The most captivating places you can fly to from Brussels

August is upon us, and most people will have already packed their bags and left the city to take their summer holiday.

But if you’ve yet to book your vacation and need some last-minute inspiration, help is at hand.

The Brussels Times staff are seasoned travellers, and between us, we have visited many of the cities on Brussels Airport's destination list.

Below, we have picked some of our favourite places to visit - destinations which captured our hearts, and we would happily return to time and again.

Paphos, Cyprus

Just under five hours flight time to Paphos and you could be a world away, while still in the EU. Cyprus is a must-visit destination, the perfect melange of historic and new. Avoid the resorts and I guarantee you'll put this country on your 'must visit again' list. Here's why: Halloumi for breakfast (no, it isn't Greek), delicious mezzes for lunch and dinner (try Zanettos in Nicosia), unspoilt beaches (Gold Beach is a highlight), hiking in the cool mountain air of the Troodos Mountains and evening drinks in historic harbours. From Kantara Castle, you can take in one of the most breathtaking views in the world and later take an incredible drive through no man's land in Europe's last divided capital (no stopping - surreal). If you like a more active holiday, base yourself in Paphos and take in the many road cycle routes from the city. So much to do and see.

- Chris Richards

Djerba, Tunisia

The island of Djerba is a hidden gem of a place. With a flight time from Brussels of just under three hours, Djerba is perfect for those wanting to get out of Europe, but not fly for too long. A key tip: avoid resorts and book a guest house. The island boasts one of the oldest synagogues in the world, with multi-faith communities all proudly living side-by-side. Locals are warm and keen to help, and you can eat delicious grilled fish on the beach, usually with white sand and crystal clear waters (but not all, so do your research). To make the most of the trip, rent a car and explore other parts of Tunisia. Head towards the desert in search of an oasis in Tozeur, mountainous Berber villages around Chenini and of course, for those who are interested, Star Wars film sets in Matmata. Perfect for both adventurous and relaxing trips.

- Ugo Realfonzo

A beach in Djerba, Tunisia. Credit: Emmanuel Boutet/WIkicommons.

Reykjavik, Iceland

With a direct flight of just 3.5 hours, my favourite destination from Brussels Airport is without a doubt Iceland. You land just outside the country's capital, Reykjavik, which is a beautiful little city and a perfect place to start a round-trip of all the waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, natural hot springs and black sand beaches the country has to offer. I went in October because it is prime Northern Lights month, but going in the summer will turn the entire country green and give you many more daylight hours to discover the island's beautiful mountains and beaches with fresh eyes. I am already planning on going back!

- Maïthé Chini

Porto, Portugal

If you’re looking for a city break for a weekend, Porto might just be the spot. While Lisbon or the South of Portugal tend to get the most attention from abroad, Porto is perfect for anyone looking for a walkable city with plenty of culture, art, history, and great food. Tip for meat-eaters: don’t forget to try the classic Francesinha.

- Rita Alves

Porto is a charming coastal city. Credit: Nick Karvouis/Unsplash.

Kraków, Poland

I first discovered this gem of a city over a decade ago. Since then, I have returned again and again. Beautiful architecture, brilliant cuisine, charming cafés, and a vibrant nightlife – this is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. For charming bars and restaurants, check out the city’s Jewish quarter, Kazimierz. History lovers should visit Oskar Schindler’s enamel factory and the remains of the city’s Jewish ghetto.

- Dylan Carter

Nice, France

I love cities by the sea, and Nice might just be my favourite. The best way to get to know the city is by strolling down the Promenade des Anglais - named after the English tourists who came here in the 19th century. This will give you a wonderful view of the turquoise Med and the 'Bay of Angels', which stretches from Nice westwards to Antibes.

On the promenade, you'll see majestic seaside mansions and stunning gardens. In Nice's Old Town, you can wander the cobbled streets picking up souvenirs like brightly coloured tablecloths, olive oil and lavender-scented soap. Around Nice, there are some fantastic places for day trips, including Grasse, the world's perfume capital, and Saint Paul de Vence, a beautiful medieval town perched between the coast and the mountains.

- Katie Westwood

white statue in front of brown building during daytime

Nice is a beautiful place to explore at any time of the year. Credit: Lum Lumi/Unsplash.