Flanders, Belgium Travel Guide

Discover Flanders, Belgium: A Region Rich in Medieval Charm, Art Masterpieces, and Culinary Delights.

Flanders, located in the northern part of Belgium, is a region rich in history, art, and culture. Known for its picturesque medieval towns, Flanders offers visitors a chance to step back in time. The cobblestone streets, Gothic cathedrals, and well-preserved buildings create a charming and immersive experience. Flanders is also famed for its contributions to the arts. The region has been home to many great artists like Jan van Eyck and Peter Paul Rubens. Art lovers will be delighted by the numerous museums and galleries showcasing Flemish masterpieces. Additionally, Flanders hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and theater to traditional crafts. Food enthusiasts will find Flanders a culinary paradise. The region is known for its delicious chocolates, waffles, and world-renowned beers. Local markets and cozy cafes offer a taste of Flemish cuisine, which blends hearty, rustic flavors with sophisticated techniques. Whether you are meandering through the vibrant cities of Antwerp and Ghent or exploring the tranquil countryside, Flanders promises an unforgettable journey through Belgium's rich heritage.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Flanders.

Visit the cities of Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp for a mix of history and modern culture.
Try the local beers; Flanders is home to some of the best breweries in the world.
Don't miss the chance to see Flemish art in museums like the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp.
Explore the local markets for fresh produce and traditional Flemish foods.
Plan your visit around local festivals for a taste of Flemish culture and traditions.

Top City Travel Guides in Flanders

The cities of Flanders, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Bruges

Brussels

Ghent

Ostend

Antwerp

Destinations in Flanders

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Bruges Coast

Hoge Kempen National Park

Ostend Beach

De Panne

Valkenburg

Explore Flanders: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

ZOO Planckendael

Explore ZOO Planckendael, a captivating wildlife haven in Mechelen, Belgium, featuring diverse species and interactive experiences for all ages.

4.4

Bois de la Cambre

Explore the beauty and tranquility of Bois de la Cambre, a stunning park in Brussels filled with lush greenery and scenic views.

4.6

Delta Park Neeltje Jans

Experience thrilling rides, captivating marine life, and the wonders of Dutch engineering at Delta Park Neeltje Jans in Vrouwenpolder.

3.8

Fort Breendonk

Explore Fort Breendonk, a historical fortress and museum that memorializes the struggles of the past and educates visitors on wartime experiences.

4.5

Best landmarks in Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

D'Ursel Castle

Explore D'Ursel Castle in Bornem, a stunning historical site showcasing Renaissance and Baroque architecture amid beautiful gardens.

4.4

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Altijddurende Bijstandkerk

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Altijddurende Bijstandkerk in Roosendaal, a spiritual gem of Dutch architecture.

4.4

Gevangenenpoort

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Gevangenenpoort, a must-see historical landmark in Lier, Belgium.

4.2

Gravensteen

Explore Gravensteen, Ghent's iconic medieval castle: a journey through Flemish history, complete with ramparts, torture museum, and stunning city views.

4.6

Best restaurants in Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

The Lobster House

Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Lobster House in Brussels – where fresh flavors meet Belgian charm.

4.8

Fin de Siècle

Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at Fin de Siècle – where tradition meets modern dining in the heart of Brussels.

4.6

Belga Queen

Experience exquisite Belgian cuisine at Belga Queen in Brussels—where tradition meets modern elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.2

't Kelderke

Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at 't Kelderke, a charming brasserie in the heart of Brussels offering delightful traditional dishes.

4.2

Best bars in Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Delirium Café

Discover Delirium Café, Brussels' iconic bar with a remarkable selection of over 2,000 beers, perfect for enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

4.5

The Big Game Brussels Sports Bar

Experience the thrill of sports and nightlife at The Big Game Brussels, your ultimate destination for fun and entertainment in the heart of the city.

