Belgium – The Perfect European Escape: Culture, Food, Views and Seamless Connectivity with eSIM

Esimfly · 12 March 2025

I still remember my first time in Belgium – a perfect blend of history, charm and some of the best food I have ever tasted. The country may be small, but the experiences it offers are enormous. Old and new sit side by side here: centuries-old buildings next to modern towers, storybook towns next to forward-thinking cities. If you are looking for a destination that is romantic, delicious and culturally fascinating all at once, Belgium is exactly where you should be heading.

In this guide I will show you how to get the most out of the Belgian experience – from cheap flights and transport options, to the cities you simply cannot skip, the local food that has no substitute, and the smartest, most affordable way to stay online with an eSIM for travel abroad, without fiddling with a physical SIM or paying a fortune to your mobile carrier.

Getting to Belgium – cheap flights and main airports

Belgium is an easy country to reach, with several airports serving travellers from all over the world:

Brussels Airport (BRU) – the country's main airport, roughly 15 km from the city centre. You can reach town by SNCB train, bus or taxi.
Charleroi Airport (CRL) – a favourite with low-cost flyers on Ryanair and Wizz Air. Convenient shuttles run to Brussels and other cities.
Antwerp Airport (ANR) – relatively small, but ideal if you want direct access to northern Belgium and Flanders.

To hunt down the best deals, use flight comparison sites such as Skyscanner and Kayak, and check nearby destinations like Amsterdam and Paris – sometimes it is cheaper to fly there and hop on a train.

The cities you have to visit in Belgium

Brussels – the beating heart of Belgium and the EU

Brussels is a wonderful mix of the modern and the historic. On one hand it is the political capital of Europe; on the other it is full of ornate streets, street art, world-class restaurants and colourful markets.

What you should not miss in Brussels

The Grand Place – the city's central square and one of the most beautiful in Europe, ringed by 17th-century buildings with gilded decoration.
The Atomium – a futuristic structure built for Expo 58. You can ride to the top for a stunning panoramic view over the city.
The Belgian Comic Strip Center – Belgium is the birthplace of the European comic, and here you will meet Tintin, the Smurfs and many more.
Manneken Pis – the city's unofficial mascot, a small bronze statue surrounded by wonderfully entertaining legends.

🔗 More on Brussels attractions: the official Brussels tourism website

Bruges – the city that makes you feel inside a fairy tale

Bruges may well be the most romantic city in Belgium. Picture-perfect canals, medieval houses and romantic bridges make it a must for anyone who loves a magical atmosphere.

Experiences not to miss in Bruges

A canal cruise – the finest way to take in the city's beauty is a quiet glide between the old buildings.
The Belfry of Bruges – a 366-step climb rewards you with a breathtaking view over the rooftops.
Markt Square – the heart of the city, framed by colourful buildings and restaurants serving traditional Belgian dishes.
The chocolate museum (Choco-Story) – a sweet experience for the whole family, tastings included.

🔗 More about Bruges: the Bruges tourism website

Antwerp – capital of diamonds and fashion

Antwerp is a fascinating city blending culture, history and a buzzing atmosphere. It is also considered the world's diamond capital, so if a luxury purchase is on your list, this is the place.

Top attractions in Antwerp

Cathedral of Our Lady – a magnificent church housing works by the Flemish master Rubens.
The Diamond District – diamonds from all over the world are traded here, and jewellery lovers will find real treasures.
MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) – historical exhibitions plus a spectacular panoramic view.
Antwerp Zoo – one of the oldest and best-kept zoos in Europe.

🔗 More about Antwerp: the Antwerp tourism website

Getting around Belgium

Belgium offers comfortable, efficient public transport:

Trains – SNCB runs services between all the major cities, and Rail Pass tickets are excellent value.
Buses and trams – a superb network run by companies such as De Lijn and STIB.
Car rental – if you plan to explore beyond the big cities, compare prices on sites like Rentalcars.

How to stay connected everywhere with an eSIM

One of the biggest headaches for travellers is internet access. Belgium has WiFi in plenty of places, but if you want a connection that never drops, the best solution is an eSIM for travel abroad.

Instant activation – scan a QR code and you are online within seconds.
Great value – generous data plans with no need to swap SIM cards.
Global coverage – works in neighbouring countries too, including the Netherlands, France and Germany.

In summary – Belgium is a must for every traveller

Belgium is not just a destination – it is an unforgettable experience. Incredible food, breathtaking architecture, an intriguing nightlife and a rich culture waiting to be discovered. To make the most of it, plan your route carefully, enjoy the attractions and do not forget to pack an eSIM for travel abroad so you stay connected the whole way.

So what are you waiting for? Belgium is ready with an experience you will never forget!

Planning the trip? Order your Belgium eSIM before you fly — the QR code arrives by email within minutes.