Independent travel to Belgium

A Brief History of Belgium

The history of Belgium is rich in events and covers a long period of time. Here is a brief overview of the key points:

1. Antiquity and the Roman Empire (1 thousand BC - 5 century AD): Early settlements in the area of modern Belgium existed long before the arrival of the Romans. In the first century BC, these lands were conquered by the Roman Empire and included in the province of Gaul.
2. Middle Ages (5th century - 15th century): After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Belgium became the object of invasion by the Franks and other Germanic tribes. In the 9th century, numerous feudal principalities arose here. In the 14th century, the dukes of Burgundy gained control of most of the territory.
3. Spanish period (16th century - 17th century): Belgium came under Spanish control in the 16th century when Charles V inherited the land. In 1568, the Eighty Years' War of Independence from Spanish rule began. In 1648, the Western Provinces (present-day Belgium and the Netherlands) became formally recognized as independent states.
4. Austrian and French eras (18th century): As a result of the War of Spanish Heritage (1701-1714), most of Belgium came under the control of the Austrian Empire. In the late 18th century, during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars, Belgium was recaptured by France.
5. Kingdom of the Netherlands and Independence (1815-1830): In 1815, the Congress of Vienna united Belgium and Holland into the Kingdom of the Netherlands. However, differences in language, religion and culture led to a revolt in 1830 and the formation of an independent kingdom of Belgium.
6. Neutrality and World Wars (20th century): Belgium declared its neutrality status in the early 20th century. In the First World War it was attacked by Germany, and in the Second World War it was again under German occupation.
7. Post-war and the European Union (1945–present): After World War II, Belgium became a founding member of the European Union. It is one of the six member states of the European Union, formed in 1957.

Modern Belgium is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary form of government, a strong economy and a multilingual population, where French, Dutch and German are recognized as official languages. Belgium is also home to many international institutions, including the headquarters of the European Union and NATO.

Main activities, religion and interests of the local population in Belgium

Main employment: Belgium is a highly developed country with a diverse economy. The main industries include industry, services and agriculture. Industry includes the production of steel, automobiles, chemical products and food. Financial services also play an important role in the Belgian economy, especially in Brussels as a financial centre.

Activities:

• Industry: Production and processing of metals, chemical industry, automobile production.
• Services: Financial services, tourism (Belgium attracts tourists with its historic cities and cultural attractions).
• Agriculture: Grains, potatoes, sugar beets, livestock.

Belgium is a country with many religious traditions. The main religions are Catholicism and Protestantism. Catholicism has long played an important role in public life, and many temples and cathedrals are outstanding examples of religious architecture.

The interests of the local population:

• Belgians are proud of their cultural heritage, including painting (works by Flemish artists), music and literature. Festivals and cultural events are popular among the population.
• Cooking: Belgium is known for its cuisine, including Belgian chocolate, waffles, fries and a variety of beers.
• Sport: Soccer is popular in Belgium and the national team has become famous on the world stage. Also popular are cycling races such as the Tour de Flanders.
• Language multitasking: Belgium has three official languages (French, Dutch and German), and language multitasking is often reflected in the culture and lifestyle of the population.

Belgian society embodies a combination of modern trends and rich history, which gives this country a unique and multifaceted look.

Interesting places and attractiveness of Belgium

Belgium is a wonderful country that combines a rich historical heritage, exquisite culture, delicious culinary traditions and picturesque landscapes. Here are some attractive features of Belgium for tourists:

1. Historic cities: Belgium is famous for its amazing historic cities such as Brussels, Bruges and Ghent. In these places you will find majestic medieval buildings, beautiful canals and cozy squares.
2. Painting Masterpieces: Flemish artists such as Rubens and Van Eyck have made significant contributions to world art. In Belgium, you can enjoy their works in numerous museums, such as the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Brussels.
3. Culinary joys: Belgium is famous for its culinary workshop. Try exquisite Belgian chocolates, fragrant waffles, a variety of cheeses and, of course, amazing Belgian beers.
4. Enchanting canals: Bruges, "Venice of the North", amazes with its beautiful canals and stone bridges. Walking along the canals in the evening creates a unique atmosphere and a romantic impression.
5. Beer tours: Belgium is famous for its variety of beers. Take a beer tour, try local varieties in cozy beer houses and learn more about the country’s long history of brewing.
6. Festivals and cultural events: Belgium comes alive with a variety of festivals, concerts and cultural events. One of the highlights is the flower festival "Warm Start", which is held in Brussels every five years.
7. Linguistic diversity: Belgium is a place where three cultures and languages (French, Dutch, and German) merge. It creates a unique atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of languages, traditions and cultures.

