Introduction to Belgium with Kids
Belgium is a fantastic destination for families, offering a mix of urban excitement, scenic countryside, and exciting theme parks. In this article, we'll explore the best places to visit and things to do in Belgium with kids, including practical tips and local insights. From the capital city of Brussels to the charming towns of Bruges and Ghent, there's something for everyone in this beautiful country. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere, Belgium is an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and memorable vacation.
One of the best things about traveling in Belgium with kids is the country's compact size, making it easy to get around and explore different destinations in a short amount of time. The country has a well-developed public transportation system, with trains and buses connecting major cities and towns. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive between destinations, which can be a great way to see the countryside and stop at smaller towns and villages along the way. With a little planning, you can create a customized itinerary that suits your family's interests and budget.
Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor adventure, Belgium has something to offer. From visiting famous landmarks like the Atomium and the Grand Place to exploring the country's many museums and art galleries, there are plenty of activities to keep kids engaged and entertained. And with its famous waffles, chocolate, and beer, Belgium is a food lover's paradise, with plenty of delicious treats to try along the way.
Must-Visit Cities in Belgium
Brussels: The Capital City
Brussels is a great place to start your family adventure in Belgium, with its rich history, cultural attractions, and lively atmosphere. Be sure to visit the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. The square is surrounded by impressive Gothic buildings, including the Town Hall and the King's House, and is a great place to take in the city's vibrant atmosphere. You can also visit the Atomium, a iconic landmark that offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
For kids, Brussels has plenty of fun attractions, including the Brussels Comic Strip Center, which showcases the city's famous comic book heritage. You can also visit the Magritte Museum, which features the works of the famous Belgian surrealist artist Rene Magritte. And if you're looking for some outdoor fun, the Bois de la Cambre park is a great place to take a walk, have a picnic, or rent a boat and enjoy the lake.
In the evening, be sure to try some of Brussels' famous cuisine, including waffles, fries, and chocolate. You can find plenty of restaurants and cafes serving these treats, as well as more traditional Belgian dishes like waterzooi and carbonade flamande. And if you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider visiting the Comme Chez Soi restaurant, which offers a Michelin-starred menu in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
Theme Parks and Outdoor Adventure
Walibi Belgium: A Thrilling Theme Park Experience
For families looking for some thrills and excitement, Walibi Belgium is a must-visit destination. Located about an hour outside of Brussels, this theme park features a range of roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions that are sure to delight kids of all ages. From the thrilling Psyke Underground roller coaster to the gentle Carousel, there's something for every age and bravery level.
In addition to its many rides and attractions, Walibi Belgium also features a range of shows and entertainment options, including live music, dance performances, and character meet-and-greets. You can also explore the park's various themed areas, including the Wild West-themed area and the futuristic-looking Psyke Underground area. And if you're looking for some relaxation time, the park has plenty of restaurants, cafes, and picnic areas where you can take a break and recharge.
Another great outdoor destination in Belgium is the High Fens-Eifel Nature Park, which offers a range of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for horseback riding and cross-country skiing. The park is located in the eastern part of the country, near the German border, and features stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. You can also visit the nearby town of Malmedy, which has a charming old town and a range of shops and restaurants. For more inspiration, check out our guide on Discover Belgium's Flavors.
Cultural Attractions and Museums
The Magritte Museum: A Surreal Experience
The Magritte Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers and families alike, featuring an extensive collection of works by the famous Belgian surrealist artist Rene Magritte. The museum is located in the heart of Brussels and offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities that are designed to engage kids and inspire their creativity. You can explore the museum's various galleries, which feature everything from Magritte's early works to his later, more experimental pieces.
In addition to its impressive collection of Magritte's works, the museum also features a range of temporary exhibitions and events, including concerts, workshops, and lectures. You can also visit the museum's gift shop, which offers a range of unique souvenirs and art-related items. And if you're looking for a unique dining experience, the museum's cafe serves a range of delicious snacks and meals, including Belgian specialties like waffles and fries. For more inspiration, check out our guide on Discover Belgium on a Budget.
Another great cultural attraction in Belgium is the Gravensteen Castle, which is located in the city of Ghent. This medieval castle features a range of interactive exhibits and activities, including a torture museum and a series of recreated medieval scenes. You can also explore the castle's impressive architecture, which includes a range of towers, battlements, and other defensive features.
Food and Drink in Belgium
Belgian Cuisine: A Food Lover's Paradise
Belgian cuisine is famous for its delicious waffles, chocolate, and beer, and there are plenty of opportunities to try these treats during your visit. From traditional cafes and restaurants to modern food trucks and markets, you can find a wide range of Belgian specialties to suit every taste and budget. Be sure to try some of the country's famous dishes, such as waterzooi, carbonade flamande, and moules-frites, which are often served with a side of crispy fries or crusty bread.
