BELGIUM TRAVEL GUIDE
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Belgium is one of the smallest countries in Europe and bordered by France, Luxembourgh, the Netherlands and Germany.
Belgium is a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. There are so many incredible destinations you must visit in Belgium including Brussels, the capital, where you can marvel at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site and enjoy the Atomium's futuristic architecture. Belgium is famous for its medieval towns, with Bruges and Ghent being prime examples. Stroll through Bruges' cobblestone streets, take a canal tour and visit the historic Markt square. In Ghent, don't miss the stunning Saint Bavo's Cathedral and the medieval Gravensteen castle.
Belgium is also a paradise for food lovers. Indulge in world-renowned Belgian chocolates, sample an array of beers from traditional Trappist brews to modern craft varieties and enjoy hearty dishes like moules-frites (mussels with fries) and waffles.
The country's rich artistic heritage is another draw. Art enthusiasts can explore the works of Flemish masters like Van Eyck and Rubens in numerous museums and galleries.
With its incredible history, diverse cities, delicious cuisine and vibrant arts scene, Belgium offers an amazing travel experience for any traveller.
BELGIUM GENERAL INFO
Belgium is one of the smallest countries in Europe. Belgium is bordered by France, Luxembourgh, the Netherlands and Germany, along with a narrow coastline along the North Sea.
Belgium primarily lies close to sea level, though the country does reach 2,277 feet (694 metres) at a point known as Botrange, which lies within the Ardennes plateau.
Belgium is divided into three communities based on language: in the north are the Flemings, who speak Flemish (Dutch), in the south are the Walloons, who speak French, and in the city of Liège there is a small German-speaking population.
HOW TO GET TO BELGIUM
BY ROAD
Belgium is well-connected by road to neighboring countries, making it accessible for those traveling by car or bus. Major highways link Belgium to France, Germany, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. For example, you can drive from Paris to Brussels in about three hours. Several international bus services, such as FlixBus and Eurolines, offer routes to Belgian cities from various European locations.
BY RAIL
Belgium has an extensive and efficient rail network. High-speed trains like Thalys and Eurostar connect Brussels to major European cities. The Eurostar offers direct services from London to Brussels in approximately two hours. Thalys connects Brussels to Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne. The InterCity Express (ICE) links Brussels with German cities such as Frankfurt and Cologne. Domestic trains operated by SNCB/NMBS make it easy to travel within Belgium and explore cities like Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges.
BY AIR
Belgium has several international airports, with Brussels Airport (BRU) being the primary hub. It offers numerous flights from around the world. There is also Charleroi Airport (CRL), located south of Brussels, which serves many low-cost carriers like Ryanair. Other regional airports, such as Antwerp and Liège, offer flights from select European destinations. From the airports, you can easily reach the city centers by train, bus, or taxi.
BY BOAT
Belgium's ports provide access if you want to arrive by sea. The Port of Antwerp is one of Europe’s largest seaports and handles passenger cruise ships. Zeebrugge, another major port, serves ferry connections to the United Kingdom. P&O Ferries operates services from Hull to Zeebrugge, providing an overnight ferry option. From the ports, you can travel inland by train, bus, or car to reach your final destination.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BELGIUM
The best time to visit Belgium is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during different times of the year:
Spring (April to June)
Weather: Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this an ideal time for outdoor activities.
Events: Spring sees several festivals, including the Brussels Flower Carpet (held every two years in August but preparation and blooms can be seen earlier) and local Easter celebrations.
Crowds: Fewer tourists compared to summer, making it easier to explore popular attractions.
Summer (July to August)
Weather: Warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
Events: Numerous festivals such as Gentse Feesten in Ghent, Tomorrowland (one of the world’s biggest electronic music festivals), and the Belgian National Day on July 21.
Crowds: Peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and flights.
Autumn (September to October)
Weather: Cooler temperatures and colourful autumn foliage create a picturesque setting.
Events: The Brussels Beer Weekend and various harvest festivals celebrate Belgium’s rich culinary heritage.
Crowds: Tourist numbers begin to decrease, offering a more relaxed experience at major attractions.
Winter (November to March)
Weather: Cold and often rainy, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Snow is possible but not common.
Events: Christmas markets in cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp are highlights, along with Winter Wonders in Brussels featuring a festive market, ice rink, and light shows.
Crowds: Fewer tourists, except around the Christmas and New Year holidays.
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN BELGIUM RIGHT NOW?
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO IN BELGIUM
Taste the craft beers
Eat delicious Belgian chocolate
Go on a canal cruise in Bruges
Visit the Grand Palace in Brussels
Enjoy the city of Ghent
Castle Gravensteen
Mini Europe in Bruparck at the foot of the Atomium in Brussels
Relax in a Spa in Spa
Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum in Lakenhallen
Ypres Cloth Hall
WHERE TO STAY IN BELGIUM
These are some of my favourite hotels in various towns and cities around Austria
Brussels
Cheap £20-£40p/n
Meininger Hotel Brussels City Center: A budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and modern facilities, located near the city center.
Sleep Well Youth Hostel: A popular hostel offering both dormitory and private rooms, with free breakfast and a central location.
Urban City Centre Hostel: Affordable dormitory and private rooms, located within walking distance of the main attractions.
Mid-Range £100 - £150p/n
Motel One Brussels: A stylish, budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable rooms and a prime location near major sites.
NH Brussels Grand Place Arenberg: Comfortable rooms, excellent service, and a convenient location near Grand Place.
