Belgium may be a small country, but it is packed with charm and character. Known for its delicious chocolate, world-famous beer, and impressive architecture, Belgium has a lot to offer visitors. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to see and do in Belgium, along with tips for making the most of your trip.
Getting There
Belgium is located in the heart of Europe, making it easy to reach from most major cities. Brussels International Airport is the largest airport in Belgium and is well-connected to major cities across the world. There are also several other airports in Belgium, including Charleroi Airport, which is a popular destination for budget airlines.
If you’re traveling from nearby countries, taking the train can be a great option. Belgium is connected to France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg via high-speed train networks.
Getting Around
Belgium is a small country, which makes it easy to get around by car or train. There are also plenty of local buses and trams that can take you around the cities. If you’re planning on visiting multiple cities, consider getting a Rail Pass, which offers unlimited train travel throughout Belgium.
Top Places to Visit
- Brussels: The capital city of Belgium is known for its stunning architecture, delicious chocolate, and world-famous beer. Be sure to visit the Grand Place, the Atomium, and the Manneken Pis statue.
- Bruges: This picturesque city is often called the Venice of the North. It is famous for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture.
- Ghent: A charming university town that boasts a stunning medieval castle, historic churches, and excellent museums.
- Antwerp: This city is known for its fashion, art, and diamonds. It has a beautiful old town, impressive museums, and a lively nightlife.
- Leuven: Home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, Leuven is a beautiful town with a lively atmosphere and great beer.
Food and Drink
Belgium is famous for its food and drink, and no trip to Belgium is complete without trying some of the local delicacies. Belgian chocolate is world-famous and can be found in almost every town and city. Beer is also a big part of Belgian culture, with over 1,500 different types of beer available. Be sure to try some of the local favorites like Duvel, Chimay, and Hoegaarden.
Belgian cuisine is a blend of French, Dutch, and German influences. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Moules-frites (mussels with fries)
- Carbonade flamande (beef stew)
- Waterzooi (a creamy soup made with fish or chicken)
- Liege waffles (a sweet treat often served with strawberries and whipped cream)
Culture and Language
Belgium has two main languages: Dutch (spoken in the north) and French (spoken in the south). German is also spoken in a small area of the east. English is widely spoken, especially in the larger cities.
Belgium is known for its art, music, and literature. The country has produced many famous artists, including surrealist painter René Magritte and comic book artist Hergé.
Final Tips
- The best time to visit Belgium is during the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November). The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists.
- Tipping is not required in Belgium, but it is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.
- Always carry cash, as many small shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards.
While exploring Belgium, using a reliable and secure money transfer service like Paysend can make your trip even more enjoyable. With Paysend, you can easily send money to friends or family in Belgium or receive funds from abroad without having to worry about high fees or slow transaction times. By using Paysend, you can focus on enjoying the sights and sounds of Belgium, knowing that your money is safe and secure.
