Europe · Destination guide
Belgium
Capital: Brussels
🛂Visa requirements
💳Money & payments
Cards: Cards widely accepted. Bancontact (local debit card) is ubiquitous — Visa/Mastercard also universally accepted.
ATMs: ING Belgium, BNP Paribas Fortis, and KBC ATMs are reliable.
Tipping
Not expected. 10% for good restaurant service appreciated. Service charge often included.
💬Language
Dutch (Flemish), French, German
Widely spoken, especially in Brussels and Flanders. French speakers in Wallonia may have less English.
Useful phrases
- ·Dank u/Merci — Thank you
- ·Alsjeblieft/S'il vous plaît — Please
Language preparation
15 min/day for 8 weeks ≈ 672 useful words and phrases
Learn some Dutch before you go
Widely spoken, especially in Brussels and Flanders. French speakers in Wallonia may have less English. — even basic phrases open doors and locals appreciate the effort.
Start with these
- 1.Dank je wel — Thank you
- 2.Spreekt u Engels? — Do you speak English?
Not a native English speaker?
English is the international travel language — building confidence before your trip makes every interaction easier.
Babbel and italki links are affiliate links — Tripzeeker earns a small commission on sign-ups at no extra cost to you.
🔌Electricity & plugs
Standard European plug.
🤝Local customs & etiquette
- 1.Belgian beer culture is UNESCO heritage — ordering a beer correctly (by brand name and correct glass) is taken seriously.
- 2.Frites (chips) are a national institution. The Belgian chip is twice-fried in beef fat — this is the correct way.
- 3.Language sensitivity: in Brussels, starting in French or English is usually safest. In Ghent or Bruges, Dutch first.
- 4.Never confuse Belgian and French waffles to a Belgian — they are different products.
- 5.Tomorrowland and major events: camping culture is friendly and communal.
📶SIM cards & connectivity
Local SIM: Proximus, Base, and Orange Belgium. EU visitors: free roaming included.
WiFi: Good in cities. Trains have WiFi.
🛡️Safety
Generally safe. Brussels city centre can have petty crime — be aware around Midi/Zuid station.
💉Health
No vaccinations required. EU visitors: EHIC/GHIC valid.
🚨Emergency numbers
police
101
ambulance fire
100
eu emergency
112
🚗Driving
🚆 Getting to the circuit in Belgium
Train, shuttle, and race day transport guide
Explore Belgium