When you plan a romantic getaway in Belgium, you might want to consider going to places like Brussels, Spa, Bruges, or Dinant. This isn't to say that the rest of the country doesn't suit any couple's lovely adventures, but these destinations just have something extra to them. They have the charm, beauty, and spirit that will make anyone want to fall in love. It's also why they'd make great honeymoon destinations for newlyweds. If you want to celebrate your new life together, you couldn't have picked better than these Belgian cities!
Brussels
Yes, that's right! Whatever you might think about it Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, it's still a pretty romantic city. First of all, you can't deny that it's a beautiful metropolis. From its famous Grand Place to the imposing Saint-Michel Cathedral, the Belgian capital has enough man-made marvels to keep you and your partner enamored all day long. Then there are the
many great places to eat in Brussels. Indulge in a seven-course meal at the fancy Le Rabassier or enjoy all things truffle at La Truffe Noire. Whichever you chose, you're guaranteed to have a good time!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bruges
What's so magical about the city of Bruges in Belgium is that it takes the canal-ladened magic of Venice in Italy and puts a charming Flemish spin on it. Of course, Venice is a totally different animal when it comes to romantic destinations but Bruges isn't one to be overlooked either. The colorful homes that line the calm waters provide a brighter and somewhat even lighter atmosphere than the world-famous Italian city. And though there are no
gondolas that you can ride here, there are horse-drawn carriages. It's a pretty storybook romance-like experience in its own right too!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Spa
Yep, you read that right! There's a city named Spa in Belgium. And yes, the name gives way to what makes this place a fairly popular tourist destination as well as a romantic city. Spa is known for its hot springs. As early as the 16th century, people have come here to enjoy their mineral-rich thermal baths. Of course, that includes couples as well. There's no better way to enjoy your time here than to have a dip or two in their warm waters. It's a great way to relax, chat, and in some places, even get a little bit intimate too!
Source: Flickr.com/ Iain Cameron
Ostend
Ostend is a coastal city in the province of West Flanders in Belgium. Right off the bat, you're already imagining getting a tan and going for a swim here, right? Well, hold your horses! Though Ostend does have a pretty famous and scenic beach, this is the kind that you'd expect in places like the
French Riviera. In fact, the water here tends to be cold for most of the year. Ostend's popular shoreline is more about enjoying a coastal view than a fun day in the sun. And you know what? That's not exactly a bad idea for a date!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Gary Houston
Dinant
Situated right beside the Meuse River, the city of Dinant offers all kinds of romantic adventures. As you'd expect, a must-see is definitely its old town district. It's just as storybook-like as all the others in the country and the rest of Europe. Though its crown jewel, Collegiale Notre-Dame, is a far cry from the other grand churches in the center of such old towns. Its Romanesque architecture deserves a spot on your Instagram account. And fun fact: Dinant is where Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, was born. You can learn all about him or listen to all sorts of saxophone performances in the city.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ghent
For any young couple out there, Ghent is a must-visit! It's a well-known university town in the northwestern part of Belgium. The crowd here is a lot younger compared to all the other Belgian cities on this list. And as such, the energy tends to be a lot livelier too. Come nightfall, you can expect Ghent's nightlife to flourish. From hip bars to chill bistros and night cafes, there are plenty of places for you to have a late-night date. You don't even have to worry about your health too because most establishments serve vegetarian menus. Ghent is Belgium's “Vegetarian Capital,” after all!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Durbuy
The Medieval city of Durbuy is utterly magical. It's the perfect place for any Instagram travel influencer to get as much content as they can. From its narrow cobblestone streets and timbered houses to the lush forests that surround the town, you won't find any other Belgian city that's as fairytale-like as this. You can just imagine the place as a setting for a fantasy novel or an RPG game. Before you know it, you'd be looking for hobbits, fairies, elves, and the like. Unfortunately, however, you won't find one here. But what you will see is nothing short of magical!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mechelen
Finally, there's the Mechelen. Located between Brussels and Antwerp, it shares both cities' urban vibes. And though it's nowhere near as popular as the two, Mechelen remains a bustling metropolis nonetheless. A particular attraction you shouldn't miss is St. Rumbold’s Cathedral. Located at the center of the old town district, it's a shining symbol of Gothic architecture. In a way, the place is a good contrast to the Flemish aesthetics that dominate the city. And if you stay in Mechelen's Grote Markt, you'll find that the place is lined with all sorts of interesting shops and boutiques.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Sergey Ashmarin.
If you're ever planning a romantic getaway, consider going to these Belgian cities. You'd be surprised how romantic these places are! They're perfect for any couple who wants to spend quality time with each other.
