Belgium may be under the radar, but it’s over the top when it comes to stunning architecture, charming canals, local treats, and museums devoted to the works of artists such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Anthony van Dyck, and Peter Paul Rubens who made this endlessly captivating country their home. Unspoiled and out-of-the-way, Belgium offers the discerning traveler an abundance of attractions that will entertain and inspire.
For such a small country, Belgium’s cities certainly possess big and diverse personalities. As the EU capital and site of NATO Headquarters, Brussels radiates international flair with sites such as the Chinese Pavilion and Japanese Pagoda. Antwerp’s focus on the future has always been in the forefront of fashion, culture, and architecture such as Farmer’s Tower, Europe’s first skyscraper. Looking for romance? A cruise on Bruges’s charming canals recharges the heart and soul. And then there’s Ghent, a time capsule of medieval treasures.
Eating your way around Belgium sounds like a delicious idea. One of the most popular snacks is frites, also known as French fries, which, despite the name, are a Belgian invention. For something sweet, Belgium chocolate can’t be beat. Stand amid the sparkle and glamor in Antwerp’s Chocolate Line and watch as master chocolatiers work their magic, then taste the results. Belgian waffles are a must try—no need to save them for breakfasts, the locals have waffles as an anytime treat!
When you think of beer, you may not necessarily think of Belgium but making and appreciating beer is such a part of the country’s heritage that Belgian beer culture is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Almost 1,500 types of beer are produced here and tend to contain 7% alcohol, and some are over 10% than most beers from other countries. A perfect accompaniment would be Carbonnade a la Flamande, a Flemish beef stew made with onions and a hearty Belgian ale.
Belgium doesn’t have a major river like the Rhine coursing through the landscape, it has numerous waterways flowing through its major cities. The Senne River, once covered, now glides freely through Brussels. Antwerp, Europe’s second largest port city, is nestled right on the banks of the Scheldt River. The graceful canals of Bruges are remnants of the Reie River that used to wind through the city. And the Lys River, which drifts through Ghent, was a favorite subject for early 20th century artists such as landscape painter Emile Claus.
When to go: We sail all of our Belgium cruises between the months of March and November for the best weather. For lush greenery and bright blooms, spring is an ideal time to visit. Summer brings a variety of cultural events and autumn brings changing leaves and beer festivals.
How to pack: We suggest comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear both onshore and onboard. Depending on your travel season, the weather can range from cool to quite hot. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, allowing you to adjust to most temperatures. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) in case of rain, though we will also have umbrellas onboard. You may participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore, so please bring comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option.
Avg. Temp. 63º F / 17º C
Avg. Temp. 61º F / 16º C
Avg. Temp. 67º F / 19º C
Avg. Temp. 44º F / 7º C
Euro (EUR, €)
Central European Time (CET)
Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German
European 230V
Plug type E
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“The tulips, the windmills, the baker, the beautiful cities, the river towns and the people of The Netherlands and Belgium were most welcoming and so proud of their countries. Walking on to the River Queen made us feel we were home, as the staff makes you feel so welcomed!”
– Joseph Pasanello (Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time)
“Don’t know where to start … everything was amazing! From the food, excursions, friendly staff having our room cleaned twice a day! A turn downed bed every night! We felt VERY pampered & relaxed. From the friendly Captain who always spent the time answering all our questions to the servers in the dining room!! Amazing staff!!”
– Jeffrey Newmark (Tulips & Windmills)
“Every mile of water way, every excursion, every meal, every day was beyond description. Meals were artfully presented and delicious with a variety of food available. I had no problems following my diet. The cruise director was expert in local foods, customs and highlighted attractions with personal experience. Transportation and guides always had information about our destinations. The ship was clean and the staff courteous. I appreciated the security measures and attention to personal safety taken by the staff. I chose Uniworld because of the itinerary and promises of service and accommodations. Uniworld delivered on every measure.”
– Trusted Customer (Tulips & Windmills)
Brussels to Brussels | 8 days
The holiday season in Belgium is something truly special. Each city throws an enchanting winter festival, which could include anything from market stalls and elaborate light displays to Ferris wheels ...
Ships: S.S. Elisabeth, S.S. Victoria
Countries: Belgium, Netherlands
River: Dutch & Belgian Waterways
3.9/5 (86 reviews)
Brussels to Amsterdam | 11 days
Enjoy sweet treats as you indulge in the wintertime festivities of Belgian towns, where the Christmas markets are often elaborate festivals complete with ice rinks and Ferris wheels. Warm your hands...
Ships: S.S. Elisabeth, S.S. Victoria
Countries: Belgium, Netherlands
River: Rhine
3.6/5 (7 reviews)
Brussels to Amsterdam | 8 days
You’ll find an ideal mix of old and new, historic and modern, in some of Europe’s liveliest cities on this journey. Spend time in Amsterdam and Maastricht, allowing you to discover great...
Ship: S.S. Victoria
Countries: Belgium, Netherlands
River: Rhine
4.6/5 (122 reviews)
From $4,949 per person
Basel to Brussels | 15 days
Soak in as much of Central Europe’s fantastic cities and culture as possible in just two weeks. Snack on classic Dutch treats in the Netherlands, enjoy the fruits of Germany’s excellent...
Ships: S.S. Audrey, S.S. Victoria
Countries: Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France, Switzerland
Rivers: Moselle, Rhine
4.5/5 (53 reviews)
From $6,749 per person
Amsterdam to Antwerp | 10 days
From the canals of Amsterdam to the belfry of Bruges, you’ll discover the best of the Netherlands and Belgium. Stroll through colorful acres of tulips at Keukenhof Gardens to get a sense of the ...
Ships: S.S. Elisabeth, S.S. Marlene
Countries: Belgium, Netherlands
River: Rhine
4.5/5 (388 reviews)
From $4,094 per person