What Is Belgium Famous For?

Belgium may be compact, but it packs an extraordinary punch with its rich cultural heritage. This charming European nation is renowned for its exquisite chocolates, over 3,000 varieties of beer, and mouth-watering waffles. Belgium's medieval towns like Bruges showcase stunning architecture and picturesque canals, while Brussels stands as the political heart of Europe.

Art enthusiasts revere Belgium for masters like Rubens and Magritte, while comic lovers celebrate it as the birthplace of Tintin and The Smurfs. Before exploring this gem, consider securing comprehensive travel insurance from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company to ensure a worry-free Belgian adventure.

Top Tourist Attractions in Belgium

Grand Place, Brussels

The UNESCO-listed central square of Brussels showcases breath-taking 17th-century baroque architecture, featuring the ornate Guild Houses and magnificent Town Hall. This cobblestoned marvel transforms throughout the year, hosting flower carpets in summer and magical Christmas markets in winter, making it Belgium's most photographed attraction.

Bruges Historic Centre

Often called the "Venice of the North," Bruges captivates visitors with its perfectly preserved medieval architecture and romantic canals. Take a boat tour through winding waterways, climb the 366 steps of the Belfry Tower for panoramic views, or simply wander the cobblestone streets admiring step-gabled houses and picturesque bridges.

Atomium, Brussels

This iconic 102-metre-tall structure, built for the 1958 Brussels World Fair, represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Visitors can explore exhibitions within its nine interconnected spheres and enjoy spectacular city views from the upper platforms.

Ghent's Historic Centre

Ghent offers the perfect blend of medieval charm without Bruges' tourist crowds. The spectacular Gravensteen Castle, Saint Bavo's Cathedral (home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece), and the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei waterfront create an enchanting atmosphere in this university town.

Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp

This Gothic masterpiece took nearly 170 years to complete and houses an impressive collection of Rubens' paintings. The towering 123-metre spire dominates Antwerp's skyline, while the intricate interior features remarkable baroque altarpieces and stunning stained glass.

Manneken Pis, Brussels

This quirky bronze statue of a urinating boy has become Brussels' unlikely mascot. Dating from the early 17th century, the 61-centimetre sculpture is regularly dressed in various costumes, with a wardrobe of over 1,000 outfits displayed in the nearby Brussels City Museum.

The Battlefields of Flanders

These poignant World War I sites near Ypres offer moving tributes to fallen soldiers. Visitors can explore preserved trenches, cemeteries, and memorials, including the Menin Gate, where the Last Post ceremony has been performed every evening since 1928 to honour the fallen.

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Belgium: Famous Food

Chocolate Excellence

Belgian chocolate represents the pinnacle of confectionery craftsmanship, with over 2,000 chocolate shops nationwide. The praline, invented by Jean Neuhaus in 1912, revolutionised chocolate-making. Visit renowned chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, and Godiva to sample handcrafted truffles, pralines, and ganaches. Many shops offer behind-the-scenes workshops where visitors can create their own chocolate masterpieces.

Waffle Varieties

Belgium offers two distinct waffle types: the rectangular Brussels waffle (light and crispy) and the denser, sugar-studded Liège waffle. Traditional vendors throughout Belgian cities serve these warm delights with toppings ranging from powdered sugar to whipped cream, fresh fruit, and chocolate sauce. For the authentic experience, try a plain Liège waffle from a street vendor to appreciate its caramelised sugar pearls.

Beer Culture

With over 3,000 different beers and brewing traditions dating back centuries, Belgium's beer culture received UNESCO recognition. Abbey beers produced by Trappist monasteries, fruity lambics fermented with wild yeasts, and potent Flemish reds showcase Belgium's brewing diversity. Visit historic breweries like Cantillon in Brussels or join beer tours in Bruges and Ghent. Don't miss sampling a proper Belgian beer in traditional cafés like Delirium in Brussels, which offers over 2,000 varieties.

