Explore the Charm and Culture of Belgium: A Traveler's Guide
It may be a little country, but it is a lovely one, so it is sad that Belgium is often overlooked when travellers plan a trip to Europe. Tucked between the desirable and obvious destinations of London, Paris, and Amsterdam, Belgium is usually treated as a stepping stone to the English Channel or, at most, a quick stop-over for a look-see in the capital, Brussels.
Beyond the city of Brussels, with its historic Gothic buildings and tall European Union office blocks, is a treasure-trove of undiscovered lazy seaside towns and the inland wooded gorges of the splendid Ardennes, sprinkled with medieval castles and steeped in folklore.
The medieval city of Bruges has character and charm galore with a rich architectural heritage, graceful canals, winding waterways, and cobbled streets, proving a favourite with visitors. Belgium is a country that has inspired many artists and writers with the charm of its Gothic cathedrals, town halls, gabled guildhouses, and rich museums.
After a busy day exploring it all, evenings are best spent experiencing Belgium’s fantastic cuisine and delighting in the country’s variety of 300-odd brews of beer. Belgians have a reputation for their gracious hospitality, no doubt due in part to the country’s location, which has created an international crossroads for commerce and culture. Despite this, Belgium and its distinct regions of Flemish Flanders (north) and French Wallonia (south) has proudly preserved its traditions and identity.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The Flemish, in the north, speak Dutch; the Walloons in the south speak French. Brussels is bilingual, the majority of citizens speaking French. In the east, there is a small German-speaking community. English is also spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. Nationals of non-EU countries are recommended to hold return or onward tickets, sufficient funds and documents for their next destination. It is recommended that passports are valid for six months after departure from any holiday destination.
- Currency:
The Belgian currency is the euro (EUR). International credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are available in all towns and cities. Banks are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5:30pm, and are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Some banks close for an hour during lunch.
- Electricity:
- The electrical current in Belgium is 230 volts, 50Hz. Types C and E plugs are the official standards, though Type F plugs can also be used.
Overview
When it comes to world-class attractions and exciting sightseeing options, Belgium packs a mighty punch for a country of such modest proportions. Visitors can easily drift from the heavyweight attractions and cosmopolitan thrills of the capital city, Brussels, to the medieval charms of Bruges and the lesser-known historical treasures of Ghent. In between, they will find welcoming people, great food and Europe’s finest beer and chocolates to luxuriate in.
Belgium is a year-round destination, though the countryside is prettiest during the summer months of April to October. The transport infrastructure is excellent, which makes getting around a pleasure. This is not a country to see from the confines of a tour bus, however. Visitors need to get out on foot and explore the cobbled streets framed by medieval buildings, rent a bicycle and ride into the countryside along a canal, or simply spend an afternoon on Grand Place watching the world go by. Whatever mode they choose to explore the pleasures of Belgium, spending some time here will reward visitors with some of Europe’s most underrated and wonderful attractions.
Climate in Belgium
The Belgium climate is temperate, with warm weather in summer (May to September) and cool to cold weather in winter (December to February). There is also a possibility of snow, which is always an exciting winter prospect. Generally, visitors can expect a maritime climate and a high average annual rainfall. Visitors can also expect thundershowers at any time of year, so it’s always best visitors pack a raincoat or an umbrella. Temperatures range from highs of around 73F (23C) in summer to 45F (7C) during winter.
Health Notes when travelling to Belgium
All eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines, and it’s recommended that they’re up to date with routine vaccines as well. Medical facilities and care in Belgium are excellent but expensive, so travellers are advised to take out medical insurance. UK citizens should have a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance.
Safety Notes when travelling to Belgium
Most visits to Belgium are trouble-free, but travellers should be wary of street crimes such as mugging and pickpocketing in the cities, particularly in Brussels at major railway stations and on public transport. Brussels is home to a number of international organisations, including EU and NATO, which could become the target of indiscriminate terrorist attacks.
Customs in Belgium
Among young locals, especially Francophones, girls rarely shake hands but kiss other girls and boys. The number of kisses varies depending on the region of Belgium, foreigners often have a hard time determining which side to kiss first and how many kisses to give. It’s best to follow the Belgian’s lead. The law requires everyone to carry some form of official identification at all times; possession of drugs and trafficking in drugs are serious offences.
Duty Free in Belgium
Travellers to Belgium arriving from non-EU countries are allowed to enter the country with the following items without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 1 litre spirits over 22 percent in alcohol or 2 litres of dessert wine 22 percent in alcohol and sparkling wine, as well as 4 litres wine and 16 litres of beer; and other goods such as souvenirs to the value of €430. Prohibited items include unpreserved meat products.
Doing Business in Belgium
Belgians are very formal in business and have a keen sense of style. dress should be conservative. Conservative yet stylish suits are recommended for men; women should opt for stylish business suits, or dresses and blouses.
Punctuality is extremely important at meetings, which will begin and end with a quick, light handshake. It is standard practice that all involved exchange business cards, and it is recommended that cards are printed in English, with the other side translated in either French or Dutch, depending on the main language of the region where business is to take place.
Visiting business people should research beforehand whether a business is French or Dutch-speaking. Compromise is very important in Belgian business culture and may be required as a show of friendship. Business hours are generally 9am to 5pm.
Communication in Belgium
The international access code for Belgium is +32. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Tipping in Belgium
Service charges are included in bills and tips are only left for exceptional service.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. Nationals of non-EU countries are recommended to hold return or onward tickets, sufficient funds and documents for their next destination. It is recommended that passports are valid for six months after departure from any holiday destination.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US nationals must have a passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadians must have a passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British passports should be valid for the period of intended stay in Belgium. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days in a half-year period.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian nationals must have a passport valid for at least three months beyond period of stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require a valid passport. No visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond intended period of stay. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond intended period of stay. A visa is required.
Tourist Offices
Belgian Tourist and Information Office, Brussels: http://www.visitbelgium.com/
Belgium Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Belgium, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 333 6900.
- In Canada:
Embassy of Belgium, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 7267.
- In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Belgium, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7470 3700.
- In Australia:
Embassy of Belgium, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 2501.
- In Ireland:
Embassy of Belgium, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 631 5284.
- In New Zealand:
Consulate of Belgium, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 974 9080.
- In South Africa:
Belgium Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 440 3201.
Foreign Embassies in Belgium
- American Embassy
Embassy of the United States, Brussels: +32 (0)2 811 4000.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 741 0611.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 287 6211.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 286 0500.
- Irish Embassy
Embassy of Ireland, Brussels: +32 (0)2 282 3400.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 512 1040.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 285 4400.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