Belgium is not only a country with a rich history, but also a place where modernity and tradition combine to create a unique experience for travelers.

In Belgium, you will be welcomed. private guides And they'll offer you a copy. individual excursions.

Transport accessibility and comfort, accommodation and food in Belgium

Transport: Belgium has an extensive and efficient public transport system. Trains, buses and trams connect cities and regions. Transportation services are usually provided at a high level. Train travel between major cities such as Brussels and Antwerp is often a convenient and fast option.

Restaurants: In Belgium, you can enjoy a variety of cuisine, ranging from fine restaurants to cozy cafes. The following are some examples:

• Expensive restaurants:
  • The Jane in Antwerp is a two-star restaurant offering outstanding molecular cuisine.
  • Comme chez Soi in Brussels is a famous restaurant with three Michelin stars, specializing in Belgian and French cuisine.
• Middle class:
  • Amadeus in Ghent is a restaurant with traditional Belgian cuisine known for its crayfish.
  • Fin de Siècle in Brussels is a traditional Belgian bistro with an authentic atmosphere.
• Economy class:
  • Frit Flagey in Brussels is a great place for those who want to try the famous Belgian fries.
  • "De Poes" in Antwerp is a cozy restaurant with a friendly atmosphere, offering budget dishes.

Hotels: Belgium offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to more budget options.

• Dear hotels:
  • Hotel Amigo in Brussels is a five-star hotel near the Grand Place, offering luxury accommodation.
  • Hotel Dukes' Palace in Bruges is a luxury hotel in a former palace with beautiful gardens.
• Middle class:
  • Martin's Klooster in Leuven is a cozy hotel in a former monastery with a distinctive atmosphere.
  • Hotel Harmony in Ghent is a four-star hotel in the historic city centre.
• Economy class:
  • Hotel Floris Arlequin Grand-Place in Brussels - convenient location and affordable prices.
  • The Ibis Budget Hotel in Antwerp is a budget hotel with simple but comfortable rooms.

The overall level of service in Belgium is usually high, making it an attractive destination for tourists.

What to see in Belgium

1. Grand Place (Big Market), Brussels: This magnificent city market is the central square of Brussels and includes beautifully decorated houses, the city hall and the Church of St. Nicholas. The Grand Place also serves as an ideal venue for many festivals and events.

Transport: Brussels is well connected by public transport, including metro, buses and trams. The Grand Place is located in the heart of the city, so it is easy to reach on foot from the main transport hubs.

2. Bruges, known as the “Venice of the North”, admires its canals, medieval architecture and narrow streets. The bell towers and canals create a unique romantic atmosphere.

Transport: Bruges is easily accessible by train from Brussels, Antwerp or Ghent. In the city center there are many bus and tram routes, and the city itself is convenient for walking.

3. Antwerp's architectural heritage: Antwerp is famous for its architectural heritage, including Notre Dame Cathedral, Rubenshuys and beautiful city squares. Near Antwerp is also the Castle of Gravenstein, a beautiful example of medieval architecture.

Transport: Antwerp is well connected by rail and its centre is easy to walk. There is also an extensive network of buses and trams inside the city.

4. Ghent Castle, also known as Count's Castle, is one of the most impressive castles in Belgium. Its history dates back over a thousand years and it provides stunning views of the Ley River.

Transport: Ghent is easily reached by train from Brussels or Bruges. The city has excellent public transport, as well as many bicycle paths for traveling by bicycle.

5. The canvas museum in Bruges: This museum is located in a building dating back to the 14th century and is a unique monument of Flemish Renaissance art. Here you will find works by masters such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.

Transport: Bruges is easily accessible by train from Brussels or other major cities. Buses and trams can be used within the city for ease of travel.

6. Atomium Zone, Brussels: Atomium is a symbol of Brussels and is dedicated to nuclear energy. This structure is an enlarged model of the iron atom and serves as an interesting science museum.

Transport: Atomium is located in the northern part of Brussels and is well connected by public transport, including metro and buses.

Belgium provides tourists with convenient access to its many attractions due to its extensive public transport network and well-equipped roads.

Holidays, cultural life and activities in Belgium

Belgium offers a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some popular events at different times of the year:

Spring:

1. Tree blooms in Holland Park in Ghent (April): The event brings delight to tourists as hundreds of cherry trees in the park blossom, creating magical landscapes.
2. Heritage Days in Bruges (April): Guests can visit numerous museums, churches and castles for free to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history.
3. Festival of May Flowers in Brussels (April-May): The main attraction is a carpet of flowers on the Grand Place, created from more than 500,000 flowers.

