Tourism and cultural activities in Belgium

Different Forms of Tourism

Historical

- In Brussels: the Grand-Place, the Atomium (vestige of the 1958 World Fair)
- In Bruges: the Grand-Place and its Belfry, the canals
- In Ghent: the City hall, the Saint Michel Bridge, Saint Nicolas Church and the Belfry
- In Antwerp: the cathedral, the port

Cultural

Belgium is not a homogeneous country with one national identity; as such, it is difficult to give a general overview that applies to all Belgians. The three predominant cultures are: 1) in the north, Flanders - primarily Dutch, 2) in the south, Wallonia - primarily French and 3) the northeast - primarily German influenced.

Nature

Those looking to see a bit of nature can check out Belgium's coastal beaches and the Ardennes forest.

Religious

The religious heritage is huge, with many places to see. Further information can be found here.

Thermal

Spa Cty and Ostend City. More information can be found at the website of the Belgium Tourist Office.

Beach

There are only a few kilometres of beach, which do not attract many foreign tourists.

Winter Sports

Skiing in the Ardennes area is a fun winter sport. More information can be found on this Belgian tourism website.

Outdoor Activities

You can do numerous outdoor activities, from mountain biking to kayak and many more.

Shopping

Special purchases include: ceramics and hand-beaten copper ware from Dinant, Belgian chocolates, crystal from Val Saint Lambert, diamonds, jewelry from Antwerp, lace, woodcarvings from Spa and comic books by a number of talented Belgian cartoon artists from Brussels.

Main shopping centres are located in Antwerp, Bruges, Brussels, Ghent, Liège, Mechelen, Mons, Namur and Ostend.

Tourism Organisations

Flanders Tourism Board