A guide to the best castles of Belgium including castles around Brussels.
For any castle lover out there, Belgium is the place to go! Not only is the country known for its ice cream and chocolate, but also for its beautiful architecture.
Belgium has some of the most well-preserved and best castles in the world, and there are over 3000 castles in Belgium!
Many think of the Royal Palace as the only castle in Belgium, but, there are plenty more! In fact, there are over 3,000 castles and palaces in Belgium from all different periods in history that you can explore.
Did you realise that Belgium has more castles than France? And thanks to its smaller size, it makes visiting all these castles a lot easier!
And they are dotted all over the cities and the countryside. So no matter where you are staying in Belgium, you’ll easily be able to explore a castle on your travels.
They are all different as well, so there is something for everyone! From fortified structures that date back to the early Middle Ages, to imperial palaces and lavish mansions, you’ll never have a dull moment. There are plenty of castles that you can pick from.
Everyone remembers to hit up the best Instagram photography places in Bruges, but many of the castles in Belgium are also a must see! And perfect for the ‘gram!
(I bet you didn’t even know there were castles in Bruges, just beautiful bridges – and don’t forget some of the stunning castles in Brussels!)
Here are some of the biggest and best castles that you should go and visit when you get the chance.
Table of Contents
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Best Castle Hotels, Belgium
If you can’t get enough of Belgian castles, have a look at these castle hotels in Belgium:
Martin’s Château Du Lac *****
Domaine de Ronchinne – Château et Ecuries ***
Chateau d’Hassonville ***
Manoir de Lébioles *****
Le Chateau de Namur ****
1. Gravensteen (Ghent)
Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts) Ghent, Belgium
If you love castles, you need to visit the mysterious Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts) in Ghent, Belgium. In fact, no visit to Ghent is complete without visiting the Gravensteen Castles, Belgium’s most enigmatic medieval castle.
This is one of the best medieval castles in Belgium, but beware; you might find that visiting this place will send shivers down your spine! It certainly has a turbulent past, but that just makes it even more interesting.
Besides the moat, massive towers and fortifications, the castle also includes a typical medieval dungeon where you will also be able to explore a museum of torture. It’s not for the faint-hearted mind!
That being said, it is still a top tourist attraction of Ghent, often considered one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium.
This is probably because it is the only remaining medieval castle that has a moat and a largely still intact defense system in Flanders. So you’ll get to see what it would have been like in the 12th Century for the people who lived in/near this castle.
This medieval fortress is also one of the best photo motives in Ghent which is also known for having one of the best Christmas markets in Belgium.
The gatehouse, ramparts, keep, count’s residence, and stables are open to visitors.
Check here the best tours in Ghent
Where: Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent, East Flanders
When: 12th-century
Style: Medieval/Gothic/Renaissance
Open to visit: Yes, daily from 10.00 am all year round.
Tickets: Gravensteen castle tickets cost Adults – 12 €; Reduced 10 €; Children under 12 – free
Related: Best Hotels in Ghent Guide
2. Kasteel van Gaasbeek (Lennik)
Completely different to a castle that is known for its torture museum, the Kasteel van Gaasbeek (van Gaasbeek Castle) is often described as the ultimate fairy-tale castle. But don’t worry; it’s more than just a pretty building.
In fact, despite its dark history, it’s actually considered the most romantic castle of Flanders! The grounds and gardens are also extensive and a popular spot for family picnics on summer weekends.
Today, it is also a national museum that exhibits important art collections, from furniture to the testament of the famous painter Rubens, all displayed in lavish rooms.
The building we see today dates back to the 16th Century. It was however built on the ruins of a medieval castle from the 13th Century. It is truly an impressive building, and what is interesting is that it obtained its medieval appearance as a result of a renovation from 1887-1898.
Even so, it is still a remarkable building and one of the most beautiful palaces in Belgium. You can just imagine the prince riding up to the gates on his white horse. But if you don’t see a prince, don’t worry; there is plenty for you to see here though!
On Sundays, guided tours of the castle’s medicinal garden are given by one of the gardeners.
