Overview of Belgium
It may be a little country, but it is a lovely one, so it is sad that Belgium is often overlooked when travellers plan a trip to Europe. Tucked between the desirable and obvious destinations of London, Paris, and Amsterdam, Belgium is usually treated as a stepping stone to the English Channel or, at most, a quick stop-over for a look-see in the capital, Brussels.
Beyond the city of Brussels, with its historic Gothic buildings and tall European Union office blocks, is a treasure-trove of undiscovered lazy seaside towns and the inland wooded gorges of the splendid Ardennes, sprinkled with medieval castles and steeped in folklore.
The medieval city of Bruges has character and charm galore with a rich architectural heritage, graceful canals, winding waterways, and cobbled streets, proving a favourite with visitors. Belgium is a country that has inspired many artists and writers with the charm of its Gothic cathedrals, town halls, gabled guildhouses, and rich museums.
After a busy day exploring it all, evenings are best spent experiencing Belgium's fantastic cuisine and delighting in the country's variety of 300-odd brews of beer. Belgians have a reputation for their gracious hospitality, no doubt due in part to the country's location, which has created an international crossroads for commerce and culture. Despite this, Belgium and its distinct regions of Flemish Flanders (north) and French Wallonia (south) has proudly preserved its traditions and identity.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The Flemish, in the north, speak Dutch; the Walloons in the south speak French. Brussels is bilingual, the majority of citizens speaking French. In the east, there is a small German-speaking community. English is also spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
-
The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. Nationals of non-EU countries are recommended to hold return or onward tickets, sufficient funds and documents for their next destination. It is recommended that passports are valid for six months after departure from any holiday destination.
- Currency:
-
The Belgian currency is the Euro (EUR). International credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are available in all towns and cities. Banks are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5:30pm, and are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Some banks close for an hour during lunch. There are, however, some foreign exchange offices that trade on Sundays.
- Electricity:
- The electrical current in Belgium is 230 volts, 50Hz. Standard European-style two-pin plugs will work. Three pin plugs, with a male grounding pin, can also be used.
Travel to Belgium
Overview
When it comes to world-class attractions and exciting sightseeing options, Belgium packs a mighty punch for a country of such modest proportions. Visitors can easily drift from the heavyweight attractions and cosmopolitan thrills of the capital city, Brussels, to the medieval charms of Bruges and the lesser-known historical treasures of Ghent. In between, they will find welcoming people, great food and Europe's finest beer and chocolates to luxuriate in.
Belgium is a year-round destination, although the countryside is prettiest during the summer months of April to October. The transport infrastructure is excellent, which makes getting around a pleasure. This is not a country to see from the confines of a tour bus, however. Visitors need to get out on foot and explore the cobbled streets framed by medieval buildings, rent a bicycle and ride into the countryside along a canal, or simply spend an afternoon on Grand Place watching the world go by. Whatever mode they choose to explore the pleasures of Belgium, spending some time here will reward visitors with some of Europe's most underrated and wonderful attractions.
Climate in Belgium
The Belgium climate is temperate, with warm weather in summer (May to September) and cool to cold weather in winter (December to February). There is also a possibility of snow, which is always an exciting winter prospect. Generally, visitors can expect a maritime climate and a high average annual rainfall. Visitors can also expect thundershowers at any time of year, so it's always best visitors pack a raincoat or an umbrella. Temperatures range from highs of around 73°F (23°C) in summer to 45°F (7°C) during winter.
Health Notes when travelling to Belgium
No vaccinations are required for travel to Belgium. Medical facilities and care in Belgium are excellent but expensive, so travellers are advised to take out medical insurance. UK citizens receive emergency medical care for a reduced cost, but should have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to qualify.
Safety Notes when travelling to Belgium
Most visits to Belgium are trouble-free. But travellers should be wary of street crime in the cities, such as mugging and pickpocketing, particularly in Brussels at major railway stations and on public transport. Brussels is home to a number of international organisations, including EU and NATO, which could become the target of indiscriminate terrorist attacks.
Customs in Belgium
Belgium law requires everyone to carry some form of official identification at all times.
Duty Free in Belgium
Travellers to Belgium arriving from non-EU countries are allowed to enter the country with the following items without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 1 litre spirits over 22 percent in alcohol or 2 litres of dessert wine 22 percent in alcohol and sparkling wine, as well as 4 litres wine and 16 litres of beer; and other goods such as souvenirs to the value of €430. Prohibited items include unpreserved meat products.
Doing Business in Belgium
Belgians are very formal in business, enjoy a great deal of personal space, and are generally reserved and extremely private. Dress should be conservative: dark suits are acceptable, with a high importance placed on neatness.
Punctuality is extremely important at meetings, which will begin and end with a quick, light handshake with all involved and exchanging business cards is standard practice. It is recommended that cards are printed in English, with the other side translated in either French or Dutch, depending on the main language of the region where business is to take place.
It is a good idea to research beforehand whether a business is French or Dutch-speaking. Compromise is very important in Belgian business culture and may be required as a show of friendship. Business hours are generally 9am to 5pm.
Communication in Belgium
The international access code for Belgium is +32. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Tipping in Belgium
Service charges are included in bills in Belgium and tipping is not necessary, unless for exceptional service.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. Nationals of non-EU countries are recommended to hold return or onward tickets, sufficient funds and documents for their next destination. It is recommended that passports are valid for six months after departure from any holiday destination.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
-
US nationals must have a passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Canadians must have a passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
British passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and 'British Overseas Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar, only need to be valid for period of intended stay in Belgium. All other endorsements require at least three months validity beyond the period of intended stay in Belgium.
A visa is not required for passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and 'British Overseas Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days in a half-year period for holders of passports with any other endorsement. Holders of identity cards issued by Gibraltar authories, and endorsed 'Validated for EU travel purposes under the authority of the United Kingdom', do not require a visa to visit Belgium.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
-
Australian nationals must have a passport valid for at least three months beyond period of stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond intended period of stay. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
-
South African nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay. A Schengen visa is required and should be obtained before travel. South African temporary passports are not recognised.
Tourist Offices
Belgian Tourist and Information Office, Brussels: http://www.visitbelgium.com/
Belgium Embassies
- In the United States:
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Embassy of Belgium, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 333 6900.
- In Canada:
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Embassy of Belgium, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 7267.
- In the United Kingdom:
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Embassy of Belgium, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7470 3700.
- In Australia:
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Embassy of Belgium, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 2501.
- In Ireland:
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Embassy of Belgium, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 631 5284.
- In New Zealand:
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Consulate of Belgium, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 974 9080.
- In South Africa:
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Belgium Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 440 3201.
Foreign Embassies in Belgium
- American Embassy
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Embassy of the United States, Brussels: +32 (0)2 811 4000.
- Canadian Embassy
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Canadian Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 741 0611.
- British Embassy
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British Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 287 6211.
- Australian Embassy
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Australian Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 286 0500.
- Irish Embassy
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Embassy of Ireland, Brussels: +32 (0)2 282 3400.
- New Zealand Embassy
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New Zealand Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 512 1040.
- South African Embassy
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South African Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 285 4400.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Belgium
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hide Vaccines and Medicines
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.
| | Find Out Why | Protect Yourself |
All travelers You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel. |
| Routine vaccines | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. |   |
Some travelers Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US. |
| Hepatitis A | Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Belgium, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you. |  |
| Hepatitis B | You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures. |   |
| Rabies | Rabies is present in bats in Belgium. However, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups: - Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
|  |
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Belgium, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies is present in bats in Belgium. However, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:
- Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
Key
- Get vaccinated
- Eat and drink safely
- Keep away from animals
- Reduce your exposure to germs
- Avoid sharing body fluids
- Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment
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Hide Stay Healthy and Safe
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Belgium, so your behaviors are important.
Food and water standards in Belgium are similar to those in the United States. Most travelers do not need to take special food or water precautions beyond what they normally do at home.
Hide Although Belgium is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Hide If your travel plans in Belgium include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity in the heat of the day.
- If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Hide Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Hide Reduce your exposure to germs
Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Hide Avoid sharing body fluids
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Hide Know how to get medical care while traveling
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
- Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Belgium’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
Hide Select safe transportation
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Make sure there are seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in Belgium, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
Hide Maintain personal security
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
Hide Top
Hide Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Belgium for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
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Hide Travel Health Notices
Be aware of current health issues in Belgium. Learn how to protect yourself.
Watch Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions
Top
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.
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Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The Belgian currency is the Euro (EUR). International credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are available in all towns and cities. Banks are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5:30pm, and are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Some banks close for an hour during lunch. There are, however, some foreign exchange offices that trade on Sundays.
Brussels International (BRU)
Brussels International Airport
http://www.brusselsairport.be
Location: Brussels The airport is located eight miles (12km) northeast of the city centre.
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from April to October).
