Things to do in Flanders
Discover the best attractions and experiences Flanders has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore centuries of Flemish history through brick-and-mortar landmarks that shape the region’s skylines.
Bruges Belfry (Belfort)
Medieval bell tower in the Markt district offering panoramic city views.
Gravensteen Castle, Ghent
14th‑century fortress overlooking the Leie river in Ghent.
Saint Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent
Gothic cathedral famed for the Ghent Altarpiece and grand interiors.
Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk), Bruges
Renaissance-style church with a towering spire and notable artworks.
Museums
Flanders’ museums present everything from medieval art to port history and contemporary storytelling.
MAS (Museum aan de Stroom), Antwerp
Museum exploring Antwerp’s history, trade and port through interactive exhibits.
Groeningemuseum, Bruges
Renowned collection of Flemish Primitives and Flemish Baroque works.
STAM, Ghent
City museum detailing Ghent’s evolution across centuries.
Religious Monuments
Gothic cathedrals, basilicas and cloisters punctuate the Flemish religious landscape.
Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp
Gothic cathedral with towering spires and Rubens masterpieces.
Saint Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent
Historic church housing the Ghent Altarpiece and stunning interiors.
Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges
Charming basilica enshrining a revered relic in Bruges.
National & Theme Parks
From coastal fun to forested trails, parks and theme parks offer family-friendly escapades.
Hoge Kempen National Park
Belgium’s largest national park with forests, lakes and scenic trails in Limburg.
Bellewaerde Park, Ieper
Family-friendly theme park and zoo near West Flanders’ heritage sites.
Plopsaland De Panne
Coastside theme park offering rides and family entertainment.
Neighborhoods
Dive into the character of Flemish cities by wandering their iconic districts.
Patershol, Ghent
Cobblestone riverside district with quaint eateries and medieval lanes.
Het Eilandje, Antwerp
Historic dockside neighborhood with skyline views and trendy bars.
Zurenborg, Antwerp
Art Nouveau residential district famed for ornate houses and terraces.
Free Things to Do
Many of Flanders' charms are free to enjoy—perfect for a light on-budget day.
Walk along Ghent’s Graslei and Korenlei
Picturesque medieval quays with handsome guildhouses.
Stroll Bruges’ canal belt and Minnewater area
Scenic waterside paths and romantic views in Bruges.
Ostend Beach promenade
Long sandy coast ideal for a breezy seaside stroll.
Gastronomy
Savor Flemish fare and local brews across historic towns and coastlines.
Brewery De Halve Maan, Bruges
Historic brewery offering tours and a rooftop overlook.
Choco-Story Bruges
Chocolate museum celebrating Belgium’s sweet tradition.
Brewery Gruut, Ghent
Local beer brewed with unique spice blends and traditional methods.
De Koninck Brewery Experience, Antwerp
City brewery with guided tastings and beer culture.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive with student hubs, canal-side bars and urban nightlife.
Oude Markt, Leuven
Historic square known for lively bars and student energy.
Overpoortstraat, Ghent
Popular nightlife street lined with pubs and clubs.
Zuid, Antwerp
Vibrant nightlife district with bars, clubs and live music.
Entertainment
The Flemish stage hosts theatre, concerts and cultural events year-round.
Stadsschouwburg Antwerp
Historic theatre hosting plays, dance and performances.
NTGent Theatre, Ghent
Dramatic arts venue featuring contemporary plays.
Concertgebouw Brugge
Major concert hall for classical and modern performances.
Sports
Sports culture runs deep—from football to cycling routes through scenic towns.
Club Brugge at Jan Breydel Stadium
Watch a Belgian league match amid passionate fans.
Circuit Zolder
Motor racing circuit hosting car and bike events.
Tour of Flanders routes
Cycling routes following Flemish Classics through scenic towns.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the famous landmarks to hidden corners and quiet stories.
Fort Breendonk
World War II fort and memorial near Mechelen.
Kasteel van Loppem
Elegant castle and gardens near Bruges with a storied past.
Beguinage Bruges (Begijnhof Ten Wijngaerde)
UNESCO-listed beguinage with tranquil courtyards.
Lier Beguinage (Begijnhof van Lier)
Historic beguinage with cobbled streets and quiet squares.