Traveling to China from Belgium visa-free

Traveling to China from Belgium without a visa makes traveling much easier for people who want to visit for a short time, do business, or are just passing through. This no-visa-needed rule helps tourists and business people travel more smoothly between Belgium and China. Belgian people can now go to certain parts of China without having to get a visa first, which makes planning trips quicker and simpler. However, travelers need to know the details of this rule, like how long they can stay and which parts of China they can visit without a visa. This move is great for making friends between countries and for Belgians who want to explore China's rich culture and beautiful places more easily.

The Details of Visa-free traveling to China from Belgium

From 14 March to 30 November 2024, Belgian citizens are allowed to travel to China without a visa and stay there for 15 days. This was announced on 7 March 2024 by the China Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Now, Belgium is one of the other EU countries that can travel visa-free to China. Spain, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and France can travel visa-free to China from 1 December 2023 to 30 November 2024. 

This visa-free agreement stands only for those citizens who hold ordinary passports, all others still need to apply for a Chinese visa. 

Also, keep in mind that if you need a longer stay in the country (more than 15 days) please apply for a visa, you can not stay longer than 15 days. 

If you have any questions you can contact the Chinese Embassy in Brussels, or take a look at these FAQs. 

What to visit in China for 15 days

China is a very large country, and with that, it has so much to offer to travelers and adventurers. Here are the most popular places and attractions to visit during your stay in China. Even if you are in the country for business, create some time to visit part of the attractions for example in Beijing or Shanghai.

Things to do and visit in Beijing 

Great Wall of China: Visit one of the most iconic symbols of China. The sections near Beijing like Mutianyu and Badaling are well-preserved and offer stunning views.

Forbidden City: Explore the largest palace complex in the world, home to Chinese emperors for over 500 years, showcasing China's traditional architecture and cultural heritage.

Temple of Heaven: A beautiful example of Ming Dynasty architecture, where emperors would pray for good harvests. It's also a peaceful park for walking and observing local life.

Summer Palace: An exquisite imperial garden, known for its beautiful landscapes and elaborate pavilions along Kunming Lake.

Tiananmen Square: One of the largest public squares in the world, surrounded by significant buildings like the Great Hall of the People and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

Hutongs: Wander through Beijing's traditional alleyways in a rickshaw or on foot to experience the city's local lifestyle, charming old houses, and quaint shops.

National Museum of China: Offers a deep dive into Chinese history and culture, from ancient times through the modern era, housing an impressive collection of artifacts.

798 Art Zone: A contemporary art district filled with galleries, studios, and cafes, showcasing China's modern art scene in a converted industrial area.

These destinations offer a mix of historical, cultural, and modern experiences that highlight the richness of Beijing's heritage and its evolution into a contemporary metropolis. Check out these Beijing tours if you can't decide what to visit on your own. 

Things to visit in Shanghai

Shanghai offers a blend of modern marvels and historical treasures. Here are some popular things to do and visit:

The Bund: Stroll along this famous waterfront area for iconic views of Shanghai's skyline, including colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers across the Huangpu River.

Shanghai Tower: Visit China's tallest building and the world's second-tallest for breathtaking views from its observation deck.

Nanjing Road: Dive into Shanghai's premier shopping street, bustling with stores, eateries, and historic sites stretching from The Bund to People's Square.

Xintiandi: Discover a stylish neighborhood with a mix of old Shikumen houses and modern boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, offering a glimpse into Shanghai's past and present.

Shanghai Museum: Visit one of China's most impressive museums, showcasing vast collections of ancient Chinese art, including bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy.

Oriental Pearl Tower: An iconic symbol of Shanghai, offering panoramic views of the city, a revolving restaurant, and an exhibition on Shanghai's history.

Tianzifang: Wander through this charming arts and crafts enclave set within traditional alleyways, filled with art galleries, craft stores, and quirky cafes.

Zhujiajiao Water Town: Take a day trip to this ancient water town on the outskirts of Shanghai, featuring traditional architecture, canals, and bridges reminiscent of old China.

Shanghai is a city that beautifully marries the old with the new, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences that capture the essence of China's rapid modernization alongside its deep cultural roots.

Visit Xi’an

Visiting Xi’an, you'll find yourself at the heart of China's ancient history and cultural depth. Here are the top things to see and do:

Terracotta Army: Discover this world-famous archaeological site, home to thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers buried with Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, to protect him in the afterlife.

Xi’an City Wall: Cycle or walk atop one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, offering panoramic views of the city within and beyond.