Check here the best day tours from Brussels
Where: Kasteelstraat 40, 1750 Lennik, Flemish Brabant
When: 16th-century
Style: Fairy Tale
Visiting Times: Yes, daily except Mondays from 10.00 am from April to November
Tickets: Adults – 10 €; Reduced – 8 €; Children under 7 – free
3. Château de Freÿr-sur-Meuse (Namur)
There are hundreds of castles that you can visit in Belgium, so it can be tough to know exactly which one to visit first. But the Château de Freÿr-sur-Meuse (Freÿr-sur-Meuse Castle) in Wallonia is a great one to start with, and it’s a must for weekend breaks in the Belgian Ardennes.
This castle was first built in the Middle Ages and was originally a keep. It survived like this for only a century before it was destroyed by the French during a battle, so it is not quite the original keep if you go and visit.
Having said that, this Belgian chateau is still a spectacular place to go visit, as, when it was rebuilt, the new structure was done in a Renaissance style. And this is the building that you can see today. It is the most scenic castle of the Meuse Valley.
It’s not just the building that you can visit though. If you are a fan of the outdoors, you need to make sure that you explore the garden that was added in the 18th Century. It is best viewed from above and from the opposite side of the river to fully appreciate its design.
This is a castle that can’t be missed! It has remained in the same family for the last 20 generations, and it’s easy to see why they chose to remain in one wing of the building.
Check here the best vacation rentals in the Ardennes
Where: Freÿr 2, 5540 Hastière, Namur
When: 14th-century
Style: Medieval/Renaissance
Visiting Times: Yes, from 11.00 am on weekends from April to mid-November and daily except Mondays from 11.00 am in July and August
Tickets: Adults – 8.5 €; Reduced – 7 €; Children under 12 – free
4. Kasteel van Groot-Bijgaarden (Dilbeek)
If you are ever near Brussels in the spring, the Kasteel van Groot-Bijgaarden (Groot-Bijgaarden Castle) is the castle that you need to visit! Particularly if you want to contemplate the 14-hectares of gardens in full bloom. This is considered the best castle in Brussels BECAUSE of its beautiful garden!
You can see some beautiful tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and roses! So, this is the perfect place to visit for anyone who has a soft spot for flowers. When in bloom, this is easily one of the top 10 most beautiful castles in the world!
Unfortunately, the original castle was completely destroyed, but a stunning Flemish Renaissance edifice replaced it in the 17th-century. So, it is still an incredible building to look at.
If you manage to visit this place in the spring, you will get breathtaking views of Brussels from the tower. This is not one to miss in the spring!
The area is also known for having some of the best hiking trails near Brussels (which is the perfect occasion to bring your backpack made from recycled material).
Book here the best tours of sites and castles around Brussels
Where: Isidoor Van Beverenstraat 5, 1702 Dilbeek, Flemish Brabant
When: 17th-century
Style: Flemish Renaissance
Visiting Times: Yes, daily from 10.00 am in April and May
Tickets: Adults – 14 €; Reduced – 12 €; Children 6-14 years old – 5 €; Children under 6 – free
5. Château de Beloeil (Beloeil)
Are you a lover of books? Or simply have a passion for photography? Then this is the place that you need to visit!
Famous for its library and picturesque setting, it is perfect for a nice afternoon for people who are in the area.
Unfortunately, it is rather small inside as only seven rooms are open to the public. But the rooms that you do see are some of the most elegant and detailed rooms in the world! Plus, you have an incredibly impressive library!
You won’t be disappointed though. Just the view you get from the outside is worth a trip to the Château de Beloeil (Beloeil Castle) with its rounded turrets surrounded by water. A building like no other, well worth the visit, even just to see the outside.
The Belgian chateau is still the private property of the family de Ligne, they stay there since the XIVth century.
Make sure to pack your (vegan) hiking boots, since the area is known for having some of the best hiking trails in Belgium!
