48 magical hidden gems in Belgium.
Belgium is one of my favorite countries in Europe. With its charming cities, tasty food, and incredible hidden spots, it’s a place that truly surprises you! If you want to avoid the crowds and discover unique places, check out these amazing hidden gems in Belgium for an unforgettable trip!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of the product links, we’ll receive a small commission at no cost to you. We only promote products and services we 100% believe in. Thank you so much for supporting us! Read more about it in our disclosure policy.
About Belgium
Belgium, a small but captivating country in Western Europe, is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and medieval towns. The country offers a unique blend of cultures and is home to three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.
Belgium is a popular destination for travelers due to its renowned chocolate, waffles, and beer, as well as its vibrant cities, including Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent. This amazing country has an abundance of history, from magnificent castles to World War battlefields, despite its small size.
Belgium has something to offer everyone, especially those seeking out lesser-known treasures, whether they are exploring charming villages or contemporary art scenes.
48 best hidden gems in Belgium
This blog post is separated into 3 parts: Wallonia, Brussels, and Flanders. I decided to write about these hidden gems per province, so it’s easier for you to navigate and find the perfect ones for you!
Now, get yourself a nice cup of tea and enjoy reading about these wonderful hidden gems in Belgium!
Hidden gems in Wallonia, Belgium
Wallonia is the French-speaking part of Belgium. Known for its beautiful Ardennes region and wonderful cities, Wallonia is well worth a visit. Make sure to add some of these incredible hidden gems to your Belgium itinerary!
Train tunnel, Nismes
Imagine a beautiful train tunnel in the middle of a green forest…
This is exactly what you’ll encounter on the wonderful 8-kilometer Fondry des Chiens hike in Nismes. Somewhere along the way, you’ll simply stumble upon this place that could easily be part of a dystopian science fiction movie!
This train tunnel is simply magical. It’s great for taking photos, too, but keep in mind, the train track is still being used by a local steam train. Make sure to check the train’s timetables to prevent any accidents.
Location: You’ll find the train tunnel during the 8km hike that starts at the Rue des Juifs in Nismes. The hike is indicated with a yellow rectangle.
Abbaye Aulne
Just 20 minutes from the city of Charleroi, you will find a hidden gem that looks unreal!
Abbaye Aulne is a 1000-year-old Cistercian site, where you can explore massive ruins and amazing landscapes. When I visited Abbaye Aulne, it truly fascinated me. There’s a certain serenity in the air that will make you feel more connected to this place and its history.
I highly recommend visiting Abbaye Aulne! It can be visited during the weekends from 1 pm to 5 pm.
Location: Rue Émile Vandervelde 281, 6534 Thuin, Belgium
Crupet Castle
If you are fascinated by tiny castles on water, Crupet Castle can’t be missed! This tiny Chateau was built in the 11th or 12th century and has always been taken good care of. It belonged to different families throughout the centuries, and it is still a private home.
Because you cannot visit the inside of this castle, most people don’t even know of its existence. However, it is definitely worth seeing the castle from the outside, in my opinion. So make sure to add it to your itinerary!
Location: Rue Basse 18, 5332 Assesse, Belgium
High Fens
In between the Belgian Ardennes and the German Eifel Highlands, you will find another national park. One that is a lot less popular. But why this is the case, I couldn’t tell you.
The High Fens National Park is Belgium’s largest national park and boasts over 45.012 km2 of pure nature. With unique hikes on wooden boardwalks that seem to be endless (in a good way), you’ll be able to spend an amazing day here!
Location: High Fens, 4960 Malmedy, Belgium
Reinhardstein waterfall, Ovifat
Belgium is definitely not famous for its waterfalls, but I promise you, this one is a must-see!
The Reinhardstein Waterfall in Ovifat is Belgium’s largest waterfall, with a height of 60 meters. A short, beautiful hike along the river will bring you to this waterfall. It’s an excellent place for a quick stop and a snack with a view 😉
Location: Chemin du Cheneux 50, 4950 Ovifat
Celles
I have to admit, I’m a sucker for cute little towns. I don’t care if there are tourists or not, I just love strolling through beautiful streets and admiring the houses.
