Brussels Capital Belgium Travel Guide
Belgium's the biggest mobile service providers include Proximus, Orange, and Base. Purchase SIM cards at airports, provider stores, and grocery stores. A passport or ID is needed for registration.
Wi-Wi-fi is common and often free in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public areas. Free Wi-Fi is at the Grand Place, major train stations, and Brussels Airport.
Brussels is officially bilingual, with French and Dutch as its the official languages. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Learning a few basic phrases in French or Dutch is seen as a nice gesture by locals and shows respect for their culture.
Use language learning platforms to learn some simple phrases before your trip.
Typical operating hours for different businesses and public holidays.
Generally open Monday-Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM. Some big supermarkets may open earlier and close later. Shopping malls typically opens AT 10 AM to 7 PM, sometimes later on Fridays.
Weekdays only, usually 9 AM to 4 PM or 5 PM. Banks remain closed on weekends and public holidays. ATMs are widely available 24/7. Look for machines from large banks like BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC, and ING.
Lunch service generally 12 PM to 2 PM. Dinner service starts around 7 PM and continues up TO 10 PM. Cafes and brasseries often offer continuous service throughout the day.
Belgium observes several public holidays. Services and opening hours are affected on these days. It's advisable to check schedules in advance for attractions and transport.
Be aware of these dates, as the majority of stores, banks, and public services will close. Public transport usually runs on a Sunday schedule.
On public holidays, most shops, banks, and public services close. Restaurants and tourist attractions might are powered by reduced hours or close. Public transport generally follows a Sunday schedule. Plan accordingly.
Respectful interactions make your Brussels see more enjoyable.
A handshake is the standard greeting in formal situations or when first meeting someone. Closer friends and family exchange a