Things To Do
in Belgium

Belgium is a small yet diverse country located in Western Europe, known for its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and as the headquarters of the European Union. It boasts a rich cultural heritage with influences from French, Dutch, and German traditions. Famous for its delectable chocolates, waffles, and a wide variety of beers, Belgium offers a tantalizing culinary landscape.

Visitors can explore historic cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp, each showcasing unique charm and history.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Brussels
morning
:

Start your day at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy a traditional Belgian breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Atomium, followed by a stroll through the Parc du Cinquantenaire, where you can explore its impressive museums.

evening
:

Dine at a local brasserie and enjoy some Belgian beer before heading to a jazz club for live music.

day 2
Day 2: A Day in Bruges
morning
:

Take a train to Bruges and explore the Markt square, where you can climb the Belfry for stunning views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood and take a leisurely boat ride on the canals.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a canal-side restaurant and take a moonlit stroll through the picturesque streets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍺Beer (pint)$4
🥖Waffle$2
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🍫Chocolate (100g)$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious food and drink options.
  • Beautiful architecture and picturesque landscapes.
  • Weather can be unpredictable.
  • Tourist areas can be crowded.
  • Higher prices in popular cities.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I don't understand
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Belgium

Visit one of these nice places.

Atomium

An iconic building in Brussels that offers unique architectural photography opportunities.

Grand Place

The ornate town square of Brussels, surrounded by opulent guildhalls, perfect for capturing historical architecture.

Bruges Canals

The picturesque canals of Bruges provide stunning reflections and charming scenes for photographers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Belgium

Belgium's culinary scene is a delightful mix of flavors and traditions, offering an array of dishes that reflect its diverse cultural influences.

Belgium Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moules-frites

Mussels served with fries, a classic Belgian dish that is a must-try.

Must-Try!

Belgian Waffles

Light and fluffy, these waffles can be enjoyed with various toppings such as fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate.

Chocolate

Belgium is famous for its high-quality chocolate, with numerous chocolatiers offering exquisite treats.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Brussels Food Market

A vibrant market offering local produce, cheeses, and street food.

Antwerp Street Food Festival

A seasonal event featuring food trucks and stalls with a variety of local specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Rain is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season. The changing seasons offer a mix of experiences, from colorful autumn leaves to winter festivities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, along with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Hallo'.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not elbows), and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Language Respect

Be aware of the language spoken in the area and try to use basic phrases in French or Dutch.

Safety Guide

Safety

Belgium is generally a safe country for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to stay vigilant in crowded areas and be cautious of pickpockets, especially in tourist hotspots. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Belgium

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and cash is still used, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively with numerous festivals, although it can be crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, perfect for scenic walks.

Winter

Winter can be chilly and wet, but it features festive Christmas markets and cozy atmospheres.

Nightlife Guide

Belgium at Night

Belgium's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, ranging from chic bars and breweries to lively clubs and music venues. Cities like Brussels and Antwerp offer a mix of trendy cocktail bars and traditional pubs, where you can sample local beers. The nightlife scene is generally safe and welcoming, catering to various tastes and preferences.

Hiking in Belgium

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking in the Ardennes

A region filled with lush forests, hills, and rivers, offering numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts.

High Fens

A nature reserve with a unique bog landscape, providing scenic trails and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Belgium by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

The largest international airport in Belgium, located just 12 km from Brussels city center, offering connections to various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Belgium's cities are highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones. Major attractions are often within walking distance of each other, especially in cities like Bruges and Ghent. Public squares and parks add to the pleasant walking experience, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Flemish

The Flemish people, predominantly Dutch-speaking, make up about 60% of the population, primarily residing in the northern region of Flanders.

Walloon

The Walloon people, primarily French-speaking, account for around 30% of the population, mostly in the southern region of Wallonia.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Belgium, with a passionate following for local clubs and the national team.

Cycling

Cycling is a beloved pastime, with many Belgians participating in both recreational and competitive cycling events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in major cities can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation is efficient, with trains, trams, and buses connecting cities and regions. Biking is also a popular alternative, with many dedicated lanes available.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and it's common to find options in traditional meals.

Gluten-Free

Some establishments provide gluten-free alternatives, especially for waffles and pastries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a high standard of healthcare, with both public and private systems available. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to medical services. Non-EU travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Belgium.