Local Guides World
Best Historical landmarks in Belgium
Top Rated Historical landmarks
Top Reviewed Historical landmarks
Palais du Coudenberg
Roger Square Delannay
Tour du Cygne
Hotel Metropole Brussels
Statue of King Baudouin
Belfry of Bruges
Ruines fortifications Vauban
Medieval castle of Vaulx
Tour Saint Georges
vestiges fortification Tournai
Monument of Leopold II
Orangerie du Jardin Botanique
Reviews
Une chouette salle de concert, une bonne ambiance et un staff sympathique.
It is a great experience with a great view of the Belfort square. It's amazing to see how the bells ring such beautiful sounds. The stairs are steep and narrow, so be careful.
€15 seemed a bit steep for entry but it was a lovely view at the top. We had to wait a bit as the tower was at capacity and I shudder to think what it’s like during summer (we came in late Feb when it rained all day).
The staircase is one way and there’s a lot of stopping and waiting for people to pass. The information along the way is super informative and interesting.
I would like to reiterate other reviews that if you’re not physically fit you will have a tough time. If you’re also claustrophobic I wouldn’t recommend it either.
I would say you can get up and down in 20 mins easy and that’s with taking your time, reading everything and taking pics!
The staircase is one way and there’s a lot of stopping and waiting for people to pass. The information along the way is super informative and interesting.
I would like to reiterate other reviews that if you’re not physically fit you will have a tough time. If you’re also claustrophobic I wouldn’t recommend it either.
I would say you can get up and down in 20 mins easy and that’s with taking your time, reading everything and taking pics!
Petite mais chouette salle de concert ☺️
💯 Grab a beer, wine or coffee with your favourite person. Enjoy a front row seat facing the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. 🍻 ☕
We climbed up in the evening after dark. I imagine the views would have been better during the daylight hours but it was still nice to see the city lights and also the history of the tower. The stairs aren't too difficult to climb (for an early 30s couple) with plenty of landings and floors to take breaks at, however the spiral staircase is quite narrow in places so maybe not the best for people who are nervous of confined spaces. We bought tickets online in advance and not have to queue to get in.
Amazing view of the city and the literal central point of the city. We reserved and booked time slots the day before to go up but also it sells out quickly so try to book as early as possible. We also went on a weekend but it was in February. Lots of climbing but its not too bad, there are multiple levels you can stop and relax. The one right before the top is nice, you can see how the bells work. Last is the pure lookout point and you have a nice view of the city.
Really nice visit - doesn't take too long - we had a museum pass so it was free. We hadn't booked a slot so we initially thought we'd have to come back later in the day but they let us in anyway cause it wasn't that busy :)
The stairs get pretty steep/narrow/uneven as you go up. But the view is amazing and the music from the bells is very impressive and plays music every 15 minutes
The stairs get pretty steep/narrow/uneven as you go up. But the view is amazing and the music from the bells is very impressive and plays music every 15 minutes
beautiful
Went to Bruges for the Christmas market.
Plent to see in Bruges as it is a UNESCO heritage city its amazing we had a good look around did plenty of walking.
The restaurants at Christmas are all lit up the food is plentiful and presented nicely.
We would love to go back one day.
Plent to see in Bruges as it is a UNESCO heritage city its amazing we had a good look around did plenty of walking.
The restaurants at Christmas are all lit up the food is plentiful and presented nicely.
We would love to go back one day.
Small Castle ruin. Not a lot is left of it. We came to see one of the medieval festivals that is hosted here.
Good place to visit, close to Grand central.
The Belfort or Belfry is the iconic landmark in the center of Bruges. It’s a medieval bell tower built around the year 1240. We bought tickets online for a Tuesday 9:40 time slot. The booking system is super easy because it tells you how many tickets are left for each time slot, and you don’t need to book too far in advance. There weren’t too many people when we went but there were already people coming back down.
