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GDP: US$236 billion
GDP per head: US$23,400
Annual growth: 2.8%
Inflation: 1%
Major industries: Services, agriculture, chemicals
Major trading partners: EU (esp. Germany, France, Netherlands, UK), USA
Member of EU: yes

Events

Traditional Catholic celebrations aside, Brussels' most festive months are July and August. On the first Thursday in July there's the Ommegang pageant, a huge parade of nobles dressed in historic costumes. Belgium's colourful National Day is July 21, which also marks the start of the month-long Brussels Fair.

Traveling Guidelines

Visas: EU citizens can enter on an official identity card. Travellers from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, the USA and many other countries just need a valid passport (no visa). Unless you're a citizen of a developing country, you can probably stay up to three months.
Health risks: None, except the cost of medical care.
Time: GMT/UTC plus one hour (two hours ahead in summer)
Electricity: 220V, 50 Hz
Weights & measures: Metric
Tourism: 13 million visitors annually

Ideal Time to Visit

You're unlikely to encounter extremes in weather during an average Belgian year. April to September is the warmest time, but be prepared for grey skies and soggy streets no matter what time of year you go. Visitors may be forgiven for assuming umbrellas and raincoats are part of the Belgian national dress.