Brussels is the capital of Belgium and is also considered the capital of the entire European Union, because two of the three main institutions of the European Union are headquartered in Brussels: the European Commission and the Council of the European Union. Brussels is also the seat of the leaders of NATO.
Brussels is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, abounding in museums, impressive historical buildings, ornate and sprawling squares, ornate boulevards alongside medieval-style alleys, parks brimming with greenery, and of course: wonderful chocolate shops. Brussels is also considered the comic book capital of Europe. Many cartoon characters were "born" in the city, and many walls in Brussels are decorated with giant comic book murals. The city and its suburbs also abound with family tourist attractions.
The landscapes in the Ardennes region, extending from the center of the country southwards, are completely different from the northern and western parts of the country. While the north of the country is a direct continuation of the Dutch landscape, completely flat, the Ardennes region is mountainous with castles rising on hills, rivers winding like snakes between the hills, ancient towns, coal mines, and an abundance of stalactite caves.
Bruges is a beautiful medieval city, known as the "Venice of the North" thanks to the winding streets surrounding narrow canals spread throughout its length. The city is bathed in an abundance of greenery, which adds to its charm. Today Bruges is considered one of the most visited cities in Europe. In 2000 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The holiday village "De Vossemeren"
De Vossemeren of the Center Parcs chain is located
in northern Belgium, less than a five-minute drive from the Dutch border. The village is located
in a forest with lakes and sandy beaches and is ideal for a family vacation
in the Netherlands and Belgium for any composition.
One of the convenient and proven ways for efficient trip planning is preparing a
"daily framework plan". This plan includes the planned
accommodation, means of transportation, and planned activity for each day.
Fans of spontaneity and surprises will not manage with such a plan, but
those who want to get the maximum out of their trip will find such a plan very helpful.
The second largest city in Belgium, serving as the global center for diamond trade. The city was established on the banks of the Scheldt River and is considered an important port city in all of Europe. Located in the north of the country, 45 km north of Brussels and 23 km south of the border with the Netherlands. Many combine a visit to the city with a trip to neighboring Holland. The city is home to the largest Jewish community in Belgium. Most tourist sites in the city are a short distance from each other in the city center.
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The Eastern Belgium region, north of the Ardennes and east of Antwerp
and Brussels, is much less visited and known to the Israeli traveler, likely
because it is not on the shortest route between Paris and Amsterdam. However, it definitely has a lot to do and see ranging from gardens, parks, and amusements
to car racing tracks, towns, cities, culture,
and museums.
Belgium is one of the smallest countries in Europe, which does not prevent it from
being a global chocolate powerhouse.
Belgian chocolate started its
path as food for champions and the wealthy but quickly became popular
with the masses.
Belgian pralines were invented in Brussels in 1912 by
Jean
Neuhaus (who was of Swiss descent). A 400-year-old industry!
Today, about 660,000 tons of chocolate are produced annually in Belgium, and it is sold
in more than 2,000 stores across the country.
Every year, Belgium exports
over 400,000 tons of chocolate, generating over 4 billion
euros annually!
Mechelen is a typical ancient Flemish city located halfway between
Brussels and Antwerp (a short drive from both) and features several
attractions worth visiting.
Mechelen serves as the religious center in Belgium
and houses the seat of the Archbishop. It is also called the "City
of Carillons" thanks to the many bell towers in the city, some of
which host carillon concerts mostly on weekends.
Trip destinations near Brussels up to a half-hour drive.
Trip destinations in central Belgium located up to an hour's drive from Brussels.
♦ De Vossemeren Holiday Village of the Center Parcs Chain
Or:
Center Parcs Erperheide Flanders
Spacious apartments in the city center
designed for 4-6 guests:
The Opera Residence
Indulgent vacation apartments designed for 4-7 guests:
Apartment Nancy
Vacation apartments in a central location suitable
for families of up to 6 guests:
Max Apartments
Hotel Navarra - A 94-room 4-star hotel housed in a stately 17th-century mansion, located a 3-minute walk from the central Market Square and Bruges Belfry. The hotel offers free access to the spa area, indoor swimming pool, sauna, and gym.
Grand Hotel Du Sablon
- A 3-star hotel with 36 rooms in a central location between the Market Square and 't Zand area in a vibrant shopping district. The hotel has rooms suitable for up to 4 guests.
B&B Filemon&Baucis
- A centrally located bed and breakfast in Bruges featuring 4 guest rooms designed for 2-4 guests each. The property features a swimming pool, gardens, and a terrace. Bicycle rental is available on-site.
Apartments House of Seasons
- A quality apartment hotel with 6 vacation apartments designed for 4-6 guests. Located in the historic center of Bruges, the well-equipped apartments feature unique design, are bright, and include high ceilings and large windows.
Domaine d'Arthey - Three vacation apartments 6 km from Namur in a quiet location in a former farmhouse with a swimming pool, bicycle rental service, and expansive gardens.
Gite Villa Delorina - Two vacation apartments in Godinne, located 500 meters from the Gardens of Annevoie, offering guests a swimming pool, wellness facilities, and a large jacuzzi.
ibis Dinant - A 3-star hotel with 59 air-conditioned rooms located a 5-minute drive from downtown Dinant, offering views of the Meuse River. Adjacent to the Dinant Casino.
Le Loft - A vacation apartment for 4-5 guests about a 10-minute drive from Dinant. The well-equipped apartment is located in a former school building where the blackboard and other elements remain. The apartment features a garden, sun terrace, and barbecue.
♦ Car rental from the reliable and convenient Booking website: Booking.com