Flanders

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa. Many other nationalities (e.g. US, Canada, Australia) can stay visa‑free for up to 90 days. Check your national requirements before travel.

The Euro (€) is the official currency. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, though small cafés and market stalls may prefer cash; ATMs are abundant.

Dutch is the official language. Most locals, especially in cities, speak fluent English. French is also common, and German is spoken in the east. A simple ‘dank u’ (thank you) is always appreciated.

Yes, tap water is perfectly safe throughout Flanders.

Direct SNCB trains run hourly from Brussels Airport‑Zaventem to Bruges, taking about 1.5 hours. Tickets cost around €25 one‑way; easier with a mobile app or ticket machine.

Strongly recommended. While public healthcare is good, travel insurance covers theft, cancellations, and private hospital stays, especially if you are non‑EU.

Absolutely. Dedicated cycle lanes, flat terrain, and rental shops aplenty make biking a top way to explore. Helmets are not mandatory but advised.

Type C and E sockets (two round pins) at 230V/50Hz. Bring a universal adapter if your devices use different plugs.

Yes, it’s very safe. Harassment is uncommon; still, normal precautions apply at night and in deserted areas.

Belgian frites with mayo, waffles (Liège or Brussels style), stoofvlees (beer‑stewed beef), moules‑frites, and chocolates. Wash it down with a local Trappist or abbey beer.

Service is included in the bill. Locals often round up to the nearest euro or leave 5‑10% for outstanding service. Tipping at bars is not expected.

If you plan multiple day trips, the SNCB’s 10‑journey Rail Pass (€93) offers unlimited travel between any two Belgian stations, sharing with others. It’s great value.

Varies by nationality. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need only a valid ID. Many other nationalities can stay visa-free for up to 90 days. Check with the Belgian embassy.

Yes, especially in cities and tourist areas. Most Flemish people speak excellent English.

Take a direct train from Brussels Airport (Zaventem) to major cities like Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, or Leuven. Journey times are 30-90 minutes.

Definitely try Belgian waffles, frites with andalouse sauce, stoofvlees (beef stew), waterzooi (fish or chicken stew), and of course, Belgian chocolate and beer.

Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is customary.

Modest attire is expected—cover shoulders and knees. Some churches may deny entry to those inappropriately dressed.

Yes, roaming works for EU citizens. Others should get a local prepaid SIM from providers like Proximus, Orange, or Telenet.

Yes, Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. American Express is less common.

Shops are usually open Mon-Sat 9:00-18:00, with late opening on Fridays in cities. Many close on Sundays, except in tourist areas.

Yes, cities are bike-friendly with dedicated lanes. Always lock your bike securely and follow traffic rules.