Belgian Waterways: History, Art and Indulgence

Belgium

Positioned at the crossroads of Western Europe, Belgium remains remarkably overlooked despite harboring some of the continent's most significant cultural and historical treasures. This compact nation punches well above its weight in architectural heritage, artistic legacy, and World War history.

The country's historic cities reveal layer upon layer of European civilization. Brussels showcases an extraordinary concentration of Art Nouveau masterworks, while Ghent's medieval skyline remains largely as it appeared centuries ago. Antwerp's historic center demonstrates the wealth of the Golden Age, and Bruges preserves its canal-laced core with unusual authenticity. Each city offers substantive exploration rather than superficial sightseeing.

Belgium's role in both World Wars has left a profound mark on its landscape and identity. The Flanders Fields, Ypres Salient, and the Battle of the Bulge sites in the Ardennes provide sobering, essential context for understanding 20th-century European history — experiences that remain deeply affecting.

Beyond the major draws, you'll find a sophisticated contemporary art scene, unexpectedly varied countryside from the Ardennes forests to the North Sea coast, and a culinary tradition that extends well beyond the beer and waffles for which it's internationally recognized. The locals tend to be multilingual, welcoming, and refreshingly unpretentious.

U.S. citizens traveling to Belgium for tourism do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area.

Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, which allows travel between participating European countries without routine border checks. The 90-day stay limit applies to the entire Schengen Area combined, not to each individual country. Time spent in other Schengen countries counts toward this total.

As of March 2026, U.S. travelers do not yet need ETIAS travel authorization, though this system is expected to be introduced in the future.

For the most current entry requirements, consult the U.S. Department of State or the Belgian Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs website prior to departure.

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 

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 

HEALTH AND WELLBEING IN BELGIUM

Travel in Belgium presents very minimal health risks for travelers. Healthcare standards, sanitation, and food safety regulations are among the highest in Europe.

Vaccinations

No special vaccinations are required for travel to Belgium. Travelers should ensure routine immunizations are current and consult their physician before departure if they have specific health concerns.

Food and Water

Food safety standards are excellent, and travelers can confidently enjoy local cuisine.

• Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country.
• Restaurants and hotels follow strict hygiene regulations.

Pharmacies and Medical Care

Belgium has excellent medical care and widely available pharmacies. Pharmacists are highly trained and can often provide advice and medication for minor illnesses without the need to see a doctor.

Pharmacies are easy to find in cities and towns and are clearly marked.

Medications

Bring an adequate supply of prescription medications for the duration of your trip.

• Carry medications in hand luggage.
• Keep medications in their original containers.
• If possible, bring a copy of your prescription.

Walking and Hydration

Travel in historic European cities often involves extended walking on cobblestones, stairs, and uneven pavement. Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.

Even in mild weather, sightseeing may involve several hours outdoors, so travelers should stay well hydrated throughout the day.

Jet Lag and Sleep Adjustment

Travelers arriving from North America may experience jet lag during the first day or two.

To adjust more quickly:

• Stay active and spend time outdoors
• Avoid long daytime naps
• Drink plenty of water
• Go to bed at the local evening hour

Many travelers find it helpful to arrive one or two nights before the program begins to rest and adjust to the time change. Conservancy Travel offers pre-trip hotel nights in most destinations.

Personal Comfort Items

Experienced travelers often bring a small personal health kit including:

• Pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Motion sickness tablets if needed
• Bandages or blister protection for walking
• Hand sanitizer

Having these items on hand can make minor issues much easier to manage during travel.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended, including coverage for medical care, trip interruption, and emergency medical evacuation.

Personal Health Responsibility

Travelers are responsible for ensuring they are fit for travel and able to participate comfortably in the activities described in the itinerary. If you have medical conditions that could affect your participation, please consult your physician prior to departure.

Guests should travel with adequate medications and basic health supplies, and take normal precautions to maintain their wellbeing while traveling.

Medical Advice Before Travel

If you have medical questions related to international travel, consult your physician or a travel medicine specialist several weeks prior to departure.

For general international travel health guidance, consult the World Health Organization or speak with your healthcare provider before traveling.

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% 

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. 

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 

Electrical Information for US Travelers

Belgium uses European-standard electrical systems with Type C and Type E outlets, operating at 230V/50Hz

Most modern electronics (laptops, phone chargers, cameras) are dual-voltage and require only a plug adapter. However, single-voltage North American appliances like hair dryers or curling irons will need both an adapter and a voltage converter.

We recommend bringing a quality universal adapter and checking your device specifications before departure to ensure seamless connectivity throughout your journey.