Top 10 cities in Belgium

1. Brussels
2. Antwerp
3. Brugge
4. Gent
5. Leuven
6. Bruxelles
7. Liege
8. Ghent
9. Mechelen
10. Waterloo

Top Attractions To See During Your Visit To Brussels

Author: Frasier Smith

Brussels is known for more than just being Europes capital city and any visit to Brussels should include at least some of the below famous landmarks.

Grand Place

It all begins here - Brussels most distinguished feature started life as a cobbled marketplace in around the 12th century. Many of the grandeur buildings that make up such a vivid part of Grand Place today weren't erected until the 18th century.

The guildhalls that give Grand Place it's identity were part of trade societies formed around the 13th century - notably butchers, bakers and cloth makers. Each guildhall is distinguished by certain unique designs.

Perhaps the most admired part of Grand Place is the magnificent Hotel de Ville, which was completed in 1444 by architect Jan von Ruysbroeck. Since then, it's been described as a gothic masterpiece and one of the most splendid sights in Belgium. Inside, you can take a tour and browse over some wonderful artwork and tapestry from the 15th century. Take in the breathtaking majesty of the conference room boasting ancient tapestry and the "Aldermens Room" where even today the Mayor holds certain prolific meetings. The final masterpiece of Hotel de Ville is its exquisite belfry - described as one of the finest in the world. Now, the Hotel de Ville is the town centre of Brussels.

The Maison du Roi was built in 1536 by (then) Spanish rulers and now houses a fine collection of art, tapestries and Manneken Pis from the 16th century. Meaning "Kings House" Maison du Roi is now the setting for Musee de la Ville de Bruxelles - a collection of medieval art. If you're planning on seeing a number of museums during your stay in Brussels then you may benefit from a "Brussels Card" which offers free entry to 30 museums for 30 Euros - the holder also gets unlimited access on public transport and discounts on various additional attractions and eateries.

Le Pigeon is known as being the home of Victor Hugo, the famous French writer in 1852 after he fled France following the French insurrection and La Maison des Boulangers was built by the guild of bakers - a testimony to their power and wealth at the time. Maison des Tailleurs is made famous by the statue of patron saint St Barbara - this was the guild of tailors.

One of the best experiences of visiting Brussels is to enjoy a coffee or beer at one of the cafes set within Grand Place and watch the bustle of tourists potter along the cobbled streets while viewing the grandeur.

If you intend on having something to eat in and around Grand Place then there's no shortage of options. If you're in the mood for traditional Belgian fare, try t'Kelderke which serves up the usual offering of moules et frites at reasonable prices. Katya's Kitchen is also an interesting establishment serving up a variety of cuisine including Asian and more traditional Belgian dishes. There are other restaurants within a stones throw of Grand Place so if these don't take your fancy simply take to the streets until something does.

Try coming back to see Grand Place at night - the busy atmosphere and night lights make it a truly enriching experience.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Beautiful, tree-lined Parc du Cinquantenaire was built as a tribute to the golden celebrations for Belgian independence in 1880. The famous Arc de Triomphe landmark was completed several years after the park was built.

The park houses the Musee de l'Armee which is a museum describing Belgiums military history and includes various artefacts stretching back to over two centuries. The gateway into the city is marked by the Central Archway. Interestingly, the park is also home to "Autoworld" which has hundreds of classic cars on display. Also worth a visit is Musee du Cinquantenaire which has international artefacts from civilisations dating back to the 15th century.

Aside from the many features of Parc du Cinquantenaire it's also a very plesant place to take a relaxing stroll - indeed it's one of the most loved places by the locals who come in droves during weekends and public holidays.

Quartier Royal

Once upon a time the Quartier Royal was the home of Belgian Royalty, though this is no longer the case (the Royal family are now situated in Laeken). Even so, the Quartier Royal are grand and handsome grounds with an eventful history - including being utterly destroyed by a fire in 1731 before being rebuilt by the 19th century.

Stretching over a mile long, Rue Royal runs from Quartier Royal to the pleasant Jardin Botanique and is a pleasant way of seeing some fine architecure. The Quartier Royal also houses the Palais Royal, Palais de la Nation and Palais des Academies. The Palais Royal remains the largest of the palaces set within Quartier Royal and boasts a fine throne room, long gallery displaying ceiling paintings and the hall of mirrors. It's open to the public between July and September and is well worth the visit.

The attractive Parc de Bruxelles has some elegant fountains and is lined with trees - the park was originally conceived in the 17th century.

