Belgium

Belgium is relatively small in size, which many visitors to mainland Europe simply pass through.
However, for those who stop to explore, they will be in for a very pleasant surprise. From the quaint villages to the glorious countryside, from the diamond factories to the chocolate shops, Belgium packs a lot into a small area.

One of the world's great cosmopolitan cities, Brussels is home to both the European Union and Nato. The city of choice for Eurocrats, Brussels is luxurious, historic and yet surprisingly cosy. The best way to get around is on foot. Take a stroll around the quaint cobblestone alleys, sip a cup of coffee and relax at one of the pavement cafes. You will finally emerge into the magnificence of the Grand Place with its baroque guildhalls and the splendid Gothic Town Hall. If you keep walking, you will see what else the back streets of Brussels have to offer. The city probably has more markets than any other capital in Europe. They sell everything from birds to horses. Vendors bring fresh produce from nearby towns, cheeses made in farms and abbeys, traditionally cured meats, chickens and rabbits, and fresh fish, shrimp and mussels from the North Sea.
Brussels nightlife offer something for everyone, excellent restaurants, cozy bars and chic nightclub. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy themselves into the early hours each evening.

Europe's best-preserved medieval city and Belgium's most visited town is Bruges. Located only an hour from Brussels, the 13th century "living museum" was suspended in time five centuries ago by the silting of its rivers.
Climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry for a spectacular view of this perfect medieval town. One of the best way to see Bruges is by river boat. There are numerous operators along the many canals. The boats cruise along the narrow waterways, in between the town's historic buildings.