Belgium captivates visitors with its medieval cities, world-class chocolates, and rich artistic heritage. From the grand canals of Bruges to the vibrant Art Nouveau architecture of Brussels, this compact country offers an unforgettable blend of culture, cuisine, and historic charm.
Belgium is generally a very safe country for travelers. Crime rates are low compared to most European nations, and violent crime against tourists is rare. The main concerns are petty theft such as pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas like Brussels Grand Place, Bruges Markt, and busy train stations. Standard urban precautions are sufficient for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Current safety advisory
Low
Belgium is a safe destination with no significant travel advisories in effect. Normal security precautions apply. Be aware of your surroundings in busy tourist areas and on public transport. Brussels, as the de facto capital of the EU and NATO headquarters, has a visible security presence. Follow local news and official government travel advisories from your home country before and during travel.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Low
Exercise normal precautions. Belgium is generally a safe country. Petty theft and pickpocketing are the most common crimes affecting tourists, particularly in Brussels city center and major train stations.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions in Belgium. Be aware of petty crime, particularly pickpocketing in tourist areas. Follow the instructions of local authorities.
Low
Exercise normal safety precautions. Be alert to the possibility of petty theft. Belgium has a robust emergency services infrastructure and English is widely spoken.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Register with your home country embassy before arrival - Belgium has a Crisis Center (1722) and many embassies offer online travel registration programs
Watch for pickpockets at Brussels Grand Place, Bruges Markt, and all major railway stations - keep bags in front and use inside pockets on public transport
Carry identification at all times - Belgian law requires ID on your person; a photocopy of your passport is acceptable but police may request the original
Belgium has strict drink-driving limits (0.5 permille BAC) - zero tolerance applies if you rent a car or cycle on public roads
Always check tram tracks before crossing streets in Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp - trams have absolute right of way and run very quietly
Bicycle theft is extremely common in cities; always use a quality D-lock and chain your bike to a fixed object even for short stops
EU citizens bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC); non-EU travelers must carry comprehensive travel health insurance as healthcare costs are high
Emergency numbers: 112 (EU emergency), 101 (police), 100 (ambulance and fire) - English-speaking operators available
Brussels Metro can feel unsafe late at night, particularly around Gare du Midi and Gare du Nord - stay in well-lit areas and travel in groups after midnight
Belgian electrical sockets are Type E (230V, 50Hz) - bring a continental European adaptor if travelling from the UK, US, or Australia
Avoid large protests and political demonstrations; Belgium hosts many EU and NATO-related events that can cause sudden transport disruptions
In summer, Bruges and Ghent canals attract huge crowds - book restaurants and attractions in advance and visit before 10am or after 5pm to avoid queues
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi Overcharging
Unlicensed taxis outside Brussels Airport and major train stations (especially Gare du Midi/Brussels-South) may charge inflated flat rates or tamper with meters. Tourists unfamiliar with typical fares are frequently targeted.
How to avoid: Use only officially licensed taxis with a yellow-and-blue roof sign and a running meter, or book via the official Taxi Verts or Taxis Oranges apps. Agree on a price before getting in if no meter is visible. Uber is also widely available and often cheaper.
Fake Charity Collectors
Groups (sometimes posing as deaf-mute collectors) approach tourists near Grand Place, train stations, and busy pedestrian streets requesting donations for fake charities. They may pressure you aggressively or use distraction tactics.
How to avoid: Politely decline and walk away. Legitimate Belgian charities do not use this method. Never sign a petition or hand over cash on the street.
Pickpockets at Grand Place
Brussels Grand Place and the surrounding Ilot Sacre area are prime pickpocketing zones, especially during summer festivals and the Christmas market. Teams of two or three work together - one distracts while another steals.
How to avoid: Keep wallets and phones in front pockets or a zipped bag worn across the chest. Be especially vigilant in crowds, when someone bumps into you, or when a stranger tries to engage you in conversation or points to something on your clothing.
Overpriced Tourist Menus
Restaurants along Rue des Bouchers in Brussels and immediately around Bruges Markt often display attractive photos outside but charge well above market rates for mediocre food. Fixed 'tourist menus' may include drinks at inflated prices.
How to avoid: Walk one or two streets away from the main tourist square to find better value. Check recent reviews on Google Maps. Look for restaurants where locals are eating. Avoid places with touts standing outside actively recruiting customers.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Routine vaccines up to date (MMR, tetanus, etc.), COVID-19 vaccination recommended. No special vaccinations required for Belgium.
- Water
- Safety
- Safe to drink throughout Belgium
- Quality
- High quality, well-regulated municipal water
- Notes
- Bottled water widely available but unnecessary
- Food
- Belgian food safety standards are very high. Restaurant hygiene is well regulated. Mussels and seafood are safe and excellent quality throughout the country. No special food precautions needed.
- Facilities
- Excellent - Belgium has a world-class healthcare system. Pharmacies (apotheek/pharmacie) are found throughout all cities and many towns. University hospitals in Brussels, Ghent, Antwerp, and Leuven offer top-level care. Emergency departments are open 24/7.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Belgium is very safe for solo travelers of all backgrounds. The country's compact size, excellent public transport, and English-speaking population make independent travel straightforward. Solo travelers should take standard urban precautions - stay aware of surroundings in busy areas, keep valuables secure, and avoid poorly lit areas late at night especially around major train stations. Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp all have vibrant hostel and social travel scenes with plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers. The Belgians are generally reserved but polite and will assist if you need directions or help.
Female travellers
Belgium is generally safe for female travelers and compares favorably with most Western European countries. Women travel solo throughout the country without significant issues. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your drink in bars, use licensed taxis at night, and avoid isolated areas in larger cities after midnight particularly around Gare du Midi in Brussels. Harassment is uncommon but not unheard of in nightlife areas late at night. Belgium has strong legal protections against gender-based violence and harassment. Female travelers will find Belgian cities welcoming, with a well-developed cafe culture making it comfortable to spend time alone in public spaces.
Families
Belgium is very family-friendly and one of the safer European destinations for families with children. Traffic safety is generally good, playgrounds are plentiful in parks and neighborhoods, and children are welcomed in the vast majority of restaurants and public spaces. Medical facilities are excellent if needed. Child-specific attractions such as Pairi Daiza, Mini-Europe, and Technopolis are well-maintained and safe. Public transport is pushchair-friendly with elevators in most metro stations. Food allergies and dietary requirements are taken seriously in Belgian restaurants. The main safety consideration for families is tram tracks in cities such as Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp - teach children to look both ways and listen before crossing tram lines.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Belgium was one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2003 and has strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals including equal adoption rights, anti-discrimination laws, and legal gender recognition. Brussels has a visible and welcoming LGBTQ+ scene centered around Rue du Marche au Charbon (Rue du Charbonnage) in the city center. The Brussels Pride festival held in May is one of the largest in the Benelux region. Antwerp and Ghent also have active LGBTQ+ communities. Same-sex couples can expect to be treated with respect throughout the country including in hotels and restaurants. Public displays of affection are generally accepted in urban areas without issue.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 101
- Medical
- 100 (ambulance) or 112 (general EU emergency)
- Embassy
- Contact your home country embassy in Brussels - most major countries have embassies in the EU Quarter
- Tourist Police
- 112 (general emergency) - English-speaking operators available 24/7