Check here vacation rental in the area
Where: Rue du Château 11, 7970 Beloeil, Hainaut
When: 14th-century
Style: Medieval/Baroque
Visiting Times: Yes, from 1.00 pm during weekends and public holidays from April to June; daily from 1.00 pm from July to September
Tickets: Adults – 12 €; Reduced – 10 €; Children 6-12 years old – 5 €; Children under 6 – free
6. Kasteel van Ooidonk (Deinze)
If you are planning on visiting Ghent, this castle is only a stone’s throw away from the Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts). This means that you can visit both castles with great ease.
If you are interested in a peaceful outing and a place of tranquility, and want a place that is just full of history, the Kasteel van Ooidonk (van Ooidonk Castle) is the place for you!
Not only is this a peaceful place to visit, but it is also one that is incredibly unique. It is a fine example of the Hispanic-Flemish architectural style that came about during the Renaissance period. Although it was rebuilt in 1595, it is one of Belgium’s finest castles.
With its grand moat and fairy tale turrets, this is the place to go. It is different from other châteaux as well, as rather than being a museum, this is a living home, and it’s something which visitors can easily sense when they visit.
Where: Ooidonkdreef 9, 9800 Deinze, East Flanders
When: 13th Century
Style: Hispanic-Flemish
Visiting Times: April 1st until September 15thon Sundays and holidays 14:00 – 17:30
Tickets: Adults – 10 €; Children under 12 – 3 €
7. Château Fort de Montaigle (Falaën)
This isn’t the typical castle that you can go to and see in all of its glory. The Château Fort de Montaigle (Fortifed Castle of Montaigle) is a ruined castle that was built in the 14th Century but was destroyed by Henry II of France in 1554.
Despite being a ruin though, this is a castle that can transport you through time. You only need a little imagination to be able to picture this castle in all its glory.
Before it was destroyed, it was enlarged with new windows, chimneys, vaulted cellars, and other new elements in the 15th Century. So you can easily imagine just how impressive this castle would have been in the past.
Don’t worry about it being a ruin though. This Belgian chateau is set in a romantic location, on a rocky hill at the confluence of two important rivers, and it is just breathtaking. It is not one to miss!
Check here all activities in the Ardennes, Belgium
Where: Rue du Marteau 10, 5520 Falaën, Onhaye, Namur
When: 14th-century
Style: Medieval
Visiting Times: Yes, from 11.00 am during the weekend from April to June and September to October; daily from 10.00 am in July and August
Tickets: Adults – 4 €; Reduced – from 1 € to 3.5 €
8. Château de Jehay (Amay)
The Château de Jehay (Jehay Castle) was originally built in the 12th Century as a medieval castle and it must have been spectacular. It served as a residence for many noble families, and of course, they would only want to live in the best home that they could.
Unfortunately, the building we see now is not the same as the original castle that was once built due to it suffering a lot of damage.
But there is some positive as the current building does date back to the 16th Century. So there is still a bit of history there. When you visit though, you might note that some of the castle has been restored in the 19th Century in Gothic style.
When you visit Jehay-Bodegnee, you will realise that it’s a bit different from the other castles on this list as it’s actually a museum now. You can look at an exquisite collection of tapestries, antique furniture and paintings.
You can still get a really good sense of what history would have been like, so it is well worth a visit!
Check here the best tours in Wallonia
Where: Rue du Parc 1, 4540 Amay, Liege
When: 12th-century/16th-century
Style: Gothic
Visiting Times: Yes, from 2.00 pm from Tuesday to Friday and from 11.00 am Saturday and Sunday from April to October; open daily in July and August
Tickets: Adults – 5 €; Reduced – 4 €; Children – 3 €
9. Château de Crupet (Assesse)
No list of castles in Belgium would be complete without the Château de Crupet (Crupet Castle).
Although you are unable to visit the castle properly (as the Belgian chateau is a private property owned by the Limbosch family), this is one of the best castles in Belgium. It dates back to the 11th Century and stands in a little lake.
It is picture perfect. Small, but elegant.
From a simplified fortified country home, it was soon transformed into a lavish Renaissance castle in the 16th Century, and it is one that is in the perfect location.
Standing in a lake, and only connected to the rest of the world by a stone bridge, this castle is a still image of the past. And it is one that will impress whoever looks upon it, even without stepping inside.