The Augustin: Boutique hotel with modern amenities and spacious rooms, located near Brussels South Station.
Expensive £200 - £400p/n
Hotel Amigo: Luxury hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and top-notch service, located steps from Grand Place.
Sofitel Brussels Europe: Upscale hotel offering luxury accommodations, excellent dining, and a rooftop terrace.
Steigenberger Wiltcher's: A grand hotel with luxurious rooms, a wellness center, and a prime location on Avenue Louise.
Bruges
Cheap £20 - £40 p/n
St. Christopher's Inn Hostel: Budget accommodation with dormitory and private rooms, located near the city center.
Snuffel Hostel: Popular hostel with clean rooms, a bar, and social areas, located close to major attractions.
Hostel Lybeer: Affordable hostel with dormitory and private rooms, a cozy lounge, and a central location.
Mid-Range £100 - £200 p/n
Hotel Navarra Brugge: Charming hotel with comfortable rooms, a pool, and a central location near Markt Square.
Martin's Brugge: Modern hotel with well-appointed rooms, located just steps from the Belfry of Bruges.
Expensive £200 - £300 p/n
Hotel Dukes' Palace Bruges: Luxurious hotel in a historic palace, offering opulent rooms, a spa, and beautiful gardens.
Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce: Elegant boutique hotel with stunning decor, located along the canals in the heart of Bruges.
The Pand Hotel: Upscale boutique hotel with beautifully decorated rooms, located in a historic townhouse near the city center.
Antwerp
Cheap £20 - £30 p/n
Antwerp Central Youth Hostel: Budget-friendly hostel offering dormitory and private rooms, with a central location.
The Ash: Affordable hostel with modern facilities, a communal kitchen and a convenient location.
Boomerang Hostel Antwerp: Inexpensive accommodation with dormitory and private rooms, located near the city center.
Mid-Range around £100 p/n
Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt: Comfortable hotel with well-appointed rooms and a great location near the cathedral.
Hampton by Hilton Antwerp Central Station: Modern hotel with comfortable rooms, located near the central station.
Park Inn by Radisson Antwerp: Contemporary hotel with good amenities and a convenient location near the zoo and central station.
Expensive £150 - £250
Hotel Julien: Luxury boutique hotel with stylish rooms, a spa, and a prime location in the city center.
Hilton Antwerp Old Town: Upscale hotel offering spacious rooms and excellent service, located on Groenplaats Square.
Hotel De Witte Lelie: Exclusive boutique hotel with beautifully designed rooms, located in a historic building in the heart of Antwerp.
Ghent
Cheap around £25 p/n
Hostel Uppelink: Budget accommodation with dormitory and private rooms, offering a prime location along the river.
KaBa Hostel: Affordable and colourful hostel with dormitory and private rooms, located close to the city center.
Mid-Range £100 - £150 p/n
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof: Stylish hotel with comfortable rooms, a spa, and a great location near the historic center.
NH Gent Belfort: Modern hotel with spacious rooms and good amenities, located near the city hall.
Hotel Carlton: Comfortable and welcoming hotel with excellent service, located near St. Peter's Station.
Expensive £200 p/n
Hotel Harmony: Luxury hotel with elegant rooms, located along the picturesque Graslei canal.
1898 The Post: Upscale boutique hotel in a historic building, offering luxurious rooms and a central location.
EATING IN BELGIUM
Belgium is one of my favourite countries to visit for amazing food.
The Belgian cuisine is famous for waffles, chocolate pralines and beer as well as moules frites, which is mussels with french fries.
Here are my top choices of food to try when in Belgium.
Moules-Frites (Mussels and Fries): Steamed mussels served with crispy Belgian fries. Variations include mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, or beer.
Stoofvlees (Flemish Stew): A hearty beef stew slow-cooked in Belgian beer, often served with fries or bread.
Waterzooi: A creamy stew originally made with fish, now often prepared with chicken, vegetables, and a rich, velvety broth.
Carbonnade Flamande: Another delicious beef stew cooked with onions and beer, typically served with fries or mashed potatoes.
Belgian Fries: The most delicious fries you will eat in your life are available in Belgium. The Belgian fried potatos are slightly thicker than French fries and are served with mayo. Delicious!
Waffles: Two main types—Liège waffles (dense and caramelized with pearl sugar) and Brussels waffles (light and airy with deeper pockets), often topped with whipped cream, chocolate, or fresh fruit.
Bitterballen: Small, deep-fried balls filled with a savory ragout, usually served with mustard.
Croquettes: Crispy, deep-fried snacks filled with cheese or shrimp.
Chocolate: Belgium is famous for its high-quality chocolates and pralines. Visit chocolatiers like Neuhaus, Godiva, Leonidas, or Pierre Marcolini. In Belgium chocolate pralines must contain a minimm of 35% cocoa. In Antwerp you can visit the world’s largest chocolate museum.
Speculoos: Spiced shortcrust cookies, often served during the holiday season but available year-round.
Cuberdon: Cone-shaped candies with a sweet, gooey raspberry-flavored filling, known as “neuzekes” (little noses).
Beer: Belgium is renowned for its beer culture, with a wide variety of styles. Try Trappist beers like Chimay and Westvleteren, lambics like Cantillon, and traditional brews like Duvel and Leffe.
Genever: A juniper-flavored spirit considered the predecessor to gin, available in various flavors.
Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, often served with whipped cream or a side of Belgian chocolates.
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