Belgium Travel Guide
Belgium is a country where medieval charm meets modern creativity: a place of grand guildhalls, Art Nouveau architecture, and world-famous chocolate and beer. From the cobbled canals of Bruges and the lively squares of Brussels to the storybook towns of Ghent and the galleries of Antwerp, each region reveals a different side of Belgian life.
This travel guide introduces you to the best that Belgium has to offer, from its rich history and design culture to its culinary traditions and seasonal festivals. Read on for what to expect, how to get around, and the top experiences to add to your Belgium itinerary!
What to Expect in Belgium
Weather
Belgium has a temperate climate with mild temperatures throughout the year.
Winters are cool and damp, with temperatures typically between 35–45°F (2–7°C) and occasional light snow. Summers are moderate, averaging 68–75°F (20–24°C), though warmer days can reach the low 80s°F (27–28°C).
The Flanders region, in the north, tends to be slightly milder and windier, while Wallonia, in the south, is cooler and sees more rain, especially in autumn and winter.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September) are considered the best times to visit Belgium, offering comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
Summer is peak travel season thanks to long daylight hours and major festivals, while winter brings holiday markets and a quieter atmosphere, except during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Language
Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.
Flanders, in the north, primarily speaks Dutch, while French is widely spoken in Wallonia and Brussels. A small eastern region near the German border speaks German.
English is broadly understood across major cities, especially in cities and tourist areas.
Knowing a few phrases in the local language of the region you’re visiting is always appreciated, though, and can enrich your interactions with locals.
Currency
Belgium uses the euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common throughout the country. It’s still a good idea to carry cash for use in smaller cafés and local markets. ATMs are common, making it easy to withdraw cash.
Getting There
Brussels Airport offers extensive international connections, while Brussels South Charleroi Airport serves many low cost carriers.
Rail travel is also convenient, with high speed trains connecting Brussels with major cities like Paris, London, Amsterdam, Cologne.
Travelers within Europe can also arrive by long distance buses or drive in from neighboring countries, with well maintained road networks linking Belgium to France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg.
How to Get Around Belgium
Top Experiences in Belgium
LATEST POSTS ABOUT BELGIUM
WHAT TO PACK FOR BELGIUM
Belgium FAQ
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You can see Belgium’s highlights in 3 to 5 days. Spend a few days in Brussels and Bruges, and add Ghent or Antwerp for art, canals, and food. With a week or more, you can explore smaller towns like Leuven or Dinant, or enjoy coastal getaways in Ostend or Knokke-Heist.
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Belgium is compact and has an excellent train network, making it easy to explore without a car. Trains run frequently between Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges, and most journeys take under an hour. For day trips to smaller towns, you can also use regional trains.
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Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Belgium. However, some small cafés, market stalls, and local bakeries may prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to carry a small amount of euros for minor purchases. ATMs are common, and contactless payments are popular throughout the country.
“Belgium, a tapestry of cultures intertwined, brimming with flavours of love and longing.“
Maurice Maeterlinck