What to know before traveling to Brussels?

When traveling to Brussels, prioritize comfortable walking shoes, prepare for unpredictable, rainy weather, and beware of pickpockets in crowded areas like train stations. The city is bilingual (French/Dutch), very walkable, and easily explored via public transport. Use Euros, carry some cash, and be sure to try local waffles, fries, and chocolate.

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.

What do I need to travel to Brussels 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.

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.

7 Things To Know Before Visiting Belgium

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.

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 English spoken in Brussels?

The capital region of Brussels is bilingual, so Belgians normally speak French and Flemish fluently. Normally locals also speak English.

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).

Do you have to carry your passport in Belgium?

You must carry your passport with you at all times.

Do you have to show your passport on the Eurostar?

Yes, you do. Your passport (or other valid travel document) will be checked by border staff at the station before departure. Please get to the station at the recommended arrival time to ensure you have enough time for ticket, security and border checks. Important: UK border rules are changing.

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.

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.

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.

What food is Brussels famous for?

Brussels is famous for its iconic waffles, rich chocolate (especially pralines), crispy French fries (frites), and diverse Belgian beers, alongside savory dishes like mussels with fries (moules-frites), creamy Waterzooi stew, hearty stoemp, and fresh tomato with grey shrimp (tomate-crevette).
 

Is Brussels a walkable city?

Brussels is an extremely walkable city, with a mostly pedestrianised centre. It's also very bike-friendly, with Villo!

What's the best thing to buy in Belgium?

1. Belgian Chocolate. Belgium's famed chocolatiers offer creamy pralines, rich truffles and inventive flavors worth savoring. - ...
2. Lace From Bruges. ...
3. Belgian Beer. ...
4. Speculoos Cookies. ...
5. Tin-Glazed Pottery. ...
6. Belgian Comics Memorabilia. ...
7. Handmade Waffles & Waffle Irons. ...
8. Artisanal Mustard.

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.

What should travelers know about Brussels?

Brussels is cosmopolitan in ways other cities are not – it's truly multilingual (French, German and Dutch). The multicultural influences have led to an explosion of museums, marketplaces, restaurants and boutiques that make it far more than just a sleepy alternative to some of its busier neighbors like.

Is it worth to go inside Atomium Brussels?

Yes, the Atomium is generally considered worth visiting for its unique architecture, panoramic city views from the top, and historical exhibits about the 1958 World's Fair, but opinions vary on whether the experience inside justifies the cost and potential long lines, especially if you're short on time or dislike crowds. It's best for architecture lovers, families, and those wanting iconic Brussels photos, but some find the internal exhibitions underwhelming compared to the exterior's impressive look.
 

Why do Belgians say allez?

Both French allez and Belgian Dutch allee have been claimed to be primarily markers indicating some form of encouragement or exhortation (Sierra Soriano, 2006; Kloots, 2007). Most obviously, and most literally, the speaker encourages co-participants (not) to do something.

What is "thank you" in Brussels?

Just simple words like “Hello”: Hallo (HAH-low), “Thank you”: Dank u (DAHNK uu) or “Goodbye”: Tot ziens (TOT seens) go a long way.