems, inviting you to immerse yourself in the rich culture and picturesque views, thereby having an unforgettable experience. While planning your vacation in Belgium, it is important to check the popular and offbeat destinations to make your trip a memorable one.
10 Small Towns In Belgium You Must Visit
Explore the hidden gems of Belgium, some dating back to centuries, to have a wholesome experience. Check out the top small towns in Belgium to make your vacation a memorable one:-
1. Durbuy
Delve into the richness of culture, tradition, and stunning countryside at the smallest town in Belgium, Durbuy. It is a romantic and family retreat for those seeking adventure and peace simultaneously. Even today, the city echoes the rich history through medieval streets, endless lush green gardens, mysterious stones, and more. To feel the simplicity & vibrant aura of the town while understanding how petit it is, the best way is to jump on a tourist train. It will wind you through the charming streets and up to the tower to discover the essence of this town. As the River Ourthe flows through the town, you can engage in multiple adventurous activities, including canoeing, rafting, and kayaking, making it one of the perfect destinations to have a wholesome experience. Do not forget to grab a bite to eat here as the town is an ideal place for gastronomy.
Places To Stay: Hotel des Comtes, Azur En Ardenne, Hotel La Librairie
Top Attractions: Topiary Park, Adventure Valley, Le Roche De La Falize, Maison des Mégalithes
Must Read: Belgium Wildlife
2. Bruges
Nestled in West Flanders, Bruges lets you breathe the rich history and culture of Belgium. Admire the city’s flemish masterpieces of art & architecture, quaint cobblestone alleys, and chocolate shops at every corner, adding a whole new dimension to your vacation. Here, you can experience the city’s romantic canal-side strolls and of course traditional local beers, making you feel euphoric. During your town tour, it is recommended that you visit the beating heart of Bruges, The Markt. It is the old market square lined with pavement cafes beneath step-gabled facades, inviting you to have a marvellous time. In addition, the neo-Gothic former post office is a delight to watch as it is architecturally magnificent. Bruges, one of the fairy-tale small towns in Belgium, has romantic canals and scenic cobblestone streets, making it an ideal romantic and family getaway.
Places To Stay: Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce, Grand Hotel Casselbergh, Hotel Van Cleef
Top Attractions: Historic Centre Of Brugge, Belfort, Luc Vanlaere Harpist, The Markt, Basilica Of The Holy Blood
3. Spa
Ever wondered where the word ‘spa’ came from? Spa, one of the beautiful small towns in Belgium is the answer. Nestled in the Ardennes region of central Belgium, the town is internationally known as it played a precursory part in the recognition of the medical properties of water. The eponymous town is also known as the ‘Café of Europe’ and the ‘Pearl of the Ardennes’ since the sixteenth century. Spa, due to its rich history, ultimate attractions, and surreal atmosphere, is on the bucket list of small towns to visit in Belgium.
Places To Stay: Hôtel l’Ecrin d’Ô, La Villa des Fleurs, Radisson Blu Palace Hotel
Top Attractions: Pouhon Pierre Le Grand, Le Musée de la Ville d’eaux, Domaine de Berinzenne, Pouhon Pierre le Grand, Musée de la Forêt et des Eaux, Waux Hall
Suggested Read: Belgium Beach Resorts
4. Bouillon
A hidden gem in Belgium offering a seamless blend of rich history, rejuvenation, and adventure is none other than Bouillon. Nestled in the heart of the Ardennes region, one of the small towns in Belgium offers a wholesome experience to all visitors. Whether you are an architectural & history enthusiast, adventurer, or nature lover, Bouillon offers endless possibilities to all for having the ultimate fun. As Semios River flows through the town, tourists and locals alike can engage in thrilling activities, like kayaking. In addition, there are amazing hiking trails catering to all levels of fitness and experience, allowing you to give an adventurous turn to your vacation.
Places To Stay: Hotel de la Poste – Relais Napoleon III, Panorama Hotel, Hotel Cosy
Top Attractions: Bouillon Castle, Archeoscope, Belvédère de Bouillon, Ducal Museum
5. Antwerp
Nestled on the banks of the River Scheldt, Antwerp is one of the small villages in Belgium with a vibrant heart. A true Belgium delight boasts medieval streets, exotic nightlife, and Renaissance monuments, attracting tourists worldwide. As historical and architectural enthusiasts, especially, you can have a wholesome experience here. Discover the delightful attractions and experience a dazzling nightlife, that will never make you feel tired of the town. You will be amazed to know that the town has a pedestrian tunnel that is almost a hundred years old. While walking or cycling under the Scheldt River, you may have a cinematic experience.
Places To Stay: Van der Walk Hotel Antwerp, Hotel Rubens, Hampton By Hilton
Top Attractions: MAS – Museum aan de Stroom, Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA), The Cathedral Of Our Lady, Grote Markt
Suggested Read: Cottages In Belgium
6. Ypres
Ypres, among the small towns in Belgium, is located in the province of West Flanders. As a history and architectural enthusiast, you may have a wonderful time here. The town carries the weight of the First World War memory and boasts architectural charm with cobblestone streets. By exploring the town’s market square, you may have a glimpse of the Belgian culture through its shops and cafes. A living monument to the past, Ypres offers visitors a great opportunity to delve into its glorious history and witness its vibrant present.
