Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Belgium (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip is a crucial step when considering a move to Belgium. This exploratory journey allows you to immerse yourself in the country's culture, explore different cities and towns, and gain firsthand experience of what life could be like. It's an opportunity to evaluate the cost of living, check out neighborhoods, and understand the local customs and lifestyle.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Brussels, then head to Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp. For a 20-day trip, include Leuven, Liège, and the Ardennes region, specifically towns like Durbuy and La Roche-en-Ardenne. These itineraries provide a mix of urban and rural experiences, catering to various preferences.

Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a multicultural hub with a population of around 1.2 million. It's known for its international community, making it an ideal spot for expats and digital nomads. The city offers a high quality of life, with a moderate compared to other European capitals. Life in Brussels is a blend of historic charm and modern conveniences.

Travel Tip: Visit the Atomium, a iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city. For a taste of local cuisine, try the mussels at Chez Léon.

Bruges

Bruges is a picturesque city in the northwest, known for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval buildings. With a population of around 118,000, it offers a slower pace of life compared to Brussels. The cost of living is slightly lower, making it an attractive option for retirees. Bruges is close to the North Sea coast, providing easy access to beaches.

Travel Tip: Take a canal boat tour to see the city from a different perspective. For dinner, try the Flemish stew at 't Zwart Huis.

Ghent

Ghent, located between Brussels and Bruges, combines the best of both worlds. It's a university city with a vibrant cultural scene and a population of around 260,000. The cost of living is reasonable, and its proximity to both larger cities and the countryside makes it an excellent choice for digital nomads.

Travel Tip: Visit the Gravensteen castle for a historical experience. For a unique dining experience, try the ribs at Amadeus.

Antwerp

Antwerp is the second most populous city in Belgium, known for its fashion industry and vibrant nightlife. With a population of around 520,000, it offers a bustling urban lifestyle. The cost of living is comparable to Brussels, but the city's trendy vibe attracts many digital nomads.

Travel Tip: Explore the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) for a deep dive into Antwerp's history. For a culinary treat, try the Belgian waffles at Desire de Lille.

Leuven

Leuven, located east of Brussels, is a university town with a rich history and a population of around 100,000. It's known for its breweries and offers a lower cost of living compared to larger cities. The proximity to Brussels makes it a good option for those who prefer a smaller town but need easy access to a major city.

Travel Tip: Visit the Stella Artois Brewery for a tour and tasting. For dinner, try the local cuisine at Zarza.

Liège

Liège, located in the eastern part of Belgium, is a major city with a population of around 197,000. It's known for its industrial past and vibrant cultural scene. The cost of living is lower compared to Brussels, making it an attractive option for those looking for a more affordable urban lifestyle.

Travel Tip: Explore the historic Liège-Guillemins railway station. For a culinary experience, try the boulets à la Liégeoise at Au Boulet Sauce Lapin.

Ardennes Region

The Ardennes region, located in the southeast, is known for its dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. Towns like Durbuy and La Roche-en-Ardenne offer a rural lifestyle with a lower cost of living. This region is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a slower pace of life.

Travel Tip: Visit the Château de Modave for a historical experience. For a local dining experience, try the trout at Le Vieux Durbuy.