Belgium Travel Guide: Cities, Culture & More

Belgium: A Travel Guide

Introduction

Belgium, a small yet enchanting country in Western Europe, boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights. From charming medieval towns to vibrant cities and picturesque landscapes, Belgium has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you're drawn to world-renowned art, artisanal beers, delicious chocolate, or simply seeking a relaxed getaway, Belgium will captivate you.

Attractions

Must-See Attractions:

• Brussels: Explore the iconic Grand Place, home to stunning guildhalls, admire the intricate artwork of the Magritte Museum, and discover the secrets of the Royal Palace.
• Bruges: Wander through the enchanting medieval streets, take a boat ride on the canals, and indulge in the city's world-famous chocolate.
• Ghent: Explore the impressive St. Bavo Cathedral, home to the renowned Ghent Altarpiece, and delve into the fascinating history of the Gravensteen castle.
• Antwerp: Visit the iconic Rubens House, explore the vibrant diamond district, and climb the impressive spire of the Cathedral of Our Lady.
• Leuven: Discover the vibrant student city atmosphere, explore the impressive University Library, and savor the delicious Belgian beers brewed locally.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems:

• Dinant: Hike to the Citadel, overlooking the picturesque Meuse River, and visit the charming old town with its historical buildings.
• Ypres: Pay homage at the Menin Gate, commemorating fallen soldiers, and explore the poignant war memorials of the Western Front.
• Durbuy: Discover the "smallest city in the world," nestled amidst lush forests and offering charming shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
• Hal: Admire the impressive gothic architecture of the Grote Markt, explore the historical Halle Gate, and savor the flavors of local breweries.
• Mons: Discover the Baroque architecture of the Grand Place, visit the impressive Mons Memorial Museum, and explore the vibrant street art scene.

Tours

Guided Tours:

• City Tours: Discover the highlights of major cities like Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp with guided walking tours, bus tours, or boat trips.
• Beer Tours: Delve into the world of Belgian beers with brewery tours, tasting sessions, and historical insights into the country's brewing tradition.
• Chocolate Tours: Indulge your sweet tooth with chocolate factory tours, tasting sessions, and workshops where you can create your own creations.
• Day Trips: Explore neighboring countries like the Netherlands, France, or Luxembourg with organized day trips.

Self-Guided Tours:

• Bicycle Tours: Explore the charming towns and picturesque landscapes at your own pace with bicycle tours, available in many regions.
• Road Trips: Discover the diverse beauty of Belgium with a self-driven road trip, stopping at charming towns, hidden gems, and historical sites.
• Hiking Trails: Explore the Ardennes region with its stunning natural beauty, offering various hiking trails for all levels of experience.

Culture

Belgium's cultural identity is shaped by its historical and linguistic diversity, with three main language groups: Flemish (Dutch), Walloon (French), and German.

• Art & Architecture: Explore the Flemish Primitives in museums like the Groeninge Museum in Bruges and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels. Admire the architectural masterpieces of Gothic cathedrals, medieval squares, and Renaissance palaces.
• Music & Theatre: Enjoy the vibrant arts scene, from classical music performances to contemporary theater productions, jazz concerts, and festivals like the Ghent Jazz Festival and the Brussels Summer Festival.
• Literature & Language: Delve into the literary world of Belgian authors like Émile Verhaeren and Hugo Claus. Learn about the linguistic landscape and the rich literary tradition of each language region.
• Festivals & Traditions: Experience the lively atmosphere of local festivals, including the carnival celebrations in Binche and Aalst, the annual Ghent Festival, and the Brussels Beer Festival.

Activities

Activities for All:

• Shopping: Explore the bustling shopping streets of Brussels, the designer boutiques of Antwerp, the charming shops in Bruges, and the artisanal markets across the country.
• Museums: Discover the artistic heritage of Belgium through its numerous museums, covering various genres from art and history to science and technology.
• Parks & Gardens: Enjoy the natural beauty of parks and gardens, like the Royal Palace Gardens in Brussels, the Botanic Garden in Ghent, and the Citadel Park in Liège.
• Outdoor Adventures: Hike through the rolling hills of the Ardennes, cycle along the picturesque canals of Bruges, or explore the North Sea coast with its sandy beaches and coastal towns.

Accommodation

Accommodation Options:

• Hotels: From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, Belgium offers a wide range of accommodations for all budgets and preferences.
• B&Bs: Experience the charm of Belgian hospitality by staying at cozy bed and breakfasts, often located in charming historic buildings.
• Apartments: Find spacious and well-equipped apartments for longer stays or families traveling together.
• Camping: Enjoy the tranquility of nature by staying at campsites located in various scenic locations throughout the country.

