Belgium Travel from UK – A Guide to UK Tourists in 2025

Belgium is just a short journey away and perfect for weekend getaways, cultural trips, or European holidays. Whether you are visiting Brussels, Bruges canals, or dancing at Belgian music festivals, this small country offers big experiences. In this travel guide, British travelers will learn how to arrive in Belgium, if they require a Belgium visa from the UK, where to go, and tips for 2025.




Do I Need a Visa to Visit Belgium from the UK?

As a British citizen, you do not require a visa for short-term visits of up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Belgium and other Schengen nations.


Belgium Visa for UK Residents (Non-UK Nationals)

If you are a UK resident but hold a non-British passport, such as Indian, Nigerian, Pakistani, or Bangladeshi, you will require a Belgium Schengen visa.

How to Apply for a Belgium Visa from the UK

Make an appointment through BelgiumVisa Online in the UK.
Get documents ready: Passport, cover letter, hotel & flight reservations, insurance.
Pay the visa fee.
Attend your appointment and provide biometrics.

Tip: Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to avoid delays.

How to Travel to Belgium from the UK

Belgium is one of the most accessible countries for UK residents. Here are the easiest ways to travel:

By Air

London to Brussels: 1 hour 10 minutes (direct flights daily)

Other departure cities: Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh

Airlines: Ryanair, Brussels Airlines, British Airways, easyJet

By Eurostar

London St Pancras to Brussels Midi: Just 2 hours

Direct, comfy, and green

Perfect for city breaks in Bruges, Antwerp & Ghent

By Coach

Cheap options with Flixbus or Eurolines

Travels 6–9 hours from UK major cities to Brussels

✅ Budget tip: Purchase tickets in advance to save loads on train or flight costs.

Best Cities to Explore in Belgium for UK Travelers

1. Brussels

Visit: Atomium, Grand Place, Royal Palace

Try: Belgian waffles, fries, and chocolate

Tip: Ideal starting point for beginners!

2. Bruges

Dubbed the "Venice of the North"

Stroll along the cobblestone streets, sail the canals

Romantic and picturesque throughout the year

3. Ghent

Not as touristy as Bruges, but just as beautiful

Ideal for history, nightlife, and food markets

4. Antwerp

Fashion and diamond capital of Belgium

Visit art museums, hip cafes & street art

Festivals to Attend in Belgium in 2025

If you're organizing Belgium travel from the UK, why not tie your visit to a local event?

Rock Werchter 2025 (July): International music icons, huge crowds

Tomorrowland 2025 (July): One of the world's largest EDM festivals

Ghent Festival (July): Free culture, theatre, and music

Brussels Christmas Market (December): Festive winter atmosphere

✅ Tip: Always confirm the Belgium visa requirement in case you're planning event-based travel as demand surges.

What Currency is Used in Belgium?

Belgium is one of the countries that use the Euro (€). Card payments are widely accepted by most shops, cafes, and hotels, but it's convenient to have some cash around.

Travel Tips for UK Residents Visiting Belgium

Time zone: Belgium is 1 hour ahead of the UK.

Language: Flemish (Dutch) in Flanders, French in Wallonia, and German in small pockets.

Weather: Belgium has a temperate climate. Pack layers and always carry a light raincoat!

Transport: Belgian trains are on time and well-linked between cities.

✅ EU roaming: Most UK networks no longer provide free EU roaming, so check your plan beforehand.

Must-Try Belgian Foods

Eat like a local when in Belgium! Here are some well-known treats:

Belgian Waffles

Frites served with mayonnaise

Mussels (Moules-frites)

Belgian Chocolate

Trappist Beers


Final Thoughts: Why Belgium Travel from UK is Worth It

Belgium is a short hop from the UK and offers something for everyone — romantic city views, historical sites, great food, and world-famous festivals.

Regardless of whether you're off for a quick weekend, a romantic break, or a cultural getaway, Belgium is one of the top holiday destinations in Europe for UK travelers in 2025.

FAQs – Belgium Travel from UK

1. Do UK citizens require a visa to visit Belgium?
→ No, not for temporary visits of less than 90 days.

2. Can I go to Belgium from the UK by train?
→ Yes, travel by Eurostar from London to Brussels in 2 hours.

3. What is the most recommended city for a first-time visitor to Belgium?
→ Begin in Brussels, then see Bruges and Ghent.

4. Can I pay with GBP in Belgium?
→ No, Belgium uses Euros (€). Cards are accepted everywhere.

5. Is Belgium safe for a solo UK traveller?
→ Yes, Belgium is extremely safe, welcoming, and simple to get around.
Location: United Kingdom

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