Jurisdiction Guide

Late April to June and September through early October offer mild weather and fewer tourists. The coast and Flanders can be windy in spring, while July and August are busiest and often damp.

Most people speak good English, but basic French or Dutch goes a long way. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted but carry some cash for small purchases. Public transport is efficient, but regional train strikes happen. SIM cards are easy to buy at airports, major train stations, or supermarkets. Tipping is not required; service is included but rounding up at restaurants is common.

Shake hands for both greetings and farewells. Dress is casual but neat, especially in cities. Do not split the bill to the cent; round up politely or take turns. Wait for your host to invite you to eat before starting a meal. In Flemish areas, avoid speaking French unless spoken to first.

Pickpocketing can occur in city centers and on public transport. Flooding is possible in low-lying areas after heavy rain, especially in Wallonia. Some taxi scams target tourists at Brussels train stations, so use official cabs or ride-hailing apps. Roads can be confusing at night due to inconsistent street lighting and signage.

The Hallerbos forest near Brussels bursts with bluebells each spring. Dinant, a riverside town with a dramatic cliffside church, draws fewer crowds than Bruges or Ghent. Tongeren's Sunday antiques market is a local favorite and offers a different side of Belgian life.

EU, US, Canadian, Australian, and many other visitors can enter visa-free for up to 90 days in the Schengen area. For stays longer than 90 days, a national visa is required for work, study, or family reasons. Belgium has strict rules for residence permits; digital nomad visas are not available, but freelancers sometimes apply under existing self-employment categories.

Trains connect most cities and towns; Intercity and regional lines run frequently and tickets are affordable when booked ahead. Local buses and trams fill gaps in smaller towns, while cycling is common in Flanders. Driving is possible but parking is difficult and often expensive in cities. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are available in Brussels and a handful of larger places.

Fries with homemade mayonnaise, waffles, and mussels are served everywhere, often from casual stalls. Belgium's beer range runs from simple pilsers to strong Trappist brews, and chocolate is a daily treat. Water is safe to drink, and lactose-free or vegetarian options are found in most urban restaurants, though rural spots may be limited. Lunch is usually the main meal, and people dine later in Brussels than other regions.

Budget travelers can get by on 50 to 75 euros a day using hostels, public transit, and bakery lunches, with Brussels and Bruges pricier than Liège or rural Wallonia. Mid-range stays and sit-down meals raise costs to around 120 euros daily. A draft beer in a bar costs about 3 to 4 euros, a main course at a simple restaurant 15 to 20 euros.