Belgium Hotels

Belgium, nestled in the heart of Europe, is a country renowned for its deep-rooted history, vibrant culture, and captivating architecture. With its picturesque medieval towns, world-renowned chocolates, and diverse cultural heritage, Belgium offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern culture.

From the bustling streets of Brussels, the capital city, to the quaint canals of Bruges and the lush landscapes of the Ardennes, Belgium beckons travelers with its enchanting beauty and warm hospitality. 

Whether you are exploring centuries-old castles, indulging in delicious cuisine, or admiring renowned works of art, Belgium promises a memorable experience that captivates the imagination and leaves a lasting impression.

Capital of Belgium

The capital of Belgium is Brussels, which became the capital when the country gained independence in 1830. The city played a crucial role in the Belgian Revolution, leading to its designation as the capital of the new Kingdom of Belgium. Before the Kingdom of Belgium was established, Brussels was already a cultural and political center under Burgundian rule. Today, Brussels is one of the most important cities in Belgium and the administrative heart of the European Union (EU). Additionally, Brussels is a cultural center with its deep-rooted history, architectural gems, and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Belgium Flag

The flag of Belgium consists of three vertical bands: black, yellow, and red. The design of the flag is inspired by the flag of France. Each color represents the unique qualities of Belgium. The black symbolizes the resilience and strength of the Belgian people. The yellow represents prosperity and cultural richness, while the red symbolizes valor and a revolutionary spirit.

Belgium Location

Belgium is located in Western Europe, sharing borders with the Netherlands to the north, Germany to the east, Luxembourg to the southeast, and France to the south. It also has a short coastline along the North Sea.

Time in Belgium

Belgium operates in the Central European Time Zone (CET) during standard time, which is Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) +1. The country observes Daylight Saving Time, known as Central European Summer Time (CEST), during which the time shifts to UTC +2. Daylight Saving Time in Belgium typically starts on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October, aligning with the practice in other European countries.

Languages Spoken in Belgium

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.

• Dutch: It is the predominant language spoken in the northern region of Flanders. Approximately 60% of the population speaks Dutch as their first language.
• French: It is the primary language in the southern Wallonia region and Brussels. Approximately 40% of Belgians speak French in Belgium.
• German: German speakers are a small minority in the eastern region of Liege, with roughly 1% of the population identifying German as their first language.

 What Currency Does Belgium Use?

Belgium uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, in line with many other European countries.

Is Belgium Expensive?

Belgium can be considered moderately expensive to visit compared to some other European countries such as Spain and Italy. For budget travelers, daily expenses range from €40 to €75 per person. If you are a mid-range traveler, you can expect to spend approximately €100 to €200 per day, while luxury travelers could budget around €300 to €800 daily for higher-end experiences.

Belgium Population

According to Worldometer, the current population of Belgium is 11,707,466 as of Wednesday, March 20, 2024. The median age in Belgium, one of the countries with the largest aging population, is 41.3.

Belgium Safety

Belgium is generally considered a safe country for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety. According to the US Department of State, travelers should exercise increased caution in Belgium due to terrorism. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations and other crowded areas.

Strange Laws in Belgium

Belgium has some unique laws that may seem unusual to foreigners. Here are some of them:

• It is illegal to wear any clothing that conceals your identity in public places, except during certain events like carnival celebrations.
• According to a Belgian law dating back to the 13th century, it is illegal to serve alcohol to any animal. This law was reportedly enacted to prevent circus animals from becoming intoxicated.
• In some municipalities, it is illegal to wash your car on Sundays, presumably to maintain peace and quiet in residential areas.
• Many cities and towns have noise ordinances that prohibit loud noises, including playing music or hosting parties, after 10 PM.
• Some municipalities have laws against walking barefoot in public places, although these rules are not strictly enforced everywhere.
• While it's not strictly illegal, it is frowned upon to eat or drink on public transportation, particularly on buses and trams.
• In the town of Ath, it is illegal to carry onion rings in public places, supposedly to prevent littering.

Belgium Religion

Roman Catholicism historically being the predominant religion. Here is an overview of the religious composition in Belgium:

• Roman Catholicism: 44% of the population is catholic in Belgium.
• Protestants and other Christians: 4% of Belgians are members of Protestant or other Christian sects. 
• Atheism and Agnosticism: While 15% of Belgian people identify themselves as atheists, 26% of the Belgian population consider themselves agnostic.

Must-See Belgium Attractions

Here are some of the top attractions in Belgium that you must see:

• Grand Place (Grote Markt), Brussels: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring stunning architecture, including the Town Hall and guild houses.
• Bruges: Known as the Venice of the North, Bruges is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and cobblestone streets.
• Antwerp Central Station: Often referred to as the "Railway Cathedral," this stunning train station is renowned for its beautiful architecture and grandeur.
• Atomium, Brussels: A unique building and museum representing a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It offers panoramic views of Brussels from its observation deck.
• Ghent: Home to Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo's Cathedral, and the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei along the River Lys, Ghent is a charming city with a rich history.
• Historic Centre of Bruges: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic center of Bruges is filled with medieval buildings, winding streets, and enchanting squares.
• Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, Brussels: A stunning Gothic cathedral located at the Treurenberg hill, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
• Ardennes Region: Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the Ardennes offers picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling.
• Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts), Ghent: This museum houses an impressive collection of Flemish and Dutch paintings, including works by Jan van Eyck, Hieronymus Bosch, and Peter Paul Rubens.
• Horta Museum, Brussels: Dedicated to the life and work of the Belgian Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta, this museum is located in his former residence and showcases his innovative designs and decorative arts.

Best Cities in Belgium 

Here is the list of the best cities in Belgium for first-timers or all-time travelers:

• Brussels:The capital of Belgium, renowned for its grand plazas, ornate buildings, richly decorated palaces, and museums. It is a cultural and political hub, offering architectural wonders, delicious waffles, and a bustling city atmosphere.
• Antwerp: Considered Belgium's second city after Brussels, is famous as the diamond capital of the world. It boasts attractions such as Rubenshuis, the home of the painter Pieter Paul Rubens, and the Gothic splendor of Antwerp Central train station.
• Bruges: Known for its romantic canals, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture, Bruges is a fairy tale city in West Flanders that captivates visitors with its charm. Despite the tourist crowds, exploring this picturesque city is a rewarding experience.
• Dinant: Situated on the banks of the Meuse River, offers a stunning landscape of steep cliffs and ancient passageways. The Citadelle de Dinant, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral, and the Grotte La Merveilleuse limestone cave are among its popular attractions.
• Ghent: Often considered Belgium's best-kept secret, Ghent is a port city with a rich history and an alternative, edgy vibe. Visitors can explore the Old Town, Gravensteen Castle, and enjoy the city's burgeoning street art scene while immersing themselves in its vibrant atmosphere.
• Leuven: Located east of Brussels, Leuven is a charming city known for its historic buildings and sidewalk cafes. Leuven is Belgium's brewing capital, known for brewing the famous Stella Artois beer. Leuven offers a relaxed and intimate destination for travelers to unwind and explore.
• Liège: The largest city in French-speaking Wallonia, Liege is known for its gastronomy, historic center, and proximity to the Belgian countryside. Despite its industrial exterior, Liège offers unique sites, such as the Montagne de Bueren steps and the famous Liège waffles, making it a dynamic and friendly destination.

Best Hotels in Belgium

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