A little more
Belgium.
A lot less roaming.

Travelling to Belgium: what to know before you go

Belgium is a small, densely populated country between France, the Netherlands and Germany, with medieval cities, world-famous beer and chocolate, and the forested hills of the Ardennes in the south. Fast trains make it easy to see several cities in a few days. It suits city breaks, food and beer lovers, and travellers interested in art and history.

Where to go

• Brussels. The Grand-Place, ringed by ornate guildhalls and the Gothic town hall, is one of Europe's finest squares.
• Bruges. A remarkably intact medieval city of canals, brick gables and cobbled squares.
• Ghent. A lively university city with medieval guildhalls along the Graslei and a castle, Gravensteen, in the centre.
• Antwerp. A port city with a grand railway station, Rubens' house, the Cathedral of Our Lady with his altarpieces, a strong fashion scene and the historic diamond district.

Best time to visit

Late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September) are the most pleasant times, with mild weather and fewer crowds than midsummer. July and August are warmest but busiest in Bruges.

Staying online in Belgium

Mobile coverage is very good across Belgium, with 4G and 5G widely available in cities and along major routes, and good signal in most rural areas. Coverage can be weaker in parts of the Ardennes. Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafés and many stations. Belgium is in the EU, so EU roaming rules apply for EU plans. Travellers from elsewhere can install an eSIM before they fly and switch it on when they arrive.