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.
Electricity:
The electrical current in Belgium is 230 volts, 50Hz.
Types C and E plugs are the official standards, though Type F plugs
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, though
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 73F (23C) in summer to 45F (7C) during winter.
Health Notes when travelling to Belgium
All eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19
vaccines, and it's recommended that they're up to date with routine
vaccines as well. Medical facilities and care in Belgium are
excellent but expensive, so travellers are advised to take out
medical insurance. UK citizens should have a Global Health
Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the European Health Insurance
Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to
state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in
Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an
alternative to travel insurance.
Safety Notes when travelling to Belgium
Most visits to Belgium are trouble-free, but travellers should
be wary of street crimes such as mugging and pickpocketing in the
cities, 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
Among young locals, especially Francophones, girls rarely shake
hands but kiss other girls and boys. The number of kisses varies
depending on the region of Belgium, foreigners often have a hard
time determining which side to kiss first and how many kisses to
give. It's best to follow the Belgian's lead. The law requires
everyone to carry some form of official identification at all
times; possession of drugs and trafficking in drugs are serious
offences.
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 and have a keen sense of
style. dress should be conservative. Conservative yet stylish suits
are recommended for men; women should opt for stylish business
suits, or dresses and blouses.
Punctuality is extremely important at meetings, which will begin
and end with a quick, light handshake. It is standard practice that
all involved exchange business cards, and 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.
Visiting business people should 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 and tips are only left 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 should be valid for the period of intended
stay in Belgium. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days in
a half-year period.
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:
Irish nationals require a valid passport. No visa is
required.
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 intended period of stay. A visa is
required.
Tourist Offices
Belgian Tourist and Information Office, Brussels:
http://www.visitbelgium.com/
Belgium Embassies
In the United States:
Embassy of Belgium, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 333
6900.
In Canada:
Embassy of Belgium, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 7267.
In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Belgium, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7470
3700.
In Australia:
Embassy of Belgium, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 2501.
In Ireland:
Embassy of Belgium, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 631 5284.
In New Zealand:
Consulate of Belgium, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 974
9080.
In South Africa:
Belgium Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 440 3201.
Foreign Embassies in Belgium
American Embassy
Embassy of the United States, Brussels: +32 (0)2 811 4000.
Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 741 0611.
British Embassy
British Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 287 6211.
Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 286 0500.
Irish Embassy
Embassy of Ireland, Brussels: +32 (0)2 282 3400.
New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Brussels: +32 (0)2 512 1040.
South African Embassy
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
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.
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.
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.
Eat and drink safely
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 recognised by a blue and yellow sign.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include ATMs and bureaux de change, duty-free
shops, cafes and restaurants, a beauty shop, religious services,
train information and reservation, car rental offices, a travel
agency, and luggage lockers.
Parking:
The airport has a variety of parking options.
Antwerp International (ANR) Antwerp International Airport
http://www.brussels-charleroi-airport.com/en/flights/live
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.
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, though
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
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 cafe.
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 tinkle 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.
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 facade
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.
Galeries Royales Saint Hubert Brussels
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.
Website: http://www.grsh.be/en
Palais Royal Brussels
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.
Website: http://www.monarchie.be
Royal Museums of Fine Arts Brussels
Unmissable for art lovers, the Royal
Museums of Fine Arts are Brussels's premier art museums and
comprise the Musée Old Masters Museum, Musee Modern Museum, Musee
Wiertz Museum, Musee Meunier Museum, Musee Magritte Museum and the
new Musee Fin-de-Siecle 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 Rene Magritte, and houses more than 200 of his works,
while the new Musee Fin-de-Siecle Museum is dedicated to the 1900s
when Brussels was the capital of Art Nouveau.
Website: http://www.fine-arts-museum.be
Belgian Centre of Comic Strip Art Brussels
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, Herge'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.
Website: http://www.comicscenter.net/en/home
Royal Museum of Central Africa Brussels
Under the direction of King Leopold, the Belgian Congo sent
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 during the difficult colonial period. Today,
it immerses visitors in the very diverse nature of the African
continent and its cultural riches, and looks toward a lasting
relationship between Africa and Europe. The museum is situated on
beautiful grounds in the Flemish commune of Tervuren, just outside
of Brussels.
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.