And Celles was the perfect place to do this! Unlike the crowded Durbuy (which is also worth visiting), Celles is completely empty (except for the locals and some very lost tourists). With it’s 11th-century Roman church, which is one of the most extraordinary in the world, Celles will utterly fascinate you!
Location: Celles, 7760, Belgium
Related: 16 Unique Things To Do on Your Day Trip to Bruges!
Ruines du Château d’Amblève, Aywaille
If you want to experience local life in Wallonia, you have to have a picnic at the remarkable ruins in Ambléve. Wedged upon a massive cliff, it looks like it’s just one tower, from below. But when you climb up, you will find that there is much more to it than just one tower; the ruins are huge!
Completely taken over by nature, this place is almost like it’s straight from a fairytale!
Note: The ruins stand on private grounds and it’s not maintained by anyone. Please be respectful of the place and be careful of loose rocks.
Hobbit House
Have you always wanted to see a hobbit house without flying halfway across the world for it? Well, in Belgium, there is one very unique hobbit house that you can visit anytime!
Every year, Domaine de Chevetogne organizes an event where architects and builders build all sorts of cabins, tree-tents, yurts, and much more. They usually take everything down afterwards, but this hobbit house has proven to be so unique that it was allowed to stay.
You can visit this hobbit house at any time, and you may even be able to take a look inside! Please leave it as you found it and keep the grounds clean.
Location: Rue des Pîrchamps 1, 5580 Rochefort
Le pont cassé – The Broken Bridge, Bohan Sur Semois
One of my favorite hidden gems in Belgium is Le Pont Cassé, also known as the broken bridge. When we visited this place, we had no reason to go there whatsoever. The river had flooded half the town of Bohan Sur Semois. Still, I was so keen on seeing this bridge that we tried going there anyway (it was doable with a 4×4 truck).
And oh my, was I fascinated by the sight. This special bridge (that served as a tram bridge) was destroyed in 1940, during WWII. Still, some of the pillars remain, and you can walk on the bridge.
On the other side of town, another bridge was destroyed, but they rebuilt that one. That bridge is also very interesting to see, and you can reach it by walking through the Tunnel Bohan-Membre.
In the town, you’ll also find several pubs that were super cozy when we visited right after New Year’s.
Location: Reste du pont explosé pendant WW2, 5550 Vresse-sur-Semois, Belgium
Walzin Castle, Dinant
One of the most impressive hidden gems in Wallonia has to be Walzin Castle. I’m struggling to find words to describe this incredible castle…
You’ll just have to look at the photos above.
You can likely park your car by the road of Rue du Barrage. From there, it’s a short 10-minute hike to the panorama viewpoint.
When we were there, we even hiked up a bit further: to Rue du Bois de Baileu; an amazing spot for a ‘forest road photo shoot’.
Walzin Castle is a place you simply can’t miss out on. It’s super close to the popular (and beautiful) town of Dinant, so you have no excuse not to visit!
Location: Rue de Walzin 1, 5500 Dinant
Colombier de Floreffe
If you love mysterious towers that look like they’re inhabited by Rapunzel, Colombier de Floreffe is a must-see for you!
This beautiful tower, located in a small lake, is also accompanied by a wonderful waterfall and the Abbey of Floreffe. Colombier de Floreffe is a great place for a quick break when exploring the area.
Location: rue du Séminaire, 5150 Floreffe
Related: All You Need to Know About Spending New Year’s Eve in Antwerp!
La passerelle du Moulin de l’Epine, Bouillon
I absolutely adore hanging bridges! They have something magical about them… Especially when they’re hidden in nature…
Because that is exactly the case with La Passerelle du Moulin de l’Epine, in Bouillon. This impressive bridge is situated in a beautiful hiking area, and the bridge itself remains unknown to many locals.
Location: La passerelle du Moulin de l’Épine, 6832, Bouillon
Château fort de Crèvecœur, Dinant
On our trip to the Ardennes, we spent several nights in the wonderful town of Dinant. From there, we explored several hidden gems and tourist attractions, but one of the hidden gems was closer than we thought!
