Food & Drink
Belgium is renowned for its gastronomic offerings, with delicious traditional dishes and world-class beer. In Brussels, check out Chez Leon, a famous seafood restaurant that’s been around since 1893. For a more upscale dining experience, head to Comme Chez Soi, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Belgian cuisine.
In Bruges, you can enjoy a Belgian waffle from the famous food truck Chez Albert, which has served this delicious treat for over 100 years. The city is also known for its chocolate shops, and one of the best is The Chocolate Line, where you can taste a range of unique flavours like ginger, beer, and even cigar. For a cosy dinner, ‘t Zwart Huis is a beautiful restaurant with an atmospheric interior, serving Belgian-French cuisine.
Ghent has a vibrant food scene with plenty of trendy eateries and bars. The Pakhuis restaurant in an old warehouse is a favourite among locals, serving inventive Belgian cuisine. If you’re looking for a casual night out, the Dulle Griet pub is a popular spot, serving over 500 types of beer, including the infamous “Max” beer that comes in a shoe. Finally, for an elegant cocktail experience, the Jigger’s bar is a must-visit, with a creative list of drinks made with local spirits and ingredients.
Belgium is renowned for its cuisine, with many traditional dishes to discover. One of the most iconic dishes is Moules-Frites, a bowl of steamed mussels in a white wine and garlic sauce served with crispy fries. Another Belgian classic is Stoofvlees, a hearty beef stew with beer and bread or fries. Belgian waffles are a must-try for a sweet treat, served with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, and fruit. Find out more.
How to get around
Belgium has a well-developed public transport system, making it easy to get around. In Brussels, the metro is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with six lines serving the city and its surroundings. Trams and buses also run throughout the city, and you can purchase a ticket valid on all modes of transport.
On foot is the best way to explore the historic centre in other cities like Bruges and Ghent. Bikes are also a popular option, with many rental shops available. Trains are an excellent way to travel between cities, with a high-speed rail network connecting Brussels to other major cities in Europe like Paris, Amsterdam, and London.