Belgium Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Belgium with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the culture, food, attractions, and more in this beautiful European country.


Introduction to Belgium

Belgium, located in the Benelux region of Europe, is a country known for its rich history, delicious food, and beautiful architecture. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Belgium’s capital city, Brussels, is considered the headquarters of the European Union and home of NATO. It is also the country that gave birth to comic book characters like Tintin and Smurfs.

List of Places to Visit in Belgium

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Belgium has a rich history, and there are many museums and historical sites to explore. The following are some of the must-visit attractions in Belgium:

The Atomium

Located in Brussels, the Atomium is a unique structure that was built for the 1958 World Expo. It is 102 meters tall and built in the shape of an iron atom. Tourists can visit the inside of the Atomium for panoramic views of the city.

Grand Place

Grand Place, located in the heart of Brussels, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. It is surrounded by guildhalls, museums, and restaurants and is a must-visit for tourists.

The Battlefields of Flanders

To learn about Belgium’s history during World War I, visit the Battlefields of Flanders. It is located in West Flanders and home to several cemeteries, monuments, and museums that commemorate those who died during the war.

Natural Attractions of Belgium: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Belgium also has several natural attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top ones:

Ardennes

The Ardennes is a forested region located in southeastern Belgium. It is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. The region is also home to several castles and small villages.

The Belgian Coast

The Belgian Coast has several resorts and beaches that attract tourists during the summer months. The dunes and sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing and water sports.

Bosland

Bosland is a vast forested region located in the Flemish-Brabant and Limburg provinces. It is the perfect destination for those who love hiking and biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belgium

Belgium has several hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • The Ardennes
  • The Meuse Valley
  • The Kempen
  • The Vesdre Valley

Best Things to Do in Belgium: Activities and Tours

Belgium has plenty of activities and tours to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in Belgium:

  • Beer and chocolate tastings
  • Walking tours of Brussels and other cities
  • Visiting the European Parliament
  • Boat tours of the canals

Week-Long Itinerary for Belgium

For those planning a week-long trip to Belgium, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Destination
1 Brussels
2-3 Bruges
4 Ghent
5-6 Ardennes
7 Antwerp

Food and Drink Scene of Belgium

Belgium is famous for its food and drink offerings. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Belgian waffles
  • Moules-frites (mussels and fries)
  • Stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables)
  • Carbonnade flamande (beef stew)

Local Beverages

  • Belgian beers (including Trappist beers)
  • Jenever (Belgian gin)
  • Chocolate milk (Belgian chocolate in milk)

Where to Stay in Belgium: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Belgium has several options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some suggestions by city:

Brussels

  • The Hotel Brussels
  • Hotel Amigo
  • 9Hotel Central

Bruges

  • Hotel Heritage
  • Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges
  • Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges

Ghent

  • Hotel Harmony
  • 1898 The Post
  • Hotel de Flandre

What to Buy in Belgium: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Belgium has several souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the most famous ones include:

  • Belgian chocolate
  • Beer glasses and beer-making kits
  • Lace and tapestry
  • Ceramic kitchenware

Local Culture and Customs of Belgium

Belgium has a rich local culture and customs worth exploring. Some of the most significant ones include:

  • The Flemish and Walloon cultures
  • Comic book culture
  • The art of lace-making

Best Time to Visit Belgium

The best time to visit Belgium is between April and June or September and October. During these months, the weather is comfortable, and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belgium

Do:

  • Tip 10% at restaurants
  • Try to speak a little bit of French or Dutch
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites

Don’t:

  • Forget to validate your train ticket
  • Cut in line or jump the queue
  • Be loud or disruptive in public places

Safety and Health

Safety in Belgium

Belgium is a safe country to visit, but tourists should always be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas like train stations and tourist attractions.

Health in Belgium

Belgium has an excellent healthcare system, and tourists should not hesitate to seek medical care if needed. Tourists should make sure they have adequate health insurance before visiting Belgium.

Getting to Belgium: Transportation Options and Logistics

Belgium has several transportation options for tourists. Here are some logistics to consider:

Airports Near Belgium

  • Brussels Airport
  • Brussels South Charleroi Airport
  • Antwerp International Airport

Bus Stations Near Belgium

  • Eurolines Bus Terminal Brussels
  • Liège-Guillemins Station

Other Options

  • Trains (Belgium has a well-connected railway system)
  • Car rentals

How to Get Around in Belgium

Belgium has an excellent public transportation system. Tourists can use buses, trams, and trains to get around. Taxis and bike rentals are also available in most cities.

Where to Go Next from Belgium: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Belgium is located in the heart of Europe and has several destinations worth visiting nearby. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Amsterdam
  • Paris
  • Cologne
  • London

Conclusion

Belgium is a beautiful country that has a lot to offer. From its rich history and culture to its natural beauty and delicious food and drink scene, Belgium is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With this comprehensive travel guide, tourists can plan their trip and explore all that Belgium has to offer.

Cathedral of Our Lady towering above Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady towering above Antwerp Pouhon Pierre le Grand in Spa (Belgium). Spa, housing the mineral water fountain named after the Russian Tsar Peter the Great Pouhon Pierre le Grand in Spa (Belgium). Spa, housing the mineral water fountain named after the Russian Tsar Peter the Great A330 aircraft of Brussels Airlines, the national carrier, at BRU A330 aircraft of Brussels Airlines, the national carrier, at BRU Map of Belgium Map of Belgium Brussel-Zuid/Bruxelles-Midi is the biggest railway station in Brussels Brussel-Zuid/Bruxelles-Midi is the biggest railway station in Brussels Road sign in the French-speaking part of the country Road sign in the French-speaking part of the country Grand Place in Brussels during the Christmas season Grand Place in Brussels during the Christmas season Book flea market along a canal in Ghent Book flea market along a canal in Ghent Landscape in the Ardennes Landscape in the Ardennes In Flames performs at Graspop 2008 In Flames performs at Graspop 2008 Atomium Atomium The 'bloemencorso' in Antwerp The 'bloemencorso' in Antwerp Restaurants at Rue des Bouchers/Beenhouwersstraat, Brussels Restaurants at Rue des Bouchers/Beenhouwersstraat, Brussels ''Moules et frites/Mosselen met friet'', Brussels ''Moules et frites/Mosselen met friet'', Brussels Stoofvlees/Carbonade flamande Stoofvlees/Carbonade flamande Shop in Brussels advertising 250 different types of beer Shop in Brussels advertising 250 different types of beer The Faculty of Philosophy building at Liège University The Faculty of Philosophy building at Liège University


    Brussels
    Flanders
    Wallonia