Should you take cash to Brussels?

Many shops and restaurants in Brussels accept credit cards, but not all. It is, therefore, recommended that you either ask before you order or ensure you have enough in cash to cover the bill.

Is Belgium mostly cashless?

I haven't tried my debit card in Belgium or France - I have used cash or credit there. Most is cashless, but just some shops or market stalls only take cash.

What is the best way to pay for things in Belgium?

If you're planning a trip to Belgium, you'll find that most places out there will accept Mastercard or Visa card payments, with some also accepting American Express. However, a few smaller establishments might only accept cash payments, so it's important to take some cash with you to ensure you don't get caught out.

Is it better to pay by card or cash in Europe?

Because merchants pay commissions to credit-card companies, small European businesses (B&Bs, mom-and-pop cafés, gift shops, and more) often prefer that you pay in cash. Vendors might offer you a discount for paying with cash, or they might not accept credit cards at all.

How much cash should I bring to Europe for 2 weeks?

A good rule of thumb is to carry $50-$100 a day in the local currency while travelling. Remember, though, that cash may not be the best option to pay for travel expenses. Credit cards offer great rewards, lower transaction fees, and can help you get a better exchange rate.

BRUSSELS on a BUDGET 🇧🇪 (20 free & cheap things to do in Belgium's capital)

Is it better to pay in euros or pounds when using a credit card?

It's always better to pay in the local currency when you're on holiday. If a retailer offers to convert your card transaction into pound sterling, politely decline and continue with the transaction in the local currency. So if you're in France, pay in euros, if you're in the United States, pay in US dollars.

Should I bring cash to Belgium?

Belgian currency:

Many shops and restaurants in Brussels accept credit cards, but not all. It is, therefore, recommended that you either ask before you order or ensure you have enough in cash to cover the bill. Most shops and restaurants do not accept €200 or €500 notes.

Do I 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.

Is Brussels expensive for tourists?

Brussels is not a particularly expensive city, so if you organize your trip ahead of time you will manage to spend very little compared to other European capitals.

How much cash can I bring to Belgium?

If you plan to enter or leave the European Union with 10,000 euro or more in cash, you must spontaneously declare this to the customs authorities1. Please note that the forms are different according to whether you travel to or from another EU Member State or to or from a country outside the EU.

Do you need cash for Bruges?

While cash is still used in Bruges, many stores, restaurants and hotels would prefer card payments. Plus, taking a card to spend with instead of carrying lots of cash is more convenient and secure.

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.

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.

What to know before going to Brussels?

Can you drink tap water in Belgium?

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

What is the food etiquette in Belgium?

Table manners. While at the dinner table, Belgians take after the continental European dining etiquette: Always keep your hands visible and your elbows off the table (you can place your elbows on the table during courses, but never during dinner) If there are shared dishes, you pass the food to the person on your right.

Should you carry your passport with you in Belgium?

Additional Border Controls in Belgium

Checks may involve verifying travel documents and identification, as well as screening for illegal substances. In Belgium you must carry your passport with you at all times.

Do I need to declare cash at the airport?

You must declare cash of £10,000 or more to UK customs if you're carrying it between Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and a country outside the UK. If you're travelling as a family or group with more than £10,000 in total (even if individuals are carrying less than that) you still need to make a declaration.

What to pack for 10 days in Belgium?

How to avoid currency conversion fees?

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.