4.2

Bar Des Amis

Discover the charm of Bar Des Amis, a cozy bar in the heart of Brussels offering a wide selection of drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.2

Goupil Le Fol

Experience the charm of Goupil Le Fol, Brussels' cozy bar with an eclectic atmosphere and an extensive drink menu that captures the city's vibrant nightlife.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Kompass

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Ghent at Kompass, the ultimate destination for music lovers and party enthusiasts.

4.3

Nostalgia Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Brussels at Nostalgia Club, where dancing and great music create unforgettable nights.

3.6

Abacho

Discover Ghent's unique nightlife at Abacho, the silent disco club where you can dance to your favorite tracks in an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.3

Club 69

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ghent at Club 69, where music and energy collide for unforgettable nights.

3.4

Best shops in Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Docks Bruxsel

Experience the bustling Docks Bruxsel, a premier shopping mall in Brussels offering diverse retail, exquisite dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.1

Wijnegem - Shop Eat Enjoy

Explore Wijnegem - Shop Eat Enjoy, Belgium's premier shopping mall with diverse shops, delightful dining, and endless entertainment options.

4.3

City2

Explore City2: The Ultimate Shopping Destination in the Heart of Brussels with Fashion, Dining, and Entertainment.

4.0

Waasland Shopping Center

Explore Waasland Shopping Center in Sint-Niklaas, where shopping meets entertainment and dining in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Explore Flanders on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Flanders, mapped for you.

Flanders Essentials

Flanders is easily accessible by air, train, and road. Brussels Airport (BRU) is the main international gateway and is well-connected to major cities worldwide. From the airport, you can take a train directly to various cities in Flanders such as Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. Alternatively, Charleroi Airport (CRL) serves as a secondary airport and is particularly popular with budget airlines. Flanders is also well-connected by high-speed trains such as Thalys and Eurostar, making it easy to reach from neighboring countries like France, the Netherlands, and Germany. If you prefer to drive, Flanders has an excellent network of highways.
Flanders boasts an efficient public transportation system. Trains operated by NMBS/SNCB connect major cities and towns. Buses and trams managed by De Lijn cover local and regional routes. For convenience, consider purchasing a 'Go Pass' or 'Rail Pass' for unlimited train travel within a certain period. Cycling is also a popular way to explore Flanders, with many dedicated bike lanes and scenic routes. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available, but can be more expensive. Car rentals offer flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas.
Belgium uses the Euro (€) as its currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Contactless payment is also common. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in cities and towns, but be aware of potential foreign transaction fees from your bank. Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is customary in restaurants and cafes.
Flanders is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, it is wise to remain vigilant. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, particularly in cities like Brussels and Antwerp. Avoid poorly lit and less populated areas at night. Notable areas with higher crime rates include the Brussels Midi/Zuid train station area and parts of Antwerp's red-light district. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious when approached by strangers.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. This is the universal emergency number throughout the European Union. Major hospitals and medical facilities are available in all major cities. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medications. For minor health issues, pharmacists can offer advice and treatment options as well.
Fashion: Do dress smartly, especially in urban areas. Casual attire is acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothes. Religion: Do respect religious customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. In formal settings, address people by their titles and last names until invited to use first names. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and specialties. Don’t rush meals; dining is considered a leisurely and social activity.
To experience Flanders like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce, cheeses, and other local goods. Engage with locals; they are usually friendly and happy to share insider tips. Don’t miss trying Belgian waffles, chocolates, and beer—each city has its own specialties. For a unique experience, explore Flanders' countryside by bike, and visit less touristy towns like Mechelen or Leuven. Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in Flemish culture.

