Belgium – Flanders

VISITFLANDERS is the tourist office promoting and marketing the northern region of Belgium, including the cities of Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, Leuven, Mechelen and the capital Brussels. Product themes which highlight the DNA of Flanders and its USP’s focus on Art, Culture & Heritage, Nature, Cycling, Gastronomy, and the WW1 battlefields of Ypres & Flanders Fields.

Cycle along one of the themed iconic cycling routes. Walk along the Flemish coastline, through Flanders Fields or in one of its numerous nature reserves. Quench your thirst with a glass of Belgian Beer. Brace yourself to take in the beauty of the Ghent Altarpiece and admire the work of the Flemish Masters and the artists who came after them. Sample dishes created by our expert and innovative chefs, who magically transform local ingredients and seasonal products into culinary masterpieces.

Cycling

Whether you are a recreational or professional cyclist, Flanders is the perfect location to get out on a bike. There are routes which involve rolling landscapes, cities and picturesque surroundings or take on the famous cobbles and bergs. For example, there is a route which follows the famous Flandrien Challenge. There is something for everyone when it comes to cycling in Flanders.

Image credit: © Too Soon Too late

Belgian Beer & Gastronomy

Good food and quality beer are the lifeblood of Flanders. By utilising a variety of local products, food lovers can taste flavours and dishes that they won’t find anywhere else.

The history of Begian beer culture dates back centuries and has always been a crucial part of its history. This is why it was added to UNESCOs list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

When you think of Flemish food, it’s fries and chocolate that often spring to mind. But there are many other local, seasonal delicacies to try from beef stew to waffles and so much more.

Art & Heritage

Flanders is home to the Flemish Masters such as Rubens, Ensor and van Eyck whose influence is still felt today in the art world. There are also a variety of cathedrals, churches, beguinages, artistic masterpieces and historic city centres which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the area.

The history of Flanders is also present in Flanders Fields which serves as a lasting reminder of the impact of the First World War and bears the universal message of peace.