Top Rated Attractions in Rest of Belgium

From dinosaur fossils to live tarantulas to rare gems, the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences Museum explores the natural wonders of our fascinating planet. The permanent galleries are unique and interesting, including a Gallery of Evolution, Insects Hall, and Minerals Hall. In addition to the permanent displays, the museum features several temporary exhibitions throughout the year, including interactive exhibits. This museum also serves as a research facility.

Contemporary art is represented here, but also artists and art movements from the last 30 years.

With its stately facade, opulent interiors and lush, formal gardens, the Royal Palace is a fitting abode for the offices of the King and Queen of Belgium. The individual rooms are lavishly adorned with crystal chandeliers, gilded details, antique furniture, exquisite artwork, and detailed carvings. Of special note is the artwork that adorns the ceiling of the Mirror Room, composed of over a million beetle carapaces inlaid to form intricate designs. Each summer, the palace is opened to the public; a time-honored tradition that grants access to this symbol of Belgium's thriving monarchy.

This Museum first opened in the early 1980s, in what was formerly the Municipal Abbatoirs. In 1892 even an abbatoir was supposed to be a work of art. This museum specializes in modern art and is particularly renowned for its vast collection of original posters. There's a special hall dedicated to the great Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte, elsewhere you can see works by Henri Permeke, André Delvaux and Pablo Picasso. Check website for closing dates.