Belgium is small and sometimes underestimated, but it’s a most interesting and fascinating country in Europe. From medieval towns to Gothic cathedrals and from Flemish Masters to Belgian beer and chocolate, Belgium has a lot to offer. So don’t skip this small country located between France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg and discover the charms of this hidden gem of Europe.
The key to making your Belgium trip the best one is to learn how to appreciate art, architecture, food, culture, history, and atmosphere of this country. In this ultimate Belgium guide, we’ll provide you with an inside knowledge about where to go, what to eat, where to find the best deals, how to plan the perfect itinerary, how to navigate the country, and tips that will make your trip unforgettable.
Best Reasons to Visit Belgium
Belgium is a perfect destination for a trip, but it is not always on the top of people’s list of countries to visit. So let’s start with the reasons that make Belgium such a great place.
Compact and Easy to Visit
The biggest advantage of Belgium is its size—small enough that you can see several cities in one trip. A one-hour train ride connects almost all destinations in Belgium.
Rich in Cultures, History, and Architecture
Influences from France, the Netherlands, and Germany make Belgium’s mix of cultures, languages, architecture, and cuisines quite unique.
Medieval towns and streets, Gothic cathedrals and squares, Renaissance guild houses, Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings, and modern architecture.
Belgian Cuisine, Chocolate, and Beer
Belgian waffles, fries, chocolate, and beer are world-famous for a reason.
Belgium’s Central Location
Belgium is conveniently located between other major European travel destinations, making it a great base to visit countries and cities such as France, the Netherlands, Germany, or Luxembourg, as well as Paris, Amsterdam, Cologne, or Dusseldorf.
Food and Drink
Best Things to Eat and Drink in Belgium
There are many good things to try in Belgium, but some of them are world-famous and definitely worth a taste.
Beer
Beer is an integral part of Belgian culture. In Belgium, there are over 1,500 different types of beer. Belgium is the world leader in beer consumption and has the highest number of breweries per capita.
It is believed that the most important thing when making beer is not the type of grain but the yeast. Trappist beers are brewed by monks and tend to be dark and flavorful. Try them at the nearby monastery.
Lambic Beer
Beer from one of the Belgian villages called Lambik. To make Lambik, malted barley is first roasted with woodchips and then mixed with boiled water. The finished beer is then aged in oak barrels for 1-3 years. The result is a slightly sour beer with a complex flavor.
Beer and Lambik are both dark beers, but people in Belgium are very picky about them.
Beer and Lambik go well with fries with all sorts of sauces. There are usually 10-12 types of sauces in a restaurant, so try all of them!
Chocolate
Belgium is the cradle of chocolate production. The first cocoa beans got to Belgium in 1635 and since then, Belgians have managed to create a unique style of chocolate production.
Belgian pralines are considered to be the best in the world. The smallest chocolate shops usually have their own store, with up to 300 varieties of chocolate. By the way, Belgians have come up with a way to figure out if the chocolate is good—buy a small piece of chocolate and taste it, if it is still good, then buy another one.
Belgian Waffles
Try two types of waffles—Brussels waffles (lighter and rectangular) and Liege waffles (sweet and more dense, with caramelized sugar).
Belgian Fries
Yes, Belgian, not French. The main difference between Belgian fries and French ones is that Belgians always double-fry them for extra crispiness.
Belgian fries are not spicy and are traditionally eaten with a special mayonnaise or a variety of sauces.
Mussels (Moules-frites)
Belgian mussels are a national dish. Mussels are steamed and served with fries and a white wine or garlic sauce.
The Best Belgian Cities to Visit
In Belgium, there are a number of cities that you must see and there are many smaller ones that are really worth seeing. But if you want to start with the very best, then we have a full list of them here.
1. Brussels – The Capital of Europe
Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the headquarters of the EU. A modern and historical city where one can relax and feel the energy of Brussels.
Attractions
Grand Place – One of the most beautiful squares in the world, lined with splendid Renaissance guild houses and the Gothic Town Hall.
Atomium – The museum of the future.
Manneken Pis – The little guy makes everyone smile.
European Quarter – Visit the European Parliament and EU institutions.
Food in Brussels
Belgian waffles from a street vendor, moules-frites, pralines from Neuhaus or Pierre Marcolini.
2. Bruges – The Fairytale City
Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage City, and its beauty has amazed every tourist for many years. Cobblestone streets, canals, medieval buildings, and picturesque corners give Bruges its nickname “Venice of the North.”