Summer:

1. Luxury procession parade in Brussels (August): The parade dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary includes costumed processions and ceremonies.
2. Tomorrowland Festival (July): It is one of the most famous music festivals in the world dedicated to electronic music. It attracts thousands of young people from all over the world.
3. Ghent Festival (in July): The festival, dedicated to art, music and theatre, transforms the city into a place of celebration and joy.

Autumn:

1. Brussels Film Week (October): The event provides an opportunity to enjoy the best cinematic works from around the world.
2. Chocolate Festival in Brussels (November): Chocolate lovers can enjoy tasting and participating in master classes from the country’s best chocolatiers.
3. Festival of Light in Ghent (November): The buildings and bridges of the city come to life with light, creating spectacular night scenery.

Winter:

1. Winter holiday in Brussels (December): Christmas markets, fabulous decorations and events create an atmosphere of magic.
2. Knokke Heist Fireworks Festival (August): Although this event takes place in the summer, it offers magnificent fireworks displays, marking the end of the summer season.
3. Ghent Light Festival (February): At this time of year, the city is transformed into a magical place with bright light installations.

Please note that the dates of events may change and it is recommended to check the current information before traveling.

Which weather is best for travelling to Belgium

The climate in Belgium is characterized by a temperate maritime climate, which is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. The air is moist and temperature changes throughout the year are relatively moderate.

Spring (March-May):

• Air temperature: from about 8°C to 18°C.
• Spring is a period of awakening of nature, flowering and greening of trees. The weather is getting warmer and it’s a good time to walk around cities and nature parks.

Summer (June - August):

• Air temperature: from about 15°C to 25°C.
• Summer in Belgium can be warm and sunny, but also humid. This is a great time to visit the beaches, festivals and enjoy the open spaces.

Autumn (September to November):

• Air temperature: from about 8°C to 15°C.
• Autumn brings coolness and colorful change of foliage. This period is suitable for visiting castles, parks and enjoying the richness of autumn flowers.

Winter (December to February):

• Air temperature: from about 0°C to 7°C.
• Winters in Belgium are usually mild, with possible rainfall in the form of rain or snow. Winter landscapes and Christmas markets make this season particularly atmospheric.

Water temperature:

• North Sea: In July and August, the water temperature can rise to 18-20°C, which can be pleasant for swimming, especially on beaches in coastal cities.

Best season to travel:

• Spring and summer: April - September is considered the best time to travel in Belgium. During this time it is warmer, nature blossoms, and many cultural events and festivals are held. The summer months also provide the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful beaches on the north coast.

Language of communication, traditions, customs and laws in Belgium

Language of communication: Belgium officially recognizes three languages: French, Dutch and German. The language of communication depends on the region of the country. In the southern part, including Brussels, French prevails, in the northern part - Dutch, and in some eastern areas - German. However, English is widely spoken in tourist destinations and among young people.

Traditions and customs:

1. Greeting: It is customary to exchange greetings when meeting and saying goodbye. Shaking hands is considered normal.
2. Punctuality: Belgians usually value punctuality, so try to be on time for meetings and events.
3. Lines: In Belgium, it is necessary to stand in line, and breaking this tradition can cause irritation.
4. Festive customs: Holidays like Christmas and Easter are celebrated with family dinners and traditional dishes.
5. French style: In the southern part of the country, the French style of culture prevails, which can be reflected in the manner of communication and style of service.

Laws:

1. Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in public places such as restaurants, bars and public transport.
2. Alcohol: The sale and consumption of alcohol is permitted, but with restrictions, especially at night.
3. Traffic rules: Follow the rules of the road and respect pedestrians. Talking on a mobile phone while driving without a headset is prohibited.
4. Trash: Waste is necessarily divided into categories, and violation of this rule may entail a fine.

Best season to travel: The summer months (June-August) are the best time to visit Belgium. At this time, the climate is usually mild, and the weather is favorable for city walks and visiting tourist places. However, it is worth noting that at this time tourist spots can be more lively. Spring and autumn can also be pleasant seasons to travel, with a mild climate and less massive tourist flows.

The main dialogues for traveling in Belgium

Belgium uses three official languages: Dutch, French and German. Depending on the region you are heading to, it may be preferable to use a particular language. Here are some basic words and phrases in three languages that can come in handy when traveling:

In Dutch:

1. Hallo (hallo)
2. Dank u wel (dunk u wel) - Thank you
3. Alsjeblieft (Alseblift) - Please
4. Ja (yah)
5. Nee (not) No
6. Goedemorgen (gudemorgen) - Good morning
7. Goedenmiddag - Good afternoon
8. Goedenavond - Good evening
9. Tot ziens - Goodbye
10. Een biertje, alstublieft - Beer, please

In French:

