Step into the story of Belgium’s scenic landscapes, fairytale views, compact geography, cultural richness, unique food identity, and unique blend of architectural wonders. The ease of pairing multiple high-interest cities into one trip makes this place the perfect destination for a Europe river cruise. Discover the best things to do in Belgium’s compelling core cities, from Brussels to Ghent and Antwerp, plus culinary highlights and river port inspiration to satisfy cultural indulgers and those looking for a locally led, intriguing insider experience.
Best Things to Do in Belgium at a Glance
Delicious traditional Liege waffles with colorful toppings on display in a store window in Brussels, Belgium.
At a glance, here are some of the top activities in Ghent, Brussels, and Antwerp:
- Taste Belgian chocolates, pralines, Liège waffles, moules-frites, fries, and beer.
- Explore Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Atomium, a futuristic 1958 World’s Fair structure in Brussels.
- See Manneken Pis, the famous bronze sculpture in the capital.
- Stroll through medieval streets and along scenic canals.
- Discover Ghent guildhalls along Graslei and Korenlei quays.
- Cross St. Michael’s Bridge for fairy-tale views of Ghent.
- Tour Gravensteen—Castle of the Counts—a 12th-century medieval fortress.
- Wander Grote Markt, a historic Antwerp square.
- Admire the Cathedral of Our Lady and its Gothic Brabantine architecture.
- Browse the diverse collections at the MAS Museum in Antwerp.
- Experience vibrant flower markets filled with Belgian and Dutch tulips.
- Cruise along the historic Scheldt and Leie Rivers.
River Cities of Belgium
Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp are the core cities in a Belgian-based river cruise, each with their own charm, energy, and history. Although they don’t always get top billing in a continent packed with a bevy of big-stage metropolises, Belgium’s river cities deliver an authentic sense of place that welcomes visitors to step into the local life and enjoy what makes its people so proud. History meets a melange of modern culture here, the two linked as the edges blur into eclectic experiences you couldn’t discover anywhere else.
Set sail on the scenic waterways of Belgium to explore the best river cities winding through the heart of Europe, where nothing comes close to the rich treasures waiting just steps from your ship. Let local chocolate, pralines, waffles, moules-frites, fries, and Belgian beer fuel every journey. Take a seat at the table to indulge in culinary experiences distinctly Belgian, proving the flavor profile and unique identities of these memorable port locales are oh so worth a visit.
Brussels
Dusk glows over Brussels’ iconic Grand Place, highlighting the intricate Gothic facade of the Town Hall and the opulent golden guildhalls lining the central square.
Explore Brussels on a river cruise for a most immersive experience. Travel into the heart of this iconic capital via serene, crowd-free passage on Dutch and Belgian waterways.
Approaching the city on the Brussels-Scheldt Maritime Canal is the perfect transition from the tranquil outer region, bypassing the hustle and bustle of major highways. Your only company on this entry is small river vessels and ships accommodating 200 or fewer guests, which avoids breaking the spell with long waits at customs.
The Brussels river ports offer short-transit access to culinary delights and the historical center. Admire the gold-accented Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site square hugged by ornate guild houses, or head to the Atomium, built for the 1958 World’s Fair (Expo 58), a 102-meter model of an iron crystal with nine spheres linked by tubes you can walk through.
Revel in the irreverent spirit of Brussels by visiting its famous Manneken Pis bronze sculpture, an unofficial mascot of the city depicting a peeing boy, or the Comic Strip Route’s murals of famous cartoon characters adorning buildings across the skyline. This is a popular place to visit pre- or post-cruise to enjoy numerous day trips from Brussels.
Ghent
Golden sunset hues illuminate Ghent’s historic Graslei waterfront, where medieval guildhalls, soaring Gothic towers, and charming architecture line the scenic Leie River in Belgium.
Ghent is a picturesque medieval city in the Flemish Region of Belgium. Visit Ghent by river cruise ship to be steps from historic architecture, the local culinary scene, romantic canal walks, neighborhoods to explore, expansive architecture bridging the ages, and world-class art. Dutch and Belgian waterway cruises offer a chance to discover this unique destination’s appeal.
This is an authentic city with soul. Explore Ghent’s Guildhalls along Graslei and Korenlei quays to enjoy unique shopping at artisan boutiques, cafes, and riverside people-watching. The beauty of the city is best viewed from St. Michael’s Bridge, offering panoramic views of Gravensteen Castle of the Counts, a 12th-century medieval fortress, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. The city’s footprint is compact and walkable, even without a plan. Step into a story you won’t want to end on a visit to this special port.
Antwerp
Dusk settles over Antwerp’s historic Grote Markt, illuminating the ornate guildhalls, the Brabo Fountain, and the soaring Gothic spire of the Cathedral of Our Lady.
Sail into cosmopolitan Antwerp on a river cruise, and you can step off the ship right onto the medieval lanes of Grote Markt. Ornate 16th-century guild houses flank the path to the majestic Brabantine Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady, with Peter Paul Rubens’ masterpieces hanging within. Nearby, find the city’s namesake origin depicted in the magnificent 1887 Brabo Fountain, outside the equally sculptural Antwerp City Hall.