When is the best time to visit Flanders?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Flanders

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Flanders. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [HAH-lo]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [TOT zeens]
- YesJa
  [YAH]
- NoNee
  [NAY]
- Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [AL-stu-BLEEFt]
- Thank youDank u
  [DANK oo]
- Excuse me/SorryNeem me niet kwalijk
  [NAYM me neet KWAHL-ik]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [HOO gaat het]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En jij?
  [GHOOT. En YIY?]
- Do you speak English?Spreekt u Engels?
  [SPREEKT oo ENG-els]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [IK be-GRYP het neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag het menu willen zien, alstublieft
  [IK zou GRAHg het meh-NOO WIL-len zeen, AL-stu-BLEEFt]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [IK eet GHAIN VLAY-s]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [PROHST]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alstublieft
  [IK wil GRAHg be-TAH-len, AL-stu-BLEEFt]
- Help!Help!
  [HELP]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [GA vek]
- Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [BEL de po-LEE-tsie]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [BEL een DOK-ter]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [IK ben ver-DWAALD]
- I'm illIk ben ziek
  [IK ben ZEEK]
- I'd like to buy...Ik zou graag ... kopen
  [IK zou GRAHg ... KOH-pen]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk gewoon rond
  [IK KAIK ge-WOON ront]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [HOO-veel KOST het]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [DAT is te DUR]
- Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [KUNT oo de PRAYS ver-LAH-gen]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [HOO laat is het]
- It's one o'clockHet is één uur
  [HET is AYN OOR]
- Half past (10)Half (10)
  [HALF (10)]
- MorningOchtend
  [OKH-tend]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [MID-dahg]
- EveningAvond
  [AH-vond]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [GHIS-ter-en]
- TodayVandaag
  [VAN-dahg]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [MOR-ghen]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [VAHR is een/de...?]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [WAT is het a-DRES?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u me laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [KUNT oo me LAH-ten zeen (op de KAART)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer komt de volgende (bus)?
  [WAN-neer komt de VOL-gen-de (BUS)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Een ticket (naar ...)
  [EEN ti-KET (naar ...)]

History of Flanders

During the Middle Ages, Flanders became one of the most prosperous regions in Europe. The region's wealth was primarily driven by the textile industry, particularly wool and cloth production. Cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Ypres flourished as major trade hubs. The rise of powerful guilds, which regulated trades and crafts, was a hallmark of this period. The guilds not only controlled the quality and production of goods but also played a significant role in the social and political life of the cities.
On July 11, 1302, the Battle of the Golden Spurs took place near Kortrijk. This pivotal battle saw the militia of the Flemish cities defeat the knightly forces of the French king. The victory was significant as it demonstrated the strength and resolve of the Flemish townsmen against feudal knights and contributed to the rise of Flemish nationalism. The event is commemorated annually in Flanders as a symbol of regional pride and resistance.
In the 15th century, Flanders came under the rule of the Dukes of Burgundy. This period, known as the Burgundian Era, was marked by a flourishing of arts and culture. The Burgundian court, with its wealth and patronage, attracted artists, musicians, and scholars. The Flemish Primitives, including famous painters like Jan van Eyck and Rogier van der Weyden, created masterpieces that remain celebrated today. This era also saw the construction of stunning civic buildings and cathedrals that still adorn Flemish cities.
The Eighty Years' War (1568–1648) significantly impacted Flanders as it was a battleground between the Spanish Habsburgs and the rebellious Dutch provinces. The conflict led to widespread destruction and economic decline. However, it also paved the way for the eventual independence of the northern provinces, forming the Dutch Republic. Flanders, remaining under Spanish control, experienced a period of Catholic Counter-Reformation, which influenced its religious and cultural landscape.
Flanders was a major theater of conflict during World War I, particularly the Ypres Salient. The area witnessed some of the war's most intense and devastating battles, including the Battle of Passchendaele. The town of Ypres was almost completely destroyed but has since been meticulously rebuilt. Today, the region is dotted with war cemeteries, memorials, and museums, such as the In Flanders Fields Museum, serving as poignant reminders of the war's horrors and the lives lost.
Flanders boasts a rich tapestry of cultural festivals and traditions. The Ghent Festival, one of Europe's largest cultural events, showcases music, theatre, and street performances. The Carnival of Aalst, recognized by UNESCO, is famous for its parades, satirical floats, and elaborate costumes. Traditional Flemish folklore is also celebrated through various local festivals, where historical reenactments, dances, and music bring the region's heritage to life. These events highlight the enduring cultural vibrancy and communal spirit of Flanders.