Belgium Travel Information

Belgium’s character emanates from the two distinct ethnic groups who live here. The north of the country, known as Flanders, is predominantly Dutch-speaking and the inhabitants are Flemish. The south, known as the Walloon region, is where French is the dominant language. The country is bordered by Holland, Germany, Luxemburg and France. The western coastal plain is flat and is noted for its sand dunes. The east, incorporating the Ardennes Mountains, is thickly wooded with the forested hilly ground. 

Surprisingly perhaps, it has more castles per square kilometre/mile than anywhere else in the world. Belgium is also known for its beer, chocolate and French fries (with mayonnaise!)

Brussels, the capital, is the administrative headquarters of the European Union and is centrally located with access to anywhere in the country. Some of the highlights here are the UNESCO world heritage site, the Grand Place with its ornate baroque and gothic guild houses and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Located here is the 13th Century gothic cathedral with its crooked needle-like spire. In the winter, there is a wonderful Xmas market. Nearby is the Royal Palace, home of the King and Mannekin Pis, the much-photographed famous fountain featuring the boy who pisses into it. The Cathedral of Saints Michel and Gudule (named after a male and a female saint) dates back to the 15th Century. Then there is the Rue de Bouchers with its 17thCentury architecture better known for its wide variety of restaurants and the Magritte Museum, both highly recommended for a visit.

Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city. Known primarily as the Diamond Industry capital, it has been described as the “City with Many Faces” due to its mix of contemporary and ancient districts. The medieval section offers café-filled cobblestone streets and an impressive cathedral 123 metres/400 feet in height which took 169 years to complete. Another highlight is Rubenshuis, a museum dedicated to the Belgium painter. 

Probably the most attractive city in Belgium is the fairy-tale, medieval town of Bruges with its network of canals, cobblestone streets and charming historic houses. Definitely consider here a canal cruise as well as a visit to the Chocolate Museum. 

Close to Bruges is the city of Ghent which was in the Middle Ages, one of the most powerful and richest cities in Europe. The centre core which is the old sector is now car-free. Ghent is also known for its lace.

The Waterloo Battlefield where Napoleon was defeated and the Battlefields of Flanders with their World War One significance are also well worth visiting. 

In the Ardennes is the attractive town of Spa with naturally a selection of spa facilities.

Belgium Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Belgium.

Learn about the history and culture of Belgium, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Belgium's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Belgium for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Belgium tours today!

Extend your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Belgium vacation at one of Goway's other European destinations. You can choose from a Paris vacation, a London vacation or an Amsterdam vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from Belgium.