10 Top Castles in Belgium – one per province

Belgium has around 3,000 castles, around 400 of which are open to the public, so choosing just 10 is a tough task. But here’s my list of 10 top castles in Belgium – one in every Belgian province.

Belgium has one of the highest densities of castles per square kilometer in the world. Some tiny villages in the Ardennes have two! From misty medieval fortresses to elegant aristocratic estates, each castle has its own unique tale to tell of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Here’s my list of 10 top castles in Belgium – one per province. So step into a world of knights and nobility, breathtaking views, scary dungeons, and sweeping gardens, and let this guide inspire your next day out!

1. Het Steen, Antwerp – Antwerp province

History

Het Steen is one of the oldest buildings in Antwerp, dating back to the early Middle Ages. Built around 1200–1225 as part of the city’s fortifications, it served as a gateway to the city and was later used as a prison. Extensively rebuilt in the 16th century under Charles V, it also served as a residence, warehouse, and museum. Today, after major renovations, Het Steen is Antwerp’s official tourist welcome centre.

Reasons to visit

Visit for its stunning riverside location, immersive visitor center, and the panoramic rooftop terrace. Inside, multimedia exhibits explore Antwerp’s Story, and the interactive Port Experience offers insights into Europe’s second-largest port.

Key information

• Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00.
• Free entrance to visitor center. €7 for Antwerp Story (adults; €5 for children).
• Address: Steenplein 1, 2000 Antwerp.
• More info: Check their website. Read my posts on What to do in Antwerp, my full review of the DIVA diamond, jewelry and silver museum, and How to spend a day in Antwerp’s city centre.

Where to stay

• B&B Suites FEEK, Oude Leeuwenrui 23, 2000 Antwerp: “Great quality accommodation. Centrally located, great breakfast with very friendly and helpful host.”
• Hotel ‘T Sandt, Zand 17, 2000 Antwerp: “Amazing ambiance. Delightful hosts. Delicious breakfast. A perfect stay! Highly recommend.”
• Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt, Oude Beurs 29, 2000 Antwerp: “Breakfast was excellent. Location was perfect. An abundance of restaurants and bars nearby.”
• Hotel De Witte Lelie, Keizerstraat 16-18, 2000 Antwerp: “We had a wonderful stay. It’s small-scale with a beautiful courtyard. The service is great, breakfast very tasty and we really enjoyed our dinner.”
• Hotel Flora, Korte Nieuwstraat 12, 2000 Antwerp: “Staff was wonderful. Building was amazing dating back to 1445. Rooms were spacious and comfortable.”

2. Gravensteen Castle, Ghent – East Flanders province

History

The Gravensteen (‘Castle of the Counts’) was built in 1180 by Count Philip of Alsace, modelled after crusader castles. It served as the seat of the Counts of Flanders until the 14th century, and later became a courthouse, prison, and even a cotton mill. It was restored in the late 19th century and stands today as one of Belgium’s most iconic medieval castles.

Reasons to visit

Explore medieval architecture, climb the battlements for city views, visit the armory and torture museum, and enjoy immersive historical displays. Gravensteen is centrally located and perfect for combining with a walk through Ghent’s historic core.

Key information

• Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 (last entry 16:40).
• Entry: €13 adults, €2.70 children.
• Address: Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent.
• Further information: Check their website. Read my posts on How to spend a day in Ghent, and Ghent by Boat.

Where to stay

• B&B De Waterzooi Suites, Sint-Veerleplein 2, 9000 Ghent: “Rooms were big and comfy, bathrooms were great, breakfast was wonderful. Fabulous view of Gravensteen Castle right out the window.”
• Hotel Harmony, Kraanlei 37, 9000 Ghent: “Second time staying at this Hotel. Excellent stay both times. Location is great for seeing the area.”
• Ghent Marriott Hotel, Korenlei, 9000 Ghent: “The location will blow your mind, you literally step out into one of the most beautiful parts of Ghent, with great cafes and tourist locations.”
• Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent, Hoogstraat 36, 9000 Ghent: “Fantastic breakfast, great staff, very friendly. Wonderful location within walking distance of everything you want to see and do.”
• Het Rustpunt, Burgstraat 116, 9000 Ghent: “Spacious, comfortable room, great shower. Great breakfast, lots of choices. Parking on site. Short walk to central city and canals.”

3. Gaasbeek Castle, Lennik – Flemish Brabant province

History

Perched south-west of Brussels in Lennik, Gaasbeek Castle originated as a 13th-century fortress built to control the route between Brussels and southern territories. Across the 16th and 17th centuries, it transformed, incorporating Renaissance elegance, Baroque facades, and Romantic 19th?century turrets. During the turbulent French Revolution, it was partially destroyed, then meticulously restored in 1921.