Moules-Frites

This national dish features steamed mussels typically prepared with white wine, garlic, and herbs, served alongside crispy, twice-fried Belgian frites. Coastal towns like Ostend serve the freshest versions, though excellent moules-frites can be found throughout the country. Traditional restaurants serve them in large black pots, often with homemade mayonnaise for the frites.

Speculoos

These spiced shortcrust biscuits flavoured with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger originated as St. Nicholas Day treats. Now enjoyed year-round, they've expanded into speculoos-flavoured spreads, ice creams, and desserts. Try the traditional biscuits at Maison Dandoy in Brussels, a bakery dating back to 1829.

Carbonade Flamande

This hearty Flemish beef stew slow-cooked in Belgian brown ale features caramelised onions and a touch of mustard. Served with frites or crusty bread, it exemplifies Belgian comfort food. Traditional restaurants in Flanders serve particularly authentic versions.

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Unique Things to Do in Belgium

Comic Strip Route, Brussels

Explore Brussels' comic heritage through the Comic Strip Route, featuring over 50 murals depicting famous Belgian comic characters. From Tintin to Lucky Luke and The Smurfs, these vibrant street art installations celebrate Belgium's contribution to the "ninth art." The Comic Art Museum complements this experience with extensive collections showcasing the evolution of Belgian comics.

Cycling Through Flanders

Experience Belgium's cycling passion by pedalling through the picturesque Flemish countryside. Well-maintained cycling networks with numbered junction points make navigation simple even for casual cyclists. The flat landscape around Bruges and Ghent offers particularly scenic routes past windmills, castles, and charming villages, while dedicated cyclists might tackle parts of the famous Tour of Flanders route.

Beer Spa Experience

Immerse yourself—literally—in Belgium's beer culture at a beer spa in Brussels or Bruges. These unique wellness experiences involve soaking in wooden tubs filled with key beer ingredients like hops and barley while enjoying unlimited beer consumption. The ingredients reportedly offer skin benefits, while the experience provides a quirky twist on traditional spa treatments.

Diamond District Tour, Antwerp

Discover why Antwerp handles over 80% of the world's rough diamonds with a guided tour through its Diamond District. Visit cutting workshops, learn about the grading process, and understand how Antwerp became the diamond capital of the world. The DIVA Museum provides further insights into the diamond trade's history and significance to Belgian heritage.

Medieval Castle Sleepover

Experience life as nobility by staying overnight in one of Belgium's castle hotels. Properties like Château de la Poste in Wallonia and Castle Ten Berghe near Bruges offer authentic medieval architecture with modern comforts. These unique accommodations provide a magical backdrop for experiencing Belgian countryside and history.

Carnival Celebrations

Experience Belgium's vibrant carnival traditions, particularly the UNESCO-recognised Binche Carnival featuring the famous Gilles performers in their distinctive wax masks and ostrich-feather headdresses. Other notable celebrations include the Cat Festival in Ypres and the Carnival of Aalst, each offering unique insights into local folklore and tradition.

Whether you’re cycling through Flanders, exploring Brussels’ comic murals, or indulging in a beer spa experience, travel smart by securing comprehensive protection. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offers robust travel insurance plans covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage, ensuring your Belgian adventure is worry-free. With reliable support and easy claim processes, you can focus on creating unforgettable memories in Belgium’s unique cultural and historic landscapes.

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Belgium: Places to Visit

Brussels

Belgium's cosmopolitan capital blends stunning Gothic architecture with modern European institutions. Beyond the Grand Place and Manneken Pis, explore the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, the majestic Laeken Park and Royal Greenhouses, and the trendy Sablon district with its antique shops and chocolatiers. Brussels' multicultural vibe manifests in neighbourhoods like Matonge, the African quarter, and Saint-Gilles with its artistic community.

