What to know before going to Brussels?

Brussels is a bilingual (French/Dutch), walkable city known for beer, chocolate, and frites, but tourists must watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and train stations, particularly Gare du Midi. Utilize efficient public transport, validate tickets, and bring an umbrella. The city is compact and walkable, but driving is discouraged due to traffic and Low Emission Zone (LEZ) rules.

What do I need to know before going to Brussels?

• 1. Understand Belgium's two main regions
• 2. Beware that most places have a different name in French and in Flemish
• 3. Don't spend all your time in Brussels
• 4. That said, if you do go to Brussels, do it properly
• 5. Plan your trip for shoulder or off-season
• 6. Plan your trip for quirky Belgian Festivals
• 7.
• 8.

Is Brussels friendly to foreigners?

Brussels is a very safe and friendly city, but it is still a major European capital, and as such, touristy, so don't forget that pickpockets may be present. Keep your belongings in your pockets and your bags and purses close to you.

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.

What do I need to travel to Belgium from the UK?

British citizens don't need a visa to enter Belgium but must have a valid passport. You can check your passport's valid for Belgium using our handy tool. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/belgium/entry-requirements.

7 Things To Know Before Visiting Belgium

Do I need ETA for Brussels?

Starting in late 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need an approved ETIAS to enter Belgium. This new requirement helps enhance border security across the European Union (EU).

Is Brussels safe to travel to right now?

You should exercise increased caution due to a recent surge in violent crimes, including shootings and stabbings, in the Brussels-Capital Region and other major cities. You should remain vigilant despite local authorities' response to these incidents and report any suspicious activities to the police.

What is the 30% rule in Belgium?

Belgium's "30% tax ruling" refers to a special tax regime for expatriates and inpatriates, allowing employers to reimburse certain recurring relocation costs tax-free, generally up to 30% of gross remuneration, capped at €90,000 annually, plus other specific costs like school fees, replacing older schemes for many. This regime aims to attract international talent, exempting these allowances from tax and social security, with conditions like minimum salary thresholds (€75k for non-researchers) and a 5-year duration (extendable).

What can you not bring into Belgium?

On this page

• Counterfeit goods.
• Protected plant and animal species.
• Livestock products and foodstuffs.
• Plants, flowers, vegetables and fruit (phytosanitary products)
• Weapons, ammunition, dummy weapons and explosives.
• Medicines.
• Narcotics.
• Cultural goods.

Are there any areas to avoid in Brussels?

The area around Gare du Midi in Brussels is known as the "Midi" or "Zuid" neighbourhood and is home to a diverse mix of cultures, cuisines, and attractions. It's considered dangerous because of petty crimes like pickpocketing and mugging.

What is the number one thing to do in Brussels?

The number one thing to do in Brussels is visit the Grand Place (Grote Markt), a stunning UNESCO World Heritage square known as one of Europe's most beautiful, with ornate guildhalls and the Town Hall, serving as the heart of the city and a perfect starting point for exploring.
 

Is it okay to speak English in Belgium?

Yes, you can absolutely speak English in Belgium, especially in cities and tourist areas, as many Belgians, particularly younger generations and those in Flanders, have high English proficiency; you'll find it easy to get by, though learning a few basic phrases in French or Dutch helps with integration, especially outside major hubs. 

Which month is best to visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is between March and May and September and October, the shoulder seasons; this is when room rates are cheaper, there are fewer tourists and the weather is mild. This city experiences all four seasons and rain is a possibility year-round.

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.

How to prepare for a trip to Belgium?

11 things to know before a trip to Belgium

1. Endives are more popular than Brussels sprouts. ...
2. You'll pay for water but you don't need to tip. ...
3. Carry coins: it might cost to use the bathroom. ...
4. Cash payments are rounded up to the nearest €0.05. ...
5. ATMs are hard to find. ...
6. Eat frites not French fries. ...
7. Cafes are more for beer than coffee.

Should I carry my passport with me in Belgium?

You must carry your passport or a Belgian government-issued ID at all times.

What is the most common STD in Belgium?

CHLAMYDIA. Chlamydia, caused by the bacterium "Chlamydia trachomatis", is the most frequently detected sexually transmitted infection in Belgium, and the number of cases continues to rise.

How strict are Belgium customs?

Security check. Customs performs a security check on all goods entering Belgium from outside the European Union. For all these goods, customs checks whether its introduction into Belgium is permitted. If not, (for example, in case of suspected counterfeit goods, weapons or medicines) customs will confiscate your parcel ...

What is the thin cap rule in Belgium?

Thin capitalisation

• all loans, whereby the beneficial owner is not subject to income taxes, or, with regard to the interest income, is subject to a tax regime that is substantially more advantageous than the Belgian tax regime, and.
• all intra-group loans.

How much cash can I bring to Belgium?

Cash. You may move freely within the EU with a sum of money below € 10,000.

Do you give way to the right in Belgium?

In Belgium, all drivers must give priority to any vehicles joining a road from the right, even if they have stopped at a junction or are allowing pedestrians to cross.

Is Brussels safe for British people?

Thieves, pickpockets and muggers operate in busy areas, and there have been cases of violent robbery. Be aware of your surroundings particularly: at Brussels Gare du Midi/Zuidstation (Eurostar terminal) and Brussels Gare du Nord. on international trains, mainly Paris-Brussels and Amsterdam-Brussels.

What are the must-try foods in Belgium?

What to eat in Belgium

• Belgian chocolate. Did you even go to Belgium if you didn't consume copious amounts of chocolate? ...
• Frites. ...
• Moules frites. ...
• Waffles. ...
• Cuberdon. ...
• Speculoos. ...
• Pom koek. ...
• Stoemp.

How do I protect my identity while traveling?

Protecting Your Identity While Traveling: Summer Travel Safety...

1. Use Secure ATMs.
2. Be Cautious with Credit Cards.
3. Secure Your Devices.
4. Be Mindful of Social Media.
5. Protect Personal Documents.
6. Practice Safe Online Banking.