Reasons to visit

Gaasbeek Castle is a perfect blend of eras – visit for its soaring towers, elegant courtyards, and beautifully curated interiors adorned with period furnishings, tapestries, and art. The surrounding estate offers woodland trails, a grand orangery, and seasonal events like falconry displays and historic reenactments. The elevated romantic gardens and panoramic views of the Flemish countryside make it ideal for leisurely walks and photography .

Key information

• Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00-18:00 from April to October.
• Admission: Prices approximately €12 adults; discounts for youth/seniors, but vary depending on exhibition.
• Guided tours & events are offered regularly, alongside temporary exhibits.
• Address: Kasteelstraat 40, 1750 Gaasbeek (Lennik).
• More info: Check their website and read my full review of Gaasbeek Castle.

Where to stay

• Hotel Klein Nederlo, Appelboomstraat 196, 1602 Vlezenbeek: “Quiet location, family atmosphere, friendly staff, delicious food in their restaurant. We had a very nice weekend.”
• Trionfo, Postweg 3, 1750 Gaasbeek: “Room and facilities were brand new. Great buffet breakfast, great communication with owner.”
• B&B De Windheer, Gustaaf Van der Steenstraat 81, 1750 Sint-Martens-Lennik: “We really enjoyed our stay here. It is beautifully decorated, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere. Breakfast was delicious.”

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4. Alden Biesen Castle, Bilzen – Limburg province

History

Founded in the 13th century by the Teutonic Order, Alden Biesen grew into a vast commandery and regional power centre. Destroyed by fire in 1971, it was fully restored by the Flemish government and is now a cultural and conference centre, retaining its elegant Baroque appearance.

Reasons to visit

This is an easy one to add to my list of 10 top castles in Belgium. Visit it for guided tours, art exhibits, heritage events, and the enchanting French garden. The annual ‘Bilzen Mysteries’ nighttime light show brings the castle’s history to life with high-tech projections and narration.

Key information

• Open year-round.
• Park and gardens free. Tours and Bilzen Mysteries tickets: prices vary.
• Address: Kasteelstraat 6, 3740 Bilzen.
• More info: Check their website. Read my full review of the place at How to visit the Grand Commandery Alden Biesen. And then why not enjoy A Country Walk Around Alden Biesen?

Where to stay

• Martin’s Rentmeesterij, 2 Kasteelstraat, 3740 Bilzen: “Loved my stay here. Very comfortable, great breakfast and attentive staff. Have stayed here before and hope to return again.”
• Boerderaaj, Lethenstraat 5, 3740 Bilzen: “Such a unique setting. The property was great and spacious. The room was beautiful and things were thought through in every detail.”
• B&B ‘t Solveldje, Solveldstraat 6, 3740 Bilzen: “A beautiful night, the owner was very nice and friendly, the room perfect for my needs, a great breakfast.”

5. Loppem Castle, Zedelgem – West Flanders province

History

Built between 1859 and 1862 for Baron Charles van Caloen and his wife, the castle was designed in the ornate Gothic Revival style. It replaced an earlier 18th century residence and is remarkable for its unaltered exterior and interior decorations – one of Belgium’s only castles to preserve its original 19th century aesthetic. During World War I, it was used by the German general staff and later served as the seat of King Albert I in late 1918, where key political meetings known as the “Loppem Coup” took place.

Reasons to visit

You’ll see well preserved Gothic Revival interiors, including stained glass, ornate woodwork, 19th-century statuary, and paintings. The surrounding romantic English-style park, complete with ponds, grottoes, and a labyrinth, makes it a perfect family outing. Guided tours reveal stories of aristocratic life, wartime history, and political intrigue.

Key information

• Open March to mid-November, Monday–Saturday 13:00–17:30 (last entry 16:45). Sunday openings vary seasonally
• Admission: Ages 0–6: free; 6–18: €5; Adults: €9. Maze (ages 4+): €2. Guided tours and activities available.
• Address: Steenbrugsestraat 26, 8210 Loppem (Zedelgem)
• More info: Check their website. Read my review of when I visited Loppem Castle.

Where to stay

• Auro’ra, Begonialaan 2a, 8210 Zedelgem: “Big, clean room, free parking outside, quiet suburban location (so feels safe), friendly welcoming hosts, access to decent kitchen, good breakfast.”
• Hoeve Chartreuse, 200 Heidelbergstraat, 8200 Bruges: “The room was lovely, breakfast delicious and hosts very accommodating. We had a wonderful stay – and hope to be back!”
• Doeveren, Rijselsestraat 63, 8210 Zedelgem: “Excellent host who helped us a lot with everything. Very beautiful accommodation outside the city. I wish we could go back and spend more time there!”

