Belgium for First-Time Visitors – A Local’s Guide

Planning your first trip to Belgium? Great choice. As a small but diverse country, Belgium is full of surprises. Think medieval towns, world-famous food, and warm, welcoming people. But where do you start? As someone who lives here and creates custom trips every day, I’d love to give you a few local tips.

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1. Don’t just visit Brussels

Most people start in Brussels — and it’s definitely worth seeing the Grand Place and Manneken Pis. But Belgium’s magic is in the smaller cities:

• Ghent has charm and canals, but fewer crowds than Bruges.

• Leuven is lively, full of students, and great for Belgian beer lovers.

• Antwerp is a fashion hub with beautiful architecture and top-notch shopping.

  
  

2. Eat like a Belgian (yes, more than chocolate)

You’ll love the fries, waffles and chocolates — of course. But don’t miss:

• Mussels with fries (moules-frites)

• Stoofvlees (beef stew with beer sauce)

• And of course… try a local beer — or two.

  
  

3. Travel slowly

Belgium is a compact country, so there’s no need to rush. Take your time, walk through small towns, chat with locals, and let the culture sink in. That’s what travel should be about.

4. Mix city and nature

Combine your city trip with a hike in the Ardennes, a visit to the Sonian Forest near Brussels, or a bike ride along the canals in West Flanders.

5. Ask a local (hi, that’s me!)

The best places don’t always show up in your travel guide. Want help planning your trip? I’ll help you discover Belgium at your rhythm — local, personal, and stress-free.

Conclusion:

Belgium may be small, but it’s full of heart. If you’re looking for a destination with charm, culture, and comfort — this is it. Let’s plan your journey together!

See you soon! 

Stefanie