Food & Cuisine

Belgian cuisine is known for its delicious and hearty dishes, with influences from its neighboring countries.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Moules-frites: Indulge in a classic Belgian dish of mussels steamed in white wine, served with golden fries.
• Carbonade flamande: Enjoy a comforting stew of beef braised in beer with onions, served with bread.
• Belgian waffles: Taste the delicious fluffy waffles, either savory or sweet, served with toppings of your choice.
• Frieten (French fries): Experience the crispy, golden fries, considered to be the best in the world, served in paper cones.
• Chocolate: Delight your taste buds with the famous Belgian chocolates, ranging from pralines to truffles and chocolate bars.

Beverages:

• Belgian beers: Sample the wide variety of Belgian beers, from strong abbey ales to light blonde beers and fruity lambics.
• Belgian coffee: Enjoy a steaming cup of Belgian coffee, known for its strong flavor and aromatic aroma.
• Belgian wines: Discover the rising wine region of the Ardennes, producing flavorful red and white wines.

Women Safety

Belgium is generally considered a safe country for women, with a low crime rate. However, it's always essential to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

Safety Tips:

• Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid walking alone late at night.
• Use well-lit and busy streets.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Trust your instincts and avoid suspicious situations.

LGBTQ+

Belgium is a welcoming and progressive country for LGBTQ+ travelers. Same-sex marriage is legal, and there is widespread acceptance and celebration of diversity.

Resources:

• ILGA-Europe: Provides information about LGBTQ+ rights and resources in Europe.
• Rainbow Belgium: Offers a guide to LGBTQ+ friendly businesses, organizations, and events in Belgium.

Best Travel Months

Belgium experiences four distinct seasons.

• Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds make it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
• Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny weather with ideal conditions for exploring cities and enjoying outdoor activities.
• Autumn (September-November): Beautiful fall foliage, crisp air, and charming markets create a magical atmosphere.
• Winter (December-February): Festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and snow-capped landscapes in the Ardennes.

Peak Season:

• Summer months (June-August) can be crowded with tourists, especially in major cities.

Shoulder Season:

• Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer a pleasant balance of comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

Seasons

Spring (March-May):

• Temperatures range from mild to warm, with average highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (15-25 Celsius).
• Blooming flowers add vibrant colors to landscapes.
• Fewer crowds compared to the summer months.

Summer (June-August):

• Warm and sunny weather, with average highs in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit (20-27 Celsius).
• Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring cities.
• Expect higher prices and larger crowds, especially in popular destinations.

Autumn (September-November):

• Crisp and colorful, with average highs in the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-15 Celsius).
• Beautiful fall foliage in the Ardennes.
• Fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.

Winter (December-February):

• Cold and snowy, with average temperatures in the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (0-5 Celsius).
• Christmas markets and snow-capped landscapes create a magical atmosphere.
• Be prepared for chilly conditions and potential winter storms.

Travel Scams

• Pickpocketing: Be vigilant in crowded areas, especially around major tourist attractions and transportation hubs.
• Fake Tour Guides: Be wary of unofficial tour guides offering services on the street. Stick to reputable tour operators.
• Currency Exchange Scams: Only exchange money at legitimate banks or authorized exchange bureaus. Avoid exchanging on the street.
• Taxi Scams: Choose licensed taxis from designated ranks or apps. Avoid accepting rides from unregistered vehicles.
• Overpriced Souvenirs: Negotiate prices at markets and souvenir shops to avoid being overcharged.

Travel Tips

• Transportation:
  • Trains: Efficient and comfortable train network connecting major cities and towns.
  • Buses: More affordable option for shorter distances.
  • Cars: Rent a car to explore the countryside and remote areas.
• Language:
  • Dutch: Spoken in Flanders (northern Belgium).
  • French: Spoken in Wallonia (southern Belgium).
  • German: Spoken in the east, bordering Germany.
  • English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
• Currency: Euro (EUR).
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
• Packing:
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Layers of clothing for varying weather conditions.
  • Umbrella or raincoat.
  • Adaptor for electrical outlets.
• Visa Requirements: Most countries require a visa for Belgium. Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
• Health:
  • Healthcare is excellent in Belgium.
  • Purchase travel insurance.
  • Make sure you have necessary vaccinations.
• Etiquette:
  • Respect cultural norms.
  • Be mindful of noise levels in public areas.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Dutch or French.

Enjoy your adventures in Belgium!