Explore Belgium on European River CruisesIf you are planning to embark on one of the many available

If you are planning to embark on one of the many available European river cruises, consider beautiful Belgium with its myriad places of interest. Travelling aboard a floating hotel, as these barges are often called, is a unique way of exploring a city, and Belgium is an ideal destination. Holidays on the water give off a romantic ambience: everything seems to move in slow motion, and you get so much more time to appreciate your surroundings. AS well, you'll get to sample high quality cuisine and meet interesting people (both tourists and locals) to share the journey. For the ultimate itinerary, the following destinations are suggested.

Medieval Architecture in Bruges

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bruges is one place you simply cannot miss while visiting Belgium. The city has numerous notable structures that feature medieval architecture, including one of the tallest brick buildings in the world - the Church of Our Lady. The city is also home to an extensive collection of medieval and modern art, including works of Jan van Eyck, who lived in Bruges. But perhaps the city's most famous landmark is the Belfry of Bruges, which dates back to around 1240. To this day, the huge bell tower, housing 48 bells, still holds regular free concerts - and the best way to appreciate it is while cruising past on one of the tranquil canals. Embark on one of the most nostalgic European river cruises and allow this lovely city to astound you.

Cosmopolitan Nieuwpoort

For most European river cruises, an itinerary typically includes shore tours through local town or cities. In Belgium, one such stop can be Nieuwpoort, a lively city centre dotted with countless seaside shops, a long stretch of promenade, and a fantastic beach on which visitors can simply relax and take a break. Over the years, this has developed into a thriving tourist destination, attracting more and more visitors. Because fishing is one of the city's main industries, Nieuwpoort is famous for its fresh and sumptuous seafood dishes. The city is also well known for a statue by the famed Belgian artist, Jan Fabre, called Searching for Utopia.

Ghent Festival

Anyone who wants plenty of extra activities while on their European river cruises should definitely consider Belgium, if to visit Ghent alone! This popular festival is a melting pot of historical, cultural, and gastronomic goodness. Featuring world-famous praline chocolates, local beers, and delicious breads and pastries, the culinary tradition during Ghent makes it an irresistible destination. Fortunately for those interested in experiencing more of Belgium’s culture, taking part in Ghent also gives them a chance to witness one of the city's biggest festivals, the Gentse Feesten. This is a two-week musical festival with multiple events featuring music from jazz to alternative, and from electronic dance music to choral music.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for European river cruises we offer experiences in France, Holland, Italy and the UK.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.