6. Château de Beloeil – Hainaut province

History

Known as the ‘Belgian Versailles’, Château de Beloeil has been the residence of the princely de Ligne family since the 14th century. The current classical château replaced a medieval fortress and was rebuilt after a major fire in 1900, retaining a rich collection of art and antique furnishings.

Reasons to visit

Admire French-style formal gardens, opulent interiors, libraries, and artwork. Seasonal exhibitions and musical events add to the grandeur. A major highlight is the garden’s axial design, stretching across 25 hectares.

Key information

• Open April–September, weekends and holidays, 13:00–18:00.
• Entry (castle and park): €12 adults, €6 children.
• Address: Rue du Château 11, 7970 Beloeil.
• More info: Check their website. Read my full review of Beloeil.

Where to stay

• B&B Au Petit Canteleu, 19 Rue de Canteleu, 7972 Beloeil: “It’s hard to find fault with this charming guesthouse. Everything was just perfect!”
• Mer et Sable B&B, Chemin du bosquet 1A, 7322 Ville-Pommeroeul: “Located in very nice surroundings. They offer spacious rooms and great breakfast. The owners are very friendly.”
• B&B La Récré de Bauffe, 9 Rue Delmotte, 7870 Bauffe: “Great facilities, friendly owners, excellent location for the nearby zoo, lots of thoughtful additions to make our family visit comfortable.”

7. Reinhardstein Castle, Ovifat – Liège province

History

Built in 1354 by Renaud of Waimes, this mountain castle once defended the region of the High Fens. It was abandoned in the 19th century and left in ruins until 1969, when it was meticulously reconstructed by historian Jean Overloop. Today it stands as a dramatic neo-medieval fortress perched above the Warche River.

Reasons to visit

Take guided tours through its furnished rooms, see knightly armoury and tapestries, and enjoy costumed events and medieval festivals. Its secluded location in the Hautes Fagnes makes it ideal for hiking and nature lovers. You can also register for a medieval dinner, and archery lessons.

Key information

• Open March–November on weekends or by booking.
• Tours: €11,50 adults, €9,50 seniors and children, under-6 free.
• Address: Chemin du Cheneux 50, 4950 Ovifat
• More info: Check their website.

Where to stay

• B&B La Romance du Lac, Rue du Barrage 17-19, 4950 Robertville: “Everything’s absolutely excellent! Highly recommend and would stay at the hotel again!”
• Hotel Dry Les Courtis, Route Des Bains 2A, 4950 Robertville: “Great location, nice welcome from the host, nothing too fancy but nice place, warm, clean and good value for money.”
• Latyka B&B, 3 Rue du Thier, 4950 Robertville: “Friendly welcome, very cozy bar, personal contact, smooth follow-up in email communication before start of stay.”

8. Château de Bouillon – Luxembourg province

History

Bouillon Castle was the seat of Godfrey of Bouillon, a First Crusade leader, and has existed since the 10th century. It has seen various transformations from medieval stronghold to Renaissance bastion under Louis XIV. Today, it is among Belgium’s most impressive hilltop castles.

Reasons to visit

Enjoy panoramic views, underground passages, and falconry displays. The castle’s historical walkthrough and multimedia show bring medieval warfare and crusader tales vividly to life.

Key information

• Open daily.
• Entry: Best value is the City Pass+, which grants you access to the castle, the Scriptura Museum, the Ballet of Raptors, the Ducal Museum, the Bouillon Medieval Experience, and the Odyssey of Light show. Adults: 16€. Children (4-12): 12€. Under 4: free.
• Address: Esplanade Godefroid 1, 6830 Bouillon.
• More info: Check their website.

Where to stay

• Hotel Bouillon, Rue du Collège 44, 6830 Bouillon: “Fantastic and varied breakfast. Very large room with jacuzzi tub, nice for relaxing after a long day walking in the sun. Free city parking nearby.”
• Hôtel Panorama, Au-Dessus De La Ville 25, 6830 Bouillon: “Excellent location. Great view. Very quiet, but just a short walk (stairs) to the river front. Great restaurant. Very friendly staff.”
• B&B Le Valhento, 38 Voie Jocquée, 6830 Bouillon: “The room is clean, cozy and user-friendly. The location is great, two minutes walk to the center. The view of the town and the castle from the deck is fabulous.”

9. Citadel of Namur – Namur province

History

The Citadel of Namur stands on a site fortified since Roman times. The current structure evolved from the 10th century and was expanded by Vauban under Louis XIV. It served as a key military bastion until the 20th century. Today, it’s a vast historic park with underground passages and commanding river views.

Reasons to visit

Explore the fortress walls, take guided tours of the underground tunnels, ride the scenic cable car, take a trip on a little train, and visit the Terra Nova visitor centre for a multimedia deep dive into 2,000 years of history.

