Document checklist for Belgium

Valid passport: To enter Belgium, you must have a passport that is at least valid for another six months after the date of travel.

Hotel reservations.

Economic proof.

Travel insurance includes medical expenses abroad, medical transportation, travel guidance, and more.

Air ticket for traveling out of Belgium.

Essential Belgium Travel Information

Currency – The euro is Belgium’s official currency.

Languages – The two most common languages in Belgium are French and Dutch; English and German are also spoken.

Socket type – The plugs and sockets are E-type. Both the standard voltage and frequency are 230 V and 50 Hz, respectively.

Time zone – (UTC+01:00).

Top 3 cities to visit – Bruges, Brussels, and Ghent.

Top landmarks/monuments – Gravensteen, the Atomium, Grand Palace.

Visa Information for Belgium

Study Visa: This visa is available for those who wish to pursue higher education at private institutions, institutions that have received official recognition from Belgium, and those who want to enroll in one-semester university exchange programs.

Visa for research contracts: This visa is given to researchers with research contracts with recognized organizations.

Schengen visa: Also known as a C-type visa, this visa is for short-term travel. For a maximum of 90 days, you are permitted to engage in certain activities with this kind of tourist visa.

Au Pair visa: A person who has been temporarily hosted by a family who offers lodging and food in exchange for minor daily chores to improve their language skills, and to learn more about Belgium by taking part in the family life of their host family, is eligible for an au pair visa. Applicants must be over 18 and under 26. Additionally, there are visas for employment, including the single permit work visa and the self-employed work visa.

Family reunification visa: the family of a nationalized person living in Belgium, the family of a sedentary Belgian, the family of an E.U. citizen, or the family of a non-sedentary Belgian may apply for a family reunification visa.

Typical costs and budget for Belgium

Daily expense per person – the average price is 25 euros per person.

Meals – The average price of meals in the nation is 15 euros for fast-food outlets or modest restaurants, while you may pay up to 65 euros for a more upscale dining establishment.

Transportation – while daily prices for public transportation range from 5 to 10 euros, daily costs for more private transportation might reach 40 euros.

Hotel – An inexpensive hostel-style hotel charges about 40 euros per night. More opulent lodging starts at 130 euros per night.

Transport and ways to travel around Belgium

One of the most up-to-date highway and road networks in Europe is found in Belgium. However, an international driving permit is necessary to hire an automobile.

The most extensive rail system in Europe is found in Belgium. In addition, because of its small size, the country has short distances. So there are trains to other European cities and links to the major Belgian cities. Additionally, Belgium uses buses to connect tiny towns without train stations. Finally, you should dial the official phone lines in Belgium to order a taxi or hail one from the taxi ranks.

Safety in Belgium

Belgian transportation is highly dependable and secure. Take caution, though, as robbers and pickpockets frequently use the bus and train. Pickpockets are commonly encountered, particularly in Brussels, the capital of Belgium.

In terms of muggings, Belgium is relatively safe. Although there haven’t been many mugging incidents, some parts of Brussels should be avoided entirely. Always be willing to contact the local authorities if something unfortunate occurs. Always verify your change twice, and be aware of anyone attempting to divert your attention or offer to assist you with your bags.

Weather in Belgium

With pleasant winters and cool summers, Belgium has a temperate climate. In the north, wintertime temperatures are lower. However, the interior of Belgium experiences significantly milder summers and possibly colder winters, even with snowfall.

Must Do and See in Belgium

The Ardennes: The Ardennes is a great place to walk, trek, or spend a few days off and forget about everything.

Liège: It takes 373 steps to scale the mountain Bueren’s slopes to appreciate this location fully, but the effort is worthwhile. There, you’ll be able to capture some fantastic images.

Ghent: The Graslei Quay in Ghent is a beautiful visit at any time of day. Even e city’s stunning architecture can charm even the pickiest touristsA hive of museums, performances, and festivals can be found in Ghent.

Typical Belgian gastronomy to try

Despite its reputation, Belgium is much more than just the land of beer and chocolate. Mussels and fries are only a few of Belgium’s many cuisines. Herring, soup, a decent meat meal such as beef steak or waterzooi, and some chocolate dessert, mainly waffles, can also be included. In addition, its food combines French and Dutch cuisine elements and, in some instances, combines the two. Belgian cuisine has also recently absorbed flavors from the Middle East and North Africa.

Vaccine Information for Belgium

Travelers to Belgium are advised to vaccinate against diseases including Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Yellow Fever, Hepatitis B, Rabies, and Influenza. The passenger location form is no longer required as the COVID-19 immunization certificate is no longer necessary.

Fun facts about Belgium

1. Belgium was the site of the first skyscraper in Europe.
2. Each year, Belgium produces more than 220,000 tons of chocolate.
3. The airport at Zaventem is where the most chocolate is sold globally.
4. The tallest structure in the world is lower than Belgium’s highest point.
5. Europe’s oldest retail malls are in Brussels.
6. A Belgian established New York.