Located between France and the Netherlands, Belgium is a fairly small country known best for waffles, chocolate, and beer.
The capital city of Brussels centers around the gilded Grand Place, while nearby Antwerp is a major hub of the world’s diamond trade. Smaller towns like Bruges and Ghent charm travelers with medieval architecture, winding alleys and chocolate shops.
QUICK BELGIUM FACTS
Currency: Belgium uses the Euro as their currency which can be withdrawn from ATMs throughout Belgium, however keep in mind that smaller cities or towns may not have access to ATMs and its recommended to withdraw cash and take it with you.
Power Points: Most power points are the same as most other European power points (2 circular prongs). Obviously I would recommend you take a Travel Adapter especially for non Europeans.
Official Language: The official languages of Belgium are Dutch, French, and German.
Health: There are no major health concerns in Belgium for travellers however I would recommend that you contact your doctor a few weeks before you travel as in some cases you need to start any medication a few days before your trip or you may need to get a vaccination.
Drinking Tap Water: The tap water is generally safe to drink in Belgium.
Visa: Most countries don’t require a visa for short stays, to visit Belgium.
Popular foods:
– Stoemp (a superior version of your regular mashed potatoes and a staple of Belgium food).
– Speculaas (the unofficial national cookies of the Belgium food culture. It is a thin, very crunchy and caramel filled biscuit baked with some figures on it).
– Belgium Waffles (rectangular waffles which aren’t as sweet as the other variety but are topped with chocolate, cream, and various grated fruits).
– Belgian chocolate (Truffles are ball-shaped desserts with wafers or cream filled crust).
When to go: The ideal festival, beach, and summer bar season is from July through August. For those who enjoy the vibrant shades of nature, the shoulder seasons (April through June and September through October) are the best months. The low season (November to March) is when foodies and Christmas Markets are the most popular.
Articles on Belgium
Looking for a particular destination, see below otherwise you can go to Belgium Travel Guide to view current posts or check out this article on what to do in Belgium.