Do I need euros in Brussels?

As in most European countries, the currency of Belgium is the Euro (symbolised as EUR or €). Other currencies are normally not accepted, so be sure to change dollars, etc. at one of the many currency exchange offices located throughout the city. Many shops and restaurants in Brussels accept credit cards, but not all.

Is cash or card better in Belgium?

Cash Payments

While it can seem like cash is a relic of the past, it's still in fact the most common means of payment (at POS) across the EUR area, accounting for 52% of payments. The Belgians are less keen though, where cash makes up just 39% of total retail purchases, down from 45% in 2022.

Do you tip in Brussels?

There is absolutely no tipping culture in Belgium like in the US. Everything is included in the price.

Is Belgium a cashless country?

As of 1st of July 2022, any customer-facing business undertaking carrying out a business activity in Belgium will be required to offer at least one means of electronic payment so that cashless customers can still pay for the goods or services.

How to pay for things in Belgium?

Since June 1st it's mandatory for businesses to accept at least one method of electronic payment. This can be bank card, credit card, Payconiq app, money transfer. If you are not Belgian, you can't use the Payconiq app. So you'd probably need some cash.

What Currency Do I Need In Brussels After Arriving By Eurostar? - Exploring The Benelux

Is Brussels cash only?

As in most European countries, the currency of Belgium is the Euro (symbolised as EUR or €). Other currencies are normally not accepted, so be sure to change dollars, etc. at one of the many currency exchange offices located throughout the city. Many shops and restaurants in Brussels accept credit cards, but not all.

Do you have to pay to use toilets in Belgium?

Carry coins: it might cost to use the bathroom

But not everywhere. It's especially worth keeping a few euro coins in your pocket in case you need to use older public toilets. Yes, unfortunately, some motorway services still have a pay table guarding the facilities.

Which country is 100% cashless?

A 2024 report by the International Monetary Fund shows that countries like Sweden, Norway, and South Korea are leading the global shift, with Sweden on track to become the first fully cashless economy by the end of 2025.

Can I use a credit card in Belgium?

The more commonly used payment options in the country include cash, debit cards like Bancontact/Maestro, and credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. While some businesses may accept Discover cards, it is less common than the mentioned methods.

What country no longer uses cash?

Sweden: The World's First Cashless Country

Sweden is one of the most cashless societies in the world, with cash transactions making up only 3% of total transactions. Even the most straightforward payments are made through mobile apps like Swish. Sweden is also planning to eliminate banknotes by 2025.

Can you drink tap water in Belgium?

Yes, Belgian tap water is considered completely safe to drink!

Is it rude if you don't tip?

You're never obligated to tip someone when they've provided you poor service or if you've had a rude interaction with them. In the case of a one-on-one service, such as a haircut, this is pretty cut and dry.

What to know before going to Brussels?

Can I use US dollars in Belgium?

The Euro (€) is the sole currency of the European Union member states (Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Portugal and Spain). U.S. dollars are not widely accepted in Europe, so we recommend ordering Euros from your local bank ahead of time.

Is it better to get euros or use a bank card?

Use euros or a debit card? If you take your bank or credit card with you to anywhere in Europe your bank will typically charge you between 2% and 5% on each transaction. However changing money before you go will likely mean you will get a bad exchange rate.

What is the most used payment method in Belgium?

Bancontact – The Popular Local Payment System

To set the stage, Bancontact is by far the most used payment method in Belgium, and it is widely liked due to its usability features. The system is directly linked to the user's account, thus making the transactions both quick and safe without using credit cards.

Is a Visa widely accepted in Belgium?

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and Belgian methods like Bancontact, Belgium's leading electronic payment system, coexist with global giants like Visa and Mastercard. In 2022, card payments accounted for 48% of transactions in the country.

Is Google Pay available in Belgium?

Yes, feel free to pay with Google Pay at any merchant outside Belgium that accepts Maestro / Mastercard / Visa and displays the Google Pay logo and contactless payment symbol.

Do I need a PIN for my credit card in Europe?

Although the vast majority of merchants in Europe also accept chip-and-signature cards, the last thing you want is for your card to be rejected because you don't have PIN capability. To find out if your credit card is chip-and-PIN enabled, call your issuer and ask if you can set up a PIN ahead of your trip.

What is the most cashless country in the world?

Sweden, the world's most cashless nation, is turning back to cash ... we are being lead by the nose. If cash becomes redundant people will simply invent another form of currency as they have done for centuries. I use cash every day.

Is India still cashless?

So, can India become cashless? Eventually, yes- but not yet! From my perspective, India is steadily becoming less cash-dependent, if not entirely cashless. The growth of UPI, digital wallets, and fintech innovations is encouraging, pushed by the government and supported by financial institutions.

Which European country is cashless?

Sweden leads the Nordic countries—and all other nations worldwide—in its efforts to become a cashless economy. But countries such as Finland and Norway also aim to have their economies dominated by digital payments.

Do they tip in Belgium?

In Belgium, the price of your meal or taxi ride includes the service charge. As a result, you do not have to leave a tip. However, you may if you received good service. You can give cash to your waiter or taxi driver or ask them to round the amount up to a higher figure if you are paying by card.