Contacts:
Tel: +32 2 753 7753
Getting to the city:
The train station is located on the basement level that connects to Brussels and other major national and international destinations. A bus station is below the arrivals hall, and there are several lines that connect to different places in the city. There are also buses that serve Brussels Airport to Antwerp. An airport bus link also operates between the Brussels railway lines and the airport. There are licensed, metered taxis available outside the Arrivals hall.
Car rental:
Major car hire companies are represented at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Sixt, Europecar, Enterprise, and Hertz; their desks are in the arrivals hall.
Airport Taxis:
From Brussels International Airport metered taxis are available outside the Arrivals hall. Licensed Taxis are recommended and can be recognized by a blue and yellow sign.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include ATMs and bureaux de change, duty-free shops, cafés/restaurants, a beauty shop, religious services, train information and reservation, car rental offices, a travel agency, and luggage lockers.
Parking:
The Fast Zone Parking Lot is immediately across from the terminal building. Prices here begin at €5 for thirty minutes. The short-term P1 and P2 Lots charge €4 per hour, with prices increasing thereafter. The Economy Lot is good for long-term parking (up to a week), costing €20 per day.
Antwerp International (ANR)
Antwerp International Airport
http://www.antwerpairport.be
Location: Antwerp The airport is located three miles (5km) east of central Antwerp.
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from March to October).
Contacts:
Tel: +32 (0)3 285 6500.
Getting to the city:
Buses 51, 52 and 53 leave towards Antwerp Central Station regularly. Taxis are available outside arrivals.
Car rental:
Sixt and Hertz operate from the airport.
Airport Taxis:
Metered taxis are available outside the airport.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include a bank, restaurant, duty-free shopping, conference rooms, and a business lounge.
Parking:
Parking is available at the airport.
Charleroi Airport (CRL)
Brussels South Charleroi Airport
http://www.charleroi-airport.com
Location: Brussels Brussels South Charleroi Airport is 43 miles (69km) from the city.
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from March to October).
Contacts:
+32 78 15 27 22
Getting to the city:
There is access to Brussels from Charleroi Brussels South airport by car, train, taxi, or shuttle coach. The highway network connects the airport to northern France and the Netherlands.
Car rental:
Rental companies include Avis, Europcar, Sixt, and Hertz.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are always available outside the passenger terminal and may offer a fixed price to certain destinations. The city is about an hour drive from the airport. Taxi companies include Sympatax, Rapidtax, Idealtax, and Taxis Carolo.
Facilities:
Facilities include shops, bars and restaurants, free wifi throughout the terminal, and a VIP lounge. ATMs are located in both terminals.
Parking:
There are a few parking options at Charleroi Airport, encompassing express, locked, long-term, and short-term arrangements.
Overview of the Attractions in Belgium
When it comes to world-class attractions and exciting sightseeing options, Belgium packs a mighty punch for a country of such modest proportions. Visitors can easily drift from the heavyweight attractions and cosmopolitan thrills of the capital city, Brussels, to the medieval charms of Bruges and the lesser-known historical treasures of Ghent. In between, they will find welcoming people, great food and Europe's finest beer and chocolates to luxuriate in.
Belgium is a year-round destination, although the countryside is prettiest during the summer months of April to October. The transport infrastructure is excellent, which makes getting around a pleasure. This is not a country to see from the confines of a tour bus, however. Visitors need to get out on foot and explore the cobbled streets framed by medieval buildings, rent a bicycle and ride into the countryside along a canal, or simply spend an afternoon on Grand Place watching the world go by. Whatever mode they choose to explore the pleasures of Belgium, spending some time here will reward visitors with some of Europe's most underrated and wonderful attractions.
Grand Place (Central Square)
Brussels
Opening time: 24 hours
Admission: Free
The Grand Place is the beating heart of Brussels and has been since the Middle Ages. One of Europe's more beautiful squares, it lies at the centre of a maze of small cobbled streets and is surrounded by richly decorated 17th century Baroque Guildhouses, various Neo-Gothic buildings and museums. But it is the town hall, a magnificent Gothic building, that dominates the square. Markets, flower stalls, and various events are held here and this is the place to get to grips with the essence of Brussels, perhaps over a local delicacy at a pavement café.
Getting there: Catch the Metro to get to the Grand Place. Metro stop: Centrale, Bourse (pre-metro) or De Broukere.
Address: 1000 Brussels
Website: http://www.brussels.be/grand-place-brussels
Manneken-Pis
Brussels
Admission: Free
This distinctive statue of a naked boy urinating is thought to represent Brussels's irreverent spirit. History has many tales about its beginnings, with one especially whimsical story having a witch curse a boy to pee for eternity after seeing him pee on her front door. The local tradition is to dress the tiny bronze statue at special occasions, and his wardrobe contains more than 800 costumes. The most expensive of them was a gift from Louis XV of France, though the statue has some modern outfits, too, such as a Mickey Mouse costume. As the cheeky fountain is one of the most popular attractions in Brussels, visitors can expect large crowds at most times of day, particularly during tourist season.