European travellers can now fall asleep in Brussels and wake up in Prague with the launch of a new sleeper train service. The first ‘Good Night Train’ service from the European Sleeper start-up departs Belgium’s capital this evening (25 March) bound for the Czech
Brussels, long the realm of stuffy French restaurants packed with gray-flannel-suited diplomats, has suddenly gone bold and bright. Thanks to a crop of young chefs with iconoclastic ideas about flavor and sustainability, the city, in thrall to the rich sauces of Gaul for nearly two centuries, has emerged as one of the most exciting, and affordable, places to dine out in Europe right now. These
The Foreign Office is warning those heading to Belgium to expect delays on major roads as farmers ramp up their protests against EU-imposed farming practices
On this day in 1919, the governments of Belgium, Britain, France, Italy, the United States, and all allies on one side and Germany and Austria Hungary on the other signed the Treaty of Versailles in Paris, formally ending
Before visiting the Netherlands and Belgium in the springtime, my mind danced with thoughts of bicycling past sun-drenched landscapes dotted with tulips and windmills, nibbling Belgian chocolate and cheese along the way. Occasionally with travel, the reality
A couple abandoned their baby at an airport check-in desk in Tel Aviv, Israel after arriving without a ticket for the child. The pair, who have not been identified, were checking in for a Ryanair flight from Ben Gurion International Airport to Brussels, Belgium on Tuesday with the infant. It emerged
On this day in 1919, the governments of Belgium, Britain, France, Italy, the United States, and all allies on one side and Germany and Austria Hungary on the other signed the Treaty of Versailles
From accessible nature breaks to delicacies like fries and chocolate, medieval towns to trendsetting art scenes, there's something for everyone in Belgium.
On this day in 1919, the governments of Belgium, Britain, France, Italy, the United States, and all allies on one side and Germany and Austria Hungary on the other signed the Treaty of Versailles in
‘vlotkamp‘, dutch for ‘raftcamping’ is a small pop-up hotel by tobias knockaert & kika merlin on a lake in flanders, belgium. it features 8 rafts, only accessible by canoe
It was a fitting place for an industry in need of a miracle. In October, Air Belgium moved two planes to Lourdes, the Catholic sanctuary in France, to park up for the winter. The planes -- both Airbus A340-300s, of which the airline only has four in total -- have been parked at Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrenees airport for long-term storage
Gaëlle Simon, a check-in and boarding agent at Brussels Airport, Belgium, used to feel lucky to work at an airport.
"It's such a big and loving family," Simon tells CNN Travel. "Everyone feels connected with each other. Even with the passengers. Each day you come across so many beautiful people and stories in an airport. I never came home without something to tell."
When the people are away, the zoo animals will play — and it couldn’t be cuter. At the Pairi Daiza zoo in Brugelette, Belgium, which is currently closed for the forseeable future, a group of Asian small-clawed otters have found new friends within the zoo’s orangutan sanctuary, Metro reported. Sometimes, opposites do actually attract. The orangutan sanctuary is home to three primates: A male named
During the first year of World War I, forces along the Western Front (encompassing France, Belgium, and Germany) called an unoffical ceasefire to the hostilities for the holidays. It began with a British solider reporting at 8:30 PM on Christmas Eve that the Germany soldier had illunimated their trenches
The christening of Hapag-Lloyd's brand-new luxury expedition ship, Hanseatic Inspiration, will take place at the Port of Hamburg on Friday, October 11, 2019. The christening, which had previously been set two days later in the port of Antwerp, Belgium -- will be attended by invited guests who will take in the naming ceremony from Zodiacs floating
All-time temperature records have been smashed in Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands this week as another big heatwave strikes western Europe. The record-breaking temperatures come just weeks after an earlier heatwave caused travel chaos across the continent. The latest hot air mass stretches from the central Mediterranean to Scandinavia, pinned in place between two low
Norwegian Cruise Line is apologizing to customers for ending a cruise early due to technical difficulties. The Norwegian Pearl, which departed from Amsterdam, was set for a 13-day cruise with stops in Belgium, France, Spain and Monaco. However, the ship left its 2,732 passengers stranded in
On this day in 1919, the governments of Belgium, Britain, France, Italy, the United States, and all allies on one side and Germany and Austria Hungary on the other signed the Treaty of Versailles in
Visitors to Belgium inevitably make a beeline for Bruges. The fairy-tale city, with its canals and cobbles, is certainly pretty – but is increasingly falling victim to its own popularity. More than eight million tourists went there last year, raising concerns about the sort of overcrowding seen in cities like Venice and Barcelona. But
A ring-necked duck swam by at eye level, the water rippling beside me without spilling over the high metal sides of the Cycling Through Water bike path. This 212-metre concrete path is 1.5 metres deep and slices a pond in two, allowing cyclists to pedal straight through it. From a distance, the position of the path creates the illusion of people magically gliding
Bruges! Everyone who travels to the Flemish-speaking part of Belgium rushes directly to that fabled city, with its medieval core, canals and moules frites. But less than 30 miles to the east, the less-visited city of Ghent packs in every one of those appeals and much else. Politically to the left, eco-friendly and a touch bohemian, the city has its own scenic waterways
Little Bruges, the perfect pocket-sized medieval city, was a Sleeping Beauty. Laced with canals, it was one of the great North European trading ports in late medieval times. The magnificently detailed paintings of its artists, such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling, record its wealth in clothing, jewellery and ornament. Then it fell rapidly into decline and slept until
“Thirsty?” asks the flight attendant as she hands me a blue bottle. I twist the cap and sip the crisp, slightly acidic water. One look at the label, Spa Reine, and I wonder if the advertising gods are tracking me. Spa. That’s where I am headed. No, not to the spa — to the Belgian town. Last year, after several grueling weeks spent juggling teenagers, dogs and deadlines, I sat at
Karin Kemp thought she'd done everything she could to not look like a tourist in Belgium. She wore muted clothes, learned helpful phrases in French and Flemish, and did her best to blend in. Still, Americans would stop her on the street to ask for directions.
