While it might be a small country, it has a lot to offer thanks to its rich history and continued traditions. Being situated in the middle of Europe and housing its capital, it’s a crossroads of multicultural influences which is unique in its own way. Often overlooked, yet everyone who has visited will testify that it’s one of those hidden gems which are worth a closer look, and not only for the chocolate, waffles, beer or diamonds.
In a way, Belgium is two countries in one. In the Dutch-speaking north of the country, known as Flanders, you’ll find the culture-rich cities of Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent. Their well-preserved gothic and baroque architecture, picturesque canals, cobbled streets, top restaurants and irresistible chocolatiers make them perfect long-weekend destinations.
The best time to visit
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Spring and autumn for culture breaks; summer for the coast and Wallonian countryside; December for Bruges with fewer crowds and atmospheric Christmas markets.
April to September is the warmest period in Belgium but prepare for rain and grey skies at any time of year. Avoid visiting Bruges, Belgium’s top tourist destination in August when it can get very crowded.
In February, nowhere in Europe celebrates Carnival with as much enthusiasm as in Belgium. Festivities are also held throughout the country in July and August. One notable celebration is the historical Ommegang pageant held in honour of Emperor Charles and his son.
On selected weekends in September, Belgium opens protected monuments to the public on what are known as Heritage Days. Belgium’s Christmas markets are well worth a visit in December.
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International Airports
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Brussels Zaventum (BRU), 13km from the city;
Antwerp (ANT), 3km;
Ostend (OST), 5km;
Liege (LGG), 8km.
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Getting around in Belgium
​The Belgium train network is efficient and extensive, with most stations served by a train at least once every hour or half hour.
Buses in Belgium are much slower than trains and not much cheaper. They are only of real use in rural areas such as the Ardennes where the train services fizzle out and you should expect lengthy waits at bus stops.
Outside of peak hours and coastal areas on fine summer weekends, Belgium’s roads are easy to drive, although rental costs can be high and the Belgians have a reputation for aggressive driving.
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Flanders
Welcome to Flanders, a region rich in history, heritage, and arts. It's the birthplace of cycling and the source of an exceptional culinary culture. Located in the heart of Europe, the region is blessed with abundant natural beauty, including historic castles and gardens. Flanders is steeped in centuries of stories, thanks to its innovative craftsmanship. You will be warmly welcomed here with open arms.
Flanders is an ideal destination for exploration, featuring cities rich in art, heritage, culinary treasures, and more. The art cities of Antwerp, Bruges, Brussels, Ghent, Leuven, and Mechelen are all ready to welcome you warmly.
Destinations
It is centrally located and serves as the capital of both Belgium and Europe. As a result, the city is an administrative hub with numerous diplomats and high officials. It is also home to the headquarters of NATO, highlighting Brussels' global significance. Beyond its administrative functions, the city boasts remarkable attractions such as the grand central square, surrounded by historically restored guild houses and a splendid town hall, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
Brussels also boasts a significant collection of Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings, with Victor Horta being one of the most renowned architects. The Atomium, a striking building resembling an enlarged iron crystal, stands at over 100m tall and has been restored to its former glory since its construction for the 1958 World Expo.
Wallonia
In the southern part of Belgium, you'll find Wallonia, known as the green lung of the country due to its expansive forests, the Ardennes. This region is predominantly French-speaking, with a small German-speaking area in the east resulting from annexation after World War I. While Namur serves as the capital city, Liège is its largest city. Wallonia was once one of the most industrialized areas globally during the 19th and early 20th centuries, largely due to its rich coal and iron deposits, easily transported by train and boat on the rivers Sambre and Meuse.
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An important attraction is Spa, which gained renown as a wellness hotspot and the origin of the term "spa." The cold springs not only cater to wellness but are also the source of mineral water exported worldwide. Spa-Francorchamps, the beloved racetrack, hosts thrilling races, with the Formula 1 race being the most well-known. The Ardennes, covering most of Wallonia, is a favoured escape for many Belgians due to its abundant nature, offering respite from city life. The region is also popular for annual camps organized by schools and youth leagues, especially during the summer months.
Destinations
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Are you planning your first trip to Belgium and feeling unsure about where to start?
If so, this post is for you. In this article, we'll suggest a Belgium itinerary that covers the most beautiful places in Belgium over the course of three or four days. Our small country often gets overlooked because it's sandwiched between top tourist destinations like London, Amsterdam, and Paris. However, Belgium has much to offer to all kinds of travellers.
Considering that many people have limited time to explore Belgium, I'll provide my best recommendations for a short first trip. Even if you're visiting Belgium for just one or two days, you can plan your trip using our tips below. But if you have the time, I recommend spending at least 3 or 4 days in Belgium.
For a three-day Belgium itinerary, I recommend visiting the capital city of Brussels and the beautiful towns of Flanders: Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. If you have four days in Belgium, I also strongly recommend visiting one of the historic war sites - either Ypres and the WWI battlefields, or Bastogne and its WWII museums and monuments.
A tip to remember is that the distances in Belgium are not vast, and there are good railway connections between all major towns. Therefore, you can base yourself in any city and make day trips from there, saving you from constantly needing to pack and unpack. However, you can also choose to stay in a different town every day.
It's good to know that since most of the main highlights of Belgium are in towns, you can visit Belgium in any season. If you're visiting Belgium for the first time, you'll find something that will capture your interest regardless of the time of year.​
Belgium FAQ
​Here are some frequently asked questions about visiting Belgium:
How many days do you need in Belgium?
We recommend spending a minimum of 3-4 days in Belgium. With 3 days, you can briefly visit cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. If you have 4 days, you can also explore some of the famous Belgian war sites.
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Where should I stay in Belgium?
Belgium is a small country, and it's possible to stay in one place and see everything. In that case, Brussels is probably the best place to stay. Alternatively, Antwerp or Ghent are also well-located for exploring the main cities in Belgium. If you decide to stay in Brussels, we recommend staying close to the Central Station for easy day trips to other destinations in Belgium.
Is Belgium worth visiting?
Yes, Belgium is definitely worth visiting! The country boasts rich history, stunning architecture, and arts. Belgian food alone is worth the trip.
What are the best places to see in Belgium?
The main highlights of Belgium are its cities. Make sure not to miss Brussels, the canals of Bruges, Antwerp city center, and charming Ghent. If you are interested in war history, Belgium has some interesting war sites, especially around Ypres and Bastogne.
Does it rain a lot in Belgium?
Belgium has a reputation for being a rainy country. However, in recent years, there have been long periods with no rain. While there's always a chance of rain, you can also experience beautiful sunny weather throughout your trip. The driest months in Belgium are typically between April and September.
