Belgium, the Heart of Europe – Complete Travel Guide – 2024

Belgium at a Glance

Located in the Mecca of Europe, Belgium is a country with ancient history and architectural monuments. There is rapid development in modern cities and art not only in the old medieval towns and the stunning Renaissance artworks the country boasts about. When it comes to chocolates, beers and places of interest including the Grand Place in Brussels and the Atomium. It is a destination that registers millions of visitors per year.

The country is divided into three distinct regions: Regions that are worth visiting are Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels – every place has its language, traditions and attractions. Belgium is one of the international forces responsible for global decision-making since it houses the headquarters of the European Union and NATO but Additionally, it is a country that respects its history and is eager to share it with everyone who visits.

Why Visit Belgium?

Historic Cities and Iconic Landmarks

Belgium is known for its beautifully preserved medieval cities, stunning Gothic architecture, and world-renowned landmarks.

• Brussels: Officially the capital of Belgium and unofficial the capital of the European Union, Brussels is an energetic city with mixture of politics, culture and history. Highlights include:
  • Grand Place: Main and most picturesque square of Brussels and the site of the renowned Flower Carpet event; one of the most arresting examples of guildhall architecture of the Grote Huys le Roy complex; a member of the UNESCO List of World Heritage.
  • Atomium: A now demolished turbine shaped structure made of steel resembling an iron crystal viewed under a microscope 165 billion times, which was designed for the 1958 World’s Fair. Its spheres can be interconnected and allows visitors to enjoy the full 360° view of the city.
• Bruges: And appropriately referred to as Venice of the North, Bruges is a purely pedestrian city with it canals, paved alleyways with medieval structure. Must-see attractions include:
  • Belfry of Bruges: there is this medieval bell tower from which one is provided with spectacular views of the city if he or she climbs the 366 steps.
  • Basilica of the Holy Blood: A magnificent gothic church which hosts a jar of blood of Christ.
  • Canal Cruises: Walking or cycling through the streets of this wonderful city is also exciting, but truly, a boat ride to get a close view of Bruges’ canals is a must.
• Ghent: Ghent is a colourful university city with a versatile history; it presents palaces, cathedrals and hosts numerous festivals. Highlights include:
  • Gravensteen Castle: An old castle, located in the middle of modern Ghent that gives a glimpse of the feudal period of Ghent.
• St. Bavo’s Cathedral: This glorious Gothic cathedral houses one of the most famous art pieces that belonged to the early Flemish paintings.

Belgium’s Blend of Cultural and Historical Legacy

Belgium’s diverse regions have given rise to a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through its art, architecture, and festivals.

• Royal Museums of Fine Arts (Brussels): As one of the most famous museums in Europe, it includes the greatest number of works of non-sculptural art, among which there are pieces of Rubens, Van Eyck, and Magritte.
• Atomium and Expo 58: The Atomium depicts a view of the nation’s optimistic future after the Second World War and an Inclination toward technology. België’s two most important post–World War II artistic movements have also called this piercing structure home—an actual home, as well as a house of art: it is a house museum, a gallery, and a showplace dedicated to contemporary Belgian art and design.
• Flanders Fields (Ypres): Flanders, meaning ‘province in the Flemish region of Belgium’ is probably well known for the World War I. The In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres and the cemeteries to its right can accurately be described as keeping alive the memory of the war in Europe.

Natural Wonders and Scenic Beauty

Beyond its cities, Belgium offers a variety of natural landscapes, from rolling hills to dense forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

• Ardennes: An exotic and thick forested area of south Belgium representing the Ardennes offers great opportunities for tourists who like trekking, cycling and other outdoor activities. One can take a tour through castles, picturesque villages, valleys, etc.
• Hoge Kempen National Park: Situated in Belgium’s Flanders region, this park has options in pine woods, heaths and lakes. The best for long strolls, horseback, and game viewing it’s ideal for.
• Meuse River Valley: The Meuse Valley is a region of steep cliffs, riversides, and some fortified towns and cities such as Dinant has the Citadel of Dinant, ideal for boat rides, climbing, and other adventure sport.

Outdoor Adventures in Belgium

While Belgium is often associated with its cities, it offers a surprising range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers.

