Belgium

The Land of Waffles, Beer and Chocolate

Belgium is a country in Western Europe between Germany, France and the Netherlands. The capital is Brussels and is known for its beautiful medieval towns, including Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, and Ghent, which all play home to some stunning architecture.

Belgium trip also boasts gorgeous countryside in its hilly, wooded south and flatter north area.

Gaufre de Bruxelles (the Brussels waffle) is famous in Belgium, including beers and chocolates. And you can’t miss the architectural Grand Place, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares.

Interesting fact:

Audrey Hepburn was born in Brussels.

The creation of the waffle originated in Belgium.

Godiva and Côte d’Or chocolate originated in Belgium.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Belgium with the perfect weather is April, May, June, September and October.

Climate:

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate. Summers are relatively cool and humid, whereas winters are relatively mild and rainy.

Spring starts in April and ends in June – Mid Season

Summer begins in July and ends in August – High Season

Winter begins in November and extends until March – Low Season

Belgium has a pleasant maritime climate influenced by the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, with cool summers and moderate winters.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Language: The official language is Dutch, French, and German

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Banks & ATMs:

The leading Belgian banks are ING Belgium and KBC, and all central banks in Belgium offer their services in French, Dutch, and English.

Most banks in Belgium open between 9:00-17:30, sometimes closing for around an hour for lunch.

Plugs and Sockets:

There are two plug types, C and E.

Plug type C is the plug that has two round pins, and plug type E is the plug that has two round pins and a hole for the socket’s male earthing pin.

Belgium operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Highly recommended to carry a universal adaptor

Safety:

Belgium is safe to visit as crime rates are low. Be vigilant for petty theft and pickpocketing.

Flight Connections:

There are five airports in Belgium, the biggest being Brussels (BRU) / Brussels Airport (Zaventem Airport), with flights to 195 destinations in 74 countries.

Most full-service and low-cost carriers fly into Brussels, Antwerp, Ostend and Liege.

If travelling out of London, there are some great airfares with EasyJet UK

For other international destinations, search Skyscanner.