Useful data for tourists about Belgium, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Belgium, cuisine, peculiarities of visa and customs restrictions in Belgium.

• Capital: Brussels
• Territory: 30.528 sq. Km
• Country code: +32
• Domain: .be
• Network: 220V
• Time: Moscow: -2 hours
• A visa is required to enter

Information about Belgium

Geography of Belgium

Belgium is located in western Europe, on the east coast of the North Sea. It shares borders with the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France. Washed by the North Sea.

Three geographic regions are distinguished: the coastal plain, the central plateau and the Ardennes Upland. The highest point is Botrange (694 m). The main rivers are the Scheldt and the Meuse.

State

State structure

Constitutional monarchy and federal state. The head of state is the king (currently Philip I). The de facto head of state is the prime minister.

Language

State language: French, Dutch (Flemish) and German

According to the constitution, the population of Belgium is divided into 3 linguistic communities: French, Flemish and German-speaking. The area of ​​distribution of the Dutch language (Flanders) is located in the north of the country and has 5.86 million inhabitants. (58%), French (Wallonia) - 3.29 million (32.2%), the population of Brussels - approx. 80% Francophones and 20% Flemish. In the east of Wallonia, there is an area of ​​distribution of the German language, where 67 thousand people live.

Religion

Catholicism (70%), Islam (200 thousand), Protestantism (70 thousand), Judaism (35 thousand), the Church of England (40 thousand), Orthodoxy (20 thousand). The church is separated from the state.

Currency

International name: EUR

History of Belgium

The first man appeared on the territory of Belgium about 400 thousand years ago. From that time until the 1st millennium BC, the country was inhabited by unknown disappeared peoples. The conquest of Europe by the Western Aryan tribes marked the beginning of a change in the ethnic composition in Belgium. Her stocky, dark-skinned aborigines disappeared, giving way to tall, warlike blondes - the Gauls. Around 300 BC, the Gallic clan of Belgae finally settled here, giving the name to the state.

In 57 BC, Julius Caesar stripped the Belgae of independence, incorporating them into the Roman Empire. As a result of centuries of Romanization, the local population lost their language. Latin speech came into use, serving as the basis for the modern Walloon language of southern Belgium. In Northern Belgium, from the 3rd century AD, the Germans began to actively settle. They laid the foundation for the Flemish people. So on the territory of this small state, two languages ​​began to exist. In the 5th – 9th centuries, Belgium belonged first to the Franks and then to the “Holy Roman Empire”.

The development of cities in the XII-XIV centuries turned Belgium into the "workshop" of Europe. France and Germany fought for its possession for a long time, until in the 16th century it ceded to Spain for 150 years. But already at the beginning of the 18th century, the Belgian territories became the possession of the Austrian Habsburgs. In 1794, Belgium was occupied by the troops of revolutionary France, which she was part of under Napoleon I. The defeat of Napoleon I did not bring freedom to Belgium. In 1815, the Congress of Vienna united Belgium with the Netherlands, seeking to make them a barrier against France. In 1830, as a result of a popular uprising, Belgium freed itself from Dutch rule and became an independent state. In 1831, a constitutional monarchy was proclaimed in the state. From that time on, a period of rapid development of the industry began, the acquisition of their own colonies. Two world wars prevented such a favorable development of the country's economy. Belgium's foreign policy in the post-war period determined the country's development for many decades: the Benelux was created in 1944, Belgium joined the UN in 1945, and in 1949 became one of the founders of NATO and a member of the Council of Europe. Joining the Western European Union in 1954 helped Belgium to become significantly stronger economically and become a profitable strategic partner.

The first man appeared on the territory of Belgium about 400 thousand years ago. From that time until the 1st millennium BC, the country was inhabited by unknown disappeared peoples. The conquest of Europe by the Western Aryan tribes marked the beginning of a change in the ethnic composition in Belgium. Her stocky, dark-skinned aborigines disappeared, giving way to tall, warlike blondes - the Gauls. Around 300 BC, the Gallic clan of the Belgae finally settled here, giving the name to the state ...

Belgium map

Popular attractions

Belgium Tourism

Where to stay

Belgium is the most important political center of Europe, which is why most of the hotels here are located within the city limits and have everything you need for business meetings, seminars, conferences. The gradation of the level of service in hotels is standard - from five stars and below. The cost of accommodation directly depends on the service provided, so we can say that the prices here are quite adequate, although slightly higher than in other European countries.

Hotels of such world giants of the hotel business as Holiday Inn, Ibis, Marriott and Hilton operate in Belgium, decorated in the style traditional for these chains and providing the highest level of comfort. The location in such a hotel assumes a high class of service, therefore the cost of living is quite high.

Congress hotels are of the greatest interest specifically for business people, because such hotels have established transport links with airports, business centers, the room has all the necessary modern technology for doing business.

The most popular among tourists is a prestigious vacation in chateau - ancient castles, equipped with hotels with modern service. However, it should be noted that this type of vacation is not a cheap pleasure. Having settled in one of these rooms, you will feel like an aristocrat with all the privileges inherent in this status.

The location in private hotels will become more economical, but no less colorful. The cost of living here is quite democratic, and only here you can fully immerse yourself in the traditional life of the Belgians, feel their hospitality. In the morning, the famous Belgian waffles are served here for breakfast, the flavor of which you will remember forever.

It is impossible not to mention the hostels. They are scattered throughout the country and offer quite a comfortable stay at a minimal price. Moreover, breakfast can be included in the cost of living, or it can be ordered on the spot during check-in.

Popular hotels

Excursions and attractions in Belgium

Belgium is a wonderful European country with its own history, the roots of which go back to the distant past, unshakable traditions and excellent Belgian cuisine. Belgium is about architecture, painting, literature, excellent restaurants and, of course, the famous Belgian chocolate and beer (over 500 brands). Wonderful architectural structures and interesting museums perfectly illustrate the history of this country.

