Wales vs. Belgium

Two European gems with their own treasures to discover – Wales and Belgium.

A fast-growing tourist destination, the country of Wales is rooted in medieval history complete with castles and monuments that tell of a glorious past. Aside from its heritage, Wales is noted for its picture perfect views comprising mountains, bays and a vast countryside with villages and towns that take you back in time.

Belgium has the reputation of being culturally rich historically. Once decadent, it’s a country that boasts of cosmopolitan cities with cutting-edge modern infrastructure along with grand palaces and centuries old monuments. Delicious chocolates, mouth-watering waffles and fine Belgian beer are all trademarks of Belgium.

Wales

Cardiff

The capital city of Wales in the United Kingdom, Cardiff is a port city with a bustling bay. Cardiff Bay is a regenerated project created by the Cardiff Barrage in South Cardiff. It is the hub of activity with restaurants, bars, the Roald Dahl Plass, which is open amphitheatre style plaza and Techniquest, an educational science and discovery centre and planetarium. While in Cardiff, also visit St. Fagans National History Museum depicting the social history of Wales, the Gothic style Cardiff Castle built on the remains of Norman and Roman ruins and the Anglican Llandaff Cathedral built in the 12th century. For some fun, head to Wales Millennium Centre, an arts centre located in the Cardiff Bay area and Mermaid Bay, a boardwalk on the waterfront with shopping, dining and recreational activities.

How To Get There

Major international airlines including Air France, Jet Airways, KML and British Airways operate via flights from India to Cardiff. Check for available flights from your city here.

Belgium

Brussels

Charming and elegant, the vibrant city of Brussels is a tourist delight. Most landmarks in a city are either cathedrals or historical monuments. Only in Brussels will you find a famous statue of a little boy relieving himself in a fountain known as the Mannekin Pis as a main attraction. One of Europe’s’ most beautiful squares and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grand Place is the city’s centre where you will find ornate baroque and gothic buildings. Concerts, events and a daily flower market in the summertime is a big attraction here. Other significant monuments worthy of a visit in Brussels include the 13th century Town Hall, the Royal Palace, which is home to the Belgian king and Atomium, shaped on the model of an elementary iron crystal enlarged 165 billion times and undoubtedly the country’s most iconic symbol. 

Antwerp

The bustling city of Antwerp is home to iconic museums and cathedrals. Irrespective if you have somewhere to go or not, visit the Central Station, a multi-level terminus built using iron and glass and deemed as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Another public masterpiece is De Stadsfeestzaal, which houses retail outlets in a converted dance hall complete with a sweeping marble staircase, golden glass dome and a mosaic floor. For some bling, head to the Diamond District where you can see diamond dealers and stone cutters at work while art lovers will enjoy a day at the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens.   

Ghent

​
Located in the Flemish region of Belgium, the city of Ghent is known for its medieval architecture that can be seen in its monuments like Saint Bavo Cathedral, which houses the Ghent Altarpiece comprising 12 panels designed and constructed by the Van Eyck brothers. Visit the Belfry and Cloth Hall where you can take an elevator up to the Belfry's upper gallery and see the giant bells toll as you feat your eyes on a panoramic view of the city. Ghent also has several museums, namely MSK with its collection of Flemish paintings and sculptures, SMAK, which displays contemporary art and MIAT, the Museum about Industry, Labour and Textile that is situated in an old cotton mill. 

How To Get There

Major international airlines including KLM, Air France, Air India and Jet Airways operate flights from India to Brussels. Check for available flights from your city here. 

*All prices are approximate and subject to change. 

If you’re looking for unique holiday experiences, both Wales and Belgium promise you something distinct. It’s nearly impossible to recommend one over the other. Be a global explorer and save up to visit both!