Belgium - Best places to visit - Brugge, Ypres, Bastogne, Tournai, Torhout, Blegny, Jalhay

Brussels is the capital city and is known for its ornate architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and status as the de facto capital of the European Union.

Belgium boasts a population of approximately 11.5 million people.

Belgium is a multilingual country with three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency making transactions seamless for travellers from Eurozone countries.

Covering an area of around 30,688 square kilometers, Belgium is a relatively small country, however, its size does not diminish the diversity of experiences it offers.

The Scheldt, Meuse, and Yser are some of the major rivers flowing through Belgium, contributing to its picturesque landscapes.

While Belgium doesn't boast extensive lakes, the picturesque Lake Genval, located near Brussels, offers a tranquil retreat.

Although Belgium is not renowned for its beaches, the coastal town of Knokke-Heist offers sandy shores and a lively atmosphere.

The topography is relatively flat, and it lacks towering mountains.

The Signal de Botrange in the Ardennes is the highest point, standing at a modest 694 meters.

Must see destinations include the medieval charm of Bruges, the historic significance of Ghent, Bastogne, Zonnebeke, Blegny, Ypres, and the lively atmosphere of Antwerp.

Belgium is both a member of the European Union (EU) and part of the Schengen Zone, ensuring smooth border crossings for travellers.

For most travellers, no visa is required for short stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area, however, it's essential to check the latest visa regulations based on your nationality.

If you travel by personal car you will be exempted from paying the Belgium vignette!

Payment of the Belgium road tax is only required for vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes, so, if you are traveling with a car weighing less than 3.5 tonnes, you will not have to pay a vignette to drive on Belgian roads.

However, you will have to pay the Liefkenshoek Bridge toll if you have a route that crosses this bridge.

The tunnel is 1.37 km long and the user fee is determined according to the vehicle category.

The road network is well-maintained, and the country is easily navigable.

While there are no tolls on most Belgian roads, be prepared for tolls on certain tunnels and viaducts, especially around Brussels.

Respect the speed limits, which are generally 120 km/h on highways, 50 km/h in urban areas, and 90 km/h on other roads unless indicated otherwise.

Most shops are open from Monday to Saturday, with Sunday openings becoming more common.
Larger cities have longer opening hours, while smaller towns may observe a midday break.

Wild camping is generally not allowed in Belgium.

Camp in designated areas or seek permission from landowners.

Explore the Grand Place in Brussels, the medieval Belfry of Bruges, and the Atomium.

Don't miss the historic battlefields of Flanders and the Ardennes.

Belgium is renowned for its beer culture with many pubs offering in excess of 100 different beers.

Prices vary, but a rough estimate is around €2-3 for a bottle of beer.

Wine prices depend on the type and location but usually start at €8-10 per bottle.

Rob and Krys Henshaw, an Australian couple, created Aussie European Tour, a Youtube Video channel and website (www.aussieeuropeantour.com) to record the various tours and holidays they have enjoyed over the years.

As well as documenting the travels for their own benefit they hope they can pass some tips and advice to other travellers.

Some of the videos may include tips on the following:
Visas and passports
Currencies
Credit cards and other types of cards
Languages
Mobile phones and SIM cards
Hiring or renting vehicles
Purchasing motorhomes
Road rules and parking rules for drivers
Vignettes
Driving safely in certain countries
Walking safely in busy tourist areas
Shopping days and hours

European Tours include the following:-
Europe
Austria Belgium Bulgaria Croatia
Czech Republic Denmark England Estonia
Finland France Germany Gibraltar
Greece Holland Hungary Italy
Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Norway
Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia
Slovenia Spain Sweden Wales

Video Timeline:-
0:00 Intro
0:10 Jalhay
0:55 Blegney
1:52 Herk de Stad
2:12 Aarschott
3:12 Ypres
4:05 Brugge
9:40 Torhout
10:00 Tournai
10:35 Saint Hubert
10:45 Bastogne
10:51 Outro