There are some areas of the climb that are narrow, so just be mindful of that. It took us about 15 minutes to get to the top and when you get up there, it is so cool! You see the actual bell (beware, it’s LOUD, obviously since you’re right next to it) and you can look down on the square. Although it’s not a complete 360 view since the bell blocks some of the access, it’s still a sight to see. The whole experience from going up, taking photos at the top, coming back down took us about 45 minutes. It did start getting a bit more crowded when we were heading back down, so my recommendation is to go early.
Definitely a must see if you’re in Bruges!
There are some areas of the climb that are narrow, so just be mindful of that. It took us about 15 minutes to get to the top and when you get up there, it is so cool! You see the actual bell (beware, it’s LOUD, obviously since you’re right next to it) and you can look down on the square. Although it’s not a complete 360 view since the bell blocks some of the access, it’s still a sight to see. The whole experience from going up, taking photos at the top, coming back down took us about 45 minutes. It did start getting a bit more crowded when we were heading back down, so my recommendation is to go early.
Definitely a must see if you’re in Bruges!
Nice green place located in a very busy area. Good option if you want to escape the city noises etc.
The building looks old, still it is very beautiful and has great architecture.
The place is very clean and very well maintained ! It is also very beautiful. Many sculptures fill up the place wich was in my opinion the best part about visiting the place.
Seating benches available.
The place is surprisingly big considering its location.
Overall very nice free place to spend a few minutes in nature even when you’re in the city.
The building looks old, still it is very beautiful and has great architecture.
The place is very clean and very well maintained ! It is also very beautiful. Many sculptures fill up the place wich was in my opinion the best part about visiting the place.
Seating benches available.
The place is surprisingly big considering its location.
Overall very nice free place to spend a few minutes in nature even when you’re in the city.
Concert meegemaakt hier. Toffe zaal, niet te groot dus altijd sfeervol. Steengoed geluid. Stevig volume zonder erover te gaan. Ook isolatie is top: 5 m naar buiten en je hoort de zaal niet meer.
Having this statue of Leopold II so graciously displayed, would be like having a statue of Hitler in Austria. For shame.
Incredibly interesting museum showcasing the buried streets of the old palace. Audio tour was shorter and well recieved at our own pace. It was off-season and quiet making it a sombre experience.
It was interesting but it was lacking oxigen in some parts. We started to get dizzy so we decided not to finish the tour we paid for.
Good place to relax right in front of the cathedral.
Magnificent specimen of architecture!
You must visit the Belfry during different times of the day. At dawn, it's tranquil and you can enjoy the tower without the distractions of large crowds. At night, the lighting brings out a different side of the tower. In the afternoons, there is a lot of commercial activity in the square and you can see the square being enjoyed by the locals.
See the photos and videos for views of the Belfry and its chimes being played.
It is unfortunate that lots two stroke motorcycles and mopeds regularly pass through the square and disturb the peace. They are so incongruous here.
You must visit the Belfry during different times of the day. At dawn, it's tranquil and you can enjoy the tower without the distractions of large crowds. At night, the lighting brings out a different side of the tower. In the afternoons, there is a lot of commercial activity in the square and you can see the square being enjoyed by the locals.
See the photos and videos for views of the Belfry and its chimes being played.
It is unfortunate that lots two stroke motorcycles and mopeds regularly pass through the square and disturb the peace. They are so incongruous here.
It's a complete disgrace, a monument to an insane monarch and a dynasty/institution that should be annihilated.
Très beau a voir
Très belle fête médiévale, qui a lieu un fois l'an. Vraiment à voir...
At the very end of the beach, this monument is one of a favorite spot to get selfies and we can walk along the beach, get a coffee in nearest resto and having a good times.. 👍
Reste seulement quelques vestiges
A redécouvrir le week-end du 26 et 27 août 2023 où il sera rempli d’animations médiévales
A redécouvrir le week-end du 26 et 27 août 2023 où il sera rempli d’animations médiévales
Im Hintergrund die eindrucksvolle St. Michaels and St. Gundula Cathedral.
Historic excavation site.
Très belle et ancienne construction. Malheureusement fermée lorsque j'étais à Tournai.
J'y retournerai lors d'une prochaine visite de Tournai.
J'y retournerai lors d'une prochaine visite de Tournai.
