Belgium map. Where is Belgium located? Castle of the Counts of Flanders, Belgium
Almost every person before going on vacation thinks about where to relax. Some people prefer to just lie back and sunbathe on the beach, some like hiking in the mountains with a backpack on their shoulders, while others appreciate a simple and serene holiday in one or another serene and comfortable European city.
The time of year and personal preferences are precisely the reasons on which the choice of tourists depends. An intense, active tourist will certainly choose an extreme type of holiday and will definitely try to conquer the mountains of Switzerland on skis, families with children will prefer warm countries by the sea, and inquisitive and inquisitive people will prefer countries with a luxurious historical past - Bulgaria, Belgium, France, the Czech Republic.
Belgium is considered one of the most suitable countries where a serene, measured holiday is perfectly mixed with energetic and educational excursions. Walks along the streets of the knights, accommodation in modern hotels, architectural monuments. Sometimes it seems like time has stopped.
Belgium. Satellite map
The main religion of Belgium is Catholicism, as a result of which the building monuments of Brussels are cathedrals and temples, as well as beautiful palaces, seemingly located along the streets of the country.
Holidays in Belgium - amazing construction beauties of past centuries, progressive monuments, Catholic churches, as well as progressive restaurants where you can sip the legendary Belgian beer.
You can also visit the site of the famous Napoleonic battle - Waterloo. In addition to Waterloo, tourists can get acquainted with the small resort town of Spa, which gave its name to the beauty exercises so beloved by us, and the town of Binche.
While enjoying the sights of Belgium, remember the real relaxation in your hotel room on a comfortable bed. Hotels in Belgium are a chance to feel like a Belgian millionaire with a suitable ratio of prices and properties of a spacious villa or luxury apartment.
A geographic atlas gives you an idea of what Belgium looks like on a world map. Upon careful study, you can see that the kingdom of Belgium is located in the northwestern part of Europe, has a relatively small territory with a population not exceeding 11.5 million people. The relatively small size of the state (Belgium's area is 30,528 km²) allows you to get from one end to the other by train in just 2 hours.
Belgium's closest neighbors:
- Netherlands (in the north).
- Germany (in the east).
- Luxembourg (in the southeast).
- France (south and west).
In the northwest, Belgium has access to the North Sea.
The sunniest months of the year are April and September. The country's climate is influenced by the proximity of the North Sea, as well as the warm North Atlantic Current (a continuation of the Gulf Stream). Weather conditions are moderately warm. Precipitation patterns and temperature changes are favorable for agricultural development. Thanks to the moist winds blowing from the Atlantic, the sky is often covered with clouds in winter and summer. It rains regularly.
In the southeastern part of the country, the climate of the Ardennes is much more severe, which is explained by a decrease in marine influence. However, the territory of Belgium is rarely covered with snow. In January, the average temperature in the lowlands of the country is approximately 3°C, in the Ardennes -1°C. In July, the average temperature is 18°C and 14°C, respectively.
The rivers of Belgium belong to the North Sea basin. The largest of them are the Scheldt and Meuse. In the western part of the country, there is usually no snow in winter, and river streams do not freeze. Floods sometimes occur on the plains. To prevent them, numerous dams, canals and locks were built.
Attractiveness for tourists
Despite the small size of the country, Belgium's location contributes to a constant influx of foreign visitors. Belgium is an important Western crossroads, as evidenced by its place on the map of Europe. Tourists come mainly from the UK, Germany and France.
Travelers are attracted by clean beaches, well-kept parks and forests, ideal for active recreation. Gourmets love to taste the famous Belgian chocolate and excellent local beer. Jewelry lovers can find exquisite pieces at a lower price than in other European countries.
The tourist attractiveness of the state is explained by the presence of many architectural monuments. Belgium is simply replete with various masterpieces made of stone. Travelers have the opportunity to visit medieval cities with narrow streets. There they can visit monasteries and ancient castles described by the famous French writer Alexandre Dumas.
The buildings still preserve the memory of the times of wealth of the Walloon counties. Those wishing to have a comfortable time are advised to visit Belgium in late spring or early autumn, when the weather is warm and sunny. Some people prefer to come to the country in September. During this autumn month the number of tourists is significantly reduced.
Tourist Brussels
A map of Belgium with cities can help you plan your travel route. However, it is best to start a conversation about Belgian attractions with Brussels, which is the main city of the country. The capital is not only a political and cultural center, but also acts as a gateway to the main excursion routes.
Brussels is famous for its magnificent architecture and rich history.
The city consists of an upper and lower part. The first of them is distinguished by spacious boulevards and majestic buildings, the second by an interweaving of cramped medieval streets. Many of these streets lead to the Grand Place, one of Europe's most beautiful squares. Several centuries ago there were swamps here. As a result of their drying, a small market area appeared. The townspeople began construction of the Grand Place in 1402.
