A journey through Belgian gastronomy

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is surely the most visited city in the country. And with good reason: its Grand-Place, one of the most beautiful in the world, is an architectural marvel whose history dates back to the Middle Ages. There are dozens of monuments, including the Cinquantenaire, the Stock Exchange, the Atomium, Saint Michael's and Gudule Cathedrals, the Royal Palace and the Mont des Arts. In Brussels you'll find a lively, eclectic and bustling capital where history and culture coexist. But the Belgian capital is also packed with restaurants, bars, estaminets and other brasseries dedicated to Belgian gastronomy. As a typical dish, you're sure to find superb moules-frites, the iconic symbol of Belgium. If you want to try a simple family speciality, turn to stoemp (pronounced stoump), a crushed mixture of potatoes and other vegetables, often carrots, often accompanied by sausages, black pudding or bacon. This is surely where you'll find the most delicacies on the streets. When strolling through the old town, don't miss the Brussels waffles with chocolate and chips!

The best restaurants to sample Brussels gastronomy :

• Sterkerlapatte / Rue des Prêtres 4: Website

T Kelderke / Grand Place 15: Website

The capital of chocolate, it can be seen everywhere in the town's cobbled streets. The charm of this small medieval town is sure to enchant. This is the city of lovers par excellence. Romanticism and gourmet delights are the order of the day. After a stroll along the city's canals, look for the best restaurant to sample the city's gastronomy. Try the Potjevleesch, or Flemish-style rabbit, often served with chips. And, of course, there's mussels and chips too!

Enjoy the charm of the Hôtel de Orangerie and its luxurious rooms. The hotel also boasts a superb restaurant where you can enjoy a luxurious tea time with a glass of champagne and gourmet treats.

Ghent, the historic city of East Flanders, is brimming with architectural treasures, history and culture. A visit to this Flemish city is a real treat for the senses. The Castle of the Counts of Flanders, St Bavo's Cathedral and the Belfry are the main attractions for history buffs. The Graslei and Korenlei quays, lined with medieval houses, are an ideal place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the city.

For art lovers, Ghent's Museum of Fine Arts is a must, with its collection of Flemish art including works by Rubens and Van Eyck. Ghent's cobbled streets and historic buildings also provide an ideal backdrop for photographers.

Finally, for a unique experience, a visit to the Sunday morning flea market is ideal for finding souvenirs and other antiques. The restaurants and cafés in the Patershol district offer a variety of Belgian dishes and drinks to savour. One of the city's signature dishes is Waterzoï, usually made with fish or chicken cooked in a broth and accompanied by local vegetables.

't Vosken / Sint-Baafsplein 19, 9000 Gent: Website

Antwerp is a must for travellers in search of culture, history and art. The Grote Markt is the ideal starting point for exploring the city. The square's historic buildings, such as the Town Hall and Guildhall, bear witness to the city's wealth during the Flemish Golden Age. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp, with its spectacular stained glass windows and sculptures, is a Gothic masterpiece. Antwerp's museums are also of great cultural value. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts houses works by artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck and Jordaens, while the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an incredibly well-preserved library-museum. Finally, for a unique experience, visit the fashion district around the Meir, where you can discover the latest trends in Belgian fashion.

To round off your visit with a unique culinary experience, try eel au vert, freshwater eel in a green sauce. As far as street food is concerned, you'll of course find chips, but also kibbeling, a very popular Dutch speciality in Antwerp of small fried fish! You'll find the best kibbeling at the Eendracht fishmonger's at Hoogstraat 53, 2000 Antwerpen.

Situated in the east of Belgium, Liège is a must-see destination with a wealth of historic sites, museums and fascinating architectural buildings. Nicknamed "La Cité Ardente" (The Burning City), the city is bordered by the River Meuse. It is often less visited and better known than Brussels or Antwerp, but it is packed with a rich architectural and cultural heritage! You'll discover many churches and cathedrals dating back to medieval times. Not forgetting the Bueren mountain, where you'll have to climb no fewer than 375 steps to admire Liège from its most beautiful vantage point.

But as well as cultural visits, Liège has a rich gastronomy and a lively nightlife. Be sure to try the famous Boulets à la liégeoise. A typical and extremely tasty dish. These are shaped meatballs cooked in a mixture of Liège syrup (a kind of molasses made from a blend of concentrated fruit juices), sultanas and onions. It's a sweet and savoury mix that's sure to please.

For dessert, if you can't find a cork waffle, opt for Lacquemants, mini wafers filled and covered with candy sugar. They're a delicious way to add to your calorie count. In the evening, head to the carré de Liège, a festive district, to sample the many Belgian beers, but above all peket, an alcoholic drink made from juniper berries that is very popular in the city. It comes in all sorts of different varieties - raspberry, lemon, violet - so there's something for everyone.