If you want to explore a quintessentially European country, make sure to visit Belgium.
The country’s historic cities, splendid architecture, wonderful chocolate, and a variety of beer make it one of the best places to travel. Spring and fall are the two best seasons to visit Belgium. You’ll leave feeling refreshed thanks to the mild temperature and the small number of crowds that you see in some of Europe's other capital cities.
Did you know that the country of Belgium got its name from the Romans? Or that cricket, the classic English sport, was invented in Belgium? This small European country has had nothing shy of a significant impact on the rest of the world. In 1626 while on a trade expedition, Belgian explorer Peter Minuit founded the great New York City. While the World Wide Web might have been invented in Switzerland, a Belgian named Robert Cailliau was one of the co-founders!
Around the 3rd century BC, the area that is now Belgium was a part of Gaul, and it was inhabited by the Belgae tribes. Many believe the name Belgium originates from the name of these tribes. One of the things most hotly debated about these tribes of people is whether they were Germanic, Celtic, or a mix of the two. The Belgae people are considered the bravest of all the tribes in Gaul. This bravery was exemplified to Julius Caesar as it took him four years to conquer them. He finally did in 53 BC.
This area of Europe would be part of the Holy Roman Empire until about the 12th century. Once the Holy Roman Empire fell, this land would become feudal states for hundreds of years. During this time it became a major trade hub on the European continent, and this led the region into great wealth.
This land would pass through many hands, including the French, Spanish, and the Dutch. It would become the United Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1815 following Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo (along with what would later become the Netherlands and other countries of this region). This wouldn't last long as the Belgian Revolt of 1830 led to their independence and the creation of Belgium.
Belgium would go on to be a European powerhouse as it is considered the center of the European Union. Belgium would go on to become the founding member of NATO in 1949 and the site of the NATO headquarters. Belgium, to this day, has a powerful influence in the European Union and has solidified itself as a valuable player on the continent of Europe.
Designate some time to get to know Belgium’s unique history on your next vacation. Click on the link below and we can start planning your vacation to Belgium.
The geographic location at the center of the European Union and the small size of Belgium, it is difficult to put a formal description or definition onto the culture. The culture can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood, region to region. Belgium is a melting pot, and this is evident in the lack of a centralized or definable Belgian culture.
Christianity is considered the main religion of Belgium, specifically Roman Catholicism (about 58% of the population). Some practice the Eastern Orthodox and Protestant sects of Christianity (7% combined).
Belgium is a country filled with architectural wonder. Throughout the country’s history, several shifts in design have created a rich blend of European heritage and modern architecture. One of the most famous new designs is the Atomium in Brussels. Built for the 1958 World Fair, it was used as the focal point of the event and was only meant to be temporary, but still stands in the city today.
Lacemaking in Belgium is more than just a craft; it’s part of the culture. For centuries Belgium lace has been world-renowned for its intricate and delicate patterns. It is one of the few places where you can still find traditional, hand-made lace as opposed to machine woven. Some of the best lace-maker in the country still use their own secret techniques which have been passed down from generation to generation.
Helpful Information
The climate of Belgium is considered a temperate maritime climate. The weather of this small country is dictated mainly by the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. The summers tend to be on the cooler side, and the winters are considered moderate, but they can get freezing.
The average high temperatures in the summers are around 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Belgium is not going to be the type of place that is going to lend itself to swimming excursions in the ocean. The average highs in the winters are around 32 degrees, and snow is a regular occurrence.
The two of the largest airports in Belgium are the Brussels airport and the Charleroi airport. Both airports service international flights from all over the world. Several different major and budget airlines run flights into both airports including Brussels Airlines, Delta, American, United, Wizz Air, and Ryanair.
There is a shuttle available from the Brussels Airport right into the heart of Brussels. Taxis are also available as well.
They have great rail lines throughout the country. Due to its central location, it is easy to hop a train to nearby France, the Netherlands, Germany, and other countries throughout Europe. Buses are also available for long-distance trips as well, but the trains are the best way to travel and see the region.
Within the cities, there is excellent public transportation. Buses can quickly get you around town, but if you are traveling for leisure, by foot will allow you to enjoy Belgium more intimately.
Buses and trains can quickly get you where you need to go. The only reason that a visitor would need a car is if they plan on extensively exploring the outlying countryside. If you are staying in one city or going from city to city, trains, and buses are the easiest and most convenient.
If you need to rent a car, a valid US driver's license will suffice to allow a traveler to rent a vehicle.
Take a chance and travel the old-fashioned way during your next trip to Belgium. Horse-drawn carriages might seem like a thing of the past, but in Belgium, it’s a great way to see the sights. Hop on a tour and trot around town while imagining what city life must have been like centuries ago. Your carriage driver will be sure to point out historic landmarks and share interesting facts along the way.
Dutch, French, and German are the three official languages of Belgium. Dutch is the most widely spoken as about 60% of the population speaks Dutch. French is the next most commonly spoken, about 40% of the population. There are pockets of the people along the German border that speak German as their primary language.
