Is it worth renting a car in Belgium?

No. The train system is faster, cheaper, and avoids the stress of parking in medieval city centers.

Do I need to speak French or Dutch?

English is widely spoken in all tourist areas and train stations. You will get by easily without local language skills.

Planning a Perfect Belgium Itinerary

Focus your itinerary on a base in Brussels or Ghent to minimize hotel hopping, as the entire country is connected by a fast, 60-minute train network. Allocate 4 days to cover the main trio of Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent without rushing.

Choose one home base. Don't switch hotels. The train ride from Brussels to Bruges is only 60 minutes. Picking one city as a hub allows you to travel light and avoid constant packing.
Master the train system. Download the SNCB/NMBS app. Buy a 'Standard Multi' rail pass if you are traveling with a companion or making more than 6 trips, as it significantly drops the cost per ticket.
Prioritize city flow. Start in Brussels for the architecture, move to Ghent for the local vibe, and end in Bruges for the historical aesthetic. Ghent is the best midpoint between the two.
Account for Sunday closures. Plan your museum visits for Friday and Saturday. Many smaller shops and specialized bakeries in Belgium close entirely on Sundays.

Is it worth renting a car in Belgium?: No. The train system is faster, cheaper, and avoids the stress of parking in medieval city centers.
Do I need to speak French or Dutch?: English is widely spoken in all tourist areas and train stations. You will get by easily without local language skills.