The capital of Belgium, Brussels plays an important role in the political world arena. But above all, the city is interesting for its architecture, where medieval masterpieces are so appropriately combined with stunning Art Nouveau buildings. The heart of Brussels is the central Grand Place (Grote Markt) - one of the most beautiful squares in the world, surrounded by stunning beauty of architectural masterpieces. The main attractions of the square are the majestic building of the City Hall - a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and the "King's House", which houses the Communal Museum. Not far from the square is the famous Manneken Pis (Manneken Pis) fountain. One of the main symbols of the city is the Atomium - a huge model of an iron molecule, which is 102 m high and weighs 2400 tons, consisting of spheres and covered with a steel shell. Also among the most interesting places in Brussels are the Royal Palace, the Mini-Europe Miniature Park, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, the Palace of Justice, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the Church of Our Lady of Sablon and the Cathedral of Sts. Michael and Gudula.

Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium, an important economic and industrial center, and one of the world's largest ports. Antwerp attracts with its architectural beauty, historical sights, interesting museums, numerous shops and restaurants. The main attractions are located in the historic center of the city. The most famous places to visit in Antwerp are the Cathedral of Our Lady, the City Hall, the Diamond Museum, the Rubens House Museum, the train station, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, the Sten Castle and the Antwerp Zoo.

The medieval city of Bruges is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities in Europe, often called the Venice of the North and the "chocolate capital" of Belgium. Medieval streets, narrow canals, museums, beautiful architectural structures, churches, historical monuments leave a truly unforgettable experience. The pearl of Bruges is the Church of Our Lady - one of the most impressive Gothic churches in Belgium, built in the XIV-XV centuries. Also interesting are such attractions as the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Cathedral of St. Salvator, the Belfort watchtower, the Chocolate Museum, the Market Square, the Gruninge Museum, the Beguinage, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and much more.

The city of Ghent is also an important tourist center of Belgium. Among its attractions are the city museum of Ghent, the Museum of Modern Art, the Count's Castle (Gravensteen), the Church of St. Nicholas, the Cathedral of St. Bavo, the Town Hall, the Church of St. Michael and the Archaeological Museum.

Tourist infrastructure Belgium is very well developed, and a huge number and variety of attractions annually attracts many travelers from all over the world.

Belgian cuisine

Belgian cuisine is similar to French seafood. Each region in Belgium has its own specialty, but overall Belgian cuisine is fairly uniform. It is, perhaps, less sophisticated than the French one, but it is not for nothing that French gourmets come to eat with us, and Belgian chefs are famous all over the world. Oil, cream, beer and wine are actively used. Real Belgian chocolate is famous all over the world. Creamy candies - pralines are especially good.

Local beers are very good and there are no less than 300 beers. Two of the more popular are Lambic, made from wheat and barley, and Trappist. You can even find beers with cherry and raspberry juices. Under the new law, most cafes can now sell alcohol. Beer and wine are freely sold without any restrictions.

Typical Belgian dishes can be complemented by French cuisine. Many types of cheese are prepared in Belgium and even the markets sell a large number of varieties of homemade cheese.

Belgian cuisine is similar to French seafood. Each region in Belgium has its own specialty, but overall Belgian cuisine is fairly uniform. It is, perhaps, less sophisticated than the French one, but it is not for nothing that French gourmets come to eat with us, and Belgian chefs are famous all over the world. Oil, cream, beer and wine are actively used. Real Belgian chocolate is famous all over the world. Especially good are the creamy candies - pralines ....

Tips

In the restaurant, the cost of service (15%) is already included in the bill; in bars and cafes - 10-15% of the bill only for the services of a waiter; in a taxi - included in the fare.

Visa

Opening hours of institutions

The day off for museums is usually Monday. In Bruges, museums are closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, in Tournai on Tuesday.

Banking hours: from 8 am to 12 pm and from 1.30 pm to 3 pm - 5 pm (except Saturday and Sunday). Banks are open on Saturday until 12 noon.

Shops are open from Monday to Friday - from 8 to 18 / 19.30, on Saturday - from 8 to 12.30, except every first Saturday of the month, when shops are open until 17 hours; supermarkets are open all day.

Purchases

When purchasing goods in shops with the "TAX FREE" sign, ask for a special receipt that exempts you from paying value added tax (about 13%). The money will be paid when passing through customs.

Emergency telephones

Fire department - 100
police - 101
ambulance - 100

Pictures of Belgium

Questions and opinions about Belgium

Question answer

Belgium is a small European country located between the Netherlands in the north, Germany in the east, France and Luxembourg in the south and west, separated from the UK by a narrow strip of the North Sea. Here is the center of intersection of political and financial interests, as well as the capital of the entire European Union - Brussels. Belgium is a highly developed and urbanized country with large cities, seaports of international importance, intertwined by railways and highways. A country that still preserves age-old folk traditions and customs. A country of museums, lace, chocolate and beer, and ancient monuments and other sights of Belgium are known all over the world.

The history of Belgium dates back to the times when the local lands, the north of Gaul, were inhabited by the ancient Belgian tribes of Celtic origin. Julius Caesar, who seized this territory, called it Gaul Belgica, and for a long time it was in the possession of the Roman Empire, which left a great legacy in the culture and architecture of modern Belgium. Since then, Belgium has gone through different periods and different rulers.

The Kingdom of Belgium was officially proclaimed in 1830. And in 1831, all European powers, except the Netherlands, declared the kingdom "an independent and eternally neutral state." In 1839, the Netherlands also recognized Belgium as an independent state. The constitutional monarchy was chosen as the state structure in the country.

As mentioned above, Brussels is not only the capital of Belgium, but also the capital of the entire United Europe: here is the headquarters of NATO and the European Union. The population of Belgium is about 10 million inhabitants, on a relatively small area of ​​30.5 thousand square kilometers.

Belgium has three official languages: Flemish (Dutch used in Belgium), French and German. The state is made up of different ethnic groups represented by Flemings, Walloons, French and Germans. The main religious denominations are Catholicism and Protestantism.

Current time in Brussels:
(UTC +1)

Belgium is a great travel destination to take a tour of European history. That there are only Brussels and Bruges, to which you can devote whole days for sightseeing. Belgium with its ancient and mysterious cities and provinces is fraught with many discoveries for the curious traveler.

How to get there

The most logical way to get to Belgium is through Brussels.

