Belgium, the heart of Europe, offers Indian travelers a perfect blend of medieval charm, artistic heritage, and culinary delights. From the fairy-tale streets of Bruges to the vibrant EU capital Brussels and the beer culture of Antwerp, this compact country packs incredible diversity into a small area.
This comprehensive guide covers everything Indian travelers need to know—from Schengen visa requirements and flight options to the best places to stay, eat, and explore in this beautiful European nation.
Why Belgium is a Great Destination for Indian Tourists
- Cultural Richness: UNESCO sites, medieval architecture, and world-class museums
- Food Paradise: Famous for chocolates, waffles, fries, and beer
- Compact Size: Easy to explore multiple cities in short time
- Excellent Transport: Efficient trains connect all major cities
- English Friendly: Widely spoken in tourist areas
- Schengen Visa: One visa allows travel to 26 European countries
How to Travel from India to Belgium
Flight Options
Several airlines offer flights from India to Belgium:
- Direct Flights: Currently no direct flights (connecting options available)
- Via Middle East: Emirates (via Dubai), Qatar Airways (via Doha)
- Via Europe: Lufthansa (via Frankfurt), Air France (via Paris)
- Main Airport: Brussels Airport (BRU)
- Secondary Airport: Charleroi Airport (CRL) for budget airlines
Travel Tip: Book flights 3-4 months in advance for best prices. Shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) often have better deals.
Approximate Flight Duration & Cost
| Route |
Duration |
Cost (Round-trip) |
| Delhi/Mumbai to Brussels |
12-16 hours (including layover) |
₹40,000–₹75,000 (varies by season) |
Best Time to Visit Belgium
| Season |
Months |
Pros & Cons |
| Summer (Peak) |
Jun-Aug |
Warm weather, festivals, but crowded and expensive |
| Spring/Fall |
Apr-May, Sep-Oct |
Mild weather, fewer crowds, lower prices |
| Winter |
Nov-Mar |
Cold but magical Christmas markets, cheapest rates |
Festivals to Experience:
- Brussels Flower Carpet (Aug): Giant floral display at Grand Place
- Ghent Festival (July): Massive street festival with music and theater
- Christmas Markets (Dec): Magical markets across Belgian cities
Belgium Travel Budget for Indian Tourists
Belgium is moderately expensive compared to India. Here's a rough estimate per person:
| Expense |
Budget (₹) |
Mid-Range (₹) |
Luxury (₹) |
| Accommodation (per night) |
₹3,000–₹6,000 (Hostels/guesthouses) |
₹8,000–₹15,000 (3-4 star hotels) |
₹20,000+ (5-star hotels) |
| Food (per day) |
₹1,000–₹2,500 (Street food/cafés) |
₹3,000–₹5,000 (Restaurants) |
₹7,000+ (Fine dining) |
| Transport (local) |
₹500–₹1,500 (Public transport) |
₹2,000–₹4,000 (Taxis) |
₹6,000+ (Private car) |
| Attractions (per day) |
₹1,000–₹2,500 (Museums/sites) |
₹3,000–₹6,000 (Guided tours) |
₹8,000+ (VIP experiences) |
Total Estimated Cost for 7 Days:
- Budget Traveler: ₹80,000–₹1,20,000
- Mid-Range Traveler: ₹1,50,000–₹2,50,000
- Luxury Traveler: ₹3,00,000+
Where to Stay in Belgium
1. Brussels (Capital City)
- Budget: Meininger Hotel Brussels (₹4,500/night)
- Mid-Range: Hotel Made in Louise (₹12,000/night)
- Luxury: Hotel Amigo (₹25,000/night)
2. Bruges (Medieval City)
- Budget: St. Christopher's Bauhaus (₹5,000/night)
- Mid-Range: Hotel Dukes' Palace (₹15,000/night)
3. Antwerp (Diamond City)
- Budget: Antwerp City Hostel (₹4,000/night)
- Luxury: Hotel De Witte Lelie (₹18,000/night)
Top Attractions & Must-Do Activities
- Grand Place, Brussels: Stunning central square with gold-trimmed buildings
- Bruges Historic Center: UNESCO-listed medieval canals and architecture
