Belgium Travel Guide

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Belgium is a small country located in the heart of Europe with a population of over 11.5 million. It is bordered by the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Luxembourg, making it an excellent location for travelers who love exploring different cultures.

With its charming cities, stunning nature, rich culture, and delicious food, Belgium have something to offer every kind of traveler. Let’s take a closer look at this beautiful country:

Geography

Belgium is bordered by France, Luxembourg, Germany, and the Netherlands and is located in Western Europe. It covers an area of 11,787 square miles (30,528 km2), making it slightly larger than Maryland in the United States. The country is flat, with elevations ranging from sea level up to 2,277 feet (694 m). Most of Belgium’s terrain consists of coastal plains in the northwest that gradually rise to rolling hills and low mountains in the southeast. Rivers such as the Scheldt and Meuse are essential features of Belgium’s geography.

The climate in Belgium tends to be temperate, with cool winters, mild summers, and regular rainfall throughout all four seasons. The country contains forest areas primarily comprised of broad-leaved trees, including oaks, beeches, birches, and alders. In addition to woods and forests, there are open fields, marshlands along rivers, and meadows, generally used as pasture land for animals.

Wildlife throughout Belgium includes small mammals such as hares, rabbits, and foxes, as well as amphibians like frogs and salamanders.

Climate

The climate of Belgium is typical of continental Europe and affected by prevailing winds from the Atlantic. Consequently, it can result in cooler, wetter weather along the coasts and a milder, drier climate inland.

Summers generally lasts from June to August; temperatures average between 16 and 21 degrees Celsius (60-70 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters last from December to February, with temperatures ranging from -2 to 8 degree Celsius (28-46 degrees Fahrenheit).

Belgium also experiences a range of precipitation throughout the year, varying wildly in different parts of the country. Coastal areas tend to experience more rainless days than the rest of Belgium because the coastal mountain range blocks moisture. On average, 146 cm (57 inches) of precipitation falls yearly in coastal regions and 109 cm (43 inches) in inland regions. Snow occasionally falls with more significant regularity at higher altitudes where temperatures can reach well below freezing, even during winter.

Population

Belgium has a population of 11.4 million and is officially known as the Kingdom of Belgium. It is one of three countries in Western Europe that border the North Sea, along with neighboring Netherlands and France. Belgium shares its border with the Netherlands (490 km) to its north, Germany (167 km) to its east, and Luxembourg (148 km) to its south.

Of the population, approximately 60 percent inhabit urban areas, with more than half living itself while the remaining 40 percent inhabit rural areas. Most of the population lives in Flemish-speaking regions in both the northern and western parts of Belgium. The capital city is Brussels, but other major cities include Antwerp, Ghent, and Charleroi.

The Flemish region speaks Dutch and French, while Wallonia speaks solely French; 59 percent speak French as their first language compared to just 30 percent who speak Dutch first. German has official status in certain parts of Belgium, too; some ten percents are natively German speakers or bilingual Flemish/German speakers.

Transportation

For those looking to explore Belgium, one of the most critical questions is: how do I get around? Fortunately, Belgium has a variety of transportation options available to travelers. You can choose from public transportation, car rentals, buses, rail, and more. This guide will provide an overview of your options and what to expect when planning your travels in Belgium.

Your transportation options in Belgium include the following:

  • Public transportation
  • Car rentals
  • Buses
  • Rail

Airports

Belgium has several international airports that serve both domestic and international destinations. The busiest airport is the Brussels National Airport (also known as Zaventem airport or Brussel Nationaal/Brussels International). It includes two passenger terminals and serves flights all over Europe and some transatlantic flights to the United States, Canada, and other countries. Other major airports in Belgium include Charleroi Airport and Antwerp International Airport.

Brussels is connected to many European cities through the European Union’s ‘Open Skies’ program, which provides cheap airline tickets between countries within the union without customs inspections or visa requirements. Additionally, Belgium has several small regional airports for flights within Europe, including Ghent-Wevelgem Airport and Ostend–Bruges International Airport.

