Planning a weekend getaway to Belgium? Discover a range of activities, from relaxing beach days to shopping in lively cities. Learn the best ways to explore Belgium, whether by scenic train ride or an exciting road trip. Which adventure suits you best? Find out below!
Planning a Weekend Getaway to Belgium
First Things First: Finding a Great Place to Stay in Belgium
Exploring Belgium is undoubtedly enjoyable, but you will need a place to stay. Whether you’re planning a getaway to Belgium for a few days or a longer stay, you’ll soon discover that there are many different ways to experience the country. You don’t have to be confined to accommodations in major cities. In fact, if you check out sites dedicated to rental properties, you will find that it’s often much cheaper to rent something outside the major cities. For instance, if you need to be near Hasselt, consider looking for a rental in Genk. This option not only lowers your costs but also typically provides much more space.
Curious About Fun Accommodations?
Want to discover great spots to stay? Check out:
A Weekend Trip by Train in Belgium
Exploring Belgium by train is an excellent idea, especially if you’re planning a getaway to Belgium. The rail network reaches every corner of the country, making it easy to travel from coastal resorts to the natural beauty of the Ardennes. Trains start running early in the morning, and the last ones leave quite late at night. This makes the train system perfect for a weekend getaway—or even just a day trip!
Exciting Cities to Visit by Train
The Antwerp train station is the most impressive of them all, making a visit to this city a must. However, there are many more wonderful cities to explore by train:
How to Book Your Train Tickets
All Belgian train operations are managed by the National Railway Company of Belgium (NMBS). In the French-speaking part of Belgium, the company is known as Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Belges. You can easily book tickets through NS International as well!
There are three ways to purchase your train ticket. You can secure your ticket in advance via the NMBS website or app, or for more spontaneous trips, you can buy a ticket at the station from a counter or machine. It is also possible to buy a ticket from the conductor on the train, but keep in mind that you will have to pay a supplement of €7 on top of the ticket price.
Tip: Don’t Schedule Your Connections Too Tightly
Another important aspect to consider is that Belgian railways are not known for their punctuality. On average, 90% of trains are on time, but delayed trains are generally about six minutes late. If you have a connection, it’s advisable to plan it with some extra time.
Take a Road Trip Through Belgium
If you prefer not to rely on public transport, a getaway to Belgium by car is always an option. The roads are known, especially among the Dutch, for not being particularly smooth. Be prepared for the occasional pothole and stay alert while driving.
→ Read also: Road Trip in Belgium: Highlights, Tips & Useful Information
Beautiful Places to Discover on a Road Trip
There are plenty of fantastic spots to explore by car in Belgium. Some exciting destinations for your road trip include:
Essential Items to Bring
Another preparation point involves the items you need to bring when driving through Belgium. There are a few mandatory items you must carry:
- Warning triangle
- Fire extinguisher (ensure it is easily accessible and not expired)
- Safety vest (not mandatory to have in the car, but required to wear in case of breakdown)
- First-aid kit
- Insurance card
- Vehicle registration
- MOT certificate (if applicable)
As a driver, you must always be ready to show your driver’s license when requested.
Did You Know There’s a Toll Road in Belgium?
It’s good to know that there is only one toll road in all of Belgium, the Liefkenshoek Tunnel, which opened in 1991. You can pay for this toll road in cash or by credit card, and using the latter option grants you a discount, a rarity in Europe.
Low Emission Zones
Finally, it’s important to remember that Belgium has numerous Low Emission Zones (LEZ), similar to environmental zones in the Netherlands. You are not allowed to drive in these areas with a high-emission vehicle, which typically surround the centers of large cities. Always check your route in advance; sometimes, simply checking your license plate online suffices. In some cases, you may need to register your vehicle beforehand. Electric vehicles with CO2 emissions of less than 50 grams per kilometer are always permitted.
Check Rules by Region
Keep in mind that there are different regions in Belgium, namely Flanders and Wallonia. The regulations can vary significantly between regions, so it’s highly recommended to research your options and requirements before your getaway to Belgium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What is the best way to travel around Belgium?
The best way to explore Belgium during your getaway to Belgium depends on your preferences. Both train travel and road trips offer unique advantages. The train is ideal for convenience and reaching major cities quickly, while driving gives you the flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and smaller towns at your own pace.
- How do I buy train tickets in Belgium?
Tickets can be purchased through the NMBS website, app, at ticket counters, or machines at train stations. You may also buy tickets on the train, but a supplement fee applies.
- Are there any toll roads in Belgium?
Yes, there is only one toll road in Belgium, the Liefkenshoek Tunnel, where you can pay with cash or credit card. Using a credit card may give you a discount.
- What should I bring if I’m driving in Belgium?
You must carry a warning triangle, fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, insurance card, vehicle registration, and a driver’s license at all times.
- What are Low Emission Zones and how do they affect driving in Belgium?
Low Emission Zones (LEZ) restrict access to high-emission vehicles, especially in city centers. If you’re planning a getaway to Belgium and intend to drive in larger cities, it’s vital to check the regulations in advance to ensure your vehicle complies.