Muslim Quarter: Explore the bustling lanes of the Muslim Quarter for a taste of Xi’an’s vibrant street food, unique souvenirs, and the Great Mosque, blending Chinese architecture with Islamic practice.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit this iconic Buddhist pagoda, built during the Tang Dynasty, that holds sacred Buddhist materials brought from India. The surrounding Da Ci'en Temple complex and gardens are also worth exploring.

Shaanxi History Museum: Delve into China’s rich history with artifacts from Xi’an’s past, including Tang Dynasty pottery, ancient bronzes, and terracotta figures.

Bell Tower and Drum Tower: These two symbols of the city offer insight into Xi’an’s defensive structures and provide a glimpse into the musical traditions of ancient China.

Mount Hua (Huashan): For adventure seekers, a day trip to one of China’s five sacred mountains offers breathtaking views, steep climbs, and Taoist temples nestled in its peaks.

Hanyangling Museum: Visit this lesser-known tomb of Emperor Jing of the Han Dynasty, featuring miniature terracotta figures and a unique underground museum experience.

Xi’an is a treasure trove of ancient Chinese culture and history, offering visitors a profound glimpse into the country's past with its remarkable preservation of historical sites and dedication to cultural heritage.

Visit Chengu

Visiting Chengdu offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty. Here are the top things to see and do:

Giant Panda Breeding Research Base: Meet the iconic and adorable giant pandas in a conservation center dedicated to their survival, just a short trip from Chengdu city center.

Jinli Ancient Street: Step back in time on this bustling street, known for its traditional Qing Dynasty architecture, teahouses, and shops selling local crafts and snacks.

Wuhou Shrine: Explore this memorial temple dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the legendary strategist of the Three Kingdoms period, located within a peaceful garden setting.

Sichuan Opera: Experience the dramatic flair of Sichuan Opera, famous for its face-changing art, fire-spitting, and elaborate costumes, in a local theater.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: A must-visit for animal lovers, this research base is home to giant pandas and red pandas, offering a close-up look at their daily lives in a setting designed to mimic their natural habitat.

Dujiangyan Irrigation System: Visit this ancient engineering marvel that has been irrigating the Chengdu plain for over two millennia, preventing floods and nurturing its rich agricultural land.

Sichuan Cuisine Museum: Dive into the spicy world of Sichuan cuisine with cooking classes and exhibitions detailing the history and variety of local dishes.

Leshan Giant Buddha: A day trip to see the largest stone Buddha in the world, carved into a cliff face, is well worth the journey for its impressive scale and the beautiful surrounding landscape.

Chengdu, with its laid-back lifestyle, teahouses dotting every corner, and streets alive with culinary adventures, epitomizes the essence of Sichuan's rich cultural and historical heritage, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Popular nature attractions 

China's diverse landscapes offer numerous natural attractions, from towering mountains to serene lakes. Here are some popular nature attractions in China:

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Famous for its towering sandstone pillars, it inspired the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." The park is part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area.

Jiuzhaigou Valley: Known for its multi-level waterfalls, colorful lakes, and snow-capped peaks, offering stunning views, particularly in autumn.

Mount Huang (Huangshan): Renowned for its granite peaks, Huangshan's misty landscapes are a frequent subject of traditional Chinese paintings and literature.

Yangtze River and the Three Gorges: The longest river in Asia, featuring the Three Gorges, which are known for their natural beauty, historical significance, and the impressive Three Gorges Dam.

Guilin and Li River: The karst landscapes along the Li River, particularly between Guilin and Yangshuo, are celebrated for their ethereal beauty, best enjoyed on a river cruise.

Yunnan Stone Forest: An impressive set of limestone formations located in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, resembling petrified trees, creating the illusion of a forest made of stone.

Tianmen Mountain: Notable for its natural archway, Tianmen Cave, and the long winding road leading up to it, as well as a glass skywalk offering breathtaking views.

Yellow Mountain (Huangshan): Famous for its sunrises, seas of clouds, twisted pines, and hot springs, Huangshan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's major tourist destinations.

These attractions showcase the stunning natural diversity of China, from its high mountain peaks to its tranquil rivers and unique geological formations.

Final Words

The visa-free deal between Belgium and China, running from 14 March to 30 November 2024, is a big step forward for easier travel, letting Belgians explore China's rich sights without needing a visa. This opportunity makes it easier for people to experience China's deep culture, bustling cities like Beijing and Shanghai, and breathtaking natural spots. Belgians can now enjoy up to 15 days of exploring ancient history, modern wonders, and everything in between. This agreement not only simplifies travel plans but also strengthens the friendship between China and several EU countries, including Belgium. For travelers, it's a chance to dive into the beauty and diversity of China, making memories that will last a lifetime. It's important for visitors to plan well to make the most of their 15-day visit, experiencing the unique blend of old and new that China offers.