
Belgium Holidays 2025: What Costs to Expect
Belgium is a versatile travel destination with a rich history, fascinating cities, and excellent cuisine. Whether you want to explore medieval Bruges, cosmopolitan Brussels, or the charming coast – the costs for a Belgium vacation in 2025 vary depending on the region and your travel preferences. Here you will find a detailed overview to realistically plan your budget.
Getting to Belgium: Flights, Train, and Car
Belgium is easily accessible from Germany and other European countries. Flights to the capital Brussels cost between 50 and 150 euros for round trip, depending on the departure airport and the time of booking.
The train is also a comfortable alternative, especially if you live near the German border. With the Thalys or ICE, for example, you can travel from Cologne to Brussels in about three hours. Ticket prices start at around 40 euros per route.
For drivers, Belgium is also an attractive option, as the distance to many German cities is manageable. However, be aware of the current gasoline prices, which are currently around 1.90 euros per liter in Belgium.
Accommodations: Options for Every Budget
Accommodation prices in Belgium vary depending on the city and comfort level.
- Hotels: A 3-star hotel in Brussels or Antwerp costs about 100 to 150 euros per night. In smaller cities like Ghent or Leuven, you can expect to pay 70 to 100 euros per night.
- Vacation Rentals: Especially for families or longer stays, vacation rentals are a popular option. Prices range from 80 to 200 euros per night, depending on location and amenities.
- Hostels: More affordable alternatives can be found in hostels, where you can stay in a dormitory starting from 20 to 40 euros.
Staying in accommodation near the attractions saves time and often transportation costs.
Food and Drink: Culinary Delights in Belgium
Belgium is known for its excellent cuisine, including waffles, fries, and chocolates. But what does dining out cost?
- Snacks and Cafés: A simple lunch costs about 10 to 15 euros. For a typical Belgian waffle, you should budget around 4 to 8 euros.
- Restaurants: A dinner at a mid-range restaurant costs an average of 25 to 40 euros per person, excluding drinks.
- Drinks: A glass of Belgian beer, which you must try, usually costs 4 to 6 euros.
Supermarkets offer a budget-friendly way to self-cater. A liter of milk costs about 1.30 euros, a loaf of bread around 2.50 euros, and a kilogram of fruit about 2 to 3 euros.
Activities and Attractions
Belgium offers a variety of activities, both free and paid.
- Museums and Historical Sites: Admission to museums like the Magritte Museum or the MAS in Antwerp costs between 10 and 15 euros per person.
- Culture and Architecture: Attractions like the Atomium in Brussels or the Belfry of Bruges charge admission fees of around 12 to 20 euros.
- Recreation and Nature: Walks near the Flemish fields or along the coast of Oostende are free and a highlight for nature lovers.
Visiting the old towns, which often belong to UNESCO World Heritage, is especially worthwhile.
Local Transportation: Public Transport and Car Rentals
Belgium has a well-developed public transport network. Tickets for buses, trams, or trains cost around 2 to 5 euros per ride. For frequent travelers, there are day or multi-day tickets that are more economical.
A rental car is sensible if you want to explore rural areas or smaller towns. Prices start at around 30 to 50 euros per day.
Total Budget: What Does a Week in Belgium Cost?
The total costs for a week of vacation in Belgium depend heavily on your travel style. Here are some estimates:
- Budget Travel: From 600 euros per week (budget accommodation, self-catering, public transport, and free activities).
- Mid-Range Travel: Between 1,200 and 1,800 euros per week (hotels, restaurant visits, and entrance fees).
- Luxury Travel: From 2,000 euros per week (luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and private tours).
Conclusion: Belgium – A Small Country with Great Experiences
Belgium impresses with its variety of attractions, culture, and cuisine. The costs for a Belgium vacation in 2025 are manageable and can be easily adjusted to fit your budget. Whether you want to enjoy the medieval charm of Bruges, the modern atmosphere of Brussels, or the relaxed coastal region – Belgium is definitely worth a visit.