When you think of Belgium, a lot of delicious things probably come to mind. Chocolate, waffles, frites. All these tasty morsels have come to define this small European country.
There are tons of scrumptious souvenirs from Belgium to bring home with you, but that’s not all. Let’s take a look at 20 things to buy in Belgium.
Table of Contents
1. Chocolate
Duh. We had to start with one of the country’s most famous exports. Belgian chocolate is known for being some of the best in the world. Belgian chocolatiers have been refining the chocolate-making process since the 1800s, so they know what they’re doing.
It won’t be difficult to find chocolate souvenirs here. There’s a shape and flavor for pretty much every palate and price point. If you’re looking for the best chocolate in Belgium, consider brands like Neuhaus, Godiva, or Belvas.
2. Waffles
The second sweet treat that Belgium is famous for is its waffles. As you wander around the streets of Brussels, you’re bound to encounter that addictingly sweet smell of freshly made waffles.
Fresh waffles, however, don’t really make the best souvenirs. They don’t hold up well over long journeys. If you’re looking to bring the magic of Belgian waffles home with you, consider a prepackaged version or even a powdered waffle mix so you can make your own.
3. Speculoos biscuits
Waffles aren’t the only delicious pastry from Belgium. The country is also known for its spiced cookies called speculoos biscuits.
These biscuits come in a variety of different shapes and patterns, but the delicious taste remains the same. A variety of spices like cinnamon is used to give it that distinct flavor. Since these crunchy cookies usually come in sealed packages, they make great souvenirs from Belgium to bring home to friends and family.
4. Cuberdon
One last sweet treat that may not be as well known is the Belgian cuberdon. These cone-shaped candies are popular with the locals, but not as famous with tourists. If you’re looking for a souvenir to impress any Belgian friends back home, cuberdons are just the ticket.
These candies feature a firm candy crust with raspberry filling inside. You’ll find them at local candy shops, or sometimes even on quaint little roadside carts.
5. Cheese
Another under-the-radar Belgian specialty is their cheese. They don’t export as much cheese as some of their other European neighbors, so their cheese isn’t as famous worldwide. But don’t let that fool you, cheese is definitely one of the best things to buy in Belgium.
Most of their cheese comes from cow’s milk, but it’s available in a wide variety of hard and soft options. No matter where you travel in Belgium, you should be able to find a local cheese that makes the perfect souvenir.
6. Frites merchandise
As we transition into talking about Belgium’s popular savory bites, we have to mention the famous frites. These delicious french fries are the perfect snack to enjoy while exploring Belgium. Much like the waffles, however, they don’t really hold up well during travel.
Frites lovers, have no fear. There are tons of fry-related souvenirs to help you remember your trip. Whether you choose a t-shirt, mug, or even some frites-inspired jewelry, the gift shops should have plenty of frites merchandise to choose from.
7. Mussels pot
In Belgium, nothing goes better with frites than mussels. You’ll find the popular dish of moules frites in restaurants all over the country, though each restaurant prepares it slightly differently. Seafood lovers should try this dish a few different times and see which version is their favorite.
To remember this iconic dish, why not bring home your very own pot for steaming mussels? You can find beautiful copper or enamel pots with bowl lids for your shells. It might be a bit bulky, but it’s a great reminder of a delicious meal.
8. Egg white soap
Here’s another food-based souvenir, but you wouldn’t want to eat this one. Although it may sound strange, one of the most popular gifts from Belgium is egg white soap.
This soap is made in the Belgian countryside and produces a rich, soapy lather that gently cleanses the skin. It leaves you with that gentle glow everyone is looking for. It’s a perfect gift to bring home to friends.
9. Beer
If you’d prefer to drink your souvenirs, then beer from Belgium is a great option. There are hundreds of breweries, including six that are actually located in monasteries. These special monasteries produce a special type of beer known as Trappist.
If Trappist beer isn’t your style, then maybe the more popular Stella Artois might be. Stella Artois is available worldwide, but it originated right here in Belgium. No matter what beer you choose, just wrap it well and it will make a wonderful reminder of your trip.
10. Beer glass
Drinking beer out of a bottle or can is okay, but drinking it out of proper glassware is even better. It’s no surprise that a country that loves beer so much would also have an amazing selection of beer steins and glasses.
For those in need of a heavy pour, intricately-designed steins make a great gift. For something a bit more delicate, look to a tulip glass, which is known for enhancing the flavor of Belgian beers with its unique shape.
