Belgium holidays

Popular holidays

Holidays to Belgium are about good food, world-renowned beer and cities that are sprinkled with stunning architecture.

North and south

Belgium is a country that’s seen its share of drama over the years – its placement between France, Germany and the Netherlands has led to it being a battleground in Roman, Napoleonic and 20th-century times. These days there’s only a slightly frosty rivalry between the north and south of the country – the northern region, Flanders, speaks Flemish, while the southern area, Wallonia, has a distinctly more French feel. And if you look to the east, there’s even a small pocket where you’ll hear the locals speak German as their mother tongue.

City break VIPs

A big wedge of Belgium’s visitors makes a beeline for Brussels when drawing up their plans, and for good reason. The capital has a city centre that’s brimming with Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture – check out the UNESCO-ticked main square, Grand Place, for the best of it. Elsewhere, canal-threaded Bruges has held on to much of its medieval charm, and Antwerp is becoming a popular spot for art and fashion buffs. History lovers head to once war-torn Ypres for a dose of sobering First World War reflection, and up-and-coming Ghent flies under the radar despite having first-rate sightseeing stats.

Dine and drink

If you chat to someone who’s come back from a trip to Belgium, you can count on them raving about the food and drink. Steaming pots of creamy mussels, known as moules frites, are a staple, and sweet treats like loaded waffles and praline chocolates are must-tries. And one of the world’s best-loved foods, the humble French fry, is famously on another level in Belgium, especially when served with a rich dollop of mayo. On the liquid refreshment front, it’s the beer that gets everyone talking. Belgium’s known for its Trappist beers – these protected tipples only get the Trappist title if they’ve been brewed at one of a select few monasteries. Beer drinking is a more refined practice here, too – you’ll see lots of them served in sleek, stemmed goblets instead of pint glasses.

Popular hotels in Belgium

Facts about Belgium

Capital

Brussels

Currency

Euro

(EUR)

Population

11,480,000

Language

Flemish Dutch, French, German

Time zone

GMT +1

Flight duration

1 hour 15 minutes from Heathrow

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What should I pack for Belgium?

For Belgium, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities, a light waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather, and smart-casual outfits for dining out. Don't forget an umbrella, as rain is common throughout the year.

What's the nightlife like in Belgium?

Belgium offers varied nightlife with Brussels featuring cocktail bars in Place du Grand Sablon and clubs in the city centre. Head to Antwerp for designer bars and live music venues. Bruges has cosy beer taverns and jazz clubs, while Ghent offers student bars and late night cafés along the canals.

Where can I try local food in Belgium?

You'll find traditional Belgian cuisine in local brasseries and restaurants throughout the country. In Brussels, we recommend visiting the Sainte-Catherine area for seafood, or try the Marolles district for authentic Belgian fare. Don't miss trying moules-frites, carbonade flamande, and of course, Belgian waffles and chocolates.

Should I tip in Belgium?

Tipping in Belgium isn't obligatory as service charges are typically included in your bill. However, if you're pleased with the service, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants and taxis.

Where are the best places to shop in Belgium?

Belgium offers diverse shopping experiences. In Brussels, you'll find luxury boutiques along Avenue Louise and unique finds in the Sablon area. Antwerp is known for its fashion scene, while Bruges and Ghent offer charming shops in historic settings. Many cities also have modern shopping centres for convenience.

What travel adapter do I need for Belgium?

When visiting Belgium, you'll need a European-style two-pin plug adapter. Most sockets are type E, which is compatible with type C plugs. If you're from the UK, bring a UK-to-European adapter for your devices.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Belgium?

When visiting Belgium, greet people with a handshake and it's polite to say please and thank you often. When dining, keep your hands visible on the table and use utensils for most foods. Locals appreciate punctuality, so try to arrive on time for dining reservations.

What are the best beaches in Belgium?

Belgium offers coastal experiences along its North Sea shoreline with wide, sandy beaches in popular resort towns like Ostend, Blankenberge, and De Haan. These areas feature promenades, beach clubs, and various water activities for a seaside holiday.