Travel to Belgium

Belgium, a compact nation nestled in Western Europe, punches well above its weight in cultural richness and historical significance. It's a country where medieval towns meet modernist architecture, and culinary excellence is a national obsession. Travel here is typically focused on its vibrant cities, with a 7-day trip often allowing for a deep dive into two distinct urban experiences, like Antwerp and Brussels. While the country is small, its regional diversity is notable; from the Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north to the French-speaking Wallonia in the south, each area offers a unique flavour. Belgium generally offers good value for money, especially when compared to its neighbours, with excellent public transport making it easy to explore without a car.

Cities to explore in Belgium

Pively covers multiple cities in Belgium. Click a card for the full guide — flights, hotels, budget and multi-destination itineraries.

Which city to pick

For first-time visitors, **Brussels** is essential, offering a captivating mix of the historic Grand Place, world-class museums, and a lively international vibe. If art, fashion, and a more contemporary edge appeal, **Antwerp** is a must-visit; explore its fashion district, admire Rubens' masterpieces, and discover its thriving diamond trade. For those seeking history and charming canals, Ghent or Bruges (accessible as day trips from Brussels or Antwerp) are excellent choices. If you prioritize a more laid-back, authentic experience combined with culinary exploration, consider Leuven or Liège. Pively’s focus on Antwerp and Brussels provides a solid foundation for experiencing Belgium's contrasting urban appeals.

Regions to know

Flanders

The northern, Dutch-speaking region is characterized by its well-preserved medieval cities, picturesque canals, and a strong artistic heritage. Pively highlights Antwerp, a dynamic hub of fashion and diamonds, and Brussels, the de facto capital of Europe. Expect a landscape dotted with historic towns and rich farmlands. A minimum of 3-4 days per major city is recommended.

Wallonia

The southern, French-speaking region offers a more rugged, Ardennes landscape with rolling hills, forests, and dramatic river valleys. It's ideal for nature lovers and history buffs, with sites like the Bastogne War Museum. While Pively focuses on urban centres, exploring the Ardennes requires more time, perhaps 4-5 days for a good feel.

Brussels-Capital Region

This bilingual region is Belgium's heart, home to EU institutions and a vibrant multicultural scene. Brussels itself blends grand historic architecture, like the Grand Place, with a buzzing contemporary atmosphere. It serves as an excellent base for day trips. Allow at least 2-3 full days to explore its diverse neighbourhoods and museums.

Suggested itineraries

5j — Belgian Highlights: Brussels & Bruges

Start in Brussels (2 days), exploring the Grand Place, Atomium, and EU Quarter. Take a comfortable 1-hour train ride to Bruges (3 days). Wander its medieval streets, enjoy canal tours, and sample local chocolate and beer. Return to Brussels for departure or continue onward. This itinerary focuses on iconic historical and cultural sights.

7j — Flanders: Antwerp & Brussels Culture

Begin in Antwerp (3 days), immersing yourself in its fashion scene, diamond district, and the Rubens House. Then, take a 45-minute train to Brussels (4 days). Explore its diverse neighbourhoods, from the artistic Sablon to the vibrant Marolles, visit key museums, and enjoy its culinary offerings. This route offers a taste of Flanders' two major cities.

10j — Belgium In-Depth: Cities & Ardennes

Spend 3 days in Antwerp and 4 days in Brussels. Rent a car or take a train south to explore Wallonia: visit Dinant (1 day) for its stunning citadel, then spend 2 days in the Ardennes region, perhaps near Durbuy or Bouillon for hiking and exploring castles. This itinerary balances city culture with natural landscapes.

Best time to go

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Summer (June-August) is warm and lively, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, but expect higher prices and more tourists, especially in Bruges and Brussels. Winter (November-March) is colder, greyer, and wetter, but offers a cozy atmosphere, Christmas markets (late November to early January), and lower accommodation costs. Major events include the Brussels Beer Weekend (early September) and various regional festivals throughout the year. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for a balance of good weather and manageable crowds.

Practical tips

Visa: Most EU, US, UK, Canadian, and Australian passport holders can enter Belgium visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Other nationalities should verify visa requirements with their local Belgian embassy or consulate.
Currency: The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller vendors or rural areas. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Language: Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (Flemish), French, and German. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, especially in Brussels and Antwerp. Learning basic phrases like 'Bonjour' (Hello) or 'Merci' (Thank you) is appreciated.
Transport: Belgium boasts an excellent and affordable train network (SNCB/NMBS) connecting all major cities efficiently. Within cities, trams and buses are common. Car rental is an option but often unnecessary and parking can be challenging in historic centres. Apps like 'SNCB/NMBS' for train schedules are highly useful.
SIM / eSIM: Purchasing a local SIM card or an eSIM upon arrival is straightforward. Major providers include Proximus, Orange, and BASE. Expect to pay around €15-€25 for 10-20GB of data. eSIM options like Airalo offer convenience for short stays.

Culture & etiquette

Tipping is generally not expected in Belgium as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for exceptional service in restaurants or for taxi drivers is a nice gesture. Be punctual for appointments. Belgians value directness but politeness; avoid overly loud behaviour in public. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Be mindful of photo restrictions in museums. Belgians are proud of their culinary heritage; showing appreciation for their food and drink is always well-received.

Daily budget

Belgium can be moderately expensive, but offers good value compared to some neighbours. For a comfortable trip (excluding flights), budget approximately €120-€180 per person per day. This includes a mid-range hotel (€90-€150/night), meals at a mix of casual eateries and mid-range restaurants (€40-€60/day), local transport (€10-€15/day), and one modest attraction or activity (€20-€30/day). A frugal traveller could manage on €70-€100 by staying in hostels, eating more street food/supermarket meals, and limiting paid attractions. A luxury traveller might spend €250+ per day.