Only 4 kilometers from the city center, you will find the ruins of a beautiful 11th-century castle. The castle itself is not that big, but it’s surely impressive! It can be visited at any time for free, and you will find that this tiny castle offers stunning views of Dinant and the surrounding area.
Location: Château fort de Crèvecœur, Bouvignes-sur-Meuse, 5500 Dinant, Belgium
Maison de Hary Cot, Wéris
Do you remember the Weasley household from Harry Potter?
What about it, you may ask?
Well, what if I told you that there’s a house like that in Belgium?
I mean, without all the magic or the Weasleys, but still, it is so unique, you simply have to visit it!
It’s not exactly like the Weasley house, but it gave me such a nice nostalgic feeling that made me want to watch all the Harry Potter movies all over again. Maison de Hary Cot has to be on your itinerary!
Ps. you can actually stay in this unique accommodation! Book it here!
Location: Rue des Dolmens 32, 6940 Durbuy
Château de Bioul
Who says you need to go all the way to France to experience beautiful vineyards? You can stay right within Belgium’s borders and enjoy the same charm at Château de Bioul!
This stunning castle is home to 11 hectares of vineyards, offering not only scenic views but also an authentic taste of Belgian winemaking. And let’s be honest, what’s a vineyard visit without tasting the wine?
Thankfully, there are several tasting packages available, complete with delicious wines and carefully paired snacks. You can even dive deeper into the story behind the wines by visiting the on-site museum, making it a perfect and enriching day trip.
Sure, Belgium is known for its beer, but don’t overlook its unique and growing wine scene!
Check out tastings and tours here.
Location: Pl. de Vaxelaire, 5537 Anhée, Belgium
Bieley Felsen, Bütgenbach
You would think that the highest point of Belgium would be a tourist attraction, like it is in the neighboring country, the Netherlands. However, this 560-meter-high rock is such an incredible hidden gem!
Not only does the rock look so dramatic, it could easily be from The Lord of the Rings, the view is also stunning! You must add this unique place to your Belgium itinerary!
Location: Hohe Mark, 4750 Bütgenbach, Belgique
The Royale d’Ardenne Station, Houyet
This must be my favorite hidden gem in Wallonia. Not because it’s more impressive than the others, but because of the ‘’touristic route’’, so to say, we took to get there.
Let’s just say that it involved lots of rocks, muddy trails, and a deep river crossing (don’t worry, we had a 4×4 truck). However, it was unplanned, stressful, and I was emotional; yet, that made arriving at this hidden gem all the more special.
The Royale d’Ardenne Station is truly special. This is an old train station that has been abandoned and taken over by nature. It has an interesting history:
King Leopold II constructed the luxurious 200-room Château Royal d’Ardenne at the end of the 19th century as part of his vision for a magnificent retreat deep within the Ardennes. He commissioned a nearby train station that resembled a fairy tale to guarantee that guests arrived in style. From there, guests would receive a genuinely royal welcome as they were driven through the forest to the hotel.
However, due to significant damage sustained during World War I, the station and the hotel were both forced to close in 1919. The charming station remained a silent reminder of its once-glorious past even after the hotel reopened in 1921.
Visiting this train station is officially not allowed due to the risk of structural collapse. That said, if you do manage to find your way there, I’d absolutely recommend it. When I visited, the structure felt surprisingly solid, I found it hard to believe it might crumble anytime soon. Still, you’ll need to use your own judgment. If you choose to go, please remember that it’s entirely at your own risk.
Location: You can reach the station after a 2 km hike from Houyet along the Lesse river.
Related: The Absolute Best Things to Do in Ghent on a Day Trip
La Charmille du Haut Marêt
Looking for a romantic off-the-beaten-path location in Belgium? Look no further, because this is it!
La Charmille du Haut Marêt is the single most romantic tunnel in the world, if you ask me. And what exactly is this place?
It’s the longest hornbeam tunnel in Europe, with a length of 573 meters.
And believe me, walking through this tunnel with your loved one is such a fantastic experience! Better yet, do a photoshoot here!
