Belgium may be one of Europe’s smaller countries, but what it lacks in size, it definitely makes up for in charm, character, and chocolate. Sandwiched between France, the Netherlands, and Germany, Belgium is a country of contrasts – where medieval towns meet modern art scenes, and waffles are considered a legitimate meal (as they should be).
Whether you’re wandering through the cobbled streets of Bruges, soaking up the style in Antwerp, or exploring the cultural heart of Brussels, there’s something wonderfully polished yet cosy about Belgium. Think grand squares, fairy-tale architecture, and world-class museums, all within easy reach thanks to the country’s compact size and brilliant train network.
One of Belgium’s biggest draws is it’s culinary scene – and no, it’s not just about chocolate (though yes, that is a very good reason to go). You’ve got crisp golden frites (always with mayo), fluffy waffles, rich stews like carbonnade flamande, and some of the best beer in the world served in bars that range from rustic to ridiculously trendy. The Belgians take their food and drink seriously, and you’ll thank them for it.
From the UK, it’s effortlessly accessible – hop on the Eurostar from London and you’ll be in Brussels in just over 2 hours, making it ideal for a weekend getaway. English is widely spoken, and public transport is easy to navigate. It’s also a fantastic jumping-off point for wider European travel, with Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne just a short train ride away.
Despite its elegant cities and rich history, Belgium often flies under the radar, which makes it feel a little more relaxed and less touristy than some of its neighbours. It’s perfect if you want to blend a bit of culture with cafés, chocolate shops and canal-side strolls.
📍 Top Places to Visit:
Brussels – The capital city, known for its historic squares and political significance.
Bruges – A medieval town with enchanting canals and architecture.
Ghent – A lively city offering a mix of history and modern culture.
Antwerp – Belgium’s fashion capital with rich artistic roots.
Leuven – A university town with a vibrant atmosphere and impressive libraries.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
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Spring (April–June): Pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.
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Summer (July–August): Festivals abound, but expect larger crowds.
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Autumn (September–October): Mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
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Winter (November–February): Charming Christmas markets and cozy cafés.
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💰 Currency & Budget Tips:
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Enjoy hearty meals at local brasseries for €10–15.
- Opt for combo tickets when visiting multiple museums.
- Use public transport passes for cost-effective travel.
🧳Good For:
Art and history enthusiasts.
Food & drink lovers
Solo Travellers
Weekend city breakers
🍽️ Local Dishes to Try:
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Frites – Golden, crispy, twice-fried perfection.
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Belgian Waffles – Light, fluffy and made fresh on the street.
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Moules-Frites – Steamed mussels served with fries.
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Carbonnade Flamande – A rich, slow-cooked beef stew made with dark beer.
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Belgian Chocolate – Obviously.
✈️ How to Get There:
- Eurostar –The most effortless way to arrive. Just hop on the train from London and you’ll be in Brussels in about 2 hours.
- Flights – Direct flights into Brussels Airport (BRU) from major UK cities take around 1 hour.
- Driving or Coach – You can drive or take a coach via the Eurotunnel or ferry.
🚍 Getting Around:
- Trains – Fast, frequent and easy to navigate. Book tickets via SNCB/NMBS (the national rail service).
- Trams & Buses – Brussels has an excellent metro, tram and bus network.
- Walking & Biking – The city centre is very pedestrian-friendly and compact enough to explore on foot or by rental bike.
🌍 Language & Local Etiquette
- Language: Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flemish) in the north, French in the south, and German in a small eastern pocket. Brussels is bilingual (French and Dutch), but English is widely spoken, especially in touristy areas.
- Tipping – Not compulsory as service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving a euro or two for great service is appreciated.
- Etiquette – Belgians are polite, punctual, and love their personal space. Queue properly, say “bonjour” or “goede dag” when entering a shop, and try not to shout.
My Belgium Highlights
Want to dive into chocolate-making, explore canal-lined cities, or join a quirky beer tour? I’ve teamed up with GetYourGuide to make it easy to book local experiences.
💡 As a GetYourGuide affiliate, I may earn a small commission if you book through my links. This will be at no extra cost to you. These bookings help support my blog and continue to grow my travel business.
Ready to Plan Your Belgian break?
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