Highlights
Bruges is the jewel — a perfectly preserved medieval city of canals, cobbled lanes, step-gabled houses and the towering Belfry, best savoured on a boat trip and by climbing the tower for rooftop views. Nearby Ghent matches it with a grittier, livelier edge, a dramatic castle and the van Eyck 'Ghent Altarpiece'.
Brussels, the capital and de facto capital of the EU, centres on the Grand-Place, one of the most beautiful squares in the world, and mixes Art Nouveau architecture, the cheeky Manneken Pis, superb museums (including the Magritte Museum) and a buzzing food and beer scene.
Antwerp brings Flemish art (Rubens), diamonds, cutting-edge fashion and a magnificent railway station. Beyond the cities, the rolling, forested Ardennes offer castles, caves, hiking and cycling, while the Flanders Fields around Ypres provide moving World War I history. And everywhere, the beer, chocolate, waffles and frites are a cultural experience in themselves.
When to go
April to June and September to October are the sweet spots — mild, pleasant weather for exploring the medieval cities without peak crowds.
Summer (July-August) is warmest and busiest, with festivals and long days, though showers are always possible. Spring brings blossom and the spectacular (occasional) flower carpet events; autumn, golden light and quiet canals. Winter is cool, grey and damp but atmospheric around the Christmas markets and cosy beer cafés. Belgium's weather is famously changeable and often wet, so pack layers and an umbrella year-round.
Visa & entry
This country is part of the Schengen Area. Many nationalities (including UK, US, Canadian, Australian and others) can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, while others need a Schengen visa arranged in advance. The EU's ETIAS travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors is being phased in, so check whether it applies by your travel date. A passport valid at least three months beyond your stay is required. Always confirm the current requirements for your nationality and the ETIAS status on official EU/national sources before you travel.
Health & safety
Belgium is a safe, prosperous country, with the main concern being petty theft and pickpocketing in Brussels (especially around stations, the metro and tourist areas) and other cities, so keep valuables secure and stay alert in crowds. Some Brussels neighbourhoods warrant more caution after dark.
As a major EU hub, there is a visible security presence; follow any local guidance. The weather (wet, slippery cobbles) is the main everyday hazard. Healthcare is excellent and transport safe. Check your government's advisory before departure, though Belgium is generally low-risk for tourists.
Getting around
Belgium is small and superbly connected, making it one of the easiest countries to explore by train — frequent, fast SNCB/NMBS services link Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp and beyond in well under an hour or two, so day trips are effortless and a car is unnecessary for the classic city circuit.
Cities have trams, buses and (in Brussels and Antwerp) metros, easily used with contactless payment or day passes. Belgium is also wonderfully flat and cycle-friendly, especially in Flanders. High-speed trains connect to Paris, London, Amsterdam and Cologne. Skip the car unless heading into the rural Ardennes.
Money
Belgium uses the Euro and is highly card-friendly — cards and contactless are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants to trains, and ATMs are widely available. Still, carry a little cash for small cafés, markets, some frites stands and tips.
Belgium is moderately expensive. Tipping is not obligatory as service is included, but rounding up or leaving around 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, as is rounding up for taxis and leaving small change for bar and café service. Sampling the beer, chocolate and frites is the real 'spend' worth budgeting for.
Belgium