By plane

The easiest way to get to Brussels from Russia is, of course, by plane, although this city is often included in many bus tours and tourist routes. But since bus tours and charter flights are variable and not always constant things, we should first of all talk about regular flights.

In total, there are two international airports near the Belgian capital - the largest Brussels-Zaventem (Brussels International Airport) 12 kilometers northeast of the city and Brussels-Charleroi in the city of Charleroi, which is 50 kilometers south of Brussels itself. Direct flights from Brussels International Airport to Moscow are operated by Aeroflot (at Sheremetyevo) and Brussels Airlines (at Domodedovo). You can get from the airport to the city by bus 12 or 21 (at night), as well as by train, which in 20 minutes can take a passenger directly to the Central Station of the Belgian capital.

As mentioned above, Aeroflot and Brussels Airlines have direct flights from Moscow to Brussels. However, it makes sense for residents of other cities to take advantage of the many connecting flights. However, connecting flights can also be used by Muscovites - often such flights are cheaper than direct flights. Below we list the airlines on whose planes you can fly to Brussels (the cities of connections are indicated in brackets).

• Czech Airlines (Prague): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Rostov-on-Don, Sochi, Samara, Ufa, Perm.
• Lufthansa (Frankfurt am Main): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Samara.
• Austrian Airlines (Vienna): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Rostov-on-Don, Krasnodar.
• Finnair (Helsinki
• AlItalia (Rome): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg.
• Air France (Paris): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• KLM (Amsterdam): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Air Malta (La Valletta): Moscow.
• Norwegian Airlines (Oslo): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• SAS (Stockholm and Copenhagen): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Swiss (Zurich): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Air Baltic (Riga): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kaliningrad.
• Estonian Air (Tallinn): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Turkish Airlines (Istanbul): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Rostov, Ufa, Sochi, Novosibirsk.
• Ukraine International Airlines (Kiev): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg.
• TAP Portugal (Lisbon): Moscow
• LOT (Warsaw): Moscow, St. Petersburg
• EasyJet (London, Manchester): Moscow
• British Airways (London): St. Petersburg

By train

Brussels is connected with German cities by ICE and Thalys, with Dutch - Thalys and trains, with Swiss Zurich and Basel - by EuroCity trains, and with Austrian ski resorts -.

The Fyra high-speed train between Brussels and Amsterdam is planned to be launched soon, with a journey time of just 1 hour and 46 minutes.

By car

By car, you can get to Brussels along seven main highways, which then flow into the city into the main and secondary streets. These include the pan-European highways E40, E411 and E19 and the A12 and A201 highways. Brussels, like Moscow, is surrounded by three transport rings - the largest ring road R0 ("Brussels ring"), as well as the Big and Small road rings. One of the features of the Brussels transport system is the presence of a huge number of underground roads, so that today you can drive through whole underground intersections in the city.

By bus

The two largest bus stations in Brussels are located at the North and South train stations. Regional buses go to Wallonia (company) and Flanders (company). International bus services are served by large companies and. Moreover, by buses of the Ecolines company you can get to Brussels directly from the Riga station in Moscow. True, such a trip automatically means many transfers and considerable financial expenses.

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Climate and weather in Belgium

Cities and regions

Regions of Belgium

The main thing in the region is, of course, Brussels. You can read more about it.

Situated in the south of Belgium, the Walloon region with its enchanting landscapes and medieval castles built in the most unimaginable places is reminiscent of the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. The spirit of magic and miracles is everywhere here, and the inhabitants of the local region, the Walloons, will gladly tell you a lot of amazing and mysterious stories related to Wallonia and will offer you the most delicious Belgian ham and the liveliest beer.

The capital of the Walloon region is the town of Namur, whose ancient citadel was a defensive fortification against enemy attacks. In Namur there is a cable car for exploring the area. In Wallonia, hiking and cycling trips through the picturesque surroundings and the foothills of the Ardennes are popular. You can see all the beauty and grandeur of Wallonia's castles from a bird's eye view: sightseeing flights in a large hot air balloon are organized for tourists. Here you can go mountaineering and playing golf, and lovers of antiquity will find numerous attractions, cultural and historical monuments, fortresses and cathedrals. Tournai is home to the ancient Romanesque Cathedral of Notre Dame dating back to the 12th century. This province also belongs to the town of Spa, where the resort of the same name is located.

The province of Flanders is a cultural and historical region that is part of Holland and France. The Flemish region of Belgium is part of Flanders. The most beautiful places of the province, which belonged to France in the ninth century, were famous for large textile enterprises, whose products were sold far outside Flanders. In 1830, most of the lands of Flanders became part of the Kingdom of Belgium. The province has such wonderful cities as Antwerp, Ghent, Leuven, known for their amazing architecture and historical past.

Notable cities in Belgium

The name of the Belgian capital is known to every educated person, and in the last half century, the city, which is de facto the capital of the European Union and the headquarters of NATO, has been spoken about for a huge number of reasons. By the way, the municipality of Brussels itself is not very large - only 148 thousand people live here, and it is one of 19 municipalities that form the Brussels metropolitan region. In fact, this is one city with a population of 1,830 thousand inhabitants. In addition, Brussels is the center of the French and Flemish Communities of Belgium.

It is the largest city in the country with a predominantly French-speaking population, although historically in the city most of the inhabitants spoke Dutch. Today, on the streets of Brussels, all signs and signs are duplicated in both languages. The capital stands on the Senna River, but you cannot see it in the historical part - it was piped during the industrialization that swept the city in the 19th century.

The most ancient city in Belgium is the center of the settlement of the Germanic tribe Tungra, who lived here during the time of the Roman Empire. In the Middle Ages, there was the center of the Capetian and Hespengau counties. An old cozy town with a little less than 30 thousand inhabitants, located on the small river Eker. It was in this famous city in 57-54 BC that the Eburon revolt, led by Ambiorikos, took place, and a memorial monument was erected in his honor. A large number of architectural monuments of antiquity are concentrated in Tongeren, among which a special place is occupied by Basilica of Our Lady of Tongeren built in the XIII century. The ancient ruins of the walls that once reliably surrounded Tongeren have survived to this day. There are several museums in the city, where you can get acquainted with the richest collections of antiquities from Tongeren of the Celto-Roman period.

