Explore Belgium: A 7-Day Itinerary Through the Heart of Europe

 

Belgium, a gem of Europe, offers a blend of history, culture, and modern charm. Known for its medieval towns, renaissance architecture, and as the headquarters of the European Union, Belgium attracts millions of tourists annually. Let's embark on a detailed journey through this captivating country.

Local Culture and Tradition

Belgium is a tapestry of cultures and traditions, divided into Flemish and Walloon regions. The country is famous for its festivals, such as Tomorrowland and the Ghent Festival, and its culinary delights like Belgian waffles, chocolates, and beer.

Tourist Statistics and Peak Seasons

Belgium welcomes over 10 million tourists each year. The peak season is from April to October, with July and August being the busiest months due to the pleasant weather and numerous festivals.

Best Airlines

1. Brussels Airlines - Belgium's flag carrier offering extensive connections across Europe and beyond.
2. Ryanair - Budget airline with numerous flights to and from Belgium.
3. EasyJet - Another budget-friendly option for European travel.
4. Lufthansa - For long-haul flights connecting Belgium to other continents.
5. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines - Reliable and comfortable, especially for flights from India via Amsterdam.

Must-Visit Places and Foods

• Brussels: Visit the Grand Place, Atomium, and savour Moules-frites and Belgian chocolates.
• Bruges: Wander through the medieval streets, visit the Belfry, and enjoy Belgian waffles.
• Ghent: Discover the Gravensteen Castle and the St. Bavo's Cathedral.
• Antwerp: Explore the Cathedral of Our Lady, MAS Museum, and try Antwerpse handjes.

7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Brussels

• Morning: Arrive in Brussels and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Chez Léon, famous for its Moules-frites.

Day 2: Brussels

• Morning: Explore the Atomium.
• Afternoon: Visit the Royal Palace.
• Evening: Try Belgian waffles at Maison Dandoy.

Day 3: Bruges

• Morning: Travel to Bruges (1-hour train ride from Brussels).
• Afternoon: Visit the Belfry of Bruges.
• Evening: Dinner at The Olive Tree.

Day 4: Bruges and Ghent

• Morning: Canal tour in Bruges.
• Afternoon: Travel to Ghent and visit Gravensteen Castle.
• Evening: Enjoy local cuisine at De Graslei.

Day 5: Ghent and Antwerp

• Morning: Visit St. Bavo's Cathedral.
• Afternoon: Travel to Antwerp and explore the Cathedral of Our Lady.
• Evening: Dinner at The Jane.

Day 6: Antwerp

• Morning: Visit the MAS Museum.
• Afternoon: Shopping in the Diamond District.
• Evening: Taste Antwerpse handjes at Het Gebaar.

Day 7: Return to Brussels and Departure

• Morning: Return to Brussels.
• Afternoon: Last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
• Evening: Depart from Brussels.

Budget Plans

• Accommodation: €50-€200 per night depending on the hotel.
• Meals: €10-€50 per meal.
• Transport: €15-€30 for intercity trains.
• Sightseeing: €5-€20 per attraction.

Visa Guidelines for Indians

Indians require a Schengen visa to visit Belgium. Apply at least 15 days before travel with all necessary documents, including a valid passport, photographs, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and financial means.

Seasonal Packing Suggestions

• Spring (March-May): Light jackets, umbrellas.
• Summer (June-August): Comfortable clothing, and sunscreen.
• Autumn (September-November): Layers, scarves.
• Winter (December-February): Heavy coats, gloves.

Do's and Don'ts

Do's:

1. Respect local customs.
2. Try local foods.
3. Learn basic phrases in French and Dutch.
4. Use public transport.
5. Visit both the Flemish and Walloon regions.

Don'ts:

1. Don't be late for appointments.
2. Don't forget to tip.
3. Don't talk loudly in public places.
4. Don't litter.
5. Don't miss out on local beers.
6. Don't take photos in restricted areas.
7. Don't ignore pedestrian crossings.
8. Don't use mobile phones in churches.
9. Don't skip the museums.
10. Don't forget travel insurance.

Local Language Guide

• Hello: Bonjour / Hallo
• Thank you: Merci / Dank u
• Please: S'il vous plaît / Alstublieft
• Yes: Oui / Ja
• No: Non / Nee
• Excuse me: Excusez-moi / Pardon
• How much?: Combien? / Hoeveel?
• Where is...?: Où est...? / Waar is...?
• Goodbye: Au revoir / Tot ziens
• Help: Aidez-moi / Help mij

Recommended Google Apps

1. Google Maps: For navigation.
2. Google Translate: For language assistance.
3. Google Trips: For itinerary planning.
4. Google Photos: To store travel photos.
5. Google Keep: For note-taking.

Weather Details

• Spring: Mild, 10-15°C.
• Summer: Warm, 20-25°C.
• Autumn: Cool, 10-15°C.
• Winter: Cold, 0-5°C.

Best Hotels and Restaurants

1. Hotel Amigo, Brussels
   • TripAdvisor
2. Hotel Dukes’ Palace, Bruges
   • TripAdvisor
3. Pillows Grand Hotel Reylof, Ghent
   • TripAdvisor
4. Hotel Julien, Antwerp
   • TripAdvisor
5. The Pand Hotel, Bruges
   • TripAdvisor

Restaurants:

1. Comme Chez Soi, Brussels
   • TripAdvisor
2. De Karmeliet, Bruges
   • TripAdvisor
3. De Graslei, Ghent
   • TripAdvisor
4. The Jane, Antwerp
   • TripAdvisor
5. The Olive Tree, Bruges
• TripAdvisor

#BelgiumTravel #Brussels #Ghent #Bruges #TravelEurope #ChocolateLover #WaffleTime