Belgium in Pictures

Menin Gate is an imposing memorial to the British soldiers who lost their lives during World War I, and the starting point for regional tours of the battlefields of Flanders.

Leuven's City Hall is a stunning example of the Late Gothic style of Brabantine architecture, with intricate stonework and a sculptured façade that features 236 figures and a turreted roof. You can capture the details in close-up images.

From the center of Mons (in Flemish, Bergen), the imposing belfry known as El Catiau can be seen towering above the town. The bell tower is 87 meters tall and was built in the 17th century in the Baroque style.

Perfect for capturing architectural images, the pedestrian square in Mechelen's Grote Markt has a variety of building styles that coexist beautifully. These include the 14th-century Lakenhalle and an assortment of gabled houses and guild halls built from the 16th to 18th century.

Veves Castle is a fairy-tale castle in every way and an elegant medieval residence, from its pepperpot-capped stone turrets to the wrought-iron gates. The castle sits just outside of Namur.

The staircase that ascends the slope of Bueren Mountain rises at an astounding 30 percent incline and consists of 374 steps, creating a dramatic sight. The sight is enhanced during the "Beuren en Fleur," when the steps are adorned with flowers in beautifully planned patterns, creating wonderful opportunities for colorful images. Each October they are lined with candles for the Nocturne des Coteaux de la Citadelle celebrations.

Antwerp's Grand Place (Groke Markt) has some of the best examples of traditional Flemish architecture, including the 16th-century Town Hall (Stadhuis) adorned with vibrant flags. The main square's historic guild houses (gildehuizen) feature ornate facades and gilded ornamentation, and Brabo's Monument fountain sits in the center of the square.

Centuries-old brick and stone houses line the peaceful canals of Bruges' old town, with flower boxes and windows facing the water just as they would a neighborhood street. A leisurely boat ride on the canals of Belgium's best-preserved medieval town is the best way to capture stunning and unique pictures of the city's historic charm. If you are planning an itinerary, this is one of the must-see places in Belgium.

The gardens of Brussels' commemorative park are a stunning complement to the Arc du Triumph. This triumphal arch links the wings of the Palais du Cinquantenaire, a beautiful 19th-century palace that was built to celebrate Belgian independence. The park is also home to numerous photo-worthy statues and fountains.

From the stone sidewalks of Sint-Michielsbrug (Saint Michael's Bridge), you get the perfect view of Ghent's skyline with Bel-fort Tower and the towers of St. Nicholas's Church and St. Bavo's Cathedral. The Gothic Saint Michael's Church, with its ornate medieval spires, sits in the foreground. This is Ghent's most impressive attractions and most photographed spot, and it's just as popular for capturing nighttime pictures of the stone buildings lit from beneath.