The city of Chime, located in the southwest of Wallonia, is both a city and a community of almost 1000 people. Shime has a long history dating back centuries.

In the Middle Ages, Chime was a county and belonged to noble counts, whose ancestry was from the Croix clan. In 1686 they were awarded the title of imperial princes. Over time, by 1806, the county fell into decay and it was transferred into state ownership under the control of a governor sent from Vienna. In 1824, the head of the Karaman-Rike clan inherited the title of Prince Karaman-shime, which is still inherited by descendants. The medieval castle of Chime, built at the end of the fifteenth century by the Croix family, has survived to this day, although its walls have suffered a lot over time. In 1977, as a result of constitutional reform, a modern community was formed, uniting fourteen small Belgian towns.

The most famous attraction in Shime is the monastery Notre Dame de Scourmont, founded in 1850, which, in addition to holding religious services, produces live beer under the Shime brand.

This is another beautiful museum city where the main church life in Belgium is concentrated. Liege, which is the administrative center of the province of the same name, is located at the confluence of the Meuse and Urtes rivers. During Roman rule, the city was called Leodius, and its history has been going on since the distant 705, since the death of Bishop Lambert, canonized.

In the Middle Ages, civil wars took place here, Charles the Bold several times inflicted devastating blows on Liege, and only, starting from the 16th century, the city began to flourish. Liege is a concentration of attractions: cathedrals, museums of antiquities, churches.

Antwerp is the second city in Belgium after Brussels, which is the largest city in Flanders and the administrative center of the province of Antwerp. The city is located on both sides of the beautiful Scheldt River. The first historical records date back to the beginning of the 7th century. The Duke of Brabant made a great contribution to the establishment of Antwerp as a world trade center. Until the Eighty Years War, Antwerp was the largest trade center in all of northern Europe. In 1531, after an active influx of gold from the New World, one of the first trading exchanges in the world was opened here. By the 16th century, the population of Antwerp numbered over 100,000 thousand inhabitants. The construction of the Antwerp City Hall dates back to this period. In 1834, Antwerp was recognized as Belgium, from that time a new era of development began for the city. All the headquarters of the leading banks in Europe are located here, as well as international exhibitions and fairs.

Antwerp is the diamond capital of Belgium, with workshops located in the old Jewish quarter. There is also the Diamond Museum. Antwerp is home to countless historical and cultural monuments: the Royal Museum of Art, the Plantin-Moretus Museum, the Mayer Van Den Berg Museum, the Opera and Flanders Ballet, the Brabo fountain. Undoubtedly, the modern Singel cultural center is worth a visit. On the outskirts of Antwerp, in Derna, is the Sterkhof Castle, which houses the Museum of Arts and Crafts. Here you can also wander and admire the splendor of the beautiful park, with its clean ponds and relict trees.

The capital of eastern Flanders - Ghent, with a population of over 225 thousand people, is located on the Scheldt River. There is a seaport in Ghent, from which the picturesque Gent-Terneuzen canal, which passes ships, stretches to the Scheldt River. The city, which appeared in the Stone Age, is rich in sights and historical sites. The name of the city, translated from the Celtic "ganda", means "confluence". In the 7th century, the famous abbeys of St. Bavo and St. Peter were organized here.

During the late Middle Ages, Ghent flourished and played a leading role in the production and trade of textiles and woolen cloth. In the XIII-XV centuries, the city was the second largest in Europe, art and culture were actively developing. As a result of the schism, during the period of the Reformation, Jesuits began to come to Ghent on the camps of Protestants and Catholics. They brought with them the Baroque style. In 1715, the construction of theaters and operas began. At the beginning of the 19th century, Ghent was already a fairly economically developed large city, thanks to the active mechanization of industry.

Ghent is a large educational center in Belgium: there are several specialized higher schools of different directions and a university, one of the oldest in the country.

In Ghent, almost at every step you can find a historical monument, fraught with the events of days gone by. There is a reservoir, from which the famous Welsdstraat street begins, with the Korenlei and Graslei embankments, and along which there are the main cultural attractions: the Lis channel, the city watch tower, St. Michael's bridge, the Lakenhalle cloth market and many others. The castle Gravensteen, built by Philip of Alsace in 1180, is worth visiting.

The city is famous for its theaters, operas and museums. Here you will find many cozy bars and cafes offering not only traditional Belgian cuisine, but also other European cuisines. Ghent has always been renowned for making its own bacon. There is still a shop that sold bacon back in the Middle Ages; now there is a restaurant here. Pork hams, a specialty of the restaurant, are hung right under the ceiling. Another excellent tasting dish is Ghent cheese with caraway seeds, which is served with a very thick liquor.

In cafes and pubs of Ghent, it is customary to drink beer from unusual dishes, which resemble a flask on a wooden stand. This way of drinking beer and dishes was invented by the enterprising innkeeper Pauvel Kwak, who lived in Ghent in the thirteenth century. Travelers on the road often lamented that they could not drink beer on the road, and then resourceful Pauvel Kwak came up with special glasses. This invention made it possible to enjoy fresh beer right in a moving carriage.

The student city of Leuven, located on the banks of the Dale River, is first mentioned in historical descriptions of the battles between the Vikings and the Franks in 891, when the Franks were victorious. The oldest university in Belgium, founded in the distant 1425, is located in Leuven. There is even a bronze monument to a student, which stands near the center of Leuven. As a result of conflicts between Walloons and Flemings, in 1968 the university was divided into two parts: one wing was given to the Flemings, and the other wing was assigned to the Walloons. The Flemish part is still in Leuven, and the Walloon part was moved to Louvain-la-Neuve. Leuven has the most beautiful city hall built in the Gothic style.

The well-known Stella Artois beer appeared precisely in Leuven, in 1366, in the ancient “ Arthur's Brewery". Now this historical and architectural monument is one of the main attractions of Belgium. Here is the beer empire, where tourists are offered various interesting excursions on the territory of the beer complex.

