Belgium

It’s in Belgium that my waistline increased a size, thanks to the impressive variety of household fodder. There are my favourite chocolates (flavours savoured in multiple specialty shops), perfect waffles in Brussels and Kriek beer - no shortage of saliva-inducing fare.

But the miniature country is more than calorific indulgence: it’s fun fashion and friendly faces, canals and belfries and medieval cores and UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s also where you can see perhaps the world’s most impressive diamonds and visit well-endowed galleries.

There’s really no limit to the exploration (which does also include a little something for nature enthusiasts).

I saw, tasted, tried and explored a good chunk of Belgium in five days - its compact size makes it logistics-friendly. So, don’t let a few extra kilograms put you off.

Let this brief overview of Belgium convince you to visit or, if going there isn't possible, then living vicariously through my adventures.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Belgium

Facts

Capital: Brussels

Population: 11,724,667 (2023)

Language: Dutch, French, and German are the three official languages (and the majority speak Dutch, and Flemish [a dialect cluster of Dutch]).

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Visas

The visa requirements for Belgium depend on the nationality of the visitor and the duration of stay.

If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to enter Belgium. You can stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, and several other countries (not listed here) are exempt from the visa requirement for short stays of up to 90 days (within a 180-day period).

If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, check with the Belgian Consulate or Embassy in your home country to see if you will need a visa.

Best time to visit

Belgium can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit will depend on you. Here's a breakdown of the seasons:

Spring (March to May):

It's a popular time as flowers are in bloom, particularly at the Hallerbos forest where the bluebells blanket the ground. The weather is mild.

Summer (June to August):

Summer is peak tourist season in Belgium, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. Festivals include Gentse Feesten in Ghent, and the Tomorrowland electronic music festival in Boom.

Autumn (September to November):

The changing colours of the leaves create a stunning backdrop. Temperatures are cooler, but the weather can still be mild and pleasant. The Brussels Beer Weekend and the Knokke-Heist International Light Festival are noteworthy events.

Winter (December to February):

It's a cold and dark time, but it's also the most festive time of the year. Christmas markets are popular.

Top Things to Do in Belgium

Visit Bruges

It's a medieval city with narrow cobbled streets, romantic canals, and beautiful architecture. Check out Belfry Tower, Church of Our Lady, and the Groeningemuseum.

Explore Brussels' Atomium

It's a building shaped like a giant atom, with nine steel spheres connected by tubes, and it offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Discover Ghent

It's home to impressive beautiful churches, charming canals and a castle.

Visit Antwerp

Rich history, beautiful architecture, and a thriving arts scene are what make Antwerp so attractive. Top sights include the Gothic-style Cathedral of Our Lady, the Rubens House, and the stunning Central Station.

Sample Beer and Chocolate

Belgium is famous for excellent beer and chocolate, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample both.

Explore the Belgian Ardennes

Venture into the beautiful landscapes of the Belgian Ardennes, a region known for its lush forests, rolling hills, and charming villages. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and kayaking. Don't miss the picturesque town of Durbuy, often referred to as the "smallest city in the world." It's an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape.