Belgium Travel Guide

Belgium may be small, but it often feels like several countries in one. Situated between Paris and Amsterdam and within easy reach of London, the country offers a surprising variety of cities and landscapes, from historic urban centres to rolling countryside.

Its cities are lively and cosmopolitan, blending contemporary attractions with an impressive concentration of museums, palaces, and art galleries. Beyond the urban centres, family-friendly destinations such as the Walibi Belgium amusement park broaden the country's appeal. Brussels, in particular, is a highlight for food lovers, promising everything from traditional Belgian dishes to the creations of its renowned chocolate makers. As evening falls, cities across the country continue to buzz with music, nightlife, and cultural events enjoyed by both locals and visitors.

Often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours, Belgium nonetheless rewards travellers with a rich mix of experiences and attractions suited to a wide range of interests and ages.

Best time to visit Belgium

Belgium enjoys a temperate climate with few extremes, making it a viable destination for much of the year, though weather can be changeable and rain is common. July and August are the busiest months, particularly in the major cities, while April and September are among the best times to visit, offering milder conditions, fewer crowds, and often better value for travellers.

What to see in Belgium

-Tour the World War I battlefields of Flanders.

-See famous cartoons and comics at the Belgian Centre of Comic Strip Art.

-Get a bird's-eye view of famous European landmarks at Mini-Europe.

-View the iconic Atomium sculpture in Brussels.

What to do in Belgium

-Indulge at the Choco-Story Museum.

-Learn about diamond cutting and polishing at the Bruges Diamond Museum.

-Enjoy the markets and flower stalls at the Grand Place in Brussels.

-Get sprayed by the famously irreverent Manneken Pis fountain.

Getting to Belgium

Belgium is well connected by air and rail. From the UK, numerous direct flights land at Brussels Airport, and several US cities also offer direct services. High-speed trains link Brussels with London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and many other major European cities, making it easy to travel from nearby countries.

Read

The Sorrow of Belgium by Hugo Claus, A Dog of Flanders by Marie Louise de la Ramée, and Niccolo Rising by Dorothy Dunnett

Listen

Quand on n'a que l'amour (Jacques Brel)

Watch

Carnival in Flanders (1935), L'enfant (2005), and In Bruges (2008)

Drink

Locally brewed Abbey beers

Eat

Belgian chocolate and Belgian waffles

Buy in Belgium

Belgian chocolate and handmade lace

Pack for Belgium

An umbrella; Belgium is known for wet weather at any time of the year.

What's on in Belgium

Brussels's annual Flower Show is a beautiful sight for any green-fingered visitor.

Some random facts

Belgians consume an average of 20 pounds (9kg) of chocolate, individually, every year.

A final word

Belgium is a small country that draws the best in culture from its neighbours for a fascinating blend of food, music and history.