Visiting Belgium for the First Time
As a Belgian woman, I know how important it is to have reliable transportation when exploring a new country. On this page, I’ll share local tips to help you navigate trains, trams, and buses like a pro to visit cities like Brussels, Ghent or Bruges. I’ll also answer some of the most common questions travelers ask when visiting Belgium for the first time. Let me help you explore my beautiful country with confidence and ease!
Arriving in Belgium
Major Airports
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Brussels Zaventem Airport (BRU)
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Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)
From BRU to Brussels City Center
The easiest way to reach Brussels from the Zaventem airport is by train, which takes about 20 minutes to reach the city center. Taxis, rental cars, and shuttle services are also available, but trains are typically the quickest and most affordable option.
Download the NMBS app for all the train schedules.
From Charleroi Airport to Brussels City Center
Going from Charleroi Airport to Brussels City center is more complicated because it’s a 1-hour drive. Read here how to get there easily.
Transportation Tips
How to Travel Easily from Brussels to Ghent?
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How to Travel from Brussels to Bruges: A Complete Guide
Bruges, known as the "Venice of the North," is a must-see medieval city when traveling through Belgium. Starting your trip in Brussels? Visiting Bruges is easy. This guide covers travel distances, transportation options, and tips to get from Brussels to Bruges. How...
How to get from Charleroi Airport to Brussels?
So, you're all set for your adventure in Belgium, and your first puzzle is how to get from Brussels Charleroi Airport to Brussels. Don't fret! Among the various options available, one of the most convenient and reliable is the Flibco bus service, which directly...
Public Transportation in Belgium
Trains: NMBS (National Railway Company of Belgium)
Traveling by train is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to explore Belgium. The NMBS offers extensive train routes throughout the country.
You can check schedules, book tickets, and view real-time updates via the official website or mobile app.
Buses: De Lijn (Flemish part) Le Tec (French part)
De Lijn operates the bus and tram network across Flanders, connecting cities, towns, and tourist destinations.
Use their app to plan routes and buy tickets. For the French part when wanting to visit the Ardennes for example or Namur and Liege use Le Tec company.
Questions you might ask before visiting Belgium
Do Belgians speak English?
Yes, most Belgians in the Flemish-speaking regions and Brussels are fluent in English, the situation can be a bit different in the French-speaking areas. English is less commonly spoken here, but the younger generation is rapidly learning it, making it increasingly easier to communicate in English across the country.
Is Belgium expensive?
Depending on where you’re traveling from, Belgium can be quite expensive, especially when it comes to dining out. Even as Belgians, we often find restaurant prices high, and eating out is increasingly seen as a luxury.
Hotels can also be pricey, but fortunately, activities are generally affordable. One local tradition you’ll enjoy is ‘l’apéro’, a casual drink before dinner. Alcohol, in general, isn’t too expensive.
Can I enter Belgium without a visa?
For international travelers, Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, allowing visitors to stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
Be sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date.
Can I use my credit card in Belgium?
Belgium uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted you will have no problems. Some smaller places in The Ardennes may prefer cash but in the big cities you will not need it. ATMs are easy to find.
What time zone will I be in?
Belgium operates on Central European Time (CET), which is for example six hours ahead of New York.
What weather should I expect?
Belgium has a temperate climate with frequent rain, so a raincoat or umbrella is a must year-round.
Summers are mild, while winters can be very cold, especially in January and February. Dress in layers to stay comfortable because it’s definitely not the tropics.
What to Visit in Brussels?
Which place will You Discover?
Belgium is full of amazing places to explore. From the lively city of Antwerp to the peaceful Ardennes, there’s something for everyone. My favorite city is Ghent, a must-see!
Bruges
Ghent
Brussels
Ardennes
Leuven
Antwerp
Dinant
Mechelen
Discover Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent in Less than a week!
Discover how to visit Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent in just 3 – 5 days with this easy-to-follow guide. Includes:
⭐️Day-by-day itineraries for Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent (perfect for 3-5 days).
⭐️ Insider tips and local advice to explore like a pro.
⭐️ Must-know transport and food recommendations to save time and enjoy the best of Belgium.
