Belgium

Culture and Religion

Belgium has a diverse and multicultural society, shaped by its historical influences and its position as a home to multiple linguistic communities. The country consists of three main regions: Flanders, where Dutch is spoken; Wallonia, where French is spoken; and the Brussels-Capital Region, which is bilingual.

Belgium is known for its tolerance and respect for cultural diversity. It has strong traditions of multiculturalism and multicultural policies aimed at promoting integration and social cohesion. The country celebrates various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the richness of its different communities.

Religion in Belgium is diverse, with Catholicism historically being the dominant religion. However, over the years, Belgium has become more secularized, and there has been a decline in religious affiliation. Today, a significant proportion of the population identifies as non-religious, while others follow different faiths such as Islam, Protestantism, and Judaism.

The country guarantees freedom of religion and belief, allowing individuals to practice their faith freely. Places of worship for different religious communities can be found across Belgium, including churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples.

In recent years, Belgium has also become a hub for interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Various initiatives and organizations work to foster understanding and respect between different religious communities, promoting dialogue and cooperation for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Overall, Belgium’s culture is shaped by its linguistic diversity, tolerance, and respect for different beliefs and traditions. The country embraces its multicultural identity and strives to create an inclusive environment where people from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds can coexist and thrive.

How to get there

Getting to Belgium is relatively easy due to its central location in Western Europe and well-developed transportation infrastructure. Here are some common ways to travel to Belgium:

By Air: Belgium has several international airports, with Brussels Airport being the largest and busiest. It offers direct flights from major cities around the world. There are also smaller airports in cities like Antwerp, Ostend, and Charleroi, which serve some low-cost airlines.

By Train: Belgium has an extensive rail network connecting it to neighboring countries and major European cities. High-speed trains, such as the Eurostar, Thalys, and ICE, provide efficient connections to Belgium from countries like France, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK.

By Car: Belgium is well-connected to neighboring countries by road, with highways linking it to France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg. The country’s central location and proximity to major European cities make it easily accessible by car. However, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with local driving regulations and have the necessary documentation, including an international driver’s license.

By Bus: Buses offer affordable transportation options to Belgium from various European cities. Numerous private bus companies operate routes to and from Belgium, providing a more budget-friendly alternative to trains and flights.

By Ferry: If you are traveling from the UK, you can also reach Belgium by ferry. Multiple ferry services operate between ports in the UK (such as Dover) and ports in Belgium (such as Ostend).

Once you arrive in Belgium, the country has an efficient public transportation system, including trains, buses, trams, and metros, making it easy to explore different cities and regions.

Travelling Budget

The cost of traveling to Belgium can vary depending on your travel style, the duration of your stay, and the cities or regions you plan to visit. Here is a rough breakdown of some common expenses to help you plan your budget:

Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Belgium can range from budget hostels to luxury hotels. On average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around €30-50 per night for a hostel or budget hotel, while mid-range hotels typically range from €70-120 per night. Prices may be higher in larger cities like Brussels and Bruges.

Food: Belgium is known for its delicious cuisine, but eating out can range in price as well. A meal in an inexpensive restaurant or a street food stand can cost around €10-15, while a mid-range restaurant can range from €20-40 per person. Trying some of the famous local dishes like waffles, fries, and Belgian chocolates is a must!

Transportation: Public transportation is efficient and relatively affordable in Belgium. Within cities, a single bus or tram ride typically costs around €2-3, while a day pass may range from €7-10. Inter-city train travel is convenient, but prices can vary depending on the distance and class of travel. Expect to pay around €20-50 for a one-way ticket.

Sightseeing and Activities: Belgium offers a wide range of attractions, including museums, historic sites, and cultural events. Entrance fees can vary, with popular attractions in major cities costing around €10-15, but prices can be lower or higher depending on the specific location.

It’s important to budget for additional expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, and any specific activities or events you plan to participate in during your visit.

As a rough estimate, a budget traveler could expect to spend around €50-70 per day, while mid-range travelers could spend €100-150 per day. However, these figures are rough estimates and can vary greatly based on personal preferences and travel choices.