Population of approximately 11.7 million. The country has three main linguistic communities: Dutch-speaking (Flemish), French-speaking (Walloon), and a small German-speaking minority.
Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (spoken in Flanders), French (spoken in Wallonia and Brussels), and German (spoken in the eastern part). English is widely understood, especially in Brussels.
The capital and largest city is Brussels. Other major cities include Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, Liege, and Charleroi.
Belgium has a rich cultural heritage, known for comic books (e.g., Tintin, The Smurfs), medieval architecture, and world-class art museums. It is home to the European Union headquarters and NATO. The country celebrates many festivals, including Carnaval de Binche and Tomorrowland (a world-famous electronic music festival).
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easily accessible throughout the country.
Belgium is famous for waffles, fries (frites), mussels (Moules-Frites), and chocolate. The country is also known for its wide variety of beers, including Trappist and Abbey beers. Other specialties include Waterzooi (chicken or fish stew) and Carbonnade Flamande (beef and beer stew).
Temperate maritime climate, with cool summers and mild winters. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year.
Notable wildlife includes red deer, wild boars, foxes, beavers, and badgers. The Ardennes forest region is home to owls, hawks, and other birds of prey. Coastal areas have seals and various seabirds.
Cultural Considerations
Punctuality is important: Being on time is essential, especially for professional meetings.
Respect for personal space: Belgians value their personal space, so avoid standing too close to others.
Quiet demeanor: Be mindful of noise in public spaces, as loud behavior can be seen as rude.
Gift-giving: When visiting someone�s home, it�s a kind gesture to bring a small gift, such as flowers or wine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visa requirements for U.S. travelers?
For up-to-date visa requirements, please visit our Visas & Entry Requirements page. You can use our interactive widget to easily check specific visa details, or find useful links and information related to entry requirements.
What are health and safety considerations for travelers?
Belgium is a safe country with a high standard of healthcare. The main health risks are related to travel-related issues, such as foodborne illnesses or minor injuries. The country has no major endemic diseases, but travelers should be cautious in crowded places where pickpocketing may occur. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.