Cathedrale Sts Michel et Gudule

This grand cathedral took over three centuries to complete - work actually began in 1225, under Henry I (Duke of Brabant) and was completed around the 16th century under Charles V. Saint Gudule was the 7th century saint who the Cathedral was inspired after along with St Michael (Patron Saint of Brussels) who's statue can be seen in the middle of the structure. The "Last Judgement" window is an exquisite feature of the Cathedral - indeed, it's the first sight that stands out as you approach. This interesting gothic styled institution is located on Parvis St.-Gudule.

Palais de Justice

Completed in 1883, the Palais de Justice was designed by Joseph Poelaert and remains one of the distinctive constructions in Belgium and unlike many other landmark still functions as it was originally built for - in this case the capital of Brussels' legal courts. The Palais de Justice is situated along Place Poelaert. Very near the Palais de Justice are Les Marolles which are stuffed with little cafes and tiny shops. For some unusual bargains make your way to the junk market on Sunday mornings on Place du Jeu de Balle.

Palais d'Egmont

On rue aux Laines is the unmistakable sight of Palais d'Egmont - originally built in the 16th century, the palace took on further historical significance in the 1970's as the place where Great Britain officially became a member of the EEC.

Musee d'Art Moderne

The multi-storey building that houses this museum is almost as interesting as the exhibits inside - as many of the levels are underground. The museum is located on Place Royale and as the name suggests, includes works of art from modern talent (19th century onwards). Also worth a visit is Musee d'Art Ancien - displaying art dating as far back as the 15th century and includes a pleasant sculpture garden that's a delight to visit. Musee d'Art Ancien is on rue de la Regence.

Le Sablon District

Known as the region where Brussels splits into two (the upper and lower region) the Place du Grand Sablon is a pleasant area with a prolific fountain and the Gothic church of Notre-Dame du Sablon. This prosperous region of Brussels is noted for housing top restaurants, bars & cafes to stop by and enjoy a bite. Aside from visiting the gothic church (completed around the mid 1500's) the Place du Petit Sablon must be seen - these delightful gardens are a pleasure to amble along. Sit on the many benches available, peruse the statues and take some pictures of the fountains built to honour Counts Egmont & Hornes.

Atomium

The Atomium (located in Heysel) is one of the most distinguished landmarks of Brussels - the structure - a giant molecule was constructed in 1958 when Brussels held the world fair. It's well worth a trip to see this interesting structure.

Laeken

This leafy suburb situated north of Brussels is the Belgian equivalent of Windsor - it is the residence of the Belgian royalty and is noted for it's abundance of greenery and picture-perfect parklands.

About the Author:
Brussels Top Free Travel Guide. Discover The Best Places To Visit On Your Brussels Holiday, Find Great Bargain Hotels & Deals & Save Money On Restaurants & Attractions. Brussels Travel Guide - Bargain Brussels Travel Deals

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Top Attractions To See During Your Visit To Brussels

10 Exhibitions to attend in Belgium

Author: Catherine Gliddon

Belgium is a thriving country and one of the new places to look out for when it comes to key exhibitions. These are some excellent events which take place this year in Belgium and some of these are detailed below.

1. Decoforce - is an exhibition of contemporary ideas for both interior and exterior decoration. This trade show is a unique opportunity for all buyers to get up-to-date on the latest trends and changes in the industry. Decoforce takes place from 30th August through to the 2nd September 2009 at the Brussels Exhibition Centre.

2. MATEXPO - Also known as Machines, Techniques & Materials Exhibition, is one of the leading trade shows for this industry with over 150 exhibitors. This exhibition will be hosted at the Kortrijik Expo from the 2nd - 6th September,

3. DECOSIT - is one of the most important upholstery events in Belgium and Europe and this attracts all of the key players in this field. Decosit will be held from the 8th - 11th September at Brussels Exhibition Centre.

4. Broodway - The world of bakery and confectioneries comes to life at the Broodway exhibition! Sweet treats, bakery equipments, packaging equipments and more await when you drop by this trade show that runs from the 13th - 16th September at the Kortrijk Expo.

5. Business Gift Expo - The only exhibition in Belgium which focuses on stationery goods and office accessories. This two day trade show will falls on 15th & 16th September and will be held at Brussels Exhibition Centre.

6. Professional Wellness - The one-stop event for everyone in the Spa & Wellness industry, this exhibition promotes the latest in Fitness and exercise, beauty and body care, and everything else to do with your general well-being. Catch the show either on the 19th or 20th September when it comes to the Kortrijik Expo.

7. Label Expo Europe - The world's largest event for the label, converting, web printing and product decoration industry is opening its doors from the 23rd - 26th September at Brussels Exhibition Centre and welcomes all in the industry as it showcases the latest in cutting edge technology.

