Belgium, a country renowned for its rich history, exquisite cuisine and diverse culture, also offers a plethora of unique and offbeat experiences for the intrepid traveller. From the surreal to the sublime, Belgium’s lesser-known attractions provide a treasure trove of memories waiting to be discovered. Here are 10 to explore:

Explore the Atomium

Step into the future as you enter the Atomium, an architectural marvel in the Belgian capital, Brussels. This iconic building, designed for the 1958 World’s Fair, represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Inside, you’ll find exhibits that span scientific, design and societal themes, offering a panoramic view of the city from its upper sphere.

Discover the Musical Instrument Museum

Music lovers will revel in the Musical Instrument Museum that is located in the heart of Brussels in a beautiful Art Nouveau building. Housing a vast collection of over 8,000 instruments, the museum offers a symphony of sights and sounds. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to hear the instruments, some familiar, but many are not, providing a rich auditory experience that really brings them to life.

Wander through the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are a stunning example of 19th-century greenhouse architecture. These vast, heated glasshouses are home to a myriad of plant species and are only open to the public for three weeks during the spring, offering a rare glimpse into the royal family’s horticultural haven.

Sip at Délirium Café

For a taste of Belgium’s legendary beer culture, visit Délirium Café in Brussels. With an inventory of over 2,000 beers, this cozy basement bar holds the Guinness World Record for the most varieties of beer offered. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to sample the best brews Belgium has to offer.

Experience Le Cercueil

Le Cercueil, or The Coffin, is a bar in Brussels that offers a macabre twist on the traditional pub experience. Themed around the concept of death, the establishment serves drinks in skull-shaped glasses and coffin-shaped tables, providing a chilling yet thrilling atmosphere.

Stroll through the Blue Forest

The Blue Forest, or Hallerbos, is a magical woodland area near Halle. Each spring, the forest floor is carpeted with bluebells, creating an ethereal and dreamlike setting. This natural phenomenon draws visitors from around the world, eager to witness the fleeting beauty of these delicate flowers.

Visit Reading Between The Lines

In Borgloon, the art installation ‘Reading Between The Lines’ awaits. This modern structure, part chapel and part art project, is an architectural feat that appears transparent from certain angles. It’s a serene spot that invites contemplation and offers a unique perspective on the landscape.

Follow the Comic Strip Trail

Brussels celebrates its status as the comic strip capital with the Comic Strip Trail. This collection of over 50 murals scattered throughout the city pays homage to beloved characters and creators of famous bandes dessinées like Tintin and Astérix, turning the streets into an open-air gallery that delights fans of all ages.

Indulge at Frietmuseum

In Bruges, the Frietmuseum is dedicated to the history of Belgian fries. The world’s only museum dedicated to the french fry explores the journey of the potato from its origins to the beloved fried snack, complete with potato-peeling mannequins and a tuber mobile. It’s a fun and informative stop for foodies.

Enjoy Théâtre Royal de Toone

Théâtre Royal de Toone is a historic puppet theatre in Brussels that doubles as a pub. Here, you can enjoy a drink surrounded by marionettes and soak in its whimsical atmosphere. It’s a charming blend of Belgian culture, history and hospitality.