Multicultural Belgium—the political center of Europe—is a small-but-important country that entices visitors with its specialty beers, tantalizing chocolate, and myriad waffles, along with an equally rich history. Belgium's location, squished between Germany and France, give it an often-outsized historical importance, with World War I and II having left notable marks; day tours from the capital make stops at historic sites related to the well-known Battle of the Bulge and the Battle of Waterloo. Brussels itself boasts a warren of medieval architecture, the Houses of Parliament, and plenty of that renowned Belgian beer and chocolate that you won't want to leave without sampling. Head just an hour outside the capital, though, and big city life fades away in favor of the picturesque fields of Flanders, and secondary cities such as Antwerp and Bruges. Visitors can easily see one or both in a single day with the help of a guided tour. Antwerp's beautiful port and majestic town square open to reveal celebrated art by Rubens and the intense center of the diamond industry. Meanwhile, Bruges' quaint serenity creates a timeless fairy-tale scene where travelers can step back a few centuries via canal cruises or walking tours through the town.
Belgium gets plenty of rain, but your best chances of dry weather are during its warm summer, particularly in July and August. However, this time of year is more crowded and accommodation rates can go up, particularly in popular areas such as Bruges, Ghent, and Brussels. September is a good alternative, when local children are back in school for the year.
It’s easy to get around Belgium without renting a car—in fact, finding parking for your rental car may negate the convenience of having your own wheels. Belgium has an extensive train network connecting cities big and small, and train travel is both reliable and affordable. If you plan to travel a lot, you can buy 10-journey passes at railway stations or on the Belgian Railways’ SNCB app.
Belgium is known for its waffles, but if you want the fluffy breakfast treats known as Belgian waffles in much of the English-speaking world, you’ll want to order them as Brussels waffles in Belgium. Liège waffles—Belgium’s other main waffle type—are characterized by ragged edges and a thicker, chewier dough. Both varieties are usually served up from waffle counters or windows and come wrapped in paper and dusted with powdered sugar, making them easy to eat on the go.
Belgium is a European political center; its capital city Brussels is home to many EU institutions as well as the NATO headquarters. Belgium is also famous for its chocolate and French fries (which originated here, not in France), as well as a long tradition of Trappist beer brewing and lace making.
...MoreDon’t miss out on visiting Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent. Brussels is home to many EU institutions and fantastic museums, while Bruges is celebrated for its beautiful medieval architecture. Ghent’s big draw is the Ghent Altarpiece tryptic, painted by Hubert and Jan van Eyck.
...MoreBrussels is the most visited place in Belgium, because of its role as the country’s capital and a major hub for international organizations, as well as its wide array of tourist attractions, from the landmark Atomium structure to the elegant guildhalls near the Grand-Place.
...MoreYes. With three days in Belgium, you’ll have enough time to get a feel for the country. Spend two days in Brussels taking in the major attractions and world-class museums, and then head out on a day trip to explore Bruges with its quaint canals and medieval architecture.
...MoreBelgium is known for a variety of tourist activities, from the canal cruises of Bruges to culinary adventures such as brewery-hopping and chocolate-making workshops. The country is also known for more somber activities; many visitors seek out its numerous World War II-related historic attractions scattered across the country.
...MoreMost people would agree that Bruges is the prettiest town in Belgium. Its beautifully-preserved medieval city center is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you’ll find beautiful old buildings and historic town squares, all interspersed by a series of canals.
...MoreNumber of Attractions | 121 |
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Number of Tours | 922 |
Number of Reviews | 24,137 |
Currency | EUR |
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