Attractions
Market Square (Markt): Climb the Belfry for amazing views.
Canal Tour: The best way to see Bruges.
Church of Our Lady / Basilica of the Holy Blood
Beguinage: A historic religious complex.
Tip: Spend the night in Bruges. During the day it’s crowded, but in the evening it becomes peaceful and magical.
3. Ghent – A Hidden Gem
Ghent is often forgotten because of Bruges, but it’s a perfect mix of medieval architecture, history, and a modern vibe.
Attractions
Gravensteen Castle – A fortress in the city center.
St. Bavo’s Cathedral – Home to the Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers.
Graslei and Korenlei – Picturesque canalside streets.
Street Art – Don’t miss Graffiti Alley.
4. Antwerp – The Cool and Trendy Port City
Antwerp, Belgium’s biggest port, has a youthful, creative, and trendy feel.
Attractions
Cathedral of Our Lady – Also known as Antwerp Cathedral.
MAS Museum – Telling Antwerp’s maritime and cultural history.
Antwerp Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in the world.
Meir Street – A top shopping street.
Food in Antwerp
Try handjes cookies, shaped like hands, the city’s symbol.
5. Leuven – The University Town
Leuven is home to one of the world’s oldest universities and has a lively, youthful atmosphere.
Attractions
Old Market Square: Nicknamed “the longest bar in the world.”
University Library and Bell Tower: Rebuilt after WWI.
Town Hall: A Gothic masterpiece.
Tip: Leuven is also the headquarters of Anheuser-Busch InBev, so beer tasting is a must.
6. Other Worthwhile Stops
Dinant: Famous for dramatic cliffs and birthplace of Adolphe Sax.
Namur: A citadel overlooking the Meuse River.
Spa: The origin of the word “spa,” known for wellness and thermal baths.
Ypres: A moving place for World War I history buffs.
Belgian Specialties to Try
Chocolates: Visit artisanal shops as well as brands like Godiva.
Waffles: Brussels (light and rectangular) and Liège (dense and caramelized).
Fries: Double-fried, crispy, and served with countless sauces.
Mussels: Moules-frites is the national dish.
Beer: With 1,500+ varieties, don’t miss Trappist, lambic, and witbier.
Tips for Traveling in Belgium
Getting Around
Belgium’s public transport system is reliable, affordable, and well-connected by train. A rail pass can save money if you’re visiting multiple cities. Within cities, walking and cycling are the best ways to explore.
Languages
Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flemish), French, and German. Most Belgians speak English, but learning basic French or Dutch phrases is appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June): Mild weather and fewer tourists.
Summer (July–August): Busy but filled with festivals.
Autumn (September–October): Pleasant temperatures and fall foliage.
Winter (December): Magical Christmas markets, especially in Bruges and Brussels.
Festivals
Ommegang in Brussels (July): A medieval parade.
Ghent Festival (July): A massive cultural event.
Christmas Markets: Famous in Brussels and Bruges.
Suggested Belgium Itineraries
5-Day Trip
Day 1 – Brussels (Grand Place, European Quarter)
Day 2 – Day trip to Bruges
Day 3 – Day trip to Ghent
Day 4 – Antwerp
Day 5 – Leuven
7-Day Trip
Day 1 – Brussels
Day 2 – Bruges
Day 3 – Ghent
Day 4 – Antwerp
Day 5 – Dinant or Namur
Day 6 – Spa
Day 7 – Ypres and back to Brussels
10-Day Trip
Include Spa and the Ardennes region for nature and relaxation.
Final Thoughts
The best Belgium trip is a combination of history, culture, food, and good times. Whether you’re relaxing in a centuries-old café, gazing at Gothic cathedrals and squares, or walking along romantic canals, you’ll love Belgium for its warmth and character.
Belgium is a country where every city has its own personality and style. Brussels is perfect for cosmopolitan energy, Bruges for fairytale charm, Ghent for authenticity, and Antwerp for creativity and trendiness.
Smaller towns like Dinant or Spa, the wine regions of Hainaut or Wallonia, and the Ardennes add more variety to the experience.
Belgium isn’t a country to rush through—it’s a destination to savor. Every Belgian chocolate, beer, cobblestone street, and Gothic tower will leave a mark. It’s a country that will steal your heart.
Save pin for later