11. Manneken Pis statue
Normally, I wouldn’t advocate for silly tchotchkes. But the Manneken Pis statue is so unique that it deserves to be on the list of best souvenirs from Belgium. It may seem crass to some, but this iconic peeing boy has been a symbol of Belgium since 1619.
You can choose to bring him home as a keychain, a bottle opener, or perhaps an ashtray. You can even just purchase a miniature replica to keep in your bathroom or wherever else you see fit.
12. Smurfs memorabilia
There’s another famous Belgian character that’s a bit more family-friendly: the Smurfs. Fans of this popular cartoon know that these delightful little blue creatures got their start right here in Belgium.
There’s an endless amount of Smurfs merchandise to bring home from Belgium. Small Smurf figurines are probably the most popular, but you can also find mugs, plush toys, and tote bags.
13. Comic books
The Smurfs aren’t the only cartoon to get their start in Belgium. This country is known for having hundreds of comic book artists, with many rising to popularity in the early and mid-1900s.
If you’re looking for a light and entertaining Belgium gift, a comic book makes a perfect purchase. Choose from classics like Tintin, or find your own hidden gem in one of the many amazing comic book stores around the country.
14. Lace
For something a little more upscale, you can’t go wrong with Belgian lace. The city of Brussels is known for having some of the finest lace in the world, with intricate patterns and fine linen thread. They’ve been making it since the 12th century, so they definitely know a thing or two.
Larger, handmade pieces can be quite expensive, but you should be able to find something lace for any budget. Even small souvenir shops should have a few small lace appliques that make great gifts.
15. Crystal
Another pricey souvenir that’s worth the money to buy in Belgium is crystal. Val Saint Lambert is a well-known brand that makes all its products in Belgium. You can even take a tour of their factory to learn how their precious crystal is made.
Whether you choose a bowl, a glass, or maybe even just an adorable crystal animal, you’ll be sure to remember your time in Belgium with this unique souvenir.
16. Paintings
There have been many famous Belgian painters, most notably René Magritte. While you probably won’t be coming home with a Magritte original, you can still find some pretty amazing art in Belgium.
As you explore cities like Brussels, keep an eye out for small art studios and exhibitions. You might just find a painting from the next great Belgian artist.
17. Diamonds
This next souvenir is definitely not for the budget traveler. But if you’ve got the spare cash, Belgium can provide the sparkle. Its port city of Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world.
Make your visit to Belgium one you’ll never forget with a stunning souvenir you’ll never want to take off. It’s not a gift for everyone, but those who can afford it should absolutely keep it in mind.
18. Snow globes
For something that shimmers but won’t break the bank, a snow globe is a great option for things to buy in Belgium. The Christmas markets here are some of the best in the world, so you’re bound to find a nice little souvenir.
Every time you flip that little globe upside down and watch the tiny flakes fall, you’ll be reminded of a wonderful winter in Belgium.
19. Ornaments
Speaking of Christmas, ornaments are another great gift to bring home from Belgium. Those Christmas markets we mentioned are teeming with vendors offering tons of beautiful ornaments to decorate your tree.
These make a great gift for your family and friends as a reminder of a wonderful trip. Just make sure you get some bubble wrap to protect your precious purchase.
20. Miniature houses
One last souvenir from Belgium that you shouldn’t leave without is one of their miniature houses. These figurines are an affordable but unique keepsake that you’ll have for years to come.
Visit a quaint town like Bruges and you’ll find these adorable miniature versions of stunning Belgian houses.
Best souvenir shops in Belgium
Here’s a look at some places where you’ll find amazing souvenirs from Belgium:
If you’re looking for chocolate, this is definitely the place to hit. You’ll find a wide variety of chocolate and other delicious sweets packaged with care.
This place specializes in local goods, so you’re sure to find something amazing here. Beer, sweets, and art-inspired souvenirs can all be found in this modern shop.
When exploring the quaint town of Bruges, make sure you stop at M. Moret for a unique souvenir. It’s located right near the Belfry, so you won’t miss it.
Those looking to splurge in Antwerp should head to Grand Diamonds. They have a wide selection of fine diamond jewelry and helpful staff to guide you to the right piece.
The name here says it all. If you’re looking for something to read or drink in Ghent, this shop definitely won’t disappoint.
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