1. Bonjour (bonjour) - Good afternoon
2. Merci (mercy) - Thank you
3. S'il vous plaît - Please
4. Oui (oui)
5. Non (non) No
6. Bonsoir (bonsoir) - Good evening
7. Au revoir (O revoir) - Goodbye
8. Excusez-moi (excerpt from Moi)
9. Parlez-vous anglais? - Do you speak English?
10. Un café, s'il vous plaît - Coffee, please

In German:

1. Guten Tag - Good afternoon
2. Danke (danke) - Thank you
3. Bitte (bitte) - Please
4. Ja (yah)
5. Nein (Nine) No
6. Guten Morgen - Good morning
7. Guten Abend (Guthen Abent) - Good evening
8. Auf Wiedersehen - Goodbye
9. Entschuldigung (Entschuldigung) - Sorry
10. Ein Bier, bitte - Beer, please

Remember that some language may be preferred in different regions of Belgium, but English is commonly used in tourist destinations.

What dishes, medicines and gifts are popular in Belgium

Unique products and dishes:

1. Belgian chocolate: Belgium is famous for its high quality chocolate. Try right on the spot a variety of views and tastes, such as truffles, warrant officers and tiles.
2. Belgian waffles: Soft, airy waffles served with various toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit or whipped cream are another well-known delicacy.
3. Belgian beer: Belgium is famous for its variety of beers. Try traditional varieties such as lambica, triplets and abbey ales.

Medicines and cosmetics:

1. Spa products based on mineral waters: Belgium is known for its spas and thermal springs. You may want to bring home mineral-based skin care products.

Souvenirs:

1. Lace: Belgium is famous for its lace. Buy lace products such as tablecloths or lace wipes as a unique souvenir.
2. Potato chips: Belgium is known for its gorgeous potato chips. These delicious snacks can be a good souvenir for friends and family.

What to bring as a gift:

1. Belgian biscuit (Speculoos): This is a traditional cookie with a spicy taste. Packed in beautiful boxes, they are perfect as a gift.
2. Beer glasses: If you've tasted Belgian beer and want to take some of the atmosphere home, buy a stylish beer glass.

Note: Before buying souvenirs, products or medicines, check whether they can be brought into your country without any problems and do not violate customs regulations.

What to cook for a safe holiday in Belgium

Safety in Belgium:

Belgium is generally considered a relatively safe country for tourists. However, as in any other place, basic precautions should be followed:

1. Documents:
   • Passport - must be valid for the entire period of stay.
   • Copies of important documents, such as passport and insurance, are kept separate from the originals.
2. Insurance:
   • Health insurance is a recommended component. Make sure your insurance covers medical expenses abroad.
3. Emergency services:
   • General emergency number: 112
   • Police: 101
   • Ambulance: 100
   • Fire service: 100
4. Mobile operators:
   • Popular mobile operators in Belgium: Proximus, Orange, BASE. Make sure your phone is unlocked for use with local SIM cards.
5. Duration of stay without departure:
   • Belgium is part of the Schengen area. Usually, tourists can stay in the country for up to 90 days in any period of 180 days without the need for a visa.

General recommendations:

• Keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid dark and secluded places at night.
• Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your belongings under control on public transport and at major events.

As always, it is recommended to follow the advice and recommendations of local authorities, be vigilant and observe common sense while staying in Belgium.

Local currency and customs regulations in Belgium

Local currency in Belgium: Euro (€) is the official currency of Belgium. It is common to euro area countries.

Euro to dollar exchange rate: The euro to dollar exchange rate may vary, so it is recommended to check current exchange rates before traveling. Use financial news, banks or exchange offices to get up-to-date information.

Payment:

1. Cash: Most places in Belgium accept cash. The euro is the preferred currency, but some tourist destinations also accept dollars.
2. Credit cards: Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted everywhere. However, make sure your card is supported and be sure to notify the bank of your upcoming trip.
3. ATMs: In most cities and large settlements, it is easy to find ATMs where you can withdraw money.

Customs regulations:

1. Import and export of money: The EU does not impose restrictions on the import and export of money for its citizens or permanent residents. However, if you are carrying more than 10,000 euros, you must declare it.
2. Goods for personal use: You can import goods for personal use duty-free in reasonable quantities, including alcohol and tobacco.
3. Alcohol and tobacco: There are limits on the import of alcohol and tobacco. Check the current rules on the customs website.
4. Prohibited Goods: The importation of drugs, weapons and dangerous materials is prohibited. Check the list of prohibited goods on the official website of customs.

Before going on a trip, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the current customs rules to avoid unpleasant situations at the border.

Country maps Belgium

Country tourist maps Belgium - routes, attractions and unique objects.

Общая карта Бельгии

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