8. BIS + Immosfeer - A leading trade fair in the Building & Real Estate industry, this exhibition draws in the who's who of the industry and features exhibits from bathroom fittings to metal detectors all under one roof at the Flanders Expo in Gent from 3rd - 11th October.

9. Empack Expo-Brussels - Find the latest innovative ideas from the packaging industry. 7th & 8th October are the important dates for this exhibition which will be hosted by Brussels Exhibition Centre.

10. Kiosk Expo - A one of a kind expo, marking a strategic meeting point for decision makers from multiple industries. Key figures from multiple sectors including from the tobacco industry, I.T, games and confectionery will gather to discuss & implement a new level of customer service technology. This exhibition runs from the 31st - 2nd November at Flanders Expo, Gent.

About the Author:

Catherine writes about Exhibition AV accessories and Exhibition Stands and services.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - 10 Exhibitions to attend in Belgium

Ten Important Things To Do When You Visit Belgium

Author: Jonathan Williams

Belgium - a beautiful country that is quite appropriately dubbed as the "Battlefield of Europe." Indeed, Belgium has had its share of wars. It has endured the rages of greedy kings and ambitious warlords from all epochs, but no war can diminish this country's beauty, making it an ideal place to visit.

1) Have a Cup of Hot Chocolate

No Belgium vacation can be without a trip to the capital city's famous sidewalk cafes. It is absolutely essential to drop by any of the several cafes littered in Brussels City and have yourself a sip of Belgium's famous rich hot chocolate. If there's anything that the beautiful country of Belgium can offer you, it's your sweet tooth's utter satisfaction.

2) Participate in the Carnival of Binche

Be a smart tourist and visit Belgium at the time of year when it's most festive. During the month of February, Belgium hosts its most colorful festival ever, the Cranival of Binche. With Firework displays and music parades and colorful costumes and projectile oranges, this certainly is a festival worth participating in. This festival is even included in UNESCO's heritage list.

3) Follow the Gourmet Trail

One of the greatest things about the Belgians is that they know good food like the back of their hands, and Belgium is known for its fine cuisines that are heavily influenced by the different countries that surround it. Try eating Belgium's Mussels, a shellfish dish, and see if your tongue agrees with the Belgian taste. Also, why not try Belgium's French Fries. It is, after all, the original.

4) Have Fun with a Fluvial Cruise

Hop on any one of Belgium's colorful boats and cruise around Belgium's waterways to have a perfect view of the various cities and towns lining the coastline. You can try the Lys River, which will take you to Bruges or Ghent. You can also try the Escaut river to reach Tournai and Bossuit.

5) Exercise Your Inner Scholar

Belgium is a country that places high stock on good education. Visit Ghent or Leuven, Belgium's student cities, and hurl yourself into local coffee shop and strike a conversation with any of the university students. You'll be sure to find an intellectual conversation anywhere.

6) Party in Ghent

If you're the type who can party well into the night for days on end, then Belgium just has just the thing for you. Ghent City hosts the Gentse Feesten, a gigantic street festival which has everything from street dancing to theater to diverse musical performances. The Gentse Feesten happens on the 14th of July until the 23rd.

7) Frolic in the Flander Fields - the Westhoek

Have you ever wanted to run unfettered through beautiful flower fields and lush green plains? Well, your fantasy comes true in Belgium's Flander Fields where the Flander fields are not only beautiful but also rich in history. This is the only part of Belgium that wasn't captured during the world war due to the townsmen's ingenious plans of opening the flood gate.

8) Brussel's Oldest Citizen

Who would have thought that Brussel's Oldest Citizen is a little boy atop a fountain? The Mannekin-Pis, located in the Rue de l'Etuve, is probably the most popular tourist spot in the capital city. The Mannekin-Pis is a bronze statuette of Belgian irreverence, a sculpture of a little boy who is 'answering the call of nature' (e.g. taking a piss).

9) Where Great Men Once Walked

And you can't have a trip to Belgium without going to the Grand Place, a beautiful piece of architecture that has been around since the middle ages. This is where Marx and Engels once worked to write their Communist Manifesto.

10) Castle Hopping

And, if you're hungry for beautiful and diverse architecture, then Belgium surely is the place for you. Wallonia in Belgium has a huge collection of castles of every kind. They have fortresses and towers and everything you will ever need for your medieval fantasies. These castles have even become popular as honeymoon spots for newlyweds.

About the Author:
Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos. Visit http://www.DestinationGuide.tv/belgium to view or share Belgium travel videos.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Ten Important Things To Do When You Visit Belgium