4-Days in Belgium: From Cosmopolitan Brussels to Medieval Towns

Start your day in the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the central square in Brussels, dating back to the 17th century. You can admire the famous ornate buildings and architecture including the Hotel de Ville or Town Hall. Maybe enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes and restaurants. A short five minute walk, you will find the famous Manneken Pis or Little Pissing Man, stop for a quick photo. I recommend trying to arrive early to snap a pic of Manneken Pis. From here, you can head over to Église Notre-Dame des Victoires au Sablon to enjoy the Gothic architecture. The church is open 365 days a year and it’s free of charge to visit. Take a walk around the Sablon neighborhood, known for its chocolate and antique shops. A short 9-minute walk takes you to the Royal Palace of Brussels and the Parc de Bruxelles. While the Royal Palace is closed, you can enjoy the old hunting lodge turned park with its statues. Another do not miss landmark is the St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. You can learn all about the Cathedral through an interactive visit using your phone and the QR codes throughout this church. Finish out your day at the Galeries St Hubertus. This 175-year-old arcade is full of boutiques and cafes. Enjoy dinner in this chic spot and maybe indulge in some chocolate.

Start your second day at Mons de Arts, an urban, artistic complex with an impressive view of Brussels. This space divides the upper and lower parts of the city. After strolling around the gardens, head over to take a look at the European Parliament and Council of the EU. Both are quite close to each other and allow for visitors. If you are a history buff like myself, you can enjoy a few hours at the House of European History. Your last stop of the day is a little ways away, the Atomium is about 15 minutes outside of the city center. This modern landmark was created for the 1958 World's Fair as a tribute to modern progress. Right by the Atomium, you can find Mini Europe, a replica of the continent that allows you to explore all of Europe in just a few minutes.

Ghent is a short 1-hour train ride from Brussels. This charming town is located in what was once the old medieval county of Flanders, a political powerhouse starting in the 12th century. Enjoy the picturesque homes along river canals and marvel at the gothic architecture of Saint Bravo's Cathedtral. Step into the church to admire the most famous example of Flemish painting: "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb." Other main sights include the Wheat Market, the Belfry Tower and the Fortress of Gravensteen just to name a few. Make sure to walk across St. Michaels Bridge and admire the views of Ghent. I highly recommend you stay there until the evening as the city lights up beautifully.

Brugge, also known as the Venice of the north, is a charming medieval town located close enough to Brussels to enjoy as a day trip. Brugge reached its height during the 13th and 14th centuries due to its wool production. The town center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Do make sure you visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, where a relic of the Holy Blood is housed, the Belfry, Market Square, Church of Our Lady of Bruges, City Hall and St. Anne's Quarter, where you can shop for lace. Spend your day strolling along the romantic canals of this little fairytale town.