We’re relaunching direct flights to Brussels – here’s everything you need to know

In August 2025, we’re relaunching four weekly direct flights from Hong Kong to Brussels, Belgium’s charming capital.

In this enchanting city, cobblestone streets are lined with striking Gothic and Art Nouveau-era buildings and the air is filled with the intoxicating aroma of freshly made chocolate. Visitors shouldn’t leave without savouring Belgium’s beloved crisp golden waffles, exquisite chocolate and lambic beer – and exploring all the city has to offer.

Soak up the atmosphere at the Grote Markt (Grand Place), the city’s central square, where Gothic guild houses and the Brussels Town Hall can be found, then tour the Palais Royal, home of the Belgian royal family. For a departure from the medieval aesthetic, drop by the Atomium, a structure built for the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958 to represent iron atoms, and which now stands as a unique landmark.

Brussels plays a pivotal role in European and international affairs and is where both the EU and NATO are headquartered. It’s considered the “capital of the European Union”, and attracts diplomats, policymakers and professionals from around the world.

There’s much to be discovered in this city, but the rest of the country also has plenty to offer – and it only takes around three hours to cross from one end to the other by car. Delve into our guide below for the best places to go near Brussels. 

Antwerp

If you’re travelling to Antwerp from Brussels by train, the first thing you’ll lay eyes on is the architectural marvel of Antwerpen Centraal, Antwerp’s main railway station. Beyond it lies a city ripe for exploration. Get lost in Belgium’s largest chocolate museum, Chocolate Nation , and the palatial shopping mall Stadsfeestzaal . Embark on a self-guided tour at the City Brewery, where you can sample Antwerp’s specialty beer, Bolleke, or pick up a sparkly souvenir – the city is known as the diamond capital of the world. 

Ghent

Nestled on the Scheldt and Leie Rivers, Ghent is a city full of charm and history. A visit to the Ghent Belfry will reward you with an encounter with the city’s guardian: a fire-breathing dragon sculpture, while the Castle of the Counts, a medieval fortress, will transport you back in time to the 12th century. In the summer, the annual Ghent Festivities bring to the city frequent onstage and street performances by international artists, as well as parades, food and drink stalls, and more.

Bruges

One of the best ways to tour Bruges’ fairytale-like buildings is by boat. Hop aboard and listen to your knowledgeable captain recount stories about the city as you traverse its extensive canal system. If you’re here in the winter months, you’ll be treated to an array of festivities, such as the Markt (Market Square) and Simon Stevinplein Christmas markets and the floating artificial ice rink atop the Minnewater (Lake of Love). Enjoy a live classical or contemporary performance at a bar, a concert hall or a church. 

Leuven

Knock back a cold Belgian beer at a café in the Grote Markt, the central square of Leuven, while admiring the striking external features of the Gothic town hall, scheduled to be renovated by 2029. On Saturdays, check out the farmers’ market along Brusselsestraat, where you can sample cheese and dried meats or admire the antiques on display. Afterwards, drop by Brewery Stella Artois for a guided interactive tour of the brewing process, or explore on your own as you follow a Leuven Beer Adventure walking route past the best bars and breweries in the city.

Dinant

As the birthplace of the saxophone, this city – which straddles the Meuse River – ensures you don’t forget it with its myriad statues, beers, chocolates and souvenirs, all inspired by the wind instrument. You also won’t be able to miss the imposing Dinant Citadel, perched atop a sheer rock face and accessible via cable car or stairs.

If you’re in the area in August, catch a glimpse of the International Bathtub Regatta, which takes place every year on the 15th of the month. As the name implies, the unique one-kilometre race involves cruising down the Meuse on bathtub-based watercraft.