Getting there: Catch the Metro to get to the Grand Place. Metro stop: Centrale, Bourse (pre-metro) or De Broukere.
Address: Rue de l’Etuve 31, located two blocks behind the Town Hall at Grand Place
Website: http://www.brussels.info/peeing-boy
Hotel de Ville
Brussels
Brussels's town hall is rated as one of the most splendid civic buildings in Europe. The foundations were laid in 1402 and survived the bombing during World War II when most of the other buildings on the Grand Place were destroyed. The façade is embellished with gargoyles and images of nobility, while atop the intricate 100 metre-high tower stands a fine statue of St Michael, patron saint of Brussels. Guided tours are available for a small fee and are well worth it to see the fine tapestries and miscellaneous works of art inside.
Getting there: Catch the Metro to get to the Grand Place. Metro stop: Centrale, Bourse (pre-metro) or De Broukere.
Address: Grand Place, 1000 Bruxelles
Website: http://www.brussels.be
Galeries Royales Saint Hubert
Brussels
Opening time: Varied times depending on stores. Check website for details.
Admission: Free
Mall lovers everywhere should make a pilgrimage to the Galeries Royales Saint Hubert, the very first shopping arcade in Europe. Opened in 1847, the arcade became a drawcard for the elite of 19th century society and today continues to inspire shoppers and browsers alike. People from across the globe, young and old, enjoy perusing here and everyone will find something to their taste.
The architectural marvel has arcaded shop fronts across two floors that are separated by pilasters, conceived in the Cinquecento style of the 16th century Italian Renaissance. The roof above is made of arched glass panes, connected by a delicate cast-iron framework. Visitors will find cafes, restaurants, a theatre and a cinema between the various shops. With so much to see and do here, this attraction is family friendly and one the kids will enjoy too.
Address: Galerie du Roi 5, 1000 Bruxelles
Telephone: +32 545 09 90
Website: http://www.grsh.be/en
Palais Royal
Brussels
Admission: Free
Belgium's magnificent Royal Palace was finished in the 19th century and is the official residence of the Belgian Royal family. Today, the king and his family live at the Royal Palace of Laeken on the outskirts of Brussels, with the city-based property hosting official functions and serving other ceremonial purposes. The palace is positioned in front of Brussels Park (itself well worth exploring) and directly opposite the modern Parliament building, as if symbolically representing the country's system of government: a constitutional monarchy. Tours are only possible in summer and commence after the National Holiday on 21 July. Inside are a multitude of historical artefacts and some impressive contemporary art, commissioned by Queen Paola of Belgium in 2002.
Address: Rue Brederode 16
Website: http://www.monarchie.be
Royal Museums of Fine Arts
Brussels
Opening time: Weekdays 10am-5pm, Weekends 11am-6pm. Closed on Mondays.
Admission: €15 for all museums.
Unmissable for art lovers, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts are Brussels's premier art museums and comprise the Musée Old Masters Museum, Musée Modern Museum, Musée Wiertz Museum, Musée Meunier Museum, Musée Magritte Museum and the new Musée Fin-de-Siècle Museum. The largest of them is the Old Masters Museum. Opened in 1887, it features the best collection of Flemish art in the world, with highlights including works by Van Dyck and over 20 paintings by Rubens. The Museum of Modern Art was opened in 1984 and includes fine examples from Belgium's best artists over the past century, plus modern legends such as Francis Bacon. The Magritte Museum is devoted to works of famous Belgian Surrealist René Magritte, and houses more than 200 of his works, while the new Musée Fin-de-Siècle Museum is dedicated to the 1900s when Brussels was the capital of Art Nouveau.
Getting there: Public bus services 27, 29, 38, 71, 95
Address: Rue de la Régence 3
Website: http://www.fine-arts-museum.be
Belgian Centre of Comic Strip Art
Brussels
Opening time: Tuesday to Sunday 10am-6pm
Admission: €10 adults, €7 visitors 12-25. Other concessions available.