The brewing traditions in Belgium are so important that there is a special faculty at the local university called the Brewing Academy. Every year a popular competition is held in Leuven to select the best bartender. The competition is accompanied by a fun mass celebration. Beer connoisseurs from all over the world can be found in the main beer square Oude Markt, which becomes one continuous pub in the evening.

The city of Mechelen, mentioned in the annals in 1008, lies between Antwerp and Brussels and is also a municipality. Mechelen stands on the banks of the Dale River, which regularly carries its waters. In ancient times, during the reign of the Roman Empire, this area, inhabited mainly by the Romans, was very swampy; in order to drain it, it was necessary to build numerous canals, which formed a whole system of islands. Most of the canals in modern Mechelen have been replaced by pipes.

In the III-IV centuries Mechelen came pagan Germanic tribes. The monk Rumold, who later became a saint, founded the first monastery here. Thanks to Rumold, they began to profess Christianity in Mechelen. In the fourteenth century, the city began to develop and flourish rapidly under the rule of the Burgundian dukes. During the Middle Ages, Mechelen was already quite an influential city both in terms of the textile trade and politically: in the fifteenth century, under Margaret of Austria, Mechelen was the capital of the Spanish Netherlands. However, over time, the city lost its former economic and political power, leaving behind a leading role in the religious life of Belgium. In 1559 Mechelen was proclaimed the center of the diocese. After the defeat of the Spanish troops, during the Eighty Years War, the city was burned and plundered. After the end of the war, Mechelen was completely restored and turned into the most beautiful city in Belgium. The first railroad in Europe was introduced in 1835 in Mechelen.

The main attraction of Mechelen, among the abundance of cultural and architectural monuments, is the Cathedral of St. Rumold, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also noteworthy are the Church of St. John and the Church of Our Lady, and the building of the city hall is considered one of the most beautiful structures.

Located in the south of Belgium, the city of Bouillon, also called Bouillon, belongs to the province of Luxembourg. Bouillon lies at the foot of the mountain, surrounded by unique nature. The city with a population of 5.5 thousand heifers is famous for the world famous Bouillon Castle, owned by Duke Gottfried, the fearless leader of the First Crusade in 1096. This castle is a huge defensive fortress, which still breathes cold and damp from the stone floors. The castle is one of the most impressive defensive structures of the medieval period. On the territory of the Castle of Bouillon, fascinating knightly tournaments and restorations of medieval battles are held, which tourists can attend. There are also interesting competitions with trained birds - eagles, hawks, vultures, which can carry out various commands.

A monument to Duke Gottfried of Bouillon was erected on the central square of Bouillon. Walking along the streets of this lovely and cozy town, you will truly enjoy the contemplation of old buildings and small picture houses, closely pressed to each other.

The old town of Malmedy, famous for its delicious cream and fries, is also famous for its vibrant carnival. Malmedy is located sixty kilometers from Liege and is considered to be its province. Not far from the town is the Reinhardstein Castle, open for tourist visits. Since olden times, Malmedy has been engaged in the production of paper - an exhibition at the local National Museum of Paper tells about this.

Malmedy is home to the Carnival Museum, which tells the story of this fun performance. Colorful carnival, lasting four days in a row, takes place annually before Great Lent. In the local language it is called Cwarmê, and it was first celebrated in 1459. During the festival, ancient national characters, dressed in colorful clothes and showing various scenes, pass through the city. The main figures are Bunce Courts and Haget: Bunce is constantly chasing people on the streets, and Haget is trying to catch onlookers and passers-by with long wooden tongs called hapes-tchar.

Malmedy hosts the Belgian stage of the Formula 1 Spa-Francorchamps Grand Prix, more precisely, it is held in the last week of August between the cities of Stavelot, Malmedy and Francochamps.

Where to go in Belgium

sights

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and recreation areas

Transport

Shops and Markets

Private guides in Belgium

Russian private guides will help you to get acquainted with Belgium in more detail.
The project Experts.Tourister.Ru is registered.

Traveling around the country

Purchases

In addition to the country's gastronomic specialties, Belgium is famous for its laces, which, we think, are worth dwelling on in more detail, and which are a stylish souvenir from Belgium.

Belgian lace

In the Belgian region of Flanders, beautiful lace is woven, famous all over the world. The art of lacemaking originated in this area at the end of the sixteenth century, during the economic and cultural heyday of Flanders. Belgian lace was very popular, all the reigning courts preferred to decorate their robes with thin airy lace. The Flemings possessed a special technology for making the finest thread and each region of the province was distinguished by its unique weaving.

Antwerp lace is characterized by lace with floral motifs and vases, against the background of small six-pointed stars scattered across the canvas.

Lace Raspberry - Mechelena are similar to those of Antwerp, but they are more graceful and thin, they were used mainly for finishing cuffs and nightgowns, for sewing frills. Malin lace was especially popular.

Lace Bruges is a continuous braid, with a fancy intricate pattern, which is formed when the separate parts are connected.

Brussels lace was considered the most expensive and luxurious, where separately made ornaments were combined against a tulle background. These excellent laces were especially appreciated outside Flanders, and were exported to England under the name Angletter, due to the ban on the import of Flemish lace to the misty Albion. Another type of Brussels lace was called "duchess", there was no background as such, and the ornaments were skillfully interwoven with weaving.

Belgium sales

In Belgium, sales periods are regulated by law. The cherished shopping days last exactly one month: from July 1 in summer and from January 3 in winter. Until then, waiting for discounts and budget prices from the shops of the capital of Belgium is useless: violators who announced discounts before this time will face impressive fines.

In general, Brussels is quite an expensive city: in terms of prices, it can be compared with the nearby large cities - Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne. But during the sales period, he is captured by a real excitement. Brussels shops open their doors from 9-10 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday. On Fridays, most of the city's shops are open until 8 or 9 pm, with the exception of large galleries and shopping centers.

Tax free in Belgium

If the purchase amount in one store exceeds 125 EUR in one day, it makes sense to use the VAT refund system. In Belgium, VAT is 21%. In order to return this money, you need to ask the Tax Free store for a receipt, where the name of the goods, their price, including tax and the amount of refund, must be indicated. At the last customs office at the exit from the EU, present a receipt and unpacked purchases to obtain a customs stamp.