Entrance is free but you can not ascend to the balcony of the statue itself (the entrance is on private property of the former Royal Villa, now a revalidation home).
Although the square is an impressive central place and entrygate to the seaside boulevard, the statue has been a constant source of controversy due to the personal involvement of King Leopold II in the colonialism of Congo in Africa. Keen observers may see there is actually a hand missing on one of the statues below the King. It has been sawn of by a local activist group, this is a referral to the former practice of severe capital punishment (the cutting of hands) in Congo.
Although the square is an impressive central place and entrygate to the seaside boulevard, the statue has been a constant source of controversy due to the personal involvement of King Leopold II in the colonialism of Congo in Africa. Keen observers may see there is actually a hand missing on one of the statues below the King. It has been sawn of by a local activist group, this is a referral to the former practice of severe capital punishment (the cutting of hands) in Congo.
We were lucky enough to see inside by an art student. Not much to see really.
Good walk from parking, tower and small park, however tower was closed in any time.
We just stopped in for a drink. The bar staff were very slow to serve us, serving people who came in after us first.
There was also some kind of event going on, which meant they closed the toilets just as my partner was going to use them, which was frustrating.
The buildings architecture and decor on the inside is grand and ornate.
I think given the number of other bars in the area, I'd avoid coming here for drinks again.
There was also some kind of event going on, which meant they closed the toilets just as my partner was going to use them, which was frustrating.
The buildings architecture and decor on the inside is grand and ornate.
I think given the number of other bars in the area, I'd avoid coming here for drinks again.
Swell. Hoe mooi kan muziek zijn.
It is a unique way to discover the past of the Palais. Remarkable site! Worth a visit!
Nice statue with beautiful background
Amongst the Top-5 Musts when visiting Brussels. Excellent archeological remains of the Coudenberg Palace provide visitors with glimpses into royal life of the 15th and 16th centuries.
A very interesting introductory film of about five to ten minutes starts the journey by inviting visitors into the history and landscape of the former palace. Exploration of the subterranean remains of the Chapel and Great Banqueting Hall await.
Well-signed in English, French, German, and Nederlands, the information provides wonderful context. A free app that guests access on their phone provides additional information, with a few entries having brief, recorded audio information. Worth a half day for lovers of history and archaeology.
I combined my visit with one to the BELvue Museum, aboveground and thoroughly enjoyed it as well.
A very interesting introductory film of about five to ten minutes starts the journey by inviting visitors into the history and landscape of the former palace. Exploration of the subterranean remains of the Chapel and Great Banqueting Hall await.
Well-signed in English, French, German, and Nederlands, the information provides wonderful context. A free app that guests access on their phone provides additional information, with a few entries having brief, recorded audio information. Worth a half day for lovers of history and archaeology.
I combined my visit with one to the BELvue Museum, aboveground and thoroughly enjoyed it as well.
A statue of the King of Belgium who reigned for 42 years. During this time the colony of Belgian Congo recovered independence. A tourist has to check out who this King was, there is no information board nearby.
Be allright once its restored lol
Next to cathedral. Some benches are there to sit and relax.
Il s'agissait des fêtes médiévales. Superbe endroit et superbes stands en plus du village médiéval.
I was able to join a private tour through my job, which meant it was free and not very busy. The tour was very engaging and the history of the palace is very interesting. I feel like more could have been done to bring it to life and feel more interactive, but it’s still worth the visit.
Fascinating place.
The Coudenberg is an old Palace that was lost to fire and later being paved over. The underground building has been excavated and can now be viewed.
There's an extensive audio guide, as well as two apps for families and groups with children.
It's quite chilly down in the big halls and underground streets, but absolutely worth a visit. Great piece of history.
The Coudenberg is an old Palace that was lost to fire and later being paved over. The underground building has been excavated and can now be viewed.
There's an extensive audio guide, as well as two apps for families and groups with children.
