Belgium

“Stunning architecture,” “a world-famous fashion scene,” “great food,” and “more than 1,000 brands of beer”—Belgium is a perfect destination for travelers. This small country offers the ideal blend of global culture and regional charm, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Belgium, you won’t be disappointed.

Bordered by France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, Belgium is often stereotyped as boring due to its weather and relaxed pace. However, this slower rhythm is precisely what makes it so pleasant. It’s the perfect place to pause, unwind, and soak in daily life. If you plan to visit Belgium, you’ll quickly discover its unique charm and cultural richness.

Don’t miss out on authentic Belgian waffles and fries

Belgium is a food lover’s paradise, famous for its waffles, chocolate, and fries. While Belgian waffles often take the spotlight, the country’s fries deserve just as much attention. Though commonly called “French fries“, Belgians actually invented them in the 17th century. Villagers began frying potatoes as a substitute for fish, a tradition that has grown into a national favorite.

When you visit Belgium, fries are an essential part of the street food culture. What makes Belgian fries special? They’re double-fried for extra crispiness and served with a variety of sauces. You’ll find frites stands, or “friteries,” on nearly every street corner, serving fries with classic mayonnaise or specialty sauces like andalouse and samurai.

Some say Belgian fries are the best in the world, and after tasting them in Brussels, I have to agree! Whether as a snack or paired with moules frites, they’re a must when you visit Belgium.

A beer lover’s paradise

Belgian beer is world-renowned, boasting over 300 breweries and more than 1,000 unique varieties. In fact, tasting beer in Belgium is almost a cultural requirement. To be honest, ordering a glass of wine at a neighborhood pub instead of a local beer might even raise a few eyebrows! Try them all: from lambics and pilsners to witbiers, there’s something for everyone.

Additionally, many breweries offer tours, making it easy to explore Belgium’s rich brewing traditions. Be sure to sample local beers—it’s all part of the experience!

Navigating Belgium: language tips

Language is a key part of Belgium‘s cultural identity. The country is divided into three regions:

  • Brussels-Capital Region – Bilingual, Dutch and French
  • Flanders – Dutch-speaking
  • Wallonia – French-speaking

Luckily, more than half of Belgians speak English, making it easy to get around. If you’re unsure which language to use, English is always a safe option.

Best places to visit in Belgium

Belgium is home to one of Europe’s most extensive canal networks, offering visitors a chance to enjoy scenic water views. When visiting Belgium, I highly recommend dividing your time between several locations to fully experience the country’s charm. In the romantic city of Bruges, you can explore charming canals or take a leisurely open-air boat ride to admire UNESCO-protected medieval architecture.

When visiting Belgium, I highly recommend dividing your time between several locations to fully experience the country’s charm. Wander through the mysterious streets of Bruges, spend hours in Antwerp exploring its renowned museums and diamond district, lace up your hiking boots for an adventure in Hoge Kempen National Park (the country’s only national park), and be sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered across the country. With most cities just a few hours apart by rail, traveling around Belgium is quick and easy, making it simple to see more in less time!

Effortless train travel

As a small country, Belgium boasts excellent train connections. From Brussels, you can reach Ghent in under an hour, Bruges in just over an hour, and larger towns like Antwerp in less than an hour. Additionally, Belgium’s central location makes it easy to travel to nearby cities like Paris and Amsterdam, with great rail connections to the rest of Europe.

Let’s discover the top recommendations for making the most of your visit to Belgium! Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or an adventure seeker, Belgium has something for everyone. Start planning your trip today and explore the best places to visit in Belgium!