• Cycling in Flanders: Cycling is big in Flanders, and you get route suggestions that take you past charming locales and meandering through some beautiful greenery. That is also the host for some of the greatest bike races including the Tour of Flanders.
• Hiking in the Ardennes: Whereas dense forests, deep valleys and rushing rivers; make it paradise for hikers in the Ardennes. Natural trails suitable for hiking exist and vary in difficulty from easy paths that take hikers through ancient castles or even Second World War sites.
• Kayaking on the Lesse River: While a great attraction for water sports, a great way to enjoy the Belgian countryside is on kayaks on Lesse river passing through beautiful limestone cliffs and castles.

Belgian Cuisine: A Celebration of Flavors

Belgium is a foodie’s dream, known for its world-class chocolate, delicious waffles, and hearty cuisine. From street food to fine dining, Belgian cuisine reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage.

• Belgian Waffles: One can easily encounter fakes of Belgian waffles, but they are clearly distinguishable – there are Brussels waffles, which are generally thin and crispy, and there are Liège waffles which are much thicker and contain caramelized sugar.
• Moules-Frites (Mussels and Fries): Another famous Belgian meal is the moules-frites consisting of fresh mussels prepared in one of several sauces—white wine and garlic in particular, and Belgium fries.
• Chocolate: Chocolate is also widely chosen as a gift, and the Belgian confectionery, Godiva, Neuhaus, Leonidas as well as other delicious confectionery including pralines, truffles, etc.
• Belgian Beer: Belgium offers the most exclusive types of beers like Trappist and abbey beers, flavored beers- Lambics, and Dark strong beers- Dubbels and Tripels. Choice for beer is almost endless with over 1,500 different types of beer to choose from.

How to Visit Belgium (Flight Options and Airports)

• Brussels Airport (BRU): The largest and the most popular international airport of Belgium situated near the capital city, Brussels is served by Brussels Airport.
• Charleroi Airport (CRL): Another airport situated Near Brussels, Charleroi Airport is usually considered an international airport for low-cost airlines that offer cheap flights within Europe and to Europe.

Best Time to Travel to Belgium

• Spring (April to June): It is one of the best seasons to travel to Belgium since the temperatures range between high teens and the whole place is drenched in green with blossoming flowers especially in Royal Greenhouses Brussels.
• Summer (July to August): The country really buzzes in the summer because that is the time when many concerts, shows and sports events are organized and the summer is really hot for traveling.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn usually means colder weather, but the number of tourists is low, and festivals are numerous; therefore, it is an excellent time to discover the cities of the country.
• Winter (December to February): Autumn is a beautiful time for visiting the beautiful towns of Belgium, Christmas fairs, and tasty Belgian cuisine.

Visas and Entry Requirements for Belgium

• Schengen Visa: Belgium is a Schengen country therefore no visa is requited for those arriving from EU member countries. For citizens from other countries of the world, belonging to developed countries, for example, USA, Canada, Australia – visa-free stay is allowed up to 90 days.
• Electronic Visa: Visa required country travelers can use the online visa application system in Belgium to apply for the eVisa.

Budgeting Your Trip to Belgium

• Accommodation: In Belgium you can find accommodation starting from economical hostels that charge about €30 per via to the 5 star hotels at large cities, which might charge over €200 every night.
• Dining: McDonalds, chips, waffles, and other fast foods are cheap, but vegetarian meal can cost you between €5-€10. Eating out can be different and although most meals are between €15-€50 per person or more for up market eateries.
• Transportation: There is a well elaborated system of public transport all over the Belgium and there are rail as well as bus facilities between the certain cities and even regions. For the travelers who intend to travel across different countries in Europe then Eurail passes are the best for you.

Practical Information for Your Trip to Belgium

• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Language: Today, it officially recognises three language: Dutch, French and German, Dutch is used by the Flemish people in Flanders, French is used by the Walloons in Wallonia and a section in eastern Belgium. The English language is prevalent, especially when it comes to folks that work in cities and tourist attractions.
• Transportation: Belgium has a good railway network where there are often connections between large cities for one or another press. Buses, trams, and metros are also given to the people of Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent and etc.
• Staying Connected: Most of the hotels and cafes provide free Wi-Fi connectivity as well as public places. Mobile miscellaneous packs that offer services to tourists are bought at various shops and stores such as convenience stores and mobile shops.

Conclusion

Belgium is small but filled with giant places of interest ranging from medieval castles to chocolate and beers. It doesn’t matter whether you’re wandering the medieval streets of Bruges, taking a drink in a café in Brussels or walking its forested hills in the Ardennes, there is something for everyone. These factors; a rich history, cultural diversity and relatively central geographical location in Europe contribute to touring. Therefore, I would like to invite you officially to grab your bag and leave for heart Europe but you will not get to Belgium.