Belgium's love of wacky humour and comic book art come together in this wonderful museum, housed in a fabulous Art Nouveau building designed by one of the pioneers of modern Belgium architecture, Victor Horta. Permanent exhibitions detail the history of European comic strips, while ever-changing temporary exhibitions focus on specific artists, time periods and political contexts. Visitors can see plenty of its most famous subject, Hergé's Tintin, as well as the Smurfs and art from over 670 cartoonists. As cartooning is now considered an art form worthy of serious consideration, the museum aims to trace the history and development of the discipline rather than simply to entertain. Guided tours are available for larger groups.
Address: Rue des Sables 20
Telephone: +32 2 219 1980
Website: http://www.comicscenter.net/en/home
Royal Museum of Central Africa
Brussels
Opening time: Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm; Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm
Admission: €12 (adults). Concessions are available
Under the direction of King Leopold, the Belgian Congo returned fantastic riches to Belgium in the 19th century. Yet the people of that colony paid a terrible price. This museum was founded to explore the relationship between European colonial powers and the people they subjugated.
Recent exhibits have broadened the museum's focus to include environmental issues and ethnography in Africa, Asia, and South America. The museum is situated on beautiful grounds in the Flemish commune of Tervuren, just outside of Brussels.
Address: Leuvensesteenweg 1302
Telephone: +32 2 769 5211
Website: http://www.africamuseum.be
Flanders Battlefield Tours
During World War I, the medieval town of Ypres in the Flanders region of Belgium was the epicentre of fighting on the Western Front, and the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the entire conflict. Flanders Battlefield Tours, run by an informed and knowledgeable group of Great War scholars, ensure that the memory of that lost generation is preserved and respected. The tour has been roundly celebrated for the vividness of the battle accounts, much of the information supplemented by personal artefacts, such as old maps, photographs, diary extracts and poems.
Visitors are sure to be awed, spending time in areas where, on average, every square metre of earth witnessed the death of 35 young men. This solemn, moving and important experience has been described by travellers as the best of its kind in Europe.
Website: http://www.ypres-fbt.com
Choco-Story Museum
Bruges
Chocolate lovers can't take a holiday to Bruges without stopping at the Choco-Story Museum, which details the history of chocolate dating back to the Aztecs and Mayans in 250 BC, and also demonstrates how the raw ingredients of cocoa are turned into the sweet treats everyone loves. Of course, each tour includes a tasting session and plenty of time in the gift shop. It's tempting to buy right then and there, but visitors should keep in mind that Bruges has more than 40 chocolate shops throughout the city. Guests are sure to leave the museum with a deep appreciation for where chocolate originally came from, and what the secret of great chocolate is.
Website: http://www.choco-story-brugge.be/en/
Bruges Diamond Museum
Bruges
Bruges has a long history of diamond polishing, going back to 1450 when local goldsmith Lodewijk van Berquem invented the modern technique of using diamond powder on a rotating disk. The Bruges Diamond Museum's (Diamantmuseum Brugge) variety of exhibits cover the history and techniques of diamond cutting and polishing, mining, setting diamonds and the evolution of the diamond trade over several centuries. Visitors can view live polishing demonstrations each day and the institution often hosts temporary exhibitions of famous stones and jewellery. The gift shop stocks rough and synthetic diamonds, as well as more reasonably-priced souvenirs.
Website: http://www.diamondmuseum.be
Groeninge Museum
Bruges
Considered one of Bruges's best museums, the Groeninge Museum houses a large collection of fine art going back to the 15th century, including works by famous Flemish painters Jan van Eyck, Hieronymus Bosch, Rogier van der Weyden and Hans Memling. Though some of the works are from recent years, the museum's collection focuses exclusively on works with classical techniques and has some exquisite pieces for visitors to marvel at. Many of its paintings are looked on as milestones in the history of European art. For fans of classical art and those wishing to gain an insight into Belgian and European life in the past, this museum is certainly not to be missed.
Website: bezoekers.brugge.be/nl/groeningemuseum
Public Holidays in Belgium
| |
2020 |
2021 |
| Armistice Day |
Tue. November 11 |
Tue. November 11 |
| New Year's Day |
Wed. January 1 |
Wed. January 1 |
| Easter Monday |
Sun. April 13 |
Sat. April 5 |
| Labour Day |
Thu. May 1 |
Thu. May 1 |
| Ascension Day |
Wed. May 21 |
Tue. May 13 |
| Whit Monday |
Sun. June 1 |
Sat. May 24 |
| National Day |
Mon. July 21 |
Mon. July 21 |
| Assumption of the Virgin Mary |
Fri. August 15 |
Fri. August 15 |
| All Saints' Day |
Sat. November 1 |
Sat. November 1 |
| Christmas Day |
Thu. December 25 |
Thu. December 25 |
