Belgium blends medieval towns, contemporary culture, and an easy-going way of life at the heart of Europe. You can explore grand squares, art museums, canals, and castles within a compact, manageable country.
Discover Belgium
Discover Belgium
Why visit Belgium?
What to expect
You will find elegant boulevards in Brussels, storybook streets in Bruges, fashion and design in Antwerp, and history-rich battlefields in Wallonia. Efficient rail links make it simple to explore several cities in one trip.
Plan your trip
Use Brussels as your base for exploring Belgium and nearby European capitals by rail. The country is ideal for short city breaks or a longer journey that connects Northern France, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Top experiences in Belgium
Grand-Place, Brussels
Stand in the UNESCO-listed Grand-Place and admire the ornate guildhalls and Town Hall that frame one of Europe’s most impressive squares.
Bruges canals and medieval core
Wander Bruges’s cobbled lanes, climb the Belfry, then see the city from a different angle on a tranquil canal boat tour.
Antwerp’s fashion and diamond districts
Browse Antwerp’s boutiques and design stores, then learn about centuries of craftsmanship in the historic diamond quarter.
Flanders First World War sites
Visit Ypres and the battlefields of Flanders to walk preserved trenches, memorials, and museums that share moving stories of the First World War.
Ghent’s riverside charm
Explore Ghent’s medieval towers and riverside houses, then take a relaxing boat ride along the Graslei and Korenlei quays.
Historic castles and citadels
Discover fairytale castles and hilltop citadels across Wallonia, with panoramic views and walking trails in the surrounding countryside.
Coastal escapes on the North Sea
Ride the coastal tram between seaside towns, enjoying sandy beaches, seafood, and fresh sea air along Belgium’s North Sea coast.
Experience Belgium’s way of life
Getting around
Belgium’s extensive rail network links Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, and Liège with frequent services. Trams, buses, and cycling paths make it simple to move around cities and reach nearby towns.
Local life & culture
Daily life flows around neighbourhood squares, cafés, and local festivals, with three main language communities shaping regional character. You will notice distinct identities in Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels, all connected by a shared love of art and convivial city streets.
Where to unwind
Head into the Ardennes for forest walks and riverside trails, or relax in city parks such as Brussels’s Parc de Bruxelles and Antwerp’s urban green spaces. Spa towns and quiet countryside villages offer a slower pace between city visits.
A taste of Belgium
National dishes & specialties
Try classics such as moules-frites, comforting stews, and crisp Belgian frites, often best enjoyed in Brussels and coastal towns. Each region adds its own twist, from rich sauces in Wallonia to refined plates in Flanders.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges, you will find brasseries, bistros, and contemporary restaurants serving both Belgian favourites and international flavours. Food halls and relaxed neighbourhood spots make it easy to dine well between sightseeing.
Signature & scenic dining
Choose canal-side restaurants in Bruges, rooftop views in Brussels, or stylish dining rooms in Antwerp’s historic buildings for memorable meals. Many places pair seasonal menus with an extensive selection of Belgian beers and refined desserts.
Retail therapy in Belgium
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Explore central shopping districts in Brussels and Antwerp, where covered galleries, department stores, and malls offer international labels alongside Belgian brands. Modern retail hubs often sit close to historic streets and cultural sights.
Markets & local crafts
Browse weekend markets and antique stalls in Brussels, Ghent, and Liège for books, vintage finds, and handmade pieces. Smaller towns specialise in regional crafts, from lace and textiles to ceramics and design objects.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets in Brussels and Antwerp stay lively with illuminated window displays and late-opening boutiques on selected nights. Seasonal fairs and winter markets add an atmospheric backdrop to evening strolls.
Best time to visit Belgium
Spring (April to June) is a shoulder season, with mild days around 10–18°C (50–64°F), blooming parks, and fewer crowds in major cities. Summer (July to August) is the peak season, with temperatures typically 18–25°C (64–77°F), longer days, and many outdoor events. Autumn and winter (November to March) are the low season, with cooler temperatures from 2–10°C (36–50°F), quieter attractions, and festive markets brightening the shorter days.