Europe
Belgium
Europe
Belgium
Updated Jan 04, 2025
Overview
Belgium packs a punch with its diverse attractions. Wander through Bruges' fairytale canals or explore Brussels' grand squares. Indulge in mouth-watering waffles and frites, or savor Trappist beers in ancient abbeys. Art lovers can marvel at Flemish masterpieces in Ghent and Antwerp. For a unique experience, visit the Atomium or descend into Dinant's caves. Don't miss the WWI battlefields in Flanders or the charming coastal towns. Belgium's compact size makes it easy to explore its rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights.
Best time to visit. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer brings festivals but more tourists. Winter is magical with Christmas markets, though chilly. Each season has its charm, so choose based on your preferences.
Cities
We don't have any cities for Belgium yet. Use the link below to request a city guide.
Request new city
Country stats
Population
11,763,650
82nd
Land area
11,849 sq. mi.
136th
Highest elevation
2,277 ft
Currency
Euro
Generally accepted payment methods
Mobile, Card, Cash
Total GDP
$655.192 billion
23rd
GDP per capita
$55,536
16th
Year founded
1830 CE
Official langauge
Dutch
English speaking
Spoken in major cities
European Union
Yes
Schengen Area
Yes
Human development index
0.942
12th
Timezone
Central European (UTC+1)
Driving side
right
Capital
Brussels
Website
Google Maps link
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 43°F - 34°F | 39°F - 29°F | Cloudy | 8:41 am | 5:01 pm | 19 days 2.8 in | 4 days 0.6 in | 9 mph |
| February | 45°F - 34°F | 41°F - 30°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:05 am | 5:50 pm | 16 days 2.2 in | 3 days 0.5 in | 9 mph |
| March | 52°F - 39°F | 49°F - 35°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:04 am | 6:40 pm | 17 days 2.8 in | 1 days 0.1 in | 9 mph |
| April | 59°F - 43°F | 57°F - 41°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:46 am | 8:31 pm | 15 days 2.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| May | 66°F - 50°F | 65°F - 48°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:47 am | 9:19 pm | 14 days 2.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| June | 70°F - 55°F | 70°F - 54°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:28 am | 9:54 pm | 13 days 2.8 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| July | 74°F - 58°F | 74°F - 57°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:46 am | 9:46 pm | 13 days 2.9 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| August | 73°F - 58°F | 73°F - 57°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:29 am | 8:58 pm | 13 days 3.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| September | 68°F - 53°F | 67°F - 52°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:17 am | 7:54 pm | 13 days 2.7 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| October | 59°F - 48°F | 57°F - 45°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:06 am | 6:50 pm | 15 days 2.8 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| November | 50°F - 41°F | 47°F - 37°F | Cloudy | 7:59 am | 5:00 pm | 18 days 3.0 in | 1 days 0.1 in | 9 mph |
| December | 45°F - 36°F | 41°F - 31°F | Cloudy | 8:40 am | 4:41 pm | 19 days 3.2 in | 3 days 0.3 in | 9 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Celebration of the new year. Belgians exchange wishes and often attend parties. | Avoid travel. Most places closed. | ||
| Easter Sunday | Variable (March-April) | Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' resurrection. Families gather for meals. | Limited services. Family-oriented day. | ||
| Easter Monday | Day after Easter Sunday | Public holiday following Easter. Many Belgians enjoy outdoor activities. | Some closures. Good for outdoor plans. | ||
| Labour Day | May 1 | Workers' rights celebration. Parades and demonstrations often occur. | Expect some closures and demonstrations. | ||
| Ascension Day | 40 days after Easter | Christian holiday marking Jesus' ascension. Many take a long weekend. | Some services limited. Plan accordingly. | ||
| Pentecost | 50 days after Easter | Christian celebration of the Holy Spirit's descent. Religious observances. | Minor impact. Some religious events. | ||
| Whit Monday | Day after Pentecost | Public holiday following Pentecost. Many Belgians enjoy a day off. | Some closures. Good for leisure activities. | ||
| Belgian National Day | July 21 | Commemorates Belgian independence. Parades, fireworks, and celebrations. | Festive atmosphere. Many closures. | ||
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Catholic holiday honoring Virgin Mary. Religious observances and processions. | Some closures. Religious events occur. | ||
| All Saints' Day | November 1 | Christian day to honor saints. Belgians often visit cemeteries. | Solemn day. Expect some closures. | ||
| Armistice Day | November 11 | Commemorates end of World War I. Ceremonies and moments of silence. | Respectful atmosphere. Some closures. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Christian celebration of Jesus' birth. Families gather for festive meals. | Avoid travel. Most places closed. | ||
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Day after Christmas. Many Belgians continue family celebrations. | Limited services. Family-oriented day. |
1 | Belgians value punctuality. Arrive on time for appointments and reservations. If you're running late, call ahead to inform the person or establishment you're meeting. |
2 | When greeting someone, a handshake is common for first meetings. Cheek kissing (3 times) is reserved for friends and family. Follow the lead of the local person you're meeting. |
3 | Learn a few basic phrases in both French and Dutch. Belgium has multiple official languages, and locals appreciate when tourists make an effort to speak their language. |
4 | Tipping is not expected in Belgium as service charges are included in bills. However, rounding up or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated. |
5 | Belgium is known for its beer culture. When ordering at a bar, each beer typically has its own specific glass. Don't be surprised if your drink comes in an unusual container. |
6 | Respect quiet hours, especially in residential areas. Belgians value peace and quiet, particularly on Sundays and in the evenings after 10 PM. |
7 | When dining out, keep your hands visible on the table, not in your lap. This is considered polite table manners in Belgium and much of Europe. |
8 | Belgians tend to be more reserved than Americans. Avoid loud conversations in public spaces, and respect personal boundaries, especially on public transport. |
KumquatTime is precious. Get the most out of every moment traveling.
Not another booking platform.
categories
© 2024 Porter Software, LLC