It's quite chilly down in the big halls and underground streets, but absolutely worth a visit. Great piece of history.
quite a nice place for a small walk, castle is fenced so it is not posible to go in, free parking available, toilet in nature, no people, you can see several ruins there, go throught the bridge, you will see the ruins everywhere, a little dangerous, but you can do it even with small kids, it is a pity that this place is full of garbage, especially dog feces
Het Rode Fort is gebouwd in de tijd dat de Koning van Frankrijk , Philips II August , de leiding had over Doornik . Het was de bedoeling dat het Rode Fort moest helpen met het beschermen van de stad . Vanaf de plek waar de toren staat had je een goed overzicht en kon je de aanvallen zien aankomen . Het was lang een ruïne ,maar een paar jaar geleden werd besloten de toren te renoveren . Je kan wel nog goed zien dat de toren van kalksteen gemaakt is . Dit middeleeuwse overblijfsel heeft een diameter van 12 meter en dankt zijn naam aan de kleur van de dakpannen . Binnen kunt u een film bekijken over de geschiedenis van Doornik ( 10 min. ) . Aan de toren staat het standbeeld van stripfiguur Martine . In het nederlands beter bekend als Tiny. Het fort ligt in Rue Perdue .
The archer ! wonderfull !
Bah...... c'est une vielle tour
Une découverte agréable de notre patrimoine
A must-visit in Brussels! Super interesting and impressive to see the kitchen and water waste system of the royals living hundreds of years ago. The history of how the drinking glass was made. The stone technique to make walls. The staircase leading to a garden that you can only picture in your imagination... Audio guides and free WiFi available on your phone so you can listen to the explanations while walking around.
Superbe vestige dressé au bord d'un jardin qui donne, par un passage sous un immeuble, sur la grand-place, juste à côté de l'église Saint-Quentin... un lieu discret mais symbolique de l'histoire de Tournai...
The hotel was clean, spacious, well placed, and quite isolated from disturbances. It's very close to the Grande Place (5 minutes walk). I understand why some reviews stated that the decoration was a bit " over the top" - it's quite an opulent old style- but I believe that cleanliness and comfort are the most important thing. We ate at the restaurant, which was very good. A special mention to Gregory who is a waiter there. His English is impeccable, his diligence perfect, and his culinary advice excellent, but most of all, his sense of humour made us feel at home. We stayed three nights there and had a great time.
This tower is called the Swan Tower for reasons not entirely clear. It’s basically a fortification tower that must’ve been part of the old defensive works of the city. The remains are actually quite well preserved. Built with a square base and capped with a circular crown for all round vision and complete angles of fire for arrows and other projectiles.
Not a must-see in Tournai, but I happened to be walking from the train station into the city, so figured it was worth a small detour.
Not a must-see in Tournai, but I happened to be walking from the train station into the city, so figured it was worth a small detour.
Voilà cette tour très peu connue des tournaisiens a fais partie des premières tours de garde du moyen-âge c,est la qu,a koter Adrien joveneau un des fondateurs de radio intérim et maintenant aux commandes du ravel qui fût étudiant à l,ihecs ramegnies Chin comme dany boon à ST luc😎😄
Historical monument of Leopold II, located on the pier of Oostende.
A beautiful and decedent hotel. Our room was extremely comfortable and cosy with a well sized bathroom that had a nice deep bath. We stayed in January and the room.was a good temperature. Staff were helpful when asking for directions but we didn't need much more assistance from them as we had everything we needed.
The bar/restaurant attached was fun and sociable, offering a good range of Belgium beers
The bar/restaurant attached was fun and sociable, offering a good range of Belgium beers
Nous n'y sommes pas allés pendant les heures de visite. Du coup, on a fait le tour par l'extérieur et on n'a pas pu voir les galeries souterraines. Peut-être une autre fois...
Beautiful place to stroll inside and observe
There was nothing to like or dislike is should be down as a medieval ruin there was only a column tower half a wall and a very large hole ?? It was fenced of for health and safety reasons
Très beau à voir
Des bénévoles motivés et commentaires enrichissants.