- Atomium, Brussels: Iconic 1958 World's Fair structure
- Ghent Altarpiece: Famous 15th-century painting in St. Bavo's Cathedral
- Antwerp Central Station: Often called "Railway Cathedral" for its beauty
- Waterloo Battlefield: Site of Napoleon's final defeat
- Belgian Chocolate Workshop: Learn to make authentic Belgian chocolates
Belgian Food Guide for Indians
Belgian cuisine is famous worldwide with vegetarian options available:
- Belgian Waffles: Try both Brussels and Liège styles
- Frites: Original Belgian fries with various sauces
- Vegetable Stoemp: Mashed potatoes with vegetables
- Waterzooi: Creamy vegetable stew (original has fish/chicken)
- Speculoos: Spiced biscuit cookies
- Belgian Chocolate: Must-try from famous chocolatiers
- Belgian Beer: Over 1,500 varieties (try fruit beers)
Tip: Most restaurants can adapt dishes to be vegetarian - just ask. Many Indian restaurants available in major cities.
Visa Requirements for Indian Travelers
Do Indians Need a Visa for Belgium?
✅ Yes, Schengen visa required
Types of Visas
- Short-stay Schengen Visa: For tourism, up to 90 days
- Airport Transit Visa: If changing flights in Schengen zone
How to Apply
- Apply at Belgian embassy/consulate or VFS center
- Processing time: 15-30 days
- Biometrics required (fingerprints and photo)
Required Documents
- ✔ Passport (valid 3+ months beyond stay with 2 blank pages)
- ✔ Completed visa application form
- ✔ 2 recent passport photos
- ✔ Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
- ✔ Flight itinerary
- ✔ Hotel bookings
- ✔ Bank statements (last 6 months, minimum ₹1 lakh balance)
- ✔ Employment proof
- ✔ Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Visa Fees
Short-stay Visa: ₹6,500 (approx) + VFS service charges
Important: Apply at least 4 weeks before travel. Belgium has strict Schengen visa requirements.
Important: If you need help with your Belgium Visa application, please visit our website and fill out the assistance form. (👉
www.executivevisaservices.in)
FAQs for Indian Travelers
1. Is Belgium safe for Indian tourists?
Very safe! Standard precautions against pickpockets in tourist areas.
2. What's the currency in Belgium?
Euro (€). 1 EUR ≈ ₹90 (check current rates). Cards widely accepted.
3. Can I use English in Belgium?
Yes, especially in cities and tourist areas. Most Belgians speak good English.
4. How to get a SIM card in Belgium?
Purchase from Proximus/Base at airport (₹1,000 for basic plan). Need passport.
5. What's the best way to travel within Belgium?
Trains are excellent between cities. Public transport is efficient in cities.
6. How many days are enough for Belgium?
5-7 days covers highlights. 10 days allows deeper exploration.
7. Any cultural tips for Indian travelers?
Greet with handshake, be punctual for appointments, and say "Dank u" (Thank you) in Dutch-speaking areas.
Final Thoughts: Why Belgium Should Be Your Next European Trip
Belgium offers Indian travelers an enchanting mix of medieval charm, artistic heritage, and culinary excellence in one of Europe's most accessible countries. While it requires careful visa preparation and budget planning, the quality of experiences - from Bruges' canals to Brussels' grand architecture and Belgium's famous chocolates - make it worth every effort.
With excellent transport connections, English-friendly locals, and growing vegetarian options, Belgium is becoming increasingly welcoming to Indian travelers. Whether you're drawn to art, history, food, or simply want to experience authentic European culture, Belgium promises memories that will last a lifetime.