Upon arrival in Brussels, guests try to admire the sculptures, in particular, the world-famous fountain-statue “The Manneken Pis”, visit historical museums, and get acquainted with collections of works by Flemish masters of painting. Then visit the Royal Opera House de la Monnaie. In 1700, the theater began to be located on the site of the mint, destroyed by the troops of King Louis XV of France. In 1830, a call for an armed uprising sounded from its stage.
After this, a revolution took place in the country, marking the beginning of Belgian independence.
One cannot miss another attraction, which is a symbol of the city. We are talking about a unique Atomium structure with several cylinders in the form of atoms, as well as escalators, an elevator, a restaurant and an observation deck. The structure, designed by engineer Andre Waterkeyn, symbolizes the knowledge of the atom by the human mind. Next door to it is the world-famous Mini-Europe park of architectural miniatures.
Mini-Europe Park, Brussels, Belgium
You can take a romantic walk through the capital's park with picturesque ponds. Previously, representatives of the royal family hunted here, but today groups of tourists from different countries stroll leisurely. Having fully enjoyed the beauty of architectural monuments, tourists do not deny themselves the pleasure of visiting one of the many restaurants and enjoying local cuisine. Naturally, in order to better learn about the history of Brussels, you need to spend a certain amount of time.
Diamond capital of Belgium
The second largest city, as shown by a detailed map of Belgium, is Antwerp - the largest port in Europe and one of the world's diamond cutting centers. The city, unlike the capital, cannot boast of an abundance of tourist routes. But there is also something to see here.
Travelers can visit several museums, the opera house, the cathedral and many other sites. Among them is Middelheim Park, an open-air museum. Here you can see the exhibition of modern sculpture. If you go to the natural park-reserve (Fort VII), you can see dozens of rare species of animals and plants.
The city has pubs, restaurants, and nightclubs. They are popular with both locals and visitors. Visitors especially like entertainment venues.
Objects of interest to tourists are located near the railway station and the central square.
Tourist center of the country
In order for travelers to have a more complete impression of Belgium, they need to come to Ghent. This city is the capital of East Flanders. There is a fairly large number of all kinds of old buildings here. To view the monuments, you should visit the city center. Museums are located in its southern part. Those wishing to get acquainted with industrial districts can go to the western suburbs.
The symbol of the city is St. Michael's Bridge, built in the Middle Ages. The overpass connects the banks of the Lys Canal, along which ships ply. Guides invite their clients to visit the Cathedral of St. Bavo, St. Peter's Abbey, the castles of Gerard the Devil and Count Philippe. Those who find themselves in Ghent should definitely see the Great Ardennes Forest.
Here tourists are immersed in a world of virgin nature, where the ruins of ancient monasteries coexist with traces of battles of the 20th century. The country suffered quite a lot during the First World War, during which most of it was occupied. During the Second World War, the government fled to England, and fascist troops occupied the territory of Belgium. Peace came to this land only in September 1944 with the arrival of troops from the countries of the anti-Hitler coalition. Currently, the luxurious forest thicket, located on the border with Germany and Luxembourg, is the pride of the city residents.
Protection of Nature
Belgium has a fairly high population density, which has a negative impact on the environmental situation. The development of most of the territory has caused significant damage to the natural habitats of many species of animals and plants. Local scientists are especially concerned about the state of the water. Large volumes of chemicals are regularly discharged into rivers and lakes.
However, government intervention has significantly reduced the impact of industrial enterprises on the environment. Officials are assisted by employees of non-governmental organizations. They carry out activities to protect endangered animal species. Belgium is the first country in the European Union to ban trade in seal meat.
Belgian cuisine
The formation of Belgian cuisine was significantly influenced by French and German traditions, revered in the country. The daily diet of local residents consists of potatoes, seafood, bread and meat (pork, beef, chicken). Beer is considered a traditional drink. Currently, more than 400 varieties of foamy drink are produced in Belgium. This the country also exports wine in large quantities.
The favorite delicacy of citizens living in the north of Belgium is French fries with mussels and waterseed. The last dish is a stew made from vegetables and meat, common in Flanders. Instead of meat, fish is sometimes added to the broth. French fries are usually eaten with mayonnaise.
Traditional dishes are:
- Liege style pork chops;
- chicken Ghent style;
- country stew with beer;
- mussels marinated in beer;
- fish cutlets in Flemish style.
People all over the world know how delicious Belgian chocolate is. Local waffles have also become widely known.
Useful information for tourists and expats
Because Belgium lies on the border with Germanic and Romanesque Europe, it is divided not only culturally, but also linguistically. The main languages are Dutch and French. The first of them is used by residents of the northern part of the country, the second by citizens living in the south. The German language is also widespread. It is spoken in the east of the country. Such linguistic diversity often leads to problems in the political life of the state.
