Belgium tends to be something of a stop off point for many travellers, and most people tend to see the country only in a very small dose. It's not that the country is an undiscovered gem, like those found in more remote, less-visited regions of the world, it's just quite overlooked - which is a real shame, as Belgium has an incredible array of cultural delights for any visitor to get involved in. The cultural divide between French Belgians and the Flemish Belgians is still clear for all to see, and makes for an interesting dichotomy between the two cultures for a traveller to take in.

Brussels may be a thoroughly businesslike city full of international politicians, but it is also a vibrant and exciting place to be, full of artistic and architectural delights to be enjoyed alongside waffles and beer. The first stop for most visiting the city is the gothic Grand Place - huge and spectacular, and sure to have tourists milling around the labyrinthine roads surrounding the structure all year round. The Musée des Instruments de Musique and the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts are sure to keep any culture vultures happy, and those wanting to take part in some hardcore shopping are spoiled for choice with the markets, stalls and stores - Place du Jeu-de-Balle is a particularly popular highlight. When the sun begins to set and people retreat indoors, a new kind of city is opened up to the visitor - fantastic cold beers in front of roaring fires, washing down sumptuous chocolates or any other Belgian delicacy, from waffles through French fries. Nightclubs cater for those looking for a night on the tiles, and theatre, opera and cinema enthusiasts are sure to be well catered for, whichever they want to partake in on a particular night.

Elsewhere in Belgium are attractions such as the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bruges, with its Cathedral of the Holy Saviour just one element of an experience that will take many breaths away. Those looking for a less modern feel often travel to the city of Ghent, with its medieval stylings and some wonderful architecture. Dinant and Liege prove popular tourist spots for those traversing into French Belgian territory, and both offer their own unique take on Belgium and its culture, with attractions such as the Citadel and Notre Dame church both offering something to remember. Belgium doesn't come up short when it comes to natural beauty either, and the Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve is the largest example of this splendour, popular for walks and bike rides.

Belgium is a popular country, but relatively speaking - when compared to its neighbours - it is underrated. The country is one that should be seen by all especially with the importance of the nation on the political map, and it offers more than enough to entice even the most hardened Euro-sceptic inside its borders. The land has a range of beauty, the architecture is varied and interesting and the cuisine is second to none - plus did I mention the 500-plus varieties of beer the country produces?