In addition to its delicious cuisine, Belgium is also famous for its beer, with over 1,000 different varieties to try. From traditional abbey beers to modern craft brews, there's something for every taste and preference. You can visit one of the country's many breweries, such as the Westvleteren Brewery or the Chimay Brewery, to learn more about the brewing process and sample some of the local beers.
For a unique food experience, consider visiting one of Belgium's many markets, such as the Grand Place Christmas Market in Brussels or the Ghent Market. These markets offer a range of traditional Belgian foods, including waffles, chocolate, and speculoos, as well as handmade crafts and souvenirs. You can also find plenty of restaurants and cafes serving traditional Belgian cuisine, such as the Comme Chez Soi restaurant in Brussels or the 'T Dreupelkot restaurant in Ghent.
Practical Tips and Insights
Getting Around Belgium
Getting around Belgium is relatively easy, with a well-developed public transportation system and plenty of options for car rental and taxi services. The country has an extensive network of trains and buses, which connect major cities and towns, as well as a range of smaller villages and rural areas. You can also rent a car and drive between destinations, which can be a great way to see the countryside and stop at smaller towns and villages along the way.
In terms of accommodation, Belgium has a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference, from luxury hotels and bed-and-breakfasts to hostels and camping sites. You can find plenty of family-friendly hotels and resorts, such as the Martin's Brussels EU hotel or the Hotel NH Brussels Bloom, which offer a range of amenities and services, including restaurants, bars, and fitness centers.
When it comes to budgeting, Belgium can be a relatively expensive destination, especially in terms of food and accommodation. However, there are plenty of ways to save money, such as eating at local cafes and restaurants, visiting free museums and attractions, and using public transportation instead of taxis. You can also consider visiting during the off-season, when prices tend to be lower and the crowds are smaller.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Belgium is a fantastic destination for families, offering a mix of urban excitement, scenic countryside, and exciting theme parks. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere, Belgium is an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and memorable vacation. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor adventure, Belgium has something to offer, and with its compact size and well-developed transportation system, it's easy to get around and explore different destinations.
As the famous travel writer, Saint Augustine, once said:
"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page."With its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, Belgium is a must-visit destination for any family looking to explore the world and create lasting memories.
If you're looking for a customized travel package that meets your family's needs and budget, consider contacting GlobexGo, a leading European travel agency that specializes in creating unique and memorable vacations. With their expertise and knowledge of the region, you can trust that your family will have an unforgettable experience in Belgium. So why wait? Contact GlobexGo today to start planning your ultimate family adventure in Belgium!
- Visit the GlobexGo website to learn more about their custom travel packages and services.
- Contact GlobexGo directly to speak with a travel expert and start planning your trip.
- Follow GlobexGo on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest travel news and promotions.
With GlobexGo, you can trust that your family will have a fun and memorable vacation in Belgium, and with their expertise and knowledge of the region, you can create a customized itinerary that meets your needs and budget. So don't wait – start planning your ultimate family adventure in Belgium today!
Additional Tips and Recommendations
Family-Friendly Accommodation in Belgium
When it comes to accommodation in Belgium, there are plenty of family-friendly options to choose from, ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels and camping sites. Some popular options include the Martin's Brussels EU hotel, the Hotel NH Brussels Bloom, and the Ibis Brussels City Centre hotel. You can also consider renting an apartment or house through a service like Airbnb, which can be a great way to save money and have more space and flexibility.
In terms of budgeting, it's a good idea to plan ahead and research your options carefully. Belgium can be a relatively expensive destination, especially in terms of food and accommodation, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Consider eating at local cafes and restaurants, visiting free museums and attractions, and using public transportation instead of taxis. You can also look for package deals and discounts, especially during the off-season.
Finally, be sure to try some of Belgium's famous cuisine during your visit, including waffles, chocolate, and beer. You can find plenty of traditional cafes and restaurants serving these treats, as well as more modern food trucks and markets. And if you're looking for a unique dining experience, consider visiting one of the country's many Michelin-starred restaurants, such as the Comme Chez Soi restaurant in Brussels or the 'T Dreupelkot restaurant in Ghent.
- Research your accommodation options carefully and book in advance to avoid high prices and availability issues.
- Plan your itinerary carefully and prioritize the activities and attractions that are most important to your family.
- Consider purchasing a Belgium SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected and navigate the country.
By following these tips and recommendations, you can create a fun and memorable vacation in Belgium that meets your family's needs and budget. And with GlobexGo's expertise and knowledge of the region, you can trust that your family will have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful and fascinating country.