Places To Stay: Albion Hotel, Ariane Hotel, Main Street Boutique Hotel
Top Attractions: Flanders Field Museum, Holiday Home Leper Market Square, Hooge Crater Museum, St George’s Memorial Church, The Menin Gate
7. Mechelen
Nestled between Brussels and Antwerp in northern Belgium, Mechelen is a hidden gem with rich culture and history. The scenic canals and cobblestone streets evoke a sense of old-world charm, making it one of the must-visit small towns in Belgium. Cited on the banks of the River Dyle, the town is a cultural magnet surrounded by water-rich and lush green landscapes, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle. Here, there is plenty to see and things to do for all age groups. From getting carried away by winding rivers through captivating natural areas to embracing the tranquillity of serene streams & gardens, you can have a great time with loved ones.
Places To Stay: Van Der Valk Hotel, Novotel Mechelen Centrum
Top Attractions: Planckendael Zoo, Technopolis, St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, Toy Museum, Kazerne Dossin Holocaust Memorial
Suggested Read: Churches In Brussels
8. Dinant
Set by the banks of the Meuse River in the Namur province of Belgium, Dinant is a true picture-postcard town offering a delightful experience to all visitors. From being on a cruise on the River to witnessing exotic wildlife, you can have a guaranteed wonderful time with loved ones or solo. The town offers historical and culturally rich attractions, like the Gothic-style Collegiate Church of Our Lady. Though Dinant is one of the small towns in Belgium, it is highly visited its for natural caves, caverns, castles, and historical spots to name a few.
Places To Stay: Ibis Dinant, La Merveilleuse By Infiniti Resorts, Dinant Castel de Pont à Lesse
Top Attractions: Park Fufooz, Notre Dame de Dinant, Agimont Adventure, Grotte de Dinant La Merveilleuse, Pont Charles de Gaulle, Citadelle de Dinant
9. Tournai
Tournai, also known as The City of the Five Spires is located in western Belgium. If you wish to delve into the glorious past of Belgium or see historical landmarks dating back centuries, Tournai is the ideal place to visit. A historic town is home to architectural wonders, a delight for architectural and art & literature lovers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tournai Cathedral, showcases Gothic and Romanesque design. Another such Site is The Belfry, offering picturesque views of the cityscape. Here, do not miss out on visiting the famous museums, like the Museum of Fine Arts as it houses a remarkable collection of Belgian art. Tournai, one of the small towns in Belgium, has amazing markets, charming streets, and exquisite cuisine, inviting visitors worldwide to experience the classic beauty.
Places To Stay: Hotel d’Alcantara, Floreal Le Panoramique, Ferme Delgueule
Top Attractions: Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Tournai, Folklore Museum Of Tournai, Bridge Of Holes, Museum Of Fine Arts
Suggested Read: Castles In Belgium
10. Tongeren
Tongeren is one of the best small towns in Belgium, nestled in the scenic countryside of Limburg. The roots of the ancient town stretch back to Roman times evidenced by the well-preserved archaeological sites, like The Basilica of Our Lady. Offering local delicacies and artisanal crafts, the town is renowned for its richness of history and culture. Here, art enthusiasts can have a wonderful time by witnessing the architectural marvels and seeing the richest collection of church art dating back to the Merovingian period. From breathing the fresh air to walking on the vibrant streets, visitors can have a marvellous time.
Places To Stay: Eburon Hotel- Different Hotels, Boutique Hotel Caelus VII, Boutique Hotel Huys Van Steyns
Top Attractions: Gallo-Roman Museum, The Basilica of Our Lady, The Beghina Museum, Moerenpoort
Further Read: Trekking In Belgium
Belgium, a dream destination for many, has iconic attractions carrying a huge cultural value. The surreal-like atmosphere with vivid landscapes of small towns in Belgium can help you escape the daily chores and feel rejuvenated. So, plan your trip to Belgium today for an extraordinary adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Small Towns In Belgium
What is the most picturesque town in Belgium?
Belgium, a country in Western Europe, is highly known for its medieval towns and Renaissance architecture. The small towns in Belgium are picturesque and carry a huge historical value, including Dinant, Bruges, and Ypres.
What is the smallest town in Belgium?
Durbuy is the smallest town in Belgium withholding architectural marvels and scenic spots. Here, one can not only explore the historical landmarks but also engage in adventure activities, like kayaking.
What is the cheapest place to live in Belgium?
Belgium is home to numerous towns and cities. However, as per your budget and lifestyle choices, you can decide the town or city you wish to reside in.
What is Belgium famous for?
Belgium is renowned for its medieval architecture, gastronomy, art & literature, and more. It is visited by many tourists from all over the world to soak in the rich culture and have immense fun.
Is Dinant a city or town?
Dinant is one of the small towns in Belgium with spectacular historical sites along mysterious stone cliffs near the confluence of the Meuse and Lesse Rivers. Also the hometown of the inventor of the saxophone, Adolphe Sax, the town has gained great popularity.
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