The capital of Europe and the birthplace of surrealism, Art Nouveau, and the deep-fried potato — Belgium punches far above its size with Bruges's medieval canals, Ghent's Flemish treasures, and the world's most obsessive beer culture.
- Capital
- Brussels
- Population
- 11,825,551
- Area
- 30,510 km²
- Languages
- German, French, Dutch
- Currency
- Euro (€)
- GDP
- $684,864M
Good to know
Driving side
Right
National dish
Moules-frites
Annual visitors
2,584,000 (2020)
Safety
Low (1.08/100k)
Avg temp
10.7°C
Religion
Christianity
Coast
Coastal
☎ Police 102 · Ambulance 103 · Fire 101
Travel guide
A low-lying country in the Benelux, Belgium (Dutch: België, French: Belgique, German: Belgien) sits at the crossroads of Western Europe. It marries the historical landmarks for which the continent is famous with spectacular modern architecture and rural idylls. Its capital, Brussels, is home to the headquarters of the European Union. Although Belgium is a relatively wealthy country, it is also one of the most politically complex countries in the world. Differences in language and culture between Flanders (the Flemish-speaking portion) and Wallonia (the French-speaking portion) have led to several far-reaching reforms, and this continuing antagonism makes Belgian politics so complex that even ordinary Belgians aren't able to make sense of what's truly going on. Despite all this, the two halves form a country that contains some of Europe's most attractive and historical cities, and is a true 'must-see' for any visitor to the continent.
© Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA)
Explore Belgium
Best time to visit
April–October is the best period. Brussels is pleasant year-round. Bruges and Ghent are best May–September. Belgium's Christmas markets (December) are exceptional. Beer festivals run throughout summer.
Visa
Citizens of US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia and most Western countries receive 90 days Schengen visa-free in Belgium.
Highlights
Maasmechelen Village, located in Belgium, is a premier luxury shopping destination that offers a charming open-air village setting with more than 100 boutiques of renowned international and local fashion brands. With its picturesque streets, designer stores, and attractive discounts, Maasmechelen Village provides a delightful shopping experience. Visitors can explore a wide range of fashion, accessories, home décor, and culinary delights, making it a haven for fashion enthusiasts and those seeking a unique retail therapy experience.
Public holidays
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (62)
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Major cities
Brussels
Belgium's cosmopolitan capital — the Grand Place, art nouveau architecture, Belgian chocolate, waffles, and the best beer in the world.
Bruges
Belgium's best-preserved medieval city, with a UNESCO-listed historic center of canals, belfry tower, and Flemish art museums.
Ghent
A medieval university city with the Van Eyck Altarpiece, Gravensteen Castle, and the most vibrant nightlife in Belgium.