Buy here your Belgium Like a Local Guide
Where: Rue Basse 27, 5332 Assesse, Namur
When: 11th-century/16th-century
Style: Early Medieval/Renaissance
Visiting Times: Unfortunately, as it is private property, you cannot visit this castle.
10. Kasteel van Beersel (Beersel)
The Kasteel van Beersel (Beersel Castle) is a fortress castle near Brussels. It is one of the oldest castles in Flanders, making it perfect for history buffs.
The Royal Palace might be considered one of the best things to do in Brussels in a day, but unfortuantely many overlook this hidden gem just outside of the city.
The castle was constructed between 1300 and 1310 by Godfrey of Hellebeek, the first lord of Beersel. He built the castle to serve as a first defence if there was an attack on Brussels.
Although the castle was partially burned down in the mid 14th century, it has quickly rebuilt – only to fall back into ruin during the 19th century after being used as a cotton factory.
Nevertheless, much of the building remains and it is both an impressive and formidable building and one of the must see medieval castles in Belgium.
The best part is this and other castles in Brussels be done as an easy day trip from Luxembourg.
Book here the best tours in Brussels
Where: Lotsestraat 65, 1650 Beersel
When: 14th century
Style: Medieval
Visiting Times: 10.00 am to 12.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm, Tuesday to Sunday from 1 March to 15 November and only on weekends the rest of the year.
Tickets: Adults – 4 €; Children under 12 – €1
11. Château de La Hulpe (Brussels)
Château de La Hulpe, (also called Solvay Castle) is one of the most popular castles of Belgium to visit in Wallonia. This Belgian chateau was completed in 1842 in the Flemish Neo-Renaissance style, and it is gorgeous to look at.
Unfortunately, you cannot go inside without booking it for an event. But the entire grounds are open to the public.
The estate is sometimes called “Park of a thousand rhododendrons” and it’s easy to see why as the real show stopper is the perfectly symmetrical garden complete with well manicured hedges and an eye-catching mermaid fountain.
There is a path that leads through the rest of the grounds, which is a great way to spend an afternoon with the family. There is even a restaurant in an old converted building where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink and take in this beautiful chateau in Belgium.
The castle is also near some of the best hiking trails in Belgium, making it a great addition to a weekend getaway.
Buy here your Belgium Like a Local Guide
Where: Chaussée de Bruxelles 111, 1310 La Hulpe
When: 19th century
Style: Flemish Neo-Renaissance
Visiting Times: Only the grounds are available to the public; April through September 8.00 am to 9.00 pm, and from October through March 8.00 am to 6.00 pm
Tickets: Free
12. Kasteel van Zellaer (Bonheiden)
Kasteel van Zellaer (Zellaer Castle) looks like something out of a fairytale, and you’d be forgiven for thinking that this was one of the most impressive medieval castles in Belgium.
But Kasteel van Zellaer was actually built in the late 19th century and modeled after the other medieval castles in Belgium.
However, the history of the land is believed to date back to the 13th century when there was a water castle located there instead.
The castle was only recently opened up to the public, and can be viewed through a tour. Additionally, the grounds are free to the public, and the 18.5-hectare land even includes a forested area where visitors can enjoy a day out.
The castle is an easy day trip from Brussels as it is only 30 minutes from the city center.
Book here the best day trips from Brussels
Where: Zellaerdreef 1, 2820 Bonheiden
When: 13th century
Style: Gothic Revival
Visiting Times: Varies from month to month, check their website for up-to-date times.
Tickets: The grounds are free, if you want a tour of the castle, you must register in advance by emailing gidsen@kasteelzellaer.be. Tickets are €4 per person.
13. Kasteel Cleydael (Aartselaar)
No one is entirely sure how old Kasteel Cleydael (Cleydael Castle) is, but the earliest mention of it was in 1372, but it is believed to have at least partially already existed in 1259 when the Sanders van Hemessen family owned the land.
If so, that might make it the oldest castle in Belgium. Additionally, sections of this moated castle can be traced to the 14th century.
Over the centuries, the castle has changed ownership many times. For awhile this Belgian castle was even part of a nearby golf course.
