Belgium

Belgium is a compact Western European country bordered by France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. It is divided into Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north, French-speaking Wallonia in the south, and bilingual Brussels in the centre. The capital also serves as the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. Belgium is known for its medieval towns, Gothic architecture, and culinary specialities like chocolate, waffles, fries, and beer. Cities like Bruges and Ghent are filled with canals and cobbled streets, while Antwerp is a fashion and design hub. Belgium uses the euro and is part of the Schengen Area, with excellent rail links connecting it to major European cities. English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and the tourism sector. The country’s cultural scene is rich, with over 100 museums in Brussels alone, and numerous festivals throughout the year. While small in size, Belgium offers a dense mix of history, culture, and modern life, making it ideal for short breaks or stopovers on multi-country trips.