This tunnel looks different in every season, but one thing is sure: you must visit it whenever you can!
Location: Chemin de Quarreux, 4910 Theux
Hidden gems in Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, too, has some hidden gems that no tourists visit. If the capital city of Belgium is on your itinerary, you must check out these hidden places too!
Parc Duden
Want a break from the crowded city of Brussels? Within the city you’ll find several parks, but the thing with these parks is: everyone goed there for a break. Instead, I suggest making your way to the outskirts of Brussels, where you’ll find Parc Duden.
With the cutest little castle, a cozy bar, and lots of nature, you’ll be able to take a nice break from the city streets. You’ll only find locals in Parc Duden, which makes the vibes really nice. This place simply has to be added to your city trip!
Location: 1190 Forest, Belgium
Art Nouveau Houses in Ixelles
At the end of the 19th century, Victor Horta broke with the dominant, traditional architectural styles in Brussels, giving birth to the iconic Art Nouveau genre. In the Ixelles neighborhood, you’ll be able to admire some of these incredible houses, that will truly impress you!
But where to find these houses?
Well, you simply could explore Ixelles on your own and see if you can spot them. Or you can find the most impressive houses in this guide.
Location: Scattered around Ixelles
Train World Museum
A very unique hidden gem, located on the outskirts of Brussels, is the Train World Museum. Known for its 22 classic locomotives, incredible high speeds trains, and a simulator where you can try and drive a train, Train World is an experience like no other!
It’s the perfect hidden gem for families and train enthusiasts. You can buy your tickets here.
Location: Next to the Schaerbeek Train Station
La Fleur en Papier Doré
La Fleur en Papier Doré (The Gold Paper Flower in English) is a beautiful café near the center of Brussels. In this traditional bruin café (brown café), you’ll find not only a cozy seat and great drinks, but also feel the charm of old Brussels and its rich artistic history.
Once a favorite meeting place for Surrealist artists like René Magritte and writers such as Hugo Claus, the café still exudes a bohemian, nostalgic atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for a local beer or simply soaking in the ambiance, La Fleur en Papier Doré offers a uniquely authentic Brussels experience, without all the tourists.
Location: Rue des Alexiens 55, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Parvis de Saint-Gilles
One of the most interesting, yet hidden, neighborhoods in Brussels is Saint-Gilles. Not only is this neighborhood a beautiful and cozy one to explore, but it’s also perfect for visiting the local market. In fact, this market has been around since 1865, making it one of the oldest markets in the city. Plus, the terraces and food are amazing. I see many great reasons to visit!
Be sure to explore this dynamic and cosmopolitan neighborhood during your trip to Brussels.
Location: Parvis de Saint-Gilles
National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, Brussels
I once saw this Basilica from the highway, got interested, saved it, and then a couple of year later, I visited this hidden gem in Brussels. The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a stunning sight to see. Being able to go inside and get a beautiful panorama view of the city, makes it even more special!
I loved visiting this Basilica!
Location: Basiliekvoorplein 1, 1083 Brussel, Belgium
Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, Brussels
The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are very special and actually quite rare to visit. They only open once a year, during springtime, which is the only opportunity you get to visit these beautiful greenhouses.
These greenhouses are already very impressive on its own, however, the number of rare and valuable plants makes it even more significant! Some of the plants belonging to King Leopold II’s (who died in 1909) original collections still exist. That’s crazy, right?!
The greenhouse is usually open for 3 weeks sometime during April and May. Check this site for more information.
Location: Av. du Parc Royal 61, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
Hidden gems in Flanders, Belgium
The Dutch-speaking part of Belgium is also filled with incredible hidden gems. From quirky activities to quiet castles, there is lots to be discovered in Flanders!
Related: A Thorough Guide for Where to Stay in Ghent!
Blue plane, Flemish Ardennes
I genuinely mean it when I say that the Blue Plane in the Flemish Ardennes is for everyone, not just airplane fanatics. This plane’s dramatic looks are so incredible, you have to see it for yourself.
To give a little backstory, the Blue Plane is not a crashed plane. It was actually placed there and served as décor in a short film. The plane itself is super impressive to see and amazing for a photoshoot.