Unfortunately, you can no longer add this to a list of best castles in Belgium to visit as it is now private property and neither the castle nor the grounds can be visited.
It is located in the town of Aartselaar, in the province of Antwerp in the Flemish region, in case you want to drive by and admire it from a distance.
Buy here your Belgium Like a Local Guide
Where: Cleydaellaan 36, 2630 Aartselaar
When: 14th century (or earlier)
Style: Medieval Water Castle
Visiting Times: Private property, cannot be viewed by the public
14. Borrekens Castle
Kasteel de Borrekens (Borrekens Castle) is another castle in the Antwerp province, this one in the town of Vorselaar.
The original castle was built by the Van Rotselaar family around 1270, and though sections have been rebuilt over time, it remains one of the most beautiful medieval castles in Belgium. Due to remodelling the castle also sports some Neo-Gothic architecture.
Sadly, this castle is not open to the public. However, if you happen to be in or Vorselaar, it’s worth trying to catch a glimpse as some Belgians consider this hidden gem one of the 10 most beautiful castles in the world!
If you’re vacationing in Bruges and want to see as many castles in Bruges and surrounding areas, this is one of several castles near Bruges and is a great day trip from there with your own car.
If you only have 1 day in Bruges, make sure to check my guide on what to do in Bruges in 1 day.
Book here the best tours of sites and castles in Bruges
Where: Vispluk 3, 2290 Vorselaar
When: 13th century
Style: Medieval Feudal Castle, Neo-Gothic
Visiting Times: Private property, cannot be viewed by the public
15. Kasteel Alden Biesen (Bilzen)
The Kasteel Alden Biesen (Alden Biesen Castle) is one of the most famous and best castles in Belgium, and it has a long history behind it. Although this is last on the list of castles in Belgium, the best has been saved till the end!
This castle dates back almost a millennium ago and the original structure was built by the Knights of the Teutonic Order. How impressive is that?!
The main building that you can see now when you visit though, is a magnificent Renaissance edifice with turrets that was expanded from the original castle between the 16th and 18th Centuries.
Unfortunately, in 1971, this castle was actually burned down.
But thankfully, the Belgian government bought and restored this castle, so you can still see it in all its glory although now, it is used as a cultural center.
Book here your stay in the Ardennes
Where: Kasteelstraat 6, 3740 Bilzen, Limburg
When: 16th to 18th Centuries
Style: Renaissance
Visiting Times: Yes, daily except Mondays from 10.00 am, but only during exhibitions or with a guided tour.
Tickets: Adults – 4 €; Children under 12 – free
So, there you have it; the 15 Best Castles in Belgium!
Now this list of castles in Belgium does not begin to show or explain how impressive these castles actually are. The best way to truly experience these castles is by physically going there. A picture and description can only show so much.
But castles are much better when they are explored, and you can find out all of their secrets when you wander their rooms and corridors. Even a simple ruined brick wall can show you a lot.
Before you do go and visit one of these castles though, please double-check that they are open.
But once everything goes back to normal, these are the castles that you need to visit if you can. Put aside some time and just remember to have fun!
About the author
Isobel blogs over at castlesandturret.com, detailing historical houses, castles and general day trips. She also loves books and films. Give her a historical romance, and it would be an afternoon well spent. When it comes to her days off work, you can find Isobel outside and exploring as many places as she can with her partner!
FAQ about the Best Castles in Belgium
1. How many castles are there in belgium?
There are more than 3000 castles in Belgium! There are more medieval castles in Belgium than modern ones, but castles from all eras exist in the country.
2. What are the best castles you can stay in Belgium?
The castle hotels Belgium has to offer are some of the best in the world. My favorites are Le Chateau de Namur and Chateau d’Hassonville!
3. What are must see castles in Belgium?
There are a lot of beautiful castles in Belgium, but you absolutely cannot miss Gravensteen, Groot-Bijgaarden Castle or the Beloeil Castle.
Hola! I am Paulina, a fervent travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, you’ll find all the tips to make the most of your holiday. Get ready to enjoy outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling or sailing. Let’s hit the road together!
