Belgium: What to see and do?
Welcome to Belgium, land of beer, chocolate and French fries! If you are planning to visit this small country located in the heart of Europe, here are some of the sights you should not miss.
Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the most cosmopolitan city in the country. It is full of museums, historical monuments and tourist attractions. Among the must-sees are the Grand-Place, one of the most beautiful squares in the world, the Manneken-Pis, the emblematic statue of Brussels, the Comic Strip Museum, the Magritte Museum, the Royal Palace and many others. To get around Brussels, you can take the metro, streetcar or bus.
Located about an hour by train from Brussels, the city of Bruges is often called the "Venice of the North" because of its many canals and bridges. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its historic buildings, cobblestone streets and romantic atmosphere. Among the sites to see in Bruges are the Belfry, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Groeninge Museum and the Lace Museum. To get around Bruges, you can take the train, bus or cab.
The city of Antwerp is another popular destination in Belgium. It is known for its port, one of the largest in Europe, as well as its fashion boutiques and diamond shops. Antwerp must-sees include the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Market Square, the Rubens House, the MAS Museum and the Antwerp Zoo. To get around Antwerp, you can take the streetcar, bus or bike.
Ghent is a historic city located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is famous for its medieval castle, its preserved city center and its St. Bavo Cathedral. Other must-see sights in Ghent are the Beguinage, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Belfort Tower. To get around Ghent, you can take the streetcar, the bus or the bike.
Finally, the city of Liege, located in the Walloon region of Belgium, is also worth a visit. It is known for its citadel, Christmas market, museums and art galleries. Other attractions in Liege include the Place Saint-Lambert, the Curtius Museum and the Parc de la Boverie. To get around Liege, you can take the train, bus or streetcar.
In Belgium, you can get around easily by using public transportation such as trains, buses, streetcars and metros. You can also rent a car or a bicycle to explore the country at your own pace. If you want to taste the local cuisine, don't miss the Belgian fries, waffles, mussels and of course, the Belgian beer.
Belgium: How to get around the country?
If you're planning a trip to Belgium and want to discover several cities, it's important to know about the different modes of transport available to get from one city to another. Fortunately, Belgium offers a well-developed transport network that will enable you to get around easily and make the most of your stay.
One of the most common ways to travel between Belgian cities is by train. Belgium has an excellent rail network, managed by SNCB (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Belges). Trains are fast, modern and reliable, making them an ideal choice for many travelers. It's advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak periods or weekends, to avoid delays and guarantee your seat.
If you prefer to travel by car, Belgium has an excellent road network. This can be a practical option if you want to have more flexibility during your trip and explore rural areas or small towns not served by train. Belgium's freeways are well-maintained and well-signposted, but it's advisable to check traffic and plan alternative routes, as traffic jams can be frequent, especially during rush hours.
Another option for traveling between Belgian cities is by bus. Buses are generally cheaper than trains and can be a good alternative if you're traveling on a budget. In Belgium, buses are operated by a number of different companies, the most popular of which are De Lijn and TEC. You can buy your tickets directly from the driver or from vending machines at bus stops. However, it should be noted that bus journeys can take longer than train journeys, as they are often subject to traffic jams.
Belgium has several international airports, including Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport. These airports offer scheduled national and international flights to numerous destinations in Belgium and around the world. It is advisable to book your flights in advance to benefit from the best fares, and to take into account flight schedules to avoid peak times.
To optimize your travel experience in Belgium, here are a few additional tips. First, plan your itineraries in advance and check train, bus and flight schedules to avoid surprises and optimize your time on the ground. Secondly, don't forget to take into account public holidays and reduced public transport timetables, as these can affect your travel plans. Finally, make sure you have a means of payment accepted in all modes of transport, whether cash or credit card.
Belgium offers a variety of modes of transport for getting from one city to another. Whether you choose to travel by train, car, bus or plane, it's crucial to plan your trip in advance, taking into account your preferences, budget and schedule. By following these tips, you'll be able to make the most of your visit to Belgium and discover all this charming country has to offer.
Belgium: When to visit?
Belgium, a country located in Western Europe, enjoys a temperate oceanic climate. This climate is characterized by mild summers and moderately cold winters. However, the weather in Belgium can be quite changeable throughout the year, so it's important to choose the best season to travel according to your preferences.
The best season to visit Belgium is generally summer, from June to August. Temperatures are pleasant, fluctuating between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius during the day, allowing you to take full advantage of outdoor activities. What's more, this is also the period when rainfall is at its lowest, with very little falling. Days are longer, offering more time to discover the country's many tourist attractions.
On the other hand, the worst season to travel in Belgium is winter, particularly from December to February. Average temperatures are cold, ranging from 0 to 6 degrees Celsius, with frequent periods of frost. Precipitation often turns to snow, offering picturesque winter landscapes. However, it's important to note that weather conditions can be changeable, and Belgian winters can sometimes be mild and rainy.
In spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), temperatures are generally mild, fluctuating between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius. However, these two seasons are also characterized by higher rainfall, with regular showers. If you decide to travel during these periods, be sure to pack waterproof clothing and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
The best season to travel in Belgium is therefore summer, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is rare. However, if you're prepared for more unpredictable weather conditions, spring and autumn can also offer pleasant times to discover this charming country.