Belgium has an extensive inter-city bus routes connecting most towns and cities and neighboring countries like France, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Furthermore, numerous intercity express train services provide fast connections between major Belgian cities such as Brussels and Antwerp. Long-distance train journeys in Belgium are operated by SNCB (National Society of Belgian Railways). In addition, the high-speed TGVL trains offer a fast link to Paris, while Eurostar provides international services to London via Brussel Midi/Zuid railway station.

There are various options for short trips within Belgian cities, ranging from public buses or trams for larger cities to local trains for smaller ones. Taxis can also be hired from designated taxi ranks or ordered via phone or app-based booking systems such as Uber or Taxify. In addition, cycling is becoming increasingly popular in recent years due to initiatives such as Bike Sharing schemes, where bicycles can be rented on a pay-as-you-go basis in certain areas of major cities like Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp.

Train Travel

Train travel is one of the most popular modes of transportation in Belgium. Belgium’s rail network is highly developed and efficient, making it one of the best ways to get around. Trains in Belgium are fast, comfortable, and convenient. Different types of trains can be used depending on your individual needs – high-speed international intercity trains link Brussels with major cities like Paris or Amsterdam; regional, local, and suburban trains carry passengers between all cities; there are Midi train links to make international connections as well; and there are also special airport services that you can use to get to or from the airport.

The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Belges (SNCB) is the national railway company responsible for all train services in Belgium. Its website provides a wealth of information about its services and fares, including schedules, ticket types, discounts available for families and people with disabilities, and how to make reservations. The SNCB also provides maps so travelers can quickly figure out how to get across Belgium from point A to point B by using public transport, including trains.

The Belgian Rail Pass is a special ticket offered by SNCB for tourists who want to discount journey tickets for national train routes within a certain number of days. In addition, the pass includes discounts on domestic flights and several other attractions, such as Artis Zoo in Amsterdam or Aqualibi Water Park in Wavre.

Bus Travel

Bus travel is the most cost-efficient and convenient form of transport in Belgium. Numerous bus lines connect the major cities of Belgium, such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges. In addition, local buses provide easy access to smaller towns throughout the country.

The national railway system is highly interconnected and easily accessible from most major cities. In addition, regional express buses regularly run between towns in each region. They offer a more direct way to travel between destinations than national trains but often require additional transfers in transit or switching buses.

Bus tickets can be purchased at any bus station or through an app or website. When on board, passengers must present their tickets to validate them before they reach their final destination. Tickets can also be purchased directly from the driver; however, it is essential to note that payment by card is not always accepted onboard local and regional buses in Belgium.

Bus travel provides a pleasant journey with flexible schedules and generous luggage allowances at pretty low fares compared to other forms of transportation like trains or planes.

Accommodation

Finding the right accommodation in Belgium is essential in planning your trip. The country offers a variety of lodging options, from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. So whether you’re looking for a room for a night or a villa for your entire stay, there’s something for everyone in Belgium.

Let’s look at some of the accommodation options available and what each one has to offer:

Hotels

When it comes to accommodation, Belgium offers a variety of hotels with different amenities, levels of luxury, and price ranges. From large international chain hotels to small family-run bed and breakfasts, visitors can easily find the perfect place to stay and explore the many attractions of Belgium.

For travelers looking for luxurious accommodations, Grand Luxe Hotels are recommended. These exclusive properties provide world-class hospitality with amenities such as five-star dining venues, although additional costs may be penthouse suites and spa services. The George V in Brussels is a classic example of one such property.

Mid-range hotels are worth considering for those who prefer a more affordable option without compromising service quality. Popular hotels like Best Western or Ibis offer comfortable stays in convenient locations, usually close to tourist attractions and transportation hubs. In addition, facilities like swimming pools or gyms may be complementary or incur an additional fee at these lodging options.

