Chocolate, waffles, beer, and football – these are some of the main things Belgium is famous for around the world. Interestingly, Belgium also holds a unique world record: it is the country that went the longest without a government – a total of 589 days!

Interesting facts

• Belgium is one of the smallest and most densely populated countries in Europe. It covers an area of 30,689 km² and is home to more than 11.6 million people.
• To the north, it borders the Netherlands; to the east, Germany; to the southeast, Luxembourg; and to the south, France. It also has about 60 km of coastline along the North Sea.
• Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is considered the de facto capital of the European Union and hosts many of its key institutions. It is also the headquarters of NATO.
• Belgium is a relatively low-lying country with mostly flat terrain, but in the southeast, the Ardennes mountain range begins and stretches into Luxembourg and France.
• It is also one of the most urbanised countries in the world, with around 98% of its population living in cities.

Religion

Most Belgians are Roman Catholic, but religious practices vary depending on the region. For example, people in the Flanders region tend to be more religious, while regular church attendance is less common in Wallonia and the Brussels area. Nearly one-third of Belgians identify as non-religious.

Language

Belgija turi net tris valstybines kalbas: prancūzų, olandų bei vokiečių. Prancūziškai kalbama pietinėje šalies dalyje, vadinamoje Wallonia, olandiškai – šiaurinėje šalies dalyje Flanders, na, o vokiškai kalbama nedidelėje teritorijoje šalies rytuose, besiribojančioje su Vokietija.

Leisure time

Belgium is home to some of the world’s best music festivals, including the famous Tomorrowland. Belgians also love parades, and every year the country hosts many traditional events such as the Aalst Carnival, Lady Virga Jesse, and many others. Some historic parades take place only once in several years — for example, the Horse Bayard of Dendermonde parade is held once every 10 years!

Food

Belgian cuisine is highly diverse and varies across regions. It is also influenced by the culinary traditions of neighbouring countries such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Belgium is especially famous for its waffles, which come in two main types: Brussels and Liège. Brussels waffles are lighter and crispier, while Liège waffles are denser, softer, and sweeter. Belgians also take great pride in their beer – with countless varieties available, everyone can find a favourite.

Transport

Belgium has a well-developed public transport system, with buses and trains available throughout the country. Public transport is convenient, efficient, and widely used by students. A monthly transport pass in Belgium typically costs between 35–80 euros, depending on the city. In some cities, like Kortrijk, public transport is completely free for students — they only need to pay a one-time fee of around 15 euros for the transport card. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport in Belgium, especially among students.

Work

European Union citizens studying in Belgium are allowed to live and work in the country without any restrictions. You can search for job opportunities online, in newspapers, or by asking other students or your university's administration.