Belgium Holidays 2012

Brussels Square in Belgium Image by cyranoz

A Small Country with Great Character

Belgium is a small country but has great character, its long imperial history mingling with thoroughly modern sensibilities that make it a vibrant and fascinating destination.

Regions of Belgium

The country may be divided into three regions: Flanders, the Dutch-speaking area to the north, encompassing Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges; Brussels, the capital and famously the headquarters of the European Union; and Wallonia, the French-speaking region to the south, where the influences of German culture are most strongly felt.

Flemish Country

Stretching from the northern coastal dunes through the rolling hills of Flemish country to the woodland valleys in the south, the country enjoys a temperate climate of mild winters and cool summers, but also many days of rain. If you are hoping to enjoy the landscape, aim to visit between May and September for the best of the weather. Conditions from November to April are mild but damp, making this the best time to go to avoid the crowds, particularly in Bruges.

Historic Brussels

Because of its size and well-connected public transport, most journey times within Belgium are less than two hours. An ideal place to start is Brussels, a historic city with a decadent modern culture that celebrates fine food and drink, architecture and art. Drink coffee in one of the cosmopolitan cafes, try a local beer, indulge your sweet tooth with Laurent Gerbaud’s chocolate creations, or take in the Romanesque architecture of the Place Royale and the art nouveau splendour of the Old England Building.

Diamond Capital Antwerp

Just a short train ride away is Antwerp, a trendy and dynamic city in the Flanders region; or try the medieval city of Bruges, Belgium’s most popular destination, which offers quaint market-squares, canals and cobbled streets.

Gastronomic Delights

Many people are drawn to Belgium by its culture, particularly its gastronomic offerings. Specialties include mussels, meatballs, french fries (a Belgian invention), waffles—and of course, Belgian chocolate! Belgium also has a strong carnival culture: many tourists flock to Brussels for the Carnival de Binche in February, when the town of Binche becomes a 16th century carnival. Festivities include parades, music, fireworks, and oranges being thrown to the crowds. The yearly Zinnekeparade celebrates the spirit of Brussels, each year following a different theme for which locals make costumes and floats. For more celebration, try the Gentse Feesten, the largest street festival in Europe, in late July.

Whether you’re looking for a short city break or a long trip away, Belgium has plenty to offer.