To receive money, you can:

• Submit a check for payment at a Russian bank.
• Mail the check to your regional Premier Tax Free office.
• Present a receipt for payment at one of the cash refund points in the EU.

If your visit to the country is limited only to its capital, you will spend the absolute majority of your time there, or you simply planned shopping in the main city of Belgium, then our material will come in handy. "Shopping in Brussels".

Economy

Where to stay

Despite a very small piece of Europe, which is occupied by Belgium, a large number of hotels and hotel complexes of various levels are located on its territory. Belgium is home to world famous hotels such as Hilton, Holiday Inn, Marriott and other famous and expensive hotels. In order to feel the real spirit of Belgium, see its national traditions and flavor, it is best to stay in a small mini-hotel. In small and cozy hotels of this kind, with a reigning atmosphere of calm and regularity, you can feel like at home with the Belgians.

In Belgium, you can rent a hotel room for just an hour or for a longer period. A wide range of prices for accommodation allows you to choose the most different, suitable specifically for you, the best options for housing and the services provided: there are rooms for 15 euros per day, and there are rooms for 17 thousand. The most budget rooms can be found in hostels throughout the country.

Congress hotels are popular due to their convenient location. As a rule, they are located near major cities, administrative centers, international highways and airports.

Brussels 01:06 9 ° C
Mainly cloudy

Population of the country 10 403 000 people Territory 30 510 sq. km Part of the world Europe Capital of Belgium Brussels Money Euro (EUR) Domain zone.be Country dialing code +32

Hotels

Belgium is home to the world's largest five-star hotel chains and small private establishments that allow you to fully experience the local flavor. A wide range of rooms and services provided allows you to choose the right option for any budget. Luxurious, fashionable hotels such as Metropole, Hilton, Royal Windso and Marriott coexist with modest 3-star establishments Queen Anne, Brugotel, Leonardo Hotel Antwerpen and many others. Special attention should be paid to the Belgian chateau - old country houses of aristocrats, turned into hotels and restaurants.

Climate :: Moderate, mild winters, cool summers, rainy, humid, cloudy weather

sights

Literally every city in Belgium is rich in sights, mainly architectural masterpieces, museums, fortresses and cathedrals. The symbol of Brussels is the Atonium, a greatly enlarged crystal of iron, and the nearby Mini-Europe miniature park. The famous Manneken Pis statue is also located in Brussels.

In Antwerp, the Flemish Opera, the Zoo, the Castle of the Walls and the Rubens House deserve attention. Ghent attracts tourists with its castles of Gerard the Devil and the Counts of Flanders, the cathedrals of St. Bavo and St. Nicholas. In Bruges, there is one of the few works of Michelangelo, which was taken out of Italy - the statue of "Our Lady and Child".

Clothes are treated very dismissively. They can easily throw their jacket on the ground or walk around in torn and dirty things.

Terrain: Flat coastal plains to the northwest, hills in the center, rocky mountains and the Ardennes forest to the south.

Leisure

As entertainment, Belgium offers not only visits to local attractions, but also various entertainment events: incendiary parties in clubs and performances of show stars, visits to the Royal Theater and art exhibitions. The country hosts many holidays and festivals: Middelheim Jazz, festivals of fireworks, cartoons and photographs, sand castles and old car racing competition, Arts Fair and Bell Concert, and religious processions “Feast of the Sacred Blood” and “Hanswijk”. Beer lovers will find a variety of colorful bars serving over 500 types of beer.

Resources :: Building materials, quartz sand, carbonates.

Museums

Fans of unusual museums of the World should definitely visit the cities of Brussels and Bruges, which, in addition to many historical and art museums, have unique objects: the Comics Museum and the Beer Museum. In Belgium, one of the most frequently visited museums is the Royal Museum of Fine Arts and the Diamond Museum in Antwerp. In addition, there is a maritime museum in Antwerp. It displays many exhibits of sunken ships. In Ghent, there are museums for the history of medicine, contemporary art, decorative arts, folklore and the archaeological museum.

At home, no one takes off their shoes, not even boots. They will sit and sweat, but they will not take them off.

Money :: Together with the francs, for some time there were belgs in circulation, which could be exchanged for gold bars until 1935. Until the last, global changes in the Belgian currency, from 100 to 10,000 francs were in use, on the obverse of which were portraits of artists, inventors and politicians. Since 2002, the national currency of Belgium has become the recognized currency of the euro.

Resorts

The most famous summer resort in Belgium is the seaside Ostend, with golden beaches, yacht clubs and an open city aquarium with a rich underwater world. A little to the west, among the dunes, is Middelkerk, where you can play golf or go sandy surfing.

For families with children, Brussels and Cuxide are most suitable, with a variety of attractions and amusement parks. The historic spa resort is famous for its hot springs. Ski resorts in Belgium are also very popular. One of them is Barac de Frature, which attracts with its wide, gentle slopes. The largest diving centers are located in Bruges and Mechelen.

Transport

The main urban transport in Belgium is buses and trams. In addition, Brussels has three metro lines. The entire territory of the country is densely covered with a network of railways, the main transportation along which is carried out by high-speed trains. The main railway junction is Brussels, which has three main stations. More than 2 thousand km of waterways are used mainly for commercial purposes. The largest commercial ports are Antwerp and Bruges. International passenger transportation is carried out by bus and plane. Major international airports are located in Brussels and Antwerp, while tourist charters serve Liege and Ostend-Bruges.

Belgian women are very scary. And those who, it seems, are not very scary try to seem scary and dress even worse. If you met a beautiful girl on the street, then she is either Turkish or ours.

Standard of living

The main indicators of the well-being of the Belgians are quite high, which puts Belgium in eighth place in the world among the countries with the most favorable standard of living. Despite the high taxes in the country, the average citizen of Belgium allows himself to have his own house, car, as well as travel regularly and get a decent education. The salary of a resident of Belgium is more than 26 thousand US dollars per year. Life expectancy in the country is 81 years. According to surveys, 83% of the country's residents most often experience positive emotions and satisfaction with their lives.

