Sandwiched between France, Germany and the Netherlands, the vastly underrated country of Belgium is known throughout the world for little more than its ridiculous variety of beer, scrumptious waffles, the Smurfs. However, despite its modest reputation, Belgium has plenty to offer. Its magnificent historic cities offer countless architectural and artistic wonders bearing witness to this tiny country’s massive contribution to European history. From the incredible Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels to the towering spires in Ghent; the picturesque old town in Antwerp to the canals in Bruges - every Belgian town reveals a beguiling treasure trove of historical delights. Throw in some unexpectedly diverse landscapes, a flourishing fashion and contemporary art scene and some wonderfully warm and welcoming locals and you have more than enough to start thinking of extending your stay.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Euro
Symbol: €
ISO code: EUR
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Brussels Airlines
International Airports: Brussels Airport
Domestic Airports: Antwerp International Airport, Charleroi Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: No
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes
Subway System: Yes
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: Yes
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Belgian cuisine is known for its chocolates, waffles, fries, and beer. Other highlights include mussels, Brussels sprouts, stoofvlees (beef stew), and carbonnade flamande (beef stewed in beer). Notable local drinks include Belgian beer, jenever (gin), and speculoos liqueur.
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: 700 - 900 mm
Average temperature: 11°C
Summer:
Average highs: 22°C
Average lows: 12°C
Winter:
Average highs: 6°C
Average lows: 0°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Belgium is from April to October when the weather is milder and more suitable for outdoor activities.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: No
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type C, Type E
Voltage (V): 230V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