Before traveling to a new country, it’s important to make sure you’ve got the right currency on hand. Belgium is one of 19 countries in the European Union who use the Euro as their primary form of currency. Before you head out on your next trip be sure to order the local currency so you can purchase fun gifts and sweet treats along the way.
Belgium is the founding member of the European Union and, thus, they converted from the Belgian Franc to the Euro in January of 1999.
You are likely going to need to exchange your money into Euros. Avoid doing this at the airports or hotels. You should only exchange what you need there and then find a currency exchange location to exchange your cash. These exchange locations will offer you a much better rate than any other place.
I'd love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to click on the button below to start planning your amazing vacation to Belgium!
Experience Belgium
Belgium is a relatively easy country to get around because of its size. All across the country are historic landmarks, beautiful architecture and fun markets that are worth the trip. The Grand Palace, Manneken Pis and Atomium are all great places to start in Brussels. From there head over to the city of Burges and see the impressive belfry and shop the famous market.
Cities of Belgium
Each of the cities on the list is going to have their own stunning things to do and see. Each place is going to have great things to do with the family or if you are on a romantic getaway. There is so much to see in this beautiful country that there was too much to name. We decided to make a list of some of the most fun and beautiful cities in Belgium to explore.
- Burges
- Ghent
- Durbury
- Brussels
- Antwerp
- Ypres
Serving as the unofficial capital of the European Union, Brussels has always played an essential role in history and government. Ever since the 1950’s Brussels has been home to many important European institutions that include the European Commission, the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament. While the EU doesn’t have an official capital, Brussels is pretty close!
No trip to Belgium is complete without a visit to the capital city of Brussels. This bustling city is full of historical landmarks and beautiful architecture. One of the must-see buildings is the Grand Palace. Situated in the central square, the Grand Palace was once the main marketplace where locals would gather to trade goods. Today the Grand Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular attraction for visitors.
For the first time since 1958, Brussels was chosen to host the start of this year’s Tour de France. Ahead of the 2019 race, Belgium decked itself out in yellow to pay homage to the iconic yellow leader’s jersey. This included creating an impressive yellow archway made of bicycles. The arch sits atop the Mont des Arts and has become a popular tourist attraction in the months following the race.
At first glance, Bruges might seem like a classic, old-world European town. With quaint streets and bustling markets, Bruges is everything you look for in a European adventure. However, the city’s history is much more exciting than it seems! Bruges is one of Belgium's best-preserved medieval towns. The city has maintained its historical landmarks over the centuries. The original Gothic construction now forms part of the town’s identity.
Visit the local shops and stores for great inspiration on what to bring home to remind you of your time in Belgium.
- Comics
- Crystal
- Sweets, snacks, Chocolate
Foods and Drinks of Belgium
Belgium is known for having a great culinary scene around the country. One of their signature dishes marries mussels with another beloved Belgian drink, beer. Mussels steamed in Belgia beer is a wildly popular dish that you can find at almost any restaurant. Served as an appetizer or a meal over spaghetti, this dish is just the kind of mouth-watering meal you’ll want to savor.
Foods To Try
- Belgian Chocolate
- Moules-Frites
- Speculaas
- Dutch Donuts
- Waterzooi
- Belgian Waffles
- Grey Shrimp Croquettes
The only thing more popular than beer in Belgium is the chocolate. Chocolate has become a major part of the country’s heritage over the centuries. Not only is the Belgium chocolate industry over 400 years old, but the country is also home to the world’s largest chocolate factory. Can you guess who the top seller of chocolate is in the country? It’s none other than the Brussels airport!
It is hard to imagine that the famous breakfast staple, Belgian waffles, were not introduced to Americans until 1964. Brussels native, Maurice Vermersch shared them with the world at the World’s Fair and the rest is history. Characterized by their deep pockets and fluffy texture, Belgian waffles are a delicious treat that you can enjoy at any time of day. Cover it in chocolate, fruit, or syrup and enjoy!
Drinks To Try
- Craft beers and Microbrews (this is plenty as there are more than 400 beers that are brewed throughout Belgium)
- Belgian Whiskey
A trip to Belgium should be at the top of every beer lover’s list. Belgium is small yet mighty when it comes to making good beer. With over 200 internationally renowned breweries across the country, this country has made a name for itself in the global beer market. With so many options, it can be hard to decide which breweries to visit. Luckily there are plenty of tours to help guide you along your journey. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or enjoy a nice brew, you’re sure to find a new favorite in Belgium.
I'd love to assist you in planning your vacation to Belgium, so be sure to click on the button below when you're ready to start planning!
Would you like an idea of what a vacation to Belgium could look like for you? Take a look at our amazing sample itinerary!
*Remember, we build custom itineraries for each of our customers!
Want to add a destination to your trip?
Ready to plan your vacation and build your own custom itinerary? Click the link below to reach me.
Credits:
Created with images by Walkerssk - "brussels grote markt belgium" • pixel2013 - "belfry tower bruges"