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Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Belgium

Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Belgium

Belgium is easy to explore, but a few apps can make your trip even smoother. These tools will help you navigate, translate, book accommodations, and get around the country with ease. Whether you’re looking for free or paid options, these apps will make your Belgium adventure more enjoyable.

1. Google Maps

Google Maps is a no-brainer when it comes to navigation. It helps you get from point A to point B with minimal hassle. Whether you’re walking through Brussels, driving between cities, or figuring out public transit, this app covers all the basics. You can search for nearby attractions, food spots, or landmarks and get walking, driving, or transit directions. The best part is that you can download offline maps beforehand, which is great if you’re worried about spotty internet.

2. Citymapper

Citymapper is another excellent navigation app, particularly for public transportation. It works well in Brussels, covering trams, buses, and the metro. It shows you the shortest routes, estimated times, and fare prices. You can even check real-time updates on transit delays. If you’re not sure what to do between transportation options, Citymapper will help clarify everything.

3. SNCB/NMBS Official App

If you’re traveling by train, the SNCB app is a must-have. It’s the official Belgian Railways app, and it gives real-time train schedules, delays, and platform changes. You can even buy train tickets directly on the app, which makes life a lot easier. Whether you’re heading out from Brussels or traveling between smaller cities, this app is reliable for all your train needs.

4. Uber

Belgium isn’t the easiest place to hail a cab, so Uber is a useful option in cities like Brussels and Antwerp. You don’t have to deal with language barriers, and the prices are usually more transparent than taxis. The app also provides a fare estimate before your ride, so you’re never caught off guard.

5. Heetch

Heetch is like Uber but with a twist: it focuses on late-night rides. If you’re out exploring Belgium’s nightlife, Heetch will get you home safely. It’s a car-sharing service that works in several Belgian cities like Brussels and Antwerp. The rides are affordable, and the drivers are friendly.

6. Omio

Omio is perfect for booking trains, buses, and flights. This app is especially useful if you’re traveling between Belgian cities or hopping over to nearby countries. Omio compares prices and shows you the best deals across different transportation modes. You can purchase tickets directly through the app, which makes planning seamless.

7. Duolingo

Communication can be tricky if you’re not familiar with Belgium’s three languages: Dutch, French, and German. Duolingo is a popular language-learning app that helps you with quick phrases. The lessons are bite-sized and fun, so you can practice on the go. It’s not a replacement for a phrasebook, but it’s a good place to start if you want to pick up some basics before you arrive.

8. Google Translate

Google Translate is another must-have for communication. Even though most people in Belgium speak English, you never know when you might need some translation help. The app has a camera function that lets you translate signs or menus by pointing your camera at them. It also has an offline mode, so you don’t have to worry about needing Wi-Fi.

9. TheFork

Eating out in Belgium is one of the highlights of your trip, and TheFork makes it easier to find and book restaurants. You can read reviews, see menus, and make free reservations right through the app. It’s especially helpful if you’re trying to get a spot at a popular restaurant that might otherwise be crowded.

10. Splitwise

Traveling in a group? Splitwise will be super helpful when it comes to sorting out shared expenses. You can keep track of who paid for what and split bills without any hassle. Whether you’re paying for meals, tickets, or accommodation, Splitwise makes sure everyone splits the costs fairly.

11. Rome2rio

If you’re doing a lot of travel within Belgium or other neighboring countries, Rome2rio helps plan your route. You can enter any destination, and the app shows you multiple ways to get there by train, bus, flight, or car. It breaks down the pros and cons of each option, including prices, with options to book directly through the app.

12. Visit Brussels

This app is a must if you’re spending time in Belgium’s capital. It includes a city guide, events calendar, and recommendations on where to go. It covers activities, museums, food, and general recommendations for Brussels. You can even create a personal travel itinerary and use the app to navigate to your chosen spots.

13. COVIDSafeBE

Given the current travel climate, it’s important to stay up to date on COVID rules when traveling. COVIDSafeBE is the official Belgian app for managing your health certificates. It stores your vaccination records and negative test results, making it easy to show proof of status when required, such as when entering certain venues.

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14. Maps.me

Similar to Google Maps but with a focus on offline use, Maps.me is a great backup. You can download the whole map of Belgium before your trip, which keeps it active even if you’re without Wi-Fi. This is particularly handy for hiking or biking in areas with limited cell service. It’s free and doesn’t use much of your phone’s battery.

15. FlixBus

Need a budget-friendly option to travel between cities? FlixBus offers cheap bus services throughout Belgium and nearby countries. The app helps you find the best fares, plan routes, and book tickets. Their buses are comfortable, and it’s a good pick for budget travelers.

16. BlaBlaCar

BlaBlaCar is a carpooling app that lets you share rides with other travelers. It’s an affordable alternative to trains or buses, especially for long distances. The app pairs you with drivers, and you split the cost of fuel and tolls. It’s a good cultural experience as you get to meet locals during your journey.

17. XE Currency Converter

Although Belgium uses the Euro, having a currency converter on hand is still useful—especially if you plan to visit neighboring countries like the UK or Switzerland. The XE Currency Converter offers up-to-date exchange rates and lets you convert amounts without an internet connection. It’s a simple but handy tool to avoid unexpected price mix-ups.

18. Airbnb

Airbnb is one of the easiest ways to find accommodation. Whether you’re looking for a trendy apartment in Brussels or a countryside stay near Bruges, Airbnb has it all. The app lets you review photos, read reviews, and book a place instantly. You can also message the host for any local tips or recommendations.

19. Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is still a handy companion, especially for activities and local tours. You can find things to do, read traveler reviews, and book experiences right from the app. It’s good for last-minute plans when you’re not sure what you want to do next in Belgium. It covers top attractions, restaurants, and even day trips.

20. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is an excellent app for sending and receiving money with low fees. If you’re a digital nomad or need to transfer funds internationally, this app is perfect. It converts money at real exchange rates, which saves you from paying hidden fees. You can also hold multiple currencies in the app, which is helpful if you’re bouncing between countries.

Conclusion

These apps and tools enhance your travel experience in Belgium by making everything a bit more convenient. From getting around the country to booking places to stay and dealing with translation issues, these apps ensure that you spend more time enjoying Belgium and less time worrying. Download them before your trip, and you’ll be all set for a smooth adventure.

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