Quand j étais adolescent et avec la construction des maisons pour les gendarmes il y a 35 ans j ai exploré les galeries et les salles d armes avec mon frère magnifique architecture Vauban qui a permis à Louis 14 de s échapper vers la France les plans se trouvent à la mairie de Lille actuellement une asbl permet de découvrir une petite partie de ses souterrains moins vaste que j ai visité mais très intéressante à l époque le souterrain qui mener en France étais rempli d eau à 1mètre 50 au genoux ainsi que des stalactiques et stalamagnite de 1 mètres 50 qui ont définitivement anhile notre expédition souterraine petite anecdote si Louis 14 roi soleil n avait pas fuit par les souterrains Vauban.tournai serait devenue la capitale de la France👩🚒👨🚒
It was very interesting.
Faded grandeur. A fantastic location, the rooms are clean and comfortable, but not luxurious. The hotel itself is a very attractive building with loads of history. The ground floor restaurant is very good and with good service. Not cheap, but a nice place to get a taste of Belgian Empire. Joseph Conrad probably had a beer or two there as well.
Jolie petite tour , dans une impasse , non mise à son avantage , de plus impossible de se garer dans cette petite ruelle .....
Well every country has terrible leaders who are idolised and in the case of Belgium its king leopold 2td. The existance of this monument is in itself a reflection of how far mankind has progressed - or not - since it was built in the 1930s. The plaque aludes to his atrocities but not in a great deal of detail so best Google it.
Good hotel. The junior suite is beautiful. They forgot to fill the minibar. One phone call to reception and they quickly came with a few drinks. The breakfast was complete but probably not worth € 28. More because the breakfast room is a bit 'standard' and not in line with the rest of the hotel interior. But overall 5 stars.
It’s a small park just nearby the center station of Brussels and one of the must visit cathedral in Brussels. It’s ideal place to take a break to have a picnic. There are even some chairs to sit on it even though it’s really weird how they arranged it. Besides each day there is small food or drink truck parking right next to the park (it can be coffee store, Thai food, etc). There is schedules listed about the food/drink truck on their parking spot.
Belle vue depuis les appartements VAUBAN sur le domaine des ruines.
True "Expectations Vs Reality" situation. The hotel photos look amazing but the rooms are terrible. There was significant damage in the room and water damage on the walls. The rooms look nothing like the pictures. Due to poor ventilation our room smelled so much of cigarette smoke that we would wake up several times at night. The staff is unorganized and generally quite rude, and on top of this the hotel charges a €100 deposit for staying there. Personally I found that ironic considering all the damage in the room.
On a positive note there was free beer and water in the mini bar. The foyer and cafe is very pretty.
On a positive note there was free beer and water in the mini bar. The foyer and cafe is very pretty.
We had a lovely stay, it made our anniversary really special. The room was spacious and very clean, fluffy robes and slippers where a fantastic touch. Staff were friendly and helpful. Breakfast was plentiful with a variety to choose from, self made pancakes where tasty. I will hopefully be back for the Christmas holidays.
Nice statue, nice beach. But it's not possible to go to the roof of the wall, it would be nice to see the beach from there.
Stayed 2 nights at a superior double. The bed is super wide and spacious, though the interior is smaller than the pictures would lead you to think. It appears that there is still some construction or maintenance underway, as the phone in the bathroom (yes, in the bathroom) was crooked and some insulation was visible. The bathroom as a whole was very nice. Overall, I enjoyed my stay there. The hotel has an old-time feel to it, comfortable beds, nice staff, and excellent location. The only downside were the signs of maintenance in the room (crooked bathroom phone being the standout)
Que dire...j’y habite !
Magnifique édifice malheureusement pas visitable.
Very nice
Impasse charmante.
Découverte inattendue dans cette rue.
Découverte inattendue dans cette rue.
"In the period from 1885 to 1908, a number of well-documented atrocities were perpetrated in the Congo Free State (today the Democratic Republic of the Congo) which, at the time, was a colony under the personal rule of King Leopold II of Belgium. These atrocities were sometimes collectively referred to by European contemporaries as the "Congo Horrors", and were particularly associated with the labour policies used to collect natural rubber for export. Together with epidemic disease, famine, and a falling birth rate caused by these disruptions, the atrocities contributed to a sharp decline in the Congolese population. The magnitude of the population fall over the period is disputed, but it is thought to be between one and 15 million people."
Pokémon spot