Cities

The capital of Belgium is Brussels. The city is best known in the world for the location of the European Union headquarters and the NATO headquarters.

The second largest city is Antwerp, which is the largest port in Europe and the capital of fashion and trade in Belgium.

Ghent is rightfully considered a major training center in Belgium, and Liege is the main cargo center for air and sea transport.

Belgium is essentially not a tourist country, but many come here to admire the architectural monuments of the Middle Ages. The most attractive city for tourists, Bruges, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Population

Coordinates

Brussels

Metropolitan region

50.85045 x 4.34878

Antwerp

Flanders

51.21989 x 4.40346

Flanders

Charleroi

Wallonia

50.41136 x 4.44448

Wallonia

50.63373 x 5.56749

Flanders

51.20892 x 3.22424

Wallonia

50.4669 x 4.86746

Flanders

50.87959 x 4.70093

Wallonia

50.45413 x 3.95229

Flanders

The country: Belgium
Capital: Brussels
View: A constitutional monarchy
Ruling Monarch: Philip I

The Kingdom of Belgium is the youngest in Europe. The year of birth of the Belgian monarchy is considered to be 1830. Then, as a result of the revolution, Belgium separated from the Netherlands and became an independent state. The first ruler of Belgium was Leopold I. Under him, the economy developed actively and the culture of the country flourished.

During the First and Second World War, the Belgian monarchy had to go through difficult times. German troops occupied the country, the people felt fear, but remained firm. But the reigning king at that time, King Leopold III surrendered to the enemy troops, which is why he went down in the history of Belgium as the most cowardly monarch.

Royal family of Belgium

Returning to Belgium in 1951, Leopold III renounced the throne in favor of his son Baudouin. It is with this ruler that the formation of Brussels as the "capital" of Europe is connected. Belgium became one of the initiators of the creation of a collective security system within the framework of the United Europe and NATO. During the reign of Baudouin, Brussels' reputation grew as a leading European center for international business.

The ruler himself was modest, simple, knew how to find a common language with everyone. In 1960, the king married the Spanish aristocrat Dona Fabiola. Unfortunately, no children appeared in the royal family.

King Philippe of Belgium and Queen Matilda In 1993, the king died, and the throne passed to his younger brother Albert II. The new king was an educated and versatile person. Married to Italian Paola Ruffo di Calabria, he had three children: Crown Prince of Belgium and Duke of Brabant Philippe (1960), Princess Astrid (1962) and Prince Laurent (1963).

In 2013, King Albert II abdicated in favor of his son Philip.

The 79-year-old ruler announced this on television and assured his citizens that "they are now in good hands."

Official photo of King Philip and Queen Matilda The current reigning Philip is the first Belgian prince to attend a regular school instead of receiving a traditional home education. The king is interested in technology and especially aircraft construction. On account of Philip 30 single sorties, he knows how to fly a helicopter.

Since 1999 he has been married to Matilda d "Udequem d" Akoz, who was awarded the title of Princess of Belgium on the day of her wedding. The couple have two daughters: Princess Elizabeth Teresa Maria Elena (born 2001), heiress to the Belgian throne, and Princess Eleanor Fabiola Victoria Anna Maria (born 2008), as well as two sons: Prince Gabriel Baudouin Carl Maria (2003 born), Prince Emmanuel Leopold Guillaume François Maria (born 2005).

The Belgian Royal Family welcomes their subjectsInteresting Facts:

• The official title of the head of the country is not "King of Belgium", but "King of the Belgians". Thus, the connection between the monarchy and the people is emphasized.
  
• The heir to the throne does not automatically become king on the day of the death of his predecessor, as is customary in other monarchies. This happens only after he has taken the constitutional oath.
  
• Ascending the throne, the first king Leopold I defined the tasks of the monarchy as follows: "Advise. Encourage. Warn." The Royal Family of Belgium continues to fulfill the functions that the founder of their dynasty determined for himself when he ascended to the throne.
  
• Although the monarch in Belgium does not have unlimited political power, he is a symbol of the nation, an arbiter who ensures stability in his country. According to the data obtained, in countries with a monarchical system of government, the economy develops most steadily.
  
• Belgium is divided into three linguistic communities: Flemish (Dutch-speaking), Walloon (French-speaking) and partly Liege (German-speaking). Each king has two spelling options: French and Flemish. So King Baudouin I in Flemish was called Boudewynne I.

- a country that has a large number of fans. Those with a sweet tooth and dreamers, lovers of beer and adventure, those who are so eager for new discoveries and experiences strive to get into it. Belgium became famous all over the world for its great forts and performances. Here you can spend an unforgettable vacation and get a lot of pleasant emotions, enjoying every moment. Let's find out where magic Belgium is and many other details.

The main thing about the country

The country of Belgium is located in Western Europe. Its borders intersect with four great states: France, Luxembourg, Germany and the Netherlands. In the north, the state has access to the North Sea. In terms of area, Belgium ranks 136 in the world, because its territory is equal to 30,528 sq. km, of which the water surface occupies only 6.4%. The magnificent country has long been a member of the EU, UN and NATO. In addition, Belgium is considered an important transport destination, which makes it attractive not only in tourism, but also in the global economy.

Form of government

Since its inception, Belgium has been a constitutional monarchy with a king as its head. At the moment, the place of the head is occupied by Philip the First. In Belgium, the head of the federal government, Prime Minister Charles Michel (since 2014), also plays a significant role. The Federal Parliament consists of two parts: the House of Representatives and the Senate. In Belgium, three regions and three linguistic communities have formed, which have their own parliament and their own head.

Belgium cities

Population and religion

The magnificent country of Belgium is home to over 11 million people, 97% of them are indigenous. In terms of population density, the country "surpassed" even a tiny state. The largest number of inhabitants is observed in the Flemish region. The average age of the population in Belgium is 78 years, such indicators indicate a good standard of living. At the same time, the population growth is increasing by only 0.13% per year. In an ordinary Belgian family, one child is born, rarely three.

The Belgians are wayward people. In their Constitution, clauses on freedom of religion have long been spelled out, so you can meet many religious minorities in different parts of the country. The dominant role is played by the Roman Catholic Church. Christianity lessons are compulsory in 20% of schools in Belgium, they even take exams and have their own graph in the certificate. Among other religions, a large number of residents are Protestant, Islam, Judaism and Anglican.