Belgium is a Catholic country, but it has Islam, Protestantism, Judaism and Orthodoxy.
Euros, which is the local currency, can be purchased not only at banks, but also at airports or hotels. But when exchanging money, it is better to seek the help of employees of large banks or post offices. In this case, it is advisable to make the exchange during the daytime. In this case, you will be able to avoid additional costs in the form of increased commissions..
Tourists who want to personally find out where Belgium is on the map and visit the country must have a foreign passport with an open Schengen visa. In addition, you will need an insurance policy and some other documents. It is recommended to carry a foreign passport (or, in extreme cases, a hotel card) with you. You should remember to maintain cleanliness. Violation of this rule will result in a hefty fine.
The best way to travel within the country is by rail, as it is comfortable and reliable. Experienced tourists advise newcomers to definitely go down to the capital’s subway. An extraordinary experience awaits you there from contemplating the numerous works of local sculptors. Each metro station is decorated with real works of art.
There are many buses and trams in Belgium. You can rent a car. Transport rental is available to persons over 21 years of age. Applicants must have an international license confirming at least 1 year of driving experience and a credit card.
Many tourists are attracted by seasonal sales of goods with significant discounts. The stores delight customers twice a year - in January and July. Canned beer, chocolate, and Flemish lace are usually brought as souvenirs from Belgium. A surprise for shopping lovers will be the information that most retail outlets stop working at 18:00. It is not necessary to leave a tip in restaurants, since the service charge is already included in the bill. However, you can reward a waiter who has done his job well with a small sum.
Travelers who want to find out where Belgium is located on the map of Europe are advised to do this in practice. A lot of positive impressions are guaranteed.
Belgium is an exciting destination for travelers seeking to get to know a country better known throughout the world for its luxurious castles, delicious delicacies and unusual attitude to humor.
Belgium on the world and Europe map
The small kingdom is popular with many travelers, as its unique location played a significant role in shaping the country's rich history.
Where is it?
Belgium is in northwestern Europe and is one of the smallest states on the European continent. It covers an area of about 30,528 km².
Watch a video about the detailed location of Belgium on the world map:
What countries does it border with?
If you look at the map of Belgium, you will notice that the kingdom has borders with in the south and west, with and the Netherlands in the east, A in the southeastern part borders Luxembourg.
Thanks to this neighborhood, Belgium has absorbed a lot of interesting things from the countries bordering it. This influence is especially noticeable in culture, traditions and national languages.
A little history
The history of Belgium begins about 400 thousand years ago, but as an independent state, it was formed only in 1830. Until this time, the indigenous population was constantly changing - it was inhabited by unknown disappeared peoples. The last inhabitants were the Gallic clan of the Belgae, who settled here permanently and gave the name to their country.
Belgium was part of the Duchy of Burgundy for a long time, but then decided to unite with the Netherlands to form Holland.
After several disputes, the country separated and became independent kingdom.
Country on the political map
Belgium consists of three regions: Wallonia, Flanders And Brussels-Capital Region.
Belgium is constitutional parliamentary monarchy and federation, where the government is appointed by the king and the prime minister is chosen after his party wins the elections.
A country - member of the European Union, NATO, UN and is part of the Benelux(Belgium, Luxembourg,). Also in the capital of the country are the headquarters of influential organizations such as NATO, the European Commission and EFTA.
Population and language
Belgium has one of the highest population densities relative to other countries. Its relatively small territory is inhabited by about 11 million inhabitants, but the Belgians themselves do not like to participate in the census, so this number may vary.
There are two predominant ethnic groups here:
- Flemings(60% of the population) living in the northern provinces;
- Walloons(40% of the population) living in the southern provinces.
- Among national minorities they predominate Germans.
According to a survey, in Belgium 43% of the country's population are Catholics; the rest of the population enjoys freedom of religion.
Due to their history in Belgium, the national languages are: Flemish(reminiscent of Dutch) German And French. Here you can rarely find residents speaking English, and even less often speaking Russian.
Detailed map of Belgium with cities
Belgium is known to the world for many cities thanks to rich history And active modern life.
The heart of Belgium - Brussels is the largest city in the country with a population of only 148 thousand people. It is considered one of the 19 municipalities that form the metropolitan region.
Belgium includes nine major cities, among which:
- Antwerp– the largest port in Europe immediately after Rotterdam and the center of the diamond trade;
- Bruges– the chocolate capital of Belgium and the city called Northern;
- Liege– the third major city in Belgium, in demand due to its museums and a large number of cafes with national cuisine;
- Ghent– a place famous for its luxurious ancient castles and silk factories;
- Leuven– home to the famous Stella Artois and a large number of prestigious universities;
- Bouillon- a border town, which is a picturesque Belgian province.
Due to its location, high standard of living and a wide range of interesting places, Belgium is popular among travelers.