What is tipping like 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.

Do and don'ts in Belgium?

Do I need cash in 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 you tip in Bruges restaurants?

It's normal to tip for good service in restaurants, bars and cafes in Belgium - especially in touristy or business areas. Tips are also appreciated in hotels and serviced apartments - and other places where staff may not be so well rewarded, like spas or salons.

Is eating out expensive in Bruges?

As with any European city, Bruges is quite expensive if you plan to eat out in restaurants every lunch and dinner. Many of the main restaurants in Bruges city centre cater for tourists, so you will pay more for the location. There are some cheaper, more budget places if you head out of the main city centre.

How Much Should You Tip In Belgium? - Exploring The Benelux

Can we drink tap water in Bruges?

Public drinking water fountains

Did you know that Bruges offers free, safe tap water at fountains throughout the city? This tap water is completely free and perfectly safe. You can bring your own bottle or water flask.

Do people 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.

What to know before going to Brussels?

What is considered impolite in Belgium?

It is considered impolite to snap your fingers. Do not put your hands in your pockets, yawn, scratch or use toothpicks in public. Feet should never be put on chairs or tables. Back slapping is considered offensive.

What is the dress code in Belgium?

Belgium has no real dress code for men or women. Usually, you'll see all sorts of fashion styles, brands, and colors out on the streets. However, typically, the clothing style is conservative and smart.

Is food expensive in Belgium?

Food and drink

Food and non-alcoholic drinks are the second-largest monthly expenses after housing costs. In 2025, the estimated average grocery bill is €235 per month (Flanders: €241, Wallonia: €226, Brussels: €242).

Is Belgium expensive compared to the UK?

The UK is about 10% more expensive than Belgium when considering the overall cost of living including rent.

Are things closed on Mondays in Brussels?

On Mondays, most shops are open in Brussels. So, you can enjoy the high street fashion shops on Rue Neuve or on Chaussée d'Ixelles at your leisure. Looking for a special souvenir, a vintage collectable or an authentic market? Then make your way to the Marolles.

What is the etiquette in Brussels?

Customs and Etiquette in Brussels

Greetings: When meeting someone for the first time, a handshake is customary. Among close friends, three kisses on the cheek are common. Dining Etiquette: Wait for the host to begin eating at formal meals, and keep your hands visible on the table.

Is Brussels a walkable city?

Is Brussels a walkable city? Yes, Brussels is a very walkable city, especially in the historic centre.

Is it ever ok not to tip?

“It's up to the discretion of the customer," and it's not strictly necessary to tip in a fast food or quick service restaurant. That's very different from service at a sit-down restaurant, she notes, where the expectation is still that patrons should leave a tip of between 15% and 20% of their bill.

Can you drink tap water in Belgium?

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

Why do restaurants in Belgium not serve tap water?

Unlike in France, where the free carafe of tap water is an institution, or in Britain, where licensed premises are required by law to provide “free drinkable water”, owners of Belgian restaurants and cafés are not obliged to offer their customers a free glass of water, as there is no law or directive that obliges them ...

What currency is Belgium?

Adoption of the euro

The euro banknotes and coins were introduced in Belgium on 1 January 2002, after a transitional period of three years when the euro was the official currency but only existed as 'book money'.

Can you swim in the canals in Bruges?

Can you swim in the canals? In the summer months, a swimming platform is constructed along the Predikherenrei, in the Coupure. The water quality is tested in advance and, if there is a good result, the swimming platform will open and you can swim in Bruges' canals in the open air.

What is the most eaten food in Belgium?

Moules-frites/Mosselen met friet: mussels cooked or steamed with onions and celery served with Belgian fries. The recipe has often been referred to as the country's national dish, but is also popular in the neighboring Nord region of France.