planning a trip to
Belgium
Here is what you need to know: Belgium Travel Guide
Belgium is a marvelous country to explore, offering a delightful mix of chocolate, beer, and fries, which many of us associate with its culture. However, it is also a country rich in history and plays a significant role in the European Union.
The towns of Belgium are renowned for their stunning architecture, particularly around their central squares. If you’re a fan of medieval architecture, it is a destination you shouldn’t miss. Most travelers visit Brussels, the capital, and Bruges, one of the country’s most charming towns.
But if you venture further, you’ll uncover hidden gems tucked away in this beautiful country.
Let’s discover the best of Belgium in this Travel Guide!
About
Belgium, country located in Europe, remains a constitutional monarchy, with the Royal Family residing in Brussels. Despite its relatively small size of 30,689 km², the country is home to a population of 11.5 million people.
It is one of the six founding countries of the European Union. Its capital, Brussels, serves as a major hub for European politics, hosting the official seats of the European Commission, the Council of the European Union, and the European Council. Additionally, Brussels is one of the two homes of the European Parliament, sharing this role with Strasbourg.
The black, gold, and red colors of Belgium’s flag are symbolic of the country’s coat of arms. Black represents the shield, gold symbolizes the lion, and red signifies the lion’s claws and tongue. The vertical layout of the flag is inspired by the French Tricolore.
Belgium is home to over 2,000 chocolatiers, making it a leading competitor to Switzerland in the world of chocolate. While visiting, indulging in some of Belgium’s renowned chocolates is an absolute must for any traveler!
Belgium is also famous for its beers, with approximately 224 active breweries, making it one of the world’s top producers. Belgians are not just producers but avid consumers as well, drinking an average of 84 liters of beer per person each year!
Many of the world’s most famous comics are Belgian and French, with the majority originating in Belgium and written in French. Iconic series such as Lucky Luke, Tintin, Asterix, and The Smurfs all hail from Belgium and remain some of the most beloved comics worldwide.
What to expect?
Language: Belgium has two main languages: Dutch, spoken by the Flemish community (approximately 60% of the population), and French, spoken by about 40% of the population.
Food: Belgian cuisine is famous for its mussels and fries (moules-frites), a must-try dish! And don’t forget the iconic Belgian waffles, which are equally famous and delicious.
Transportation: The main modes of transportation are buses and trains, which are reliable and easy to use. They provide extensive coverage, making it simple to travel anywhere you need to go within the country.
Money: The currency is the Euro (€). Most places accept credit cards, and ATMs are widely available. If you’re traveling from outside the EU, consider using services like Wise to save on currency conversion fees.
Plugs: The plugs in Belgium are type C/E, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz, consistent with most European countries. Make sure to bring an adapter if your devices require a different plug type.
Safety: Belgium is generally a safe country for all types of travelers. However, as in most places, it’s wise to be cautious of pickpockets in larger cities and crowded areas. By taking basic precautions, you can enjoy a worry-free trip.
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