Border Crossings Between Belgium and Netherlands

The border between Belgium and the Netherlands is one of the most uniquely complex and fascinating in the entire world. While much of it is a straightforward line separating the two nations, it is globally famous for the towns of Baarle-Nassau in the Netherlands and Baarle-Hertog in Belgium. Here, the international border is not a simple line but an intricate patchwork of 22 Belgian enclaves within the Netherlands and 8 Dutch counter-enclaves within those Belgian enclaves. This bizarre arrangement is the result of a series of medieval land-swapping treaties and sales between local dukes and lords dating back to the 12th century.

In the town of Baarle, the border is marked on the pavement with white crosses and metal studs, running directly through houses, gardens, restaurants, and shops. A single building can be in both countries simultaneously, with its official nationality determined by the location of its front door. Beyond this famous curiosity, the rest of the border is completely open under Schengen rules, allowing for effortless travel between major cities like Antwerp and Rotterdam. The Baarle situation remains a captivating, real-world geographical puzzle and a must-see for anyone interested in the peculiarities of international frontiers.