Ryanair cabin crew from five countries will hold a coordinated one-day strike on 28 September. Unions from Spain, Italy, Portugal, the Netherlands and Belgium have confirmed the 24-hour stoppage will go ahead after months...
This selection of breweries and bars underlines Belgium’s place as a beer hotspot and may whet your appetite for the BXLBeerFest at the end of August. A stone’s throw from the Grand Place, in the middle of touristy bars and fast-food joints, The Sister has a stock of more than 70 organic Belgian brews from €3, with handy tasting trays of four drafts for €10. The drinks
Ryanair pilots in Germany, Sweden, Belgium and Ireland have voted to stage a 24-hour strike on Friday 10 August, grounding 396 flights and wrecking the travel plans of around 70,000 passengers. The walkout is part of an ongoing dispute over working conditions, which has already seen pilots who are members of the Irish trade union FORSA stage four separate one-day strikes.
On this day in 1919, the governments of Belgium, Britain, France, Italy, the United States, and all allies on one side and Germany and Austria Hungary on the other signed the Treaty of Versailles in Paris, formally ending World War I. The terrible war lasted 37 days short of 5 years.
That said, where Crystal really stands out from the competition is on the ship. After a long day in port, the first thing that greets you on the third deck of the Bach is a charming café offering French-press coffee and shaken Zotter hot chocolate—not to mention apple strudels and sandwiches.
Yes, today is Belgium’s National Day; far from being a bureaucratic bolthole of a country, squished between the Netherlands and France (with Germany and Luxembourg for extra neighbourly company), it can be an enclave of surprises and even excitements
The Gaspe (gas-PAY) Peninsula is an extension of Quebec province roughly the size of Belgium that's bordered on the north by the St. Lawrence River and extends into the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It's got coastline, mountains, renowned salmon fishing and trees that turn brilliant colors in October
On this day in 1919, the governments of Belgium, Britain, France, Italy, the United States, and all allies on one side and Germany and Austria Hungary on the other signed the Treaty of Versailles in Paris
Packing to cover a nine-day presidential trip with stops in four countries — Saudi Arabia, Israel, Belgium and Italy — is a bit more complicated than packing for your typical family vacation. So what are White House correspondents Peter Baker, Mark Landler and I taking with us when we accompany President Trump on his first official foreign trip?
A slump in visitors to Belgium is anticipated following this week's terror attacks. Antony Mason, our Brussels expert, offers 30 good reasons to keep the country in your travel plans
PampO Cruises has made the decision to cancel Britannia's call to Zeebrugge this Saturday (March 27) as a result of yesterday's terrorist attacks in Brussels
Authorities in Europe have tightened security at airports, on subways, at the borders and on city streets after deadly attacks Tuesday on the Brussels airport and its subway system. At least 28 people were killed in Belgium. With Brussels on lockdown and the French prime minister saying that Europe is "at war," European leaders held emergency security meetings and deployed more police, explosives experts, sniffer dogs and plainclothes officers at key points across the bloc
Vast as a sea and deep as an ocean trench, Russia's Lake Baikal is one of the world's great natural wonders. With a surface area bigger than Belgium, it contains nearly one quarter of all the world's freshwater, which is more than the five American Great Lakes combined
Traveling to many of the landmarks and cities important to van Gogh’s artistic life, including Montmartre in Paris, the Borinage in Belgium and Auvers-sur-Oise, where he died at 37.
The Dutch city of Arnhem is not a name that springs to mind when thinking of Europe’s major transport hubs. But with its sleek new railway station now in place, the city is poised to become a crucial transport link between the economic centres of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.
Avalon Waterways will next year debut the Avalon Passion on the Danube River and Avalon Imagery II on the Rhine, as well as offer two new itineraries in Holland and Belgium
Brussels has long been Europe's ugly duckling; romantics prefer Paris and hipsters prefer Berlin. Bashed about by brutalist architects and town planners in the 1960s and 1970s, its clumsy redevelopment even spawned a new word, "Brusselisation". Yet lately the Belgian capital has been enjoying a discreet renaissance