Bruges

This perfectly preserved medieval city seems frozen in time with its network of canals, cobblestone streets, and Gothic architecture. Beyond the historic centre, visit the Groeningemuseum for Flemish Primitive masterpieces, take a brewery tour at De Halve Maan, and climb the Belfry Tower for panoramic views. The tranquil Minnewater Park ("Lake of Love") offers a peaceful retreat from tourist crowds.

Antwerp

Belgium's fashion capital and diamond trading hub offers sophisticated urban experiences. Visit the spectacular Central Station, often ranked among the world's most beautiful, explore the Red Star Line Museum documenting European emigration to America, and enjoy the vibrant Zuid district with contemporary galleries and trendy restaurants. Fashion enthusiasts shouldn't miss ModeMuseum (MoMu) and the Antwerp Fashion Academy.

Ghent

This university town blends historical architecture with youthful energy. Beyond the medieval centre, explore SMAK (Contemporary Art Museum), take a boat tour along the Leie River, and visit the Design Museum showcasing Belgian design innovation. The city's vibrant cultural scene includes the annual Gentse Feesten festival, Belgium's largest cultural event.

Dinant

Nestled dramatically between the Meuse River and limestone cliffs, this Wallonian gem features the distinctive Collegiate Church with its bulb-shaped tower and the imposing Citadel perched 100 metres above the town. As the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone, Dinant celebrates with saxophone sculptures throughout town and a dedicated museum.

Ardennes

This forested region in southern Belgium offers outdoor adventures including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife observation. Historic towns like Durbuy (Europe's "smallest city") and Bouillon with its medieval castle provide cultural counterpoints to the natural beauty. Local specialties include game dishes, Ardennes ham, and artisanal cheeses, perfectly paired with regional beers.

Conclusion

Belgium captivates visitors with its extraordinary blend of historical richness, culinary excellence, and cultural diversity—all packed into a remarkably compact country. Whether indulging in world-class chocolates, admiring medieval architecture, or discovering unique experiences beyond typical tourist routes, Belgium rewards travellers with authentic and memorable encounters.

Before embarking on your Belgian adventure, ensure peace of mind with comprehensive travel insurance from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in all the wonders this charming European gem has to offer.

FAQs

When is the best time to travel to Belgium?

The ideal time to visit Belgium is during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant and tourist crowds are manageable. Summer offers longer daylight hours but attracts more visitors, while winter brings charming Christmas markets but colder temperatures. Belgium's unpredictable weather means packing an umbrella is advisable year-round.

How many days are enough to explore Belgium?

A well-planned 5-7 days itinerary allows for exploring Belgium's highlights, including Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp. Add 2-3 additional days to include the Ardennes region or smaller towns like Dinant and Leuven. Belgium's excellent train network makes efficient travel possible, allowing visitors to use major cities as bases for day trips to maximise their exploration time.

Are Indian citizens required to have a visa for Belgium?

Yes, Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to visit Belgium. The application requires proof of travel insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies.. Other requirements include flight bookings, accommodation details, and financial statements. Apply at the Belgian embassy or consulate at least 15 days before travel, though 30-60 days is recommended during peak seasons.

What does travel insurance typically cover for Belgium?

Comprehensive travel insurance for Belgium from providers like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company typically covers medical emergencies, hospitalisation costs, trip cancellations, lost luggage, passport loss, and personal liability. The Schengen visa requirement of €30,000 medical coverage is standard in most policies. Consider additional coverage for adventure activities or high-value electronics, especially if planning outdoor excursions in the Ardennes region.

Which currency is accepted in Belgium?

Belgium uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Major credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, though smaller establishments and rural locations may prefer cash. ATMs are readily available throughout the country, offering competitive exchange rates. Inform your bank about your travel dates to prevent card blocking, and consider carrying multiple payment methods as a precaution.

How to reach Belgium from India?

Multiple airlines offer flights from major Indian cities to Brussels, typically with one stopover in Middle Eastern or European hubs. Direct flights operate from Delhi and Mumbai with flight times of approximately 9-10 hours. Alternative routes include flying to nearby Amsterdam or Paris, then taking a quick train to Belgium.