Belgium is one of the easiest and most rewarding countries in Europe to visit. It's compact, multilingual, and has exceptional food, drink, and culture. A few practical tips will help you navigate the language situation, the transport network, and the local customs.
Currency and Money
Belgium uses the Euro (€). Card payments are widely accepted. ATMs are available in all cities and towns. Cash is useful for smaller cafés, market stalls, and tips.
Language in Belgium
Belgium has three official languages: French (spoken in Wallonia and Brussels), Dutch/Flemish (spoken in Flanders, including Bruges and Ghent), and German (spoken in a small eastern region). Brussels is officially bilingual (French and Dutch).
English is widely spoken throughout Belgium, particularly in Flanders and Brussels. In Wallonia (the French-speaking south), English proficiency is lower — French is more useful.
Language is a sensitive political issue in Belgium. In Flemish cities, addressing people in French first can cause offence — use English or Dutch. In Wallonia, use French.
Getting Around Belgium
By train (SNCB/NMBS) — Belgium has an excellent rail network. Brussels–Bruges takes 1 hour; Brussels–Ghent takes 30 minutes; Brussels–Antwerp takes 35 minutes. The B-Excursion tickets offer good value for day trips from Brussels. Book at belgiantrain.be.
By tram and Metro — Brussels has a Metro, tram, and bus network. Bruges and Ghent are best explored on foot or by bike — both are compact and largely car-free in the historic centre.
By bike — Belgium has a good cycling network, particularly in Flanders. The Bruges region has excellent cycling routes through the flat Flemish countryside.
Belgian Food and Drink Tips
Frites — Belgian chips (frites) are widely considered the finest in the world — twice-fried in beef fat, served in a paper cone with mayonnaise. The best are from a frituur (chip shop), not a tourist restaurant.
Beer — Belgium has over 1,500 beers. Order by style (Trappist, Lambic, Saison, Witbier) rather than brand. Each beer is served in its own specific glass — this is taken seriously.
Chocolate — Belgian chocolate is world-famous. Buy from an artisan chocolatier (Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini, Mary) rather than a tourist shop for the best quality.
Tipping: 5–10% for good restaurant service. Round up for taxis and cafés. Service charges are sometimes included — check the bill.
