HISTORIC CITIES. TIMELESS STORIES.
Belgium
Explore Belgium through medieval trading cities, Gothic town halls, grand squares and centuries of European history. From the guild houses of Brussels and Bruges to the castles and river valleys of Wallonia, discover a country shaped by commerce, art, conflict and cultural exchange.
A CROSSROADS OF EUROPEAN HISTORY
Discover Belgium Through the Ages
From Roman settlements and medieval Flemish cloth towns to Burgundian courts, Habsburg rule and the modern Belgian state, Belgium reveals its history in architecture, museums and living city streets. Follow the stories of merchants, artists, rulers and ordinary people across this diverse country.
EXPLORE BY DESTINATION
Discover Belgium’s Destinations
Brussels
Explore Belgium’s capital through the UNESCO-listed Grand-Place, Gothic architecture, royal institutions and Europe’s political heart.
Bruges
Wander medieval canals, merchant houses and the market square of Bruges, once one of Europe’s great commercial centres.
Ghent
Explore Ghent’s formidable Gravensteen Castle, medieval towers, guild heritage and centuries of Flemish urban history.
Antwerp
Discover Antwerp’s spectacular cathedral, Renaissance guild houses, artistic heritage and history as a major European port.
Dinant
Follow the Meuse River to Dinant, known for its dramatic citadel, collegiate church and connections to Adolphe Sax.
BELGIUM THROUGH THE AGES
A Brief History of Belgium
From Roman Gaul and medieval trading powerhouses to Burgundian rule, the Belgian Revolution and two world wars, the past remains visible across Belgium’s remarkable cities and landscapes.
1st–4th c.
Roman Gaul
The region forms part of Roman Gaul; Roman roads, settlements and trade leave lasting traces.
12th–15th c.
Medieval Trade
Flanders and Brabant flourish through textile production, guilds and long-distance commerce.
15th c.
Burgundian Netherlands
The Burgundian dukes gather much of the region under their rule, supporting courtly art and culture.
1830
Belgian Revolution
Belgium declares independence from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1830.
1914–1918
First World War
The German invasion and battles in Flanders leave an enduring mark on Belgian history.
1940–1945
Second World War
German occupation, resistance and liberation shape the country’s twentieth-century memory.
Medieval Cities
Bruges, Ghent and other centres prospered through the textile trade and international merchant networks.
Burgundian Heritage
The Burgundian dukes cultivated wealthy courts and patronised art across the Low Countries in the fifteenth century.
European Crossroads
Historic battlefields, museums and civic monuments illuminate Belgium’s position at the heart of European history.
PLAN YOUR BELGIUM TRIP
Everything You Need for Belgium
Everything you need to plan your trip to Belgium, from historic accommodation and cultural tours to rail journeys, flights and car hire.
Hotels
Find characterful hotels in historic centres, elegant city stays and welcoming countryside accommodation.
Tours & Activities
Discover guided city walks, medieval landmarks, battlefield memorials, museums and memorable experiences throughout Belgium.
Car Hire
Explore Belgium at your own pace, from Ardennes castles and river valleys to historic towns and the North Sea coast.
Flights
Compare flights to Belgium and find a convenient route to Brussels or other nearby airports.
Trains & Buses
Travel between Belgium’s cities and historic destinations by train and bus; check routes and fares before departure.