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What to do and see in Belgium, Belgium: The Best Observation Decks & Towers
From canal-laced, fairy-tale cities like Bruges and Ghent to the urban centers of Antwerp and Brussels, Belgium sits at the crossroads of medieval and modern Europe. The chance to sample famous exports such as chocolate and beer straight from the source only sweetens a visit.
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1. Belfort
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,834 reviews
The most important of Bruges' towers stands 83 metres tall. It houses, amongst other things, a carillon with 47 melodious bells. In the reception area, waiting visitors can discover all kinds of interesting information about the history and working of this unique world-heritage protected belfry. Those who take on the challenge of climbing the tower can pause for a breather on the way up in the old treasury, where the city's charters, seal and public funds were kept during the Middle Ages, and also at the level of the impressive clock or in the carillonneur's chamber. Finally, after a tiring 366 steps, your efforts will be rewarded with a breath-taking and unforgettable panoramic view of Bruges and her surroundings.
Reviewed By colinb977 - Peterborough, United Kingdom
272feet (83m) 366 steps to the top, but well worth the effort,because the view is marvellous, There are a couple of landings on the way up with interesting items to see, while you catch your breath. At the top the carilllion chimed while we were there, Get there at opening time 09.30hrs because when we got down loads of people were queueing,
2. Belfry and Cloth Hall (Belfort en Lakenhalle)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,275 reviews
This municipal tower was a symbol of the city's autonomy, begun in 1313 and completed in 1380.
Reviewed By noahzieglerhazen - Birmingham, United Kingdom
The belfry was a Medieval masterpiece. It was interesting to climb the spiral staircase up to the top lookout where the bells rang. We stayed to watch the clock work ring the various bells every 15 minutes. Definitely recommend staying st the top until you see the show.
3. The Belfry of Tournai
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 250 reviews
Reviewed By Mb7400 - London, United Kingdom
A very long day, after travelling into the Wallonia region, via Eurotunnel and then, Dunkirk by car - it was a curiosity to me that it was merely two days, off a year, since an evening in Dunkirk, which was not very ‘pleasant or positive.’ Remarkable how quickly a year passes. Have driven through Wallonia several times, yet was not incredibly familiar with this region. (Liege - NOT good!) Conversely, Tournai was really very nice - a good place to stop off, to have a stretch of the legs, and have a breather. The architecture here is certainly highly impressive, and apparently, some buildings here are the oldest in Belgium. The deservedly revered Gabrielle Petit, was also from Tournai, as a colleague pointed out, interestingly. Were unable to go up the Belfry, understandably, which was a pity, as the view would certainly have been impressive. The Belfry itself is an impressive structure and well worth seeing, and overall Tournai seemed very nice - and reminded me, a little of Poperinge ‘mixed with’ Breda in the Netherlands.
4. Museum Aan de IJzer
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 346 reviews
The MUSEUM AT THE YSER is a museum with a message. This message is PEACE, FREEDOM AND TOLERANCE and the idea that violence never brings peace. The museum has 22 floors. Entrance Fees Per person € 8,00 ; CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE Younger than 7 free ; 7-17 year € 4 The Museum at the Yser (the Yser Tower) is open daily January - February - March - October - November - December: from 9.00 to 17.00 (Sat., Sun-. and Bank Holidays: from 10.00 to 17.00) April - May - June - July - August - September: from 9.00 to 18.00 (Sat., Sun. and Bank Holidays: from 10.00 to 18.00) Closed on 24/25/26/31 December , on 01/02 January + 3 weeks after the Christmas holidays. => The domain is accessible up to 1 hour before closing time. => Dogs are not allowed (except guide dogs).
Reviewed By Michael-Aylesford - Aylesford, United Kingdom
After a very powerful short film, you get the lift to the 22nd floor, for a great panorama of Diksmuide, then decend a floor at a time to look at the very many artefacts of, and detailed information on, the First World War. Quite gripping, and an absolute 'must' to visit if you are anywhere near the area.
5. Historium Tower
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
You can climb the Historium Tower for a breathtaking 360° view of the Market Square (Markt) in Bruges and the Belfry (Belfort). This is the beautiful neo-gothic tower that forms part of the Historium building from 1921, which was designed by the well-known Belgian architect Jules Coomans. The tower’s narrow stair turret was inspired by the Burghers’ Lodge (Poortersloge) on Jan van Eyckplein and reaches a height of almost 35 metres. The tower has 145 steps and the observation point is at a height of 26 metres. When you exit the tower, you can visit the adjoining Historium Exhibition which has much more information about Bruges in the Middle Ages. From here you will also be able to access the Historium’s large panoramic terrace. See Bruges from a totally different perspective! The Historium Tower is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, including Sundays and public holidays.
Reviewed By Alangon - New York City, United States
This is my 2nd visit to Bruges, but the tower tour was worth the small admission. We just did the visit to the tower and i must say it was worth going up those narrow few hundred steps as these are by far the best views in Bruges. A lot of great panoramic shots can be made and selfies. on your way down, they have the Duvel bar to have a great panoramic view of the square whist enjoying one of the best Belgian beers.
6. Maiden's Tower
7. Ascent of St Rumbold's Tower
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Reviewed By christophe_wybo - Harelbeke, Belgium
If you have a good physical condition, then you can try to ascend the tower (more than 500 steps) for a fantastic view. You can even see the Atomium in Brussels if you look around.
8. Belvedere Bouillon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 23 reviews
Reviewed By EvelynV86 - Ghent, Belgium
We enjoyed the walk up through the forest with our little children. The belvedere is very much worth a visit, young and old enjoyed the climb and view.
9. Belvedere Durbuy
10. Broel Towers
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 231 reviews
Reviewed By SivHarriet - Helsinki, Finland
Interesting to see the towers even if only in the evening. Impressive buildings one originally from 1345 and the second originally from 1415. They are the last remaining part of the medival city wall.
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