ModeMuseum (MoMu) celebrates the avant-garde style of the city. Those with a shopping bent will find no shortage of pursuits in the expansive Fashion District. If jewelry is the aim, Antwerp’s famous Diamond District is legendary.
Admire the cityscape from the panoramic rooftop terrace atop the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), overlooking the port and Scheldt River. On the way up, explore the Boulevard, a free rotating art exhibition displayed along the walls of the museum’s nine-story escalator route.
For a special meal, book a table at Restaurant Zilte by Viki Geunes, a Michelin three-star restaurant on the top floor of the MAS. If you prefer something more casual, pick up a picnic from nearby cafés and shops. Outside food and drinks are welcome on the MAS promenade and panorama, and the reception desk even lends picnic blankets to visitors.
Celebrity River Cruises Visiting Belgium
During a river cruise in Europe, guests can experience historic city centers, distinctive local culture, and scenic waterways all within one journey. Celebrity River Cruises℠ itineraries through Belgium and the Netherlands connect cities such as Ghent, Antwerp, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam, making it easy to experience several different sides of the region along the way.
Sail along waterways including the Scheldt and Leie rivers and the Brussels-Scheldt Maritime Canal, passing through landscapes that shift from lively urban centers to quieter stretches of countryside. In spring, the journey can also showcase the region’s famous flower displays, adding another seasonal highlight between port visits. With each stop offering its own architecture, food, history, and local character, a river cruise provides a natural way to experience multiple Belgian and Dutch destinations in a single trip.
Before and After Stays for Belgian River Cruises
While a Belgian river cruise offers a rewarding collection of river cities to explore, one of the best ways to enhance your experience is to add a Before and After Stays package. A pre- or post-cruise extension goes beyond hotel accommodations, with centrally located stays and opportunities to discover more of Amsterdam’s museums, neighborhoods, culture, and local landmarks.
Guests can choose from two Amsterdam hotel options:
- Premium: Clayton Hotel Amsterdam is set in a historic Art Nouveau building on Leidseplein, close to the city’s canal district, theaters, restaurants, cafés, Vondelpark, the Rijksmuseum, and the Van Gogh Museum. Its central location makes it a convenient choice for guests who want to explore Amsterdam on foot before or after their sailing.
- Ultra Premium: Mandarin Oriental Conservatorium offers a more elevated stay in the Museum Quarter, directly across from the Van Gogh Museum and close to the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, designer shopping, and Vondelpark. Set in a restored landmark building, the hotel combines historic architecture with contemporary design, restaurants, and wellness amenities.
Whichever you choose, Celebrity River Cruises ensures you can discover the city at your speed, with locations right in the beating heart of Amsterdam.
What to Expect in a Belgian River Before & After Stay
Here’s what to expect when you book a Before & After Stay for your Belgian river cruise:
- Choose from Premium or Ultra Premium hotel options in the heart of the city, with included breakfast to start each day.
- Enjoy seamless transportation, including airport-to-hotel-to-ship transfers handled for you.
- Discover curated moments and exclusive Destination Insider℠ experiences designed around local culture.
Some of the activities guests can enjoy include those from Celebrity’s Discovery Collection℠:
- With Storyteller Series℠ tours, a Local Storyteller℠ shares the memories, rituals, and everyday details that shape the places they call home.
- Skillmaster Series℠ experiences invite you to take part in local traditions through hands-on activities guided by experts.
- Keys to the City Series℠ experiences give you more freedom to explore independently, with an insider perspective that helps you feel connected to the destination.
Guests may also book optional premium excursions for an additional cost.
FAQs
What are the best things to do in Belgium?
Visit historical and medieval sites, stroll along scenic canals, sample Belgian culinary delights, and enjoy an eclectic and modern culture through the art, shopping, pub, and neighborhood scenes of its cities.
What are the best cities to visit in Belgium?
Charming cities to explore in Belgium include Antwerp, Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent.
How many days do you need to see Ghent, Antwerp, and Brussels?
A picturesque view of Bruges, Belgium, from the Rosary Quay, where historic medieval buildings line the canal and the iconic Belfry of Bruges rises above the rooftops against a clear, sunny sky.
Plan for at least one day in each city. With walkable and compact city historical centers, you can enjoy a variety of experiences on day trips to Belgium’s best cities.
What is Belgium best known for as a travel destination?
The culinary delicacies, fine arts, historical sites, and vibrant city neighborhoods are major draws for travelers to Belgium.
Is Belgium worth visiting on a European river cruise itinerary?
Belgium is an excellent choice for a European river cruise, with an itinerary rich in high-value cities offering memorable experiences just steps from the ships.
Book Your Best Belgian Journey With Celebrity River Cruises
Nothing comes close to Belgium, especially when explored on a river cruise that sails through the heart of Europe. Charming, compact cities await with central docking ports that invite you to explore endless cultural, culinary, and historical sites just steps from your well-appointed floating home. Soak up the authentic sense of place at multiple top Belgian stops on an insider-led itinerary designed to get the best of Europe in one journey.