Unfortunately, the place of this plane is secret, because it is on private grounds. However, I easily found it with some research, and when arriving there, I did not see any sign of it being private ground. And if I can find it, so can you…
Location: Unknown
Zimmer Tower, Lier
One of the quirkiest places in Flanders is called the Zimmer Tower. Located in the small town of Lier, you will find a clock tower that showcases more than just a simple clock…
Back in 1930, Louis Zimmer built this fantastical Jubilee (or Centenary) clock, which displays 13 clocks in total. It not only tells you the time in the middle, but the 12 clocks encircling the regular clock tell you everything about time astronomy. Which phase the moon is in, the year, the zodiac, what day it is, and so on!
The Zimmer Tower in Lier is a super interesting hidden gem to visit on your trip to Belgium. Make sure to also visit the museum accompanying this incredible tower!
Location: Zimmerplein 18, 2500 Lier, Belgium
Hidden Trolls, De Schorre
A few kilometers south of Antwerp, you’ll find an amazing park. Once a year, this park even hosts one of the best festivals in the world: Tomorrowland. But that’s not what we’re going to talk about now.
Because De Schorre is open all year round, not just during the festival, you have to visit it sometime. Why, you may ask? Well, to find the hidden trolls, of course!
What? Trolls?
Yes, trolls. They have names as well… There’s Nora, Arvid, Una, Jeuris….
These huge, wooden trolls are scattered all over the property and are very interesting to look at. Can you find them all?
Location: Scattered around De Schorre Landgoed, 2850 Boom, Belgium
Doel ghost town, Port of Antwerp
If you love exploring ghost towns, you’re in luck… Because one of the most interesting ghost towns can be found in the Port of Antwerp!
Doel is a town that was mostly abandoned in 2007. It’s story is quite interesting actually.
Since 2007, this town has become a genuine piece of art made by many street artists. People are still fighting for the town to live on, but soon this town will only live on in pictures and videos. There is no exact date for the demolition yet, so I’d recommend visiting while you still can.
Read more about visiting Doel in this guide!
Graventoren, Rupelmonde
Another place in Flanders where you definitely won’t stumble upon tourists is Graventoren. Once belonging to a vast castle with no less than 17 towers, it is now the only remaining tower that still stands.
The best thing about this tower is that it’s not just a pretty picture to see, but that you can actually go inside and climb it to get a nice view of the surrounding area. In the basement of the tower, you will find a museum with interesting information and pictures of the castle’s history.
Location: Kasteelstraat 26, 9150 Beveren-Kruibeke-Zwijndrecht, Belgium
Hoge Kempen National Park
I once went on a trip to Maastricht in the Netherlands, but to get a break from the city, I stumbled upon a national park in Belgium that was super close by! Without just locals on the trails, it was quiet and breathtaking.
Hoge Kempen National Park is fun to visit all year round, but for me, visiting in August was wonderful because of the heather in full bloom!
Besides the normal trails, you will find several fun activities in this national park, like a barefoot path, a butterfly garden, and a visitor center.
Location: Nationaal Park de Hoge Kempen, Liseveldweg, 3690 Zutendaal, Belgium
Ter Elst Castle Ruins, Duffel
If you love castles, this particular one is unmissable! Ter Elst Castle was built in the early Middle Ages and turned into a fortress in the 15th century. Throughout the centuries, this castle was used for different purposes, but in WWI, it was heavily damaged.
Today, the castle ruins are still being renovated, but you can walk around the beautiful castle and shoot some amazing photos!
Location: Ter Elstlei, 2570 Duffel
Verbeke Foundation
You don’t have to love modern art to love the Verbeke Foundation. Yes, this place is a modern art museum. But the collection is very… special… so to say…
With so many different artworks, ranging from helicopters to a cabinet of curiosities, I would rather call this a quirky activity than a museum visit.
I highly recommend visiting the Verbeke Foundation!
Location: Westakker 1, 9190 Stekene, Belgium
“Reading between the Lines” See-through Church, Borgloon
A very unique place in Belgium is the See-through Church (or Doorkijkkerk in Dutch). This is an actual building that you can enter, but when standing in front of it, you will see right through it.