Key information

• Open daily.
• Best value is the Citadel Pass covering the Terra Nova, little train, and museum. €18 adults, seniors and children €18, under-6 free.
• Address: Route Merveilleuse 64, 5000 Namur.
• More info: Check their website.

Where to stay

• Le Chateau de Namur, Avenue de l’Ermitage 1, 5000 Namur: “The hotel was luxurious and special. When we drove up, I thought we were in the wrong place! It was like a dream hotel.”
• Cocoon, 43 Avenue Vauban, 5000 Namur: “Great location with beautiful views, very friendly and helpful owners, amazing breakfast, and the most comfortable bed we’ve ever had.”
• Les Volets Bleus, 22 Rue Juppin, 5000 Namur: “Our host was very welcoming and discreet. Spacious, comfortable and not far from the Citadel. Excellent bed and breakfast to visit Namur!”

10. Château de La Hulpe – Walloon Brabant province

History

Built in the 1840s in French château style, this estate became the country retreat of Count Ernest Solvay, founder of the Solvay chemical empire. Though the castle itself is not open to the public, its vast park and landscaped gardens are a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.

Reasons to visit

Walk among sculptures, ponds, and manicured lawns in the 220-hectare Domaine Solvay. Visit the Folon Foundation museum, dedicated to Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon, located in a former farm building on the grounds.

Key information

• Park open daily, free entrance to the grounds.
• Folon Museum: €12 adults, €10 seniors, €5 children.
• Address: Chaussée de Bruxelles 111, 1310 La Hulpe
• More info: Check the website of the Folon Museum. Read my post on two walks around Domain Solvay and to the Château de la Hulpe. Check out my biography of Ernest Solvay.

Where to stay

• B&B Entre Champs, 619 Chaussée de Louvain, 1380 Ohain: “Wonderful purpose-built B&B….so good it is like a fabulous 4-bedroom hotel with lots of fascinating and individual little touches.”
• B&B L’Eau Claire, Rue Général de Gaulle 54B, 1310 La Hulpe: “Location, surroundings, garden, cleanliness, decorations, in-room experience, great breakfast, and amazing staff.”
• Hotel Martin’s Château Du Lac, Avenue du Lac 87, 1332 Genval: “A great hotel right beside the lake. Excellent rooms, great rooms, very good breakfast, wonderful views and very helpful, friendly staff.”

With this list of top 10 castles in Belgium across all 10 provinces, you can now choose to visit a great castle wherever you are in Belgium. But, of course, Belgium consists not just of ten provinces but of Brussels-Capital-Region. So here’s a special bonus castle in Brussels!

BONUS CASTLE: Château du Karreveld, Molenbeek, Brussels

History

This castle-farm dates back to at least the 13th century, with its name first recorded in 1253 under Duke John I of Brabant. Originally a fortified farmhouse, it changed hands over centuries, until Molenbeek municipality purchased it in 1930. In the early 20th century it hosted the first Belgian film studio. After falling into disuse, it was restored in the 1950s and the surrounding park opened to the public.

Reasons to visit

Château du Karreveld blends medieval charm with vibrant contemporary culture. Its wooded park, complete with pond, formal French garden, and rustic pathways, offers a tranquil escape. The castle hosts events such as Festival Bruxellons! and the Blue Flamingo Jazz Festival.

Key Information

• Opening hours: The park is open daily from dawn to dusk. The château interior and exhibition spaces are accessible during scheduled events and festivals.
• Admission: Park entry is free. Events charge per show or per festival pass.
• Address: Avenue Jean de la Hoese 32, 1080 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean, Brussels. Metro Lines 2 & 6: Osseghem/Ossegem.
• Other info: Check their website and those of Festival Bruxellons! and Blue Flamingo Jazz Festival.

Where to stay

• B&B Druum, Hopstraat 63, 1000 Brussels: “Loved the artsy, light filled room. Huge shower, comfy bed, delicious breakfast.”
• Aparthotel Midi Residence, Engelandstraat 25, 1060 Saint-Gilles: “Conveniently located near Midi train station, walkable to the city center, neighborhood was quiet at night, building was secure.”

I hope you find this overview of 10 top castles in Belgium (well, 11 actually) useful. I earn a small commission from any accommodation booked via this page. You can also support the running of this website by buying me a coffee. Thanks!

Coming soon: 10 top museums in Belgium, 10 top parks & gardens in Belgium, and 10 top audio city walks. (Again, one per province).

Denzil Walton

I created Discovering Belgium in 2011 to share the country’s hidden stories, fascinating places, and remarkable people. Through articles, photography, and audio walks, I share discoveries that reveal Belgium beyond the obvious. Hope you enjoy this site.