Did you know Belgium is home to the headquarters of the European Union (EU) and NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization). Brussels, the capital of Belgium, serves as the de facto capital of the European Union, hosting the main institutions such as the European Commission, the Council of the European Union, and the European Parliament. This makes Belgium a significant hub for international diplomacy and a central player in European politics.
Belgium, located in Western Europe, shares borders with France, Luxembourg, Germany, and the Netherlands, while also boasting a coastline along the North Sea. With a population of approximately 11.5 million, Belgium is a diverse nation with three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. It operates as a federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy, where King Philippe serves as the head of state, while elected officials govern the country.
The economy of Belgium is highly developed and characterized by a strong presence in manufacturing, services, and international trade. Brussels, the capital, stands as a significant financial center in Europe. The country is celebrated for its contributions to art, literature, and architecture, and it’s famously known for its comic strip heritage, giving rise to iconic characters like Tintin and the Smurfs.
Here’s an overview of things you should consider doing if you’re planning to visit Belgium:
- Explore Brussels:
- Grand Place: Marvel at the ornate guildhalls and Town Hall in this central square, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Atomium: Discover this iconic building with interconnected spheres that house exhibits and offer panoramic views of the city.
- Parc du Cinquantenaire: Relax in this expansive park featuring triumphal arches, gardens, and museums.
- Discover Bruges:
- Canal Cruise: Take a scenic boat tour along Bruges’ picturesque canals to admire the city from a unique perspective.
- Belfry of Bruges: Climb this historic bell tower for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.
- Chocolate Shops: Indulge in the world-famous Belgian chocolates at boutique shops throughout the city.
- Visit Ghent:
- Belfry of Ghent: Ascend this medieval bell tower for panoramic views of the city skyline.
- Gravensteen Castle: Explore this well-preserved castle in the heart of Ghent, complete with dungeons and a torture chamber.
- Graslei and Korenlei: Stroll along these picturesque canalside streets lined with historic guildhalls and vibrant cafes.
- Antwerp’s Art and Fashion:
- Royal Museum of Fine Arts: Admire an extensive collection of Flemish and Belgian artworks, including pieces by Rubens and Van Dyck.
- Cathedral of Our Lady: Visit this stunning Gothic cathedral housing masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens.
- Fashion District: Shop in the trendy fashion district, known for its designer boutiques and avant-garde styles.
- Marvel at Medieval Dinant:
- Citadel of Dinant: Explore this impressive fortress perched on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the Meuse River.
- Boat Ride on the Meuse: Take a scenic boat cruise to appreciate the beauty of the river and surrounding landscape.
- Climb the Ardennes:
- Hiking Trails: Discover the natural beauty of the Ardennes through a network of well-marked hiking trails, leading through forests, valleys, and charming villages.
- Caves: Explore fascinating underground caves like the Grottes de Han, featuring stunning rock formations.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy outdoor pursuits like kayaking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting in this picturesque region.
- Experience Belgian Beer Culture:
- Brewery Tours: Explore traditional breweries and learn about the brewing process while sampling a variety of Belgian beers.
- Trappist Ales: Taste the unique and flavorful beers brewed by Trappist monks in abbeys across Belgium.
- Beer Festivals: Depending on the season, attend beer festivals celebrating Belgium’s rich brewing heritage.
- Visit World War I Sites:
- In Flanders Fields Museum (Ypres): Gain insight into the experiences of soldiers during WWI through artifacts, interactive exhibits, and personal stories.
- Tyne Cot Cemetery: Pay your respects at one of the largest Commonwealth war cemeteries, a poignant reminder of the war’s toll.
- Enjoy Festivals and Events:
- Carnival of Binche: Experience the vibrant and unique carnival celebrations in Binche, known for its Gilles, who wear distinctive costumes and masks.
- Gentse Feesten (Ghent Festival): Join the lively festivities in Ghent with music, street performances, and cultural events spanning ten days.
- Sample Belgian Cuisine:
- Waffles: Savor crispy, golden waffles topped with an array of delectable toppings from fruit to chocolate.
- Chocolate Shops: Visit artisanal chocolatiers for a taste of Belgium’s world-renowned chocolate. There are a plethora to chose from and I’ve never been disappointed. Check the reviews on Google if you want to confirm you’ve made a good choice. I particularly like The Old Chocolate House in Bruge.
- Moules Frites: Try the classic Belgian dish of mussels served with crispy golden fries.
- Cycle Through the Countryside:
- Scenic Routes: Rent a bike and follow picturesque cycling routes through the Belgian countryside, passing by canals, vineyards, and historic sites.
- Ravel Network: Explore the Ravel network, a series of cycling paths that wind through scenic landscapes, including the Ardennes.
- Visit Museums and Galleries:
- Royal Museums of Fine Arts (Brussels): Immerse yourself in a collection featuring Flemish, Belgian, and European art, including works by Magritte and Bruegel.
- Magritte Museum (Brussels): Delve into the surreal world of René Magritte and explore his iconic paintings and thought-provoking works.
- Museum aan de Stroom (Antwerp): Discover the rich cultural heritage of Antwerp through exhibitions on maritime history, fashion, and folklore.
Always research and prepare according to your individual preferences and needs. But here are some tips I find useful for visiting Belgium:
- Language: Learn a Few Basic Phrases – While English is widely spoken, especially in larger cities, knowing a few basic phrases in Dutch or French can go a long way and is appreciated by locals.
- Currency: Euros (€) – Ensure you have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases and in more rural areas where cards might not be as widely accepted.
- Public Transportation: Belgium has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains. Consider getting a transportation pass for unlimited travel within certain regions.
- Tipping: It’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants. Service charges are not usually included in the bill.
- Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for rain. Always check the forecast before heading out.
- Museums and Attractions: Consider purchasing a museum pass or city card, which can offer discounted or free access to multiple attractions.
- Safety: Belgium is generally a safe country, but like any destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take normal precautions, especially in crowded tourist areas.
- Cuisine: Don’t miss out on Belgian specialties like chocolate, waffles, beer, and moules frites. Venture beyond the tourist areas for authentic dining experiences.
- Local Etiquette: Always greet people with a friendly “hello” or “good day”. It’s customary to shake hands upon meeting and departing.
- Public Restrooms: In cities, you’ll often find public restrooms in train stations, shopping malls, and restaurants. Carry some coins (usually €0.50 to €1) as some public toilets may require payment.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. For instance, it’s polite to wait for the host to start a meal before you begin eating.
- Emergency Numbers: The emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services in Belgium is 112.
- Day Trips: Consider taking day trips to nearby cities or regions. Belgium’s small size and well-connected transportation make it easy to explore beyond your base city.
- Local Events: Check if there are any local festivals or events happening during your visit. These can provide unique cultural experiences.
- Time Your Visit: Brussels, Bruges, and other popular cities can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting in shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience.
Whether you explore the vibrant streets of Brussels, cruise along Bruges’ canals, or venture into the picturesque Ardennes, Belgium’s diverse landscapes and cultures will leave you with lasting memories. I hope these suggestions prove useful as you plan your own trip to Belgium! For more trip ideas check our map with additional posts on remarkable places! https://natesgreatescapes.com/world-map-click-a-country-to-see-posts/
