Bordering Countries Of Belgium
Introduction
Belgium is a small country located in the heart of Europe and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful countries in the world. The neighboring countries of Belgium – Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France, are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Each of these countries has its own unique charm and attractions that are worth exploring. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey to discover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in the bordering countries of Belgium.
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a small country known for its picturesque landscapes, windmills, tulips, cheese, and canals. The capital city, Amsterdam, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, museums, and art scene. The country is also home to the famous Keukenhof Gardens, where more than 7 million tulips bloom every year, and the Kinderdijk windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other top attractions include the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and the Jordaan neighborhood. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hoge Veluwe National Park is a paradise for hiking and cycling, while the Wadden Sea is a great destination for bird watching and seal spotting.
Germany
Germany is a country known for its beer, sausages, and fairy tale castles. The capital city, Berlin, is a vibrant metropolis that is rich in history and culture. The country is also home to the famous Oktoberfest, the largest beer festival in the world, held annually in Munich. Other top attractions include the Brandenburg Gate, Neuschwanstein Castle, the Cologne Cathedral, and the Black Forest. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Bavarian Alps offer some of the best skiing and hiking opportunities in Europe, while the Moselle Valley is a great destination for wine tasting and cycling.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg is a small country known for its picturesque villages, medieval castles, and beautiful nature. The capital city, Luxembourg City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for its fortifications and stunning views. Other top attractions include the Vianden Castle, the Mullerthal Trail, and the Ardennes region. For outdoor enthusiasts, the country offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails that take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.
France
France is a country known for its wine, fashion, and art. The capital city, Paris, is a world-famous destination that is rich in history, culture, and romance. The country is also home to the famous French Riviera, a popular destination for beach lovers and sun seekers. Other top attractions include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Palace of Versailles, and the Mont Saint-Michel. For outdoor enthusiasts, the French Alps offer some of the best skiing and hiking opportunities in Europe, while the Loire Valley is a great destination for cycling and wine tasting.
Food Scene
The bordering countries of Belgium offer a diverse and delicious food scene that is worth exploring. The Netherlands is known for its cheese, stroopwafels, and bitterballen, while Germany is famous for its sausages, schnitzel, and beer. Luxembourg offers a unique blend of French and German cuisine, while France is known for its wine, cheese, and croissants. Some of the must-try dishes include moules-frites (mussels and fries) in Belgium, herring in the Netherlands, sauerkraut and bratwurst in Germany, quiche Lorraine in France, and Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork and beans) in Luxembourg.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The bordering countries of Belgium offer a variety of off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth exploring. In the Netherlands, you can visit the Kinderdijk windmills, explore the medieval town of Utrecht, or go on a boat tour in Giethoorn, the Venice of the North. In Germany, you can visit the fairy tale castle of Burg Eltz, explore the picturesque town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or go on a wine tour in the Moselle Valley. In Luxembourg, you can explore the Mullerthal Trail, visit the Bourscheid Castle, or go on a road trip along the scenic Route du Vin. In France, you can visit the medieval town of Carcassonne, explore the stunning Gorges du Verdon, or go on a wine tour in the Champagne region.
Family-Friendly Activities
The bordering countries of Belgium offer a variety of family-friendly activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. In the Netherlands, you can visit the Efteling theme park, go on a boat tour in Amsterdam, or explore the Nemo Science Museum. In Germany, you can visit the Europa-Park, one of the largest theme parks in Europe, go on a boat tour along the Rhine River, or visit the Zoo Berlin. In Luxembourg, you can visit the Parc Merveilleux, a family-friendly amusement park, go on a boat tour along the Moselle River, or visit the Luxembourg City History Museum. In France, you can visit the Disneyland Paris, go on a boat tour along the Seine River, or explore the Aquarium de Paris.
Budget-Friendly Tips
The bordering countries of Belgium can be expensive, but there are ways to save money and travel on a budget. Some budget-friendly tips include staying in hostels or Airbnb accommodations, eating street food or cooking your own meals, traveling off-season, using public transportation, and taking advantage of free attractions and activities. Many museums and attractions offer free admission on certain days of the week, so be sure to check their websites before you go.
Natural Wonders
The bordering countries of Belgium offer a variety of natural wonders that are worth exploring. In the Netherlands, you can visit the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. In Germany, you can explore the Black Forest, a beautiful forested region that is famous for its cuckoo clocks and scenic drives. In Luxembourg, you can explore the Mullerthal Trail, a stunning hiking trail that takes you through a landscape of forests, rocky terrain, and waterfalls. In France, you can visit the Gorges du Verdon, a breathtaking canyon that is known as the Grand Canyon of Europe.
Conclusion
The bordering countries of Belgium offer a wealth of attractions, activities, and experiences that are worth exploring. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or food, there is something for everyone in these countries. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Europe.