Standing in a beautiful natural setting close to Borgloon, the See-through Church is an interesting stop on your Belgium itinerary!
Location: Grootloonstraat 2, 3840 Tongeren-Borgloon, Belgium
Cycling through water, Bokrijk
Yes, you read that right. Cycling through water is made possible by this unique bridge. I’m not sure if it can even be called a bridge, as you’ll be below the water line instead of above it.
Near the Belgian city of Hasselt, you will find this place where you can cycle through water (without getting wet). Don’t have a bike? No worries, you can walk through it too!
Location: Pad 3600, 3600 Genk, Belgium
Pumpkin fields, Kasterlee
How can people not be obsessed with pumpkins? I mean, they are colorful, they look funny, autumn is the best season ever…
Okay, you caught me. I ADORE autumn and pumpkins. Which is why I couldn’t skip this amazing hidden gem.
The Kasterlee pumpkin patch isn’t a regular one. Every year in October, festivities are held here, like pumpkin canoeing and weighing competitions (can you believe 1000 kg pumpkins?).
You can visit the beautiful pumpkin fields, find all the different shapes and colors, and go home with your car full of pumpkins. What’s not to like?!
Location: Pompoenerie; Houtum 39, 2460 Kasterlee
Malakofftoren, Halle
Chosen as the most beautiful place in Halle, the Malakofftoren is another incredible historical gem in Flanders. Built as a memorial of the Crimean War in 1855, this tower served no purpose throughout the years.
It is a great eyecatcher, though, and reminds me of a certain fairytale (Rapunzel!!). Standing alone in a meadow in a nature park… It just doesn’t get any better! Make sure to stop by this beautiful place for some great photos!
Hallerbos, Halle
When you’re visiting Halle, for the Malakofftoren, you might as well extend your trip to the beautiful Hallerbos. It’s nothing more than a simple forest, but still beautiful in so many ways! In spring you will find so many colorful flowerbeds of Bluebells. I haven’t been to the Hallerbos myself, yet, but I’ve heard many people describe it as magical…
Location: Hogebermweg Parking 1a, 1500 Halle, Belgium
Vlaaikensgang, Antwerp
Now, we’re moving on to the incredible city of Antwerp! Even though the city itself is not so hidden and receives many tourists yearly, you will still be able to find some off-the-beaten-path locations throughout the city.
One of them is Vlaaikensgang. In the middle of the old city center, you might just be able to find this hidden alley (after having visited it more than 3 times, I still can’t find it back myself).
But this medieval alley, dating back to 1591, is worth taking a look at!
Location: Vlaaikensgang 10, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
Related: Visiting Antwerp: 2-day Itinerary Filled with Surprising Activities
St Anna’s Tunnel, Antwerp
Another hidden gem in Antwerp, that I am obsessed with for some reason, is the St. Anna’s Tunnel. This tunnel connects one part of the city with the other, underneath the river. It is used by many locals by foot or bike, because there are no bridges nearby, just a ferry.
The Sint-Annatunnel is 572 meters long, and it was built between 1931 and 1933. The cool thing about this tunnel (in my opinion) is the wooden escalators. These authentic escalators are probably some of the oldest in the world!
And the smell of old wood and oil… It completes the experience!
Location: Sint-Annatunnel naar Linkeroever, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Het Bootje (Art Nouveau parel), Antwerp
Like the Ixelles neighborhood in Brussels, Antwerp also has its very own Art Nouveau neighborhood. Filled with many beautiful houses that’ll just blow your mind, this neighborhood should already be on your itinerary. But what most people overlook is Het Bootje (The Little Boat).
When walking through the Schilderstraat, make sure to look up until you notice the little boat on one of the Art Nouveau houses. This little boat is such a unique balcony that fits perfectly with the impressive architecture you’ll be able to admire as well!
Make sure to stop by Het Bootje when you’re in Antwerp!
Location: Schildersstraat, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
Boekenbergpark, Antwerp
Natural waters, fairy bridges, more towers… You’ll find it all in Boekenbergpark in Antwerp! If you’re looking for a break from the city, this park will allow you to breathe and take in all the nature!
And on top of that, hidden in the park, you will find an impressive fairy bridge with an old tower that has been turned into a natural history museum.
Visiting early on a summer morning was so magical, it felt like I was in another world, instead of a city close to home. I highly recommend checking out this hidden gem!
Location: Boekenbergpark, Unitaslaan, 2100 Antwerpen, Belgium
Le Trappiste cellar, Bruges
Belgium is famous for its beers. Some of them very special… And if you can drink a special beer in a special place, the experience has to be special, right?
Le Trappiste is one of the most hidden bars in Bruges. Located in a historic cellar, you will find that this local spot has one of the most extensive beer menus in the city (for normal prices).
If you’re in Bruges on your trip to Belgium, make sure to check out this local hidden gem!
Location: Kuipersstraat 33, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Related: 16 Unique Things To Do on Your Day Trip to Bruges!
Minnewater, Bruges
If it’s a romantic hidden gem you’re looking for, look no further. Minnewater (Water of Love) is such a surprising place in Bruges. I’m not sure what it is about this place that makes it so beautiful, probably just the combination of the old bridge, tower, castle by the water, and so on.
Minnewater is a short distance away from the city center and makes for a nice walk!
Location: Minnewater, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Brouwerij Het Anker, Mechelen
As Belgium is famous for its beers, breweries can’t be missed on your trip to Belgium! With several breweries in the city centers, this one is a bit less popular. Located in the town of Mechelen, you will find Brouwerij Het Anker, known for its Gouden Carolus beer.
I already knew I loved their whisky, but never expected the beer to be just as good! That’s why I followed a tour (which is very interesting), followed by a tasting. Brouwerij Het Anker is popular among locals, but you won’t find many tourists here.
I highly recommend visiting this place!
Location: Guido Gezellelaan 49, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium
De Batteliek, Mechelen
And if you’re in Mechelen for Brouwerij Het Anker, anyway, you might as well drive by a very special restaurant. Or must I say church?
De Batteliek is a wonderful restaurant (with extensive beer and food menus), located inside an old church! This makes the place very unique and interesting. It’s located on the outskirts of Mechelen (basically in the middle of nowhere), so no tourists!
Location: Wolverbosstraat 42, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium
Graffiti Street, Ghent
Now, for the last few hidden gems, we’re moving on to the beautiful city of Ghent. Again, the city itself is no longer hidden and many tourists visit this iconic place. However, if you go looking for hidden gems here, you will find them.
Take Graffiti Street for example! This is a wonderful alley, filled with street art. It’s fun walking through it and admiring some of the incredible artworks; some more beautiful than others.
Location: Werregarenstraat, 9000 Gent, Belgium
Related: The Absolute Best Things to Do in Ghent on a Day Trip
Winterbar Gravensteen, Ghent
One place that definitely felt like a hidden gem in Ghent, is the Winterbar located in the cellar of Gravensteen castle. The castle is visited a lot, but many people oversee the small sign pointing towards the entrance of the bar.
When I was there at the beginning of January, this bar was super cozy! I’m not sure if it becomes a summer bar in summer, but in winter, I loved it!
Location: Within the Gravensteen walls, in the cellar
Final thoughts on the best hidden gems in Belgium
Wow. 5300 words later, we wrap up the list of hidden gems in Belgium! When writing this post, I even explored new places to visit in Belgium, and I can’t wait to go back soon!
Which hidden gem do you find most interesting?
Let me know in the comments below!
Related posts
- Visiting Antwerp: 2-day Itinerary Filled with Surprising Activities
- 16 Unique Things To Do on Your Day Trip to Bruges!
- All You Need to Know About Spending New Year’s Eve in Antwerp!
- The Absolute Best Things to Do in Ghent on a Day Trip
- A Thorough Guide for Where to Stay in Ghent!
- Will a Ghent City Card Actually Save You Money?
Explore The 48 Most Unique Hidden Gems in Belgium With this Complete Guide