Currency and languages

The main currency in Belgium is the Euro (EUR). This currency is issued in banknotes and euro cents. You can make exchange transactions at any point, but remember that in banks the rate is always more profitable.

There are three official languages ​​in Belgium: German, Dutch and French. In cities, people who can speak English are very rare.

Climate and nature

Belgium is a country for those who cannot stand the heat, blizzards and blizzards. A temperate maritime climate reigns on its territory, but the cold Atlantic winds often come. In summer in Belgium, the weather is cool, the average temperature reaches +23 degrees, there is a low level of humidity and it rarely rains. In autumn and spring, the weather is rainy, the air temperature reaches a maximum of +15. Winter in the country is a real fairy tale. The white feather bed covers the roofs a maximum of five times per season, but it does not come off so quickly. The air temperature in winter is equal to +1 ... + 5 degrees. The best time to travel here are the months from May to September and from December to February.

The beautiful country of Belgium is rich in forests and rivers, mountains and plains. A large number of representatives of the animal and feathered world live in it: wolves, roe deer, hares, partridges, pheasants, etc. The entire territory of the country is divided into three parts: the coastal plain, the central plateau and the Ardennes Upland. The highest point in Belgium is Mount Botrange (694 m above sea level). Several rivers flow on the territory of the state, the Scheldt and the Meuse are considered to be full-flowing ones. The largest forest is located near Brussels, it covers more than five thousand hectares. Special organizations and volunteers monitor the safety of the forest.

sights

Belgium is full of amazing things. Seeing them with your own eyes is probably the dream of every traveler. Gothic castles, military forts, amazing cathedrals and basilicas, rare museum exhibitions, ruins and other historical sites are located in different parts of the country. In Belgium, you will find unique architectural buildings, stunning creations of great classics, modern and vibrant places that will benefit adults and children alike. Ancient religious buildings are of great importance for the inhabitants:, and many other objects.

Belgium hotels

A huge number of hotels are located on the territory of Belgium. Typically, they are all divided into categories ranging from two-star to luxury five-star. The buildings of the hotels themselves are made in a typical modern European style, but there are establishments that are located in ancient castles - chateau. In any, even the most remote, corner of this wonderful country, you can find a suitable accommodation option for yourself at a favorable price. Belgium also has the "world giants" of the Holliday In, Ibis, Hilton and Marriott hotels. The level of service and accommodation in them is, of course, luxury, so they are popular with politicians and businessmen.

There are also more budget holiday options scattered throughout the country - cozy hostels. Their cost includes payment for breakfast and other services. In addition, local residents are ready at any time to provide you with an apartment or room for a small fee.

Belgian cuisine

The notes of French, German and Dutch dishes are intertwined. As you know, in this delightful country, chocolate and beer are excellently made. No tourist will miss the opportunity to enjoy one of these Belgian treasures. When cooking, they use mainly seasonal vegetables and fruits, fish and seafood, meat from hares or pheasants. A varied combination of ingredients causes only delight and pleasure. In Belgium restaurants serve really large portions, but beer is poured modestly. Desserts in Belgian cuisine are worthy of special attention. You can never forget the taste of freshly made chocolate waffles or croissants, macaroons or crème brлеlée.

Shopping in Belgium

Most tourists do not go to the sake of branded clothing or newfangled accessories. The best memorabilia from this country is chocolate, cheese or beer. Of course, there are many centers and shops where you can buy branded clothes or shoes, cosmetics or decorative items. At the same time, the prices for these goods are much higher than in neighboring France or Germany. The pricing policy is influenced by the position of exports and imports in the country. In addition to the country's "talismans", handicrafts are also glorified in Belgium. Surely, housewives will love the lace and wooden décor elements, and men will love medieval-style souvenir weapons. You can buy these products in the markets and shops in Belgium.

Security in the country

In Belgium, you can spend your vacation quite calmly, without any unpleasant oddities. This magnificent country is generally safe and the crime rate is quite low. In Brussels and other big cities, you should not carry large amounts of money and valuables with you, because pickpockets can be found in crowded places. In addition, you should respect the traditions and holidays in Belgium, follow the generally accepted rules of conduct in order not to get into unpleasant situations. As in all civilized countries of Europe, in Belgium it is forbidden to smoke in public places, and to drink alcohol - only in certain time frames (ban after 23.00).

customs control

If you want to get to the wonderful country of Belgium, while not experiencing the inconvenience of going through customs, then you need to familiarize yourself with some prohibitions:

• you cannot import more than 10 thousand euros into the country, but you can export it;
• persons over 17 years of age are prohibited from taking on the road more than 200 cigarettes (250 grams of tobacco, 50 cigars);
• alcoholic beverages stronger than 22% and more than a liter will not pass customs control;
• it is forbidden to import and export meat, dairy products. Baby food is an exception if you are traveling with a child under three years old;
• will not be allowed into the country if you have undeclared weapons, drugs and medicines with you;
• plants and animals undergo customs control if you have a special certificate from the quarantine service.

Transport

Belgium is very well developed. To get to different settlements, tourists choose trains. The railway station in Belgium has existed for five centuries, trains leave on time, they themselves are modern and silent. In cities in Belgium, public transport often runs, mainly buses and trams. In the capital and other tourist areas, there are no problems with or other means of transport.

How to get to Belgium?

Getting to Belgium from the CIS countries or Europe is a trifling matter. Planes with a direct flight to Brussels take off daily from Moscow. Such flights also exist at the airports of Minsk, Kiev, Lvov, Frankfurt, London, etc. In general, you can fly to Belgium airport from any country on any day.

You can also get to Brussels from around the world using a special bus. Of course, such a trip will last much longer than a flight, but at the same time it will save you a good amount of money.

In order to get to the territory of Belgium, you need to get. You can do it yourself by contacting the Consulate directly with the required package of documents. You can entrust such a painstaking task to travel agencies. The most profitable option for traveling to beautiful Belgium is a Schengen visa, but you will be allowed into the country with a working, guest.