Travelers on a tight budget should consider staying at hostels or guesthouses for reasonable rates without sacrificing basic facilities such as sumptuous breakfasts, buffets, or free Wi-Fi access in public areas. Hostels are trendy among younger travelers looking for low-cost shared rooms that provide privacy at an economical price.

Hostels

Hostels are a popular form of budget accommodation for people looking for a convenient and affordable way to explore the Sites of Belgium. Whether traveling alone, with family, or in a group, hostels in Belgium offer basic amenities such as private rooms or dorms, communal bathrooms, kitchen facilities, and Wireless Internet connections.

Hostels typically range from small brick buildings located within major cities to larger commercial properties with locations across the country. No matter where you stay in Belgium, you’re sure to find a unique hostel with its unique character and atmosphere. Additionally, many hostel chains have set up operations in Brussels and other Belgian cities like Bruges, Antwerp, and Ghent – allowing visitors to compare prices when booking multiple nights away.

Those looking for more comfortable accommodations while still maintaining a budget-friendly price tag can opt for one of many boutique hotel options spread across the country – perfect if you’re looking to upgrade your sleeping arrangements while still keeping your price point low! Regardless of which option suits you best, there’s always an abundance of great places to rest when visiting Belgium!

Camping

Belgium is an excellent place to camp, enjoying nature and the beautiful views. With many international campsites, picturesque locations, and some of the best European beaches, you will find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Camping permits in Belgium are available from most parks and reserves. They can give you access to secluded areas and provide essential information about safety regulations and local customs. However, campfires can’t always be guaranteed due to local laws, so it’s important to check with the local council if you’re thinking of bringing your equipment.

Campers are also entitled to discounts on ferries and car hire when traveling through Belgium for longer ventures. There are plenty of campsites throughout Belgium, ranging from woodland hideaways to family sites with pools, adventure playgrounds, and static caravans for rent. Some popular camping sites include:

  • Popular camping destinations in Belgium include Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, Leuven, Bruges, and Ostend, all well-known cities for their magnificent architecture.
  • The Ardennes region has some stunning scenery and offers national parks such as Hoge Kempen National Park, a walker’s paradise with breathtaking views of heather-clad meadows in springtime or misty valleys in early autumn.
  • The Special Protection Zone on the North Sea Coast offers great facilities with designated cycle trails around villages such as Nieuwpoort or Veurne, allowing explorers insight into some fascinating hidden gems along these stretches of coastline.
  • Other beautiful spots throughout Belgium include De Palingbeek Provincial Park near Ghent, full of breathtaking natural sites such as clear blue lakes surrounded by lush green hills that provide an idyllic setting for a night spent under canvas.

Attractions

Belgium is one of the most beautiful European countries, with many attractions. Whether looking for historical sites, cultural attractions, or outdoor activities, you will find something to do in Belgium.

From the Grand Place in Brussels to the picturesque towns of Bruges and Ghent, plenty of landmarks exist to explore. In this article, we will discuss the various attractions in Belgium to help you plan your next trip.

Historic Sites

Belgium is home to several historical and cultural sites that are among the most important in Europe. From castles and monasteries to churches and stately homes, there is something for everyone in this country.

Here are some of the most popular:

  • Grand Place (market) – located in Brussels, this grand square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the City Hall, Guildhalls, and 16th-century buildings.
  • Cloth Hall – part of Grand Place, this 13th-century monument was used as a center for commerce and trade until the 19th century. It now houses many tourist attractions, including the royal palace museum.
  • Atomium – constructed in 1958 for Expo 58 World Fair, the Atomium is a 102-meter tall monument that comprises nine spheres connected by tubes.
  • The Cathedral of St Bavo was first built as a Romanesque Abbey in 994AD by Charles II. It was later transformed into an impressive Gothic cathedral with 314m transepts topped by five spires.
  • La Grand Place (Belfry) – once used as an observation post by city guards during medieval times, today it stands 83 meters tall and provides stunning views over Brussels city center.
  • Bouillon Castle – sitting on top of a rocky spur overlooking the Semois river valley is Bouillon Castle, built in 1060 by Godfred III, Duke of Lower Lorraine; The Society now owns it for Preservation of Historical Monuments.
  • Beffroi de Tournai – from 1188 until 1554, this magnificent bell tower spread the news throughout the town; visitors can climb its 227 steps every day except Monday, atop which lies five bells, all weighing around 1 tonne each!
  • Mechelen Belfry – listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1999. This bell tower has been standing since its construction began in 1481; visitors can climb its 300 steps right up to the top!

Museums

Belgium is home to a large selection of fascinating museums. Whether you’re interested in history, art, fashion, or science, there is bound to be a museum to meet your interests. Many museums are completely free of charge, while some may require an entrance fee. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

  • The Royal Museums of Fine Arts: Located in Brussels and comprising seven impressive galleries, the Museums consist of collections from the 15th century until modern times. Among these diverse collections are masterpieces such as Jan van Eyck’s Adoration Of The Mystic Lamb and Bruegel’s The Fall Of Icarus.
  • The Magritte Museum: René Magritte was an influential surrealist artist from Belgium. This museum contains much of his work and that of other Belgian surrealists like Paul Delvaux and Pierre Alechinsky.
  • Museum Aan de Stroom (MAS): This recently opened museum has quickly become one of the most visited attractions in Antwerp. It houses over ten stories full of artifacts, sculptures, and interactive displays, including ancient artifacts related to the city’s maritime history.
  • Gustave Moreau Museum: This museum holds an extensively huge private collection housed by Gustav Moreau himself before he passed away in 1898. It consists mainly of work from his hand, such as tapestries and sketches containing history and mythology elements.

Parks

Belgium is an excellent destination for travelers who love the outdoors, featuring several impressive parks and gardens that offer a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. So whether you’re looking to enjoy outdoor activities or relax in peaceful surroundings, you’re sure to find something to suit your interests in one of Belgium’s parks.

The main attraction in Belgium’s parks and gardens is the diversity of flora and fauna that can be observed. From wildflowers and shrubs to trees, birds, and other wildlife, visitors can glimpse various natural marvels in these spaces.

Some popular attractions include:

  • National Botanic Garden: As one of Europe’s most renowned botanical gardens, the National Botanic Garden houses an impressive collection of plants from around the world. With 22 hectares of land dedicated to cultivating rare species, it’s no wonder this outdoor paradise has become such a popular tourist destination.
  • Vairon Park: Located in Ghent, Vairon Park offers lush greenery with plenty to explore. The park also welcomes guest events such as concerts, theatre performances, and sports matches during summer.
  • Spanjaardenpark: Spanjaardenpark is situated in Zandhoven near Antwerp and offers a relaxing green oasis with plenty of spots for picnicking or just taking a stroll along the lakefront trails. This tranquil park provides the perfect backdrop for spending quality time with family or friends.
  • Dinant Citadel Gardens: Located on top of Dinant Citadel Hill overlooking the Meuse Valley lies this gorgeous garden full of blooming roses and other vibrant flowers studied on various terraces linked by peaceful walkways. It is also home to two large ponds where visitors can spot swans swimming gracefully around them during certain months of the year.

Whether you’re looking for fun outdoor activities or appreciate nature at its finest, Belgium’s stunning parks promise something for everyone seeking respite from their busy lives!

Food and Drink

Belgium is renowned for its unique and delightful cuisine, so if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. From mussels and frites to Belgian waffles and chocolate, there’s something for everyone.

In this section of the Belgium travel guide, we’ll explore the different dishes and drinks that make Belgian food so unique and delicious:

Traditional Dishes

When visiting Belgium, sample the traditional dishes that make Belgian cuisine so distinct. Although there is a historic Flemish influence throughout the culinary world, some recipes are purely Belgian and should not be missed! Here are some of the country’s most traditional dishes, from beverages to desserts.

Beverages

First, let’s talk about drinks. Belgians boast one of the most robust collections of beers in the world. Many countries have been inspired by Belgian styles such as saison and lambic, but for the actual experience, you will want to stick with a classic: Trappist beer or British-style Extra Special Bitter (ESB). For a nonalcoholic option, try brémy beer or tafelbier – both delicious but not so strong on their own.

Main Dishes

Belgian favorites include stews and Flemish carbonade made with brisket or other red meats and fish options such as mussels served in various ways. For an atypical taste experience, you can’t go wrong with steak tartare – a ground beef mix served raw with spicy condiments. And don’t forget to wash it down with kriek – a tart cherry beer!

Side Dishes

The side dishes in Belgium feature flavors from across Europe but also possess their unique character. Each dish adds depth and flavor to complete your plate of delicacies. Examples include:

  • Potatoes stewed in beer (equipped).
  • Fried potatoes smothered in creamy Sauce Béchamel (moules à la frites).
  • Endive gratin (gratteux endives).
  • Cabbage salads (Vlaamse stoof).

Other specialties, such as french fries, sometimes served as an accompaniment, will meet any unexpected craving!

Sweets

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention sweets when discussing Belgian food culture – because this is where Belgium truly shines! Inspiration for waffles began centuries ago, and now variations can be found all over the globe; however, Belgium produces sweet and savory varieties like Brussels waffles stuffed with dessert-like fillings or topped with savory gravy sauces. Also popular among locals is Speculaas biscuits made of cinnamon, nutmeg, and gingerbread pastry dough typically enjoyed around Christmas time- often accompanied by jam or dipped into coffee or tea! Other indulgent desserts to seek out while visiting include éclairs rolled ice cream – now beloved globally but first brought onto the scene in Belgium – and surprisingly powerful Liege syrup pie known locally as ‘verdun.’

Local Drinks

Without trying some of the region’s delectable drinks, no visit to Belgium would be complete. From local craft beers to world-renowned chocolates, the local beverage scene in Belgium has something for everyone.

The area is renowned for its sublime breweries and widely recognized brews. Belgian beers offer a variety of tastes, from tart, spicy lambics, and fruity gueuzes, to dark stouts and pale ales. Try sampling some of Belgium’s most-known beers, such as Duvel, Chimay Blue, Leffe Blonde, or Westmalle Trappist Tripel.

Belgium is also famous for its chocolate creations. Godiva and Neuhaus are two popular Belgian chocolatiers found in most major cities. Unique chocolate experiences include tasting places with hot chocolate drinks mixed with whisky or an attractive chocolate fountain flowing with endless soft and creamy molten goodness.

Suppose you’re looking for a lighter touch in your drink. In that case, local cuisine offers selections such as Lindemans cassis beer which combines lager with black currants to give you a slightly sweet-tart flavor, or witbier, which is mildly flavored with coriander seeds, orange peel, and other herbs offering a light, refreshing taste that goes perfectly with cheese platters or desserts of tarts & pastries.

A warm cup of coffee made from locally harvested beans can usually be found in most cafes on every corner as well as outside markets throughout the nation, and experiencing multiple new food portions becomes part of the delicious journey you will share in Belgium!

Dining Out

Belgium is a cultural hub and has a vibrant food and drink scene. Rich in classic European dishes, Belgium is famous for its french fries, waffles, and of course, its chocolate. For those looking to experience an authentic meal when visiting, the cuisine in this country has something for everyone!

There are plenty of restaurants to choose from when dining out. From traditional eateries serving local dishes such as moules frites (mussels and french fries), carbonnade flamande (Flemish beef stew), and waffles to more modern fusion fare with international influences – there’s something for all tastes. For those on a budget or looking for a casual meal, fast-food chains offering Belgian-style sandwiches abound. Plenty of cafes also serve coffee with fresh pastries throughout the day.

Regarding drinks, Belgium is renowned for its beer – there are over 400 varieties available! Local classic lagers such as Stella Artois and a vast range of microbreweries growing steadily over recent years offer plenty of opportunities to sample unique offerings from around the country. Wine choices range from French varietals in addition to some domestic options too. Soft drinks such as orangina (orange soda) are also popular among locals.

Safety

As with most places, when traveling in Belgium, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and use common sense. While the country has a low crime rate and is generally considered safe, it’s best to take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of yourself and your belongings when exploring.

This guide provides helpful safety information for travelers going to Belgium.

Crime

Although Belgium is a relatively safe destination, it is still important to be aware of your surroundings and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. Crime varies quite a bit by area. Typically, major cities experience more crime than smaller rural towns and villages. In general, common sense should be used when traveling throughout Belgium.

Be aware of your personal belongings and keep them safely locked away in your hotel or accommodations whenever possible. Use caution on the streets in the evening, ensure you are in well-lit areas, and avoid any suspicious activity or people. It is also recommended that personal belongings such as wallets, passports, cell phones, and other devices should never be left unattended, even for a short period. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash while out exploring; use an ATM or pay with a card.

Pickpocketing is sadly common in some areas of Belgium so try to stay aware of crowded attractions and major tourist spots like train stations and busy streets where unassuming visitors may become easy targets for pickpockets or bag snatchers! Travelers should also exercise caution when using public transportation at night, which could leave them vulnerable to opportunistic criminals.

If ever confronted by a mugger while traveling in Belgium – remain calm and politely decline any requests for money or material goods – never put up resistance – hand over whatever is being asked without hesitation, as it’s not worth risking bodily injury for possessions that can be replaced!

Health and Safety

When traveling to Belgium, you must remain aware of your health and safety. This country is known for its low crime rate, welcoming people, and great restaurants – however, it’s also home to tourists and locals who can take advantage of visitors if given the opportunity. Therefore, ensure that you are well-prepared for your journey to stay safe during your trip.

You should take the same precautions in Belgium when traveling to any foreign country. Be vigilant about remaining aware of your surroundings and maintain a certain amount of personal security. During the evening hours, stick with well-lit areas until you arrive at your destination. Do not accept rides or directions from strangers unless they are officially employed by the hotel or service, in which case you should still verify their credentials first. Try to avoid walking alone at night when possible and make sure that someone knows where you are going every time you leave your accommodation.

If something does happen while out in public, never resist a robber or thief; this could escalate an incident instead of preventing it from occurring in the first place. Instead, immediately report any suspicious activity or behavior to local police authorities; make sure to document as many details as possible such as what type of vehicle was used if a car was involved, or any distinguishing features such as tattoos or clothing worn by the perpetrator. Keep all important documents, such as passports, close to yourself at all times and make sure they stay secure while not being used by maintaining them in a lanyard underneath clothing or other protective accessories like jackets, scarves, hats, etc.

Be sure to have copies of important documents like medical prescriptions (significantly if traveling with medication) so that they can be accessed easier than having just one original copy with you at all times – this will aid in quicker retrieval should anything happen while traveling abroad that might require more information than simply a passport/visa check up etc. Additionally, research any vaccinations required to travel into certain countries so health concerns are taken care of prior (if necessary). Above all else, remain conscious about potential hazards around each city/town/village visited – tourists may sometimes be targets for thieves because these people appear unaware of safety measures needed when traveling abroad in unfamiliar environments or cultures compared with locals who live their full-time so always err on side caution when exploring outside main tourist attraction/locales areas especially uncovered/unfamiliar surroundings away from main populated tourist attractions, etc.

Emergency Services

In a medical emergency, dial 112 to reach the U.K.-based non-emergency medical advice line. Accidents and medical emergencies can be taken care of at a general hospital or an emergency service available 24 hours a day.

Call 112 to reach an English-speaking operator at Fire and Rescue Services in case of a fire or an evacuation.

In case of a criminal emergency, dial 101 to contact the local police department. The Belgian police force has bilingual staff who speak and respond in Dutch and French. All calls are recorded for quality assurance purposes.

If you need assistance with lost or stolen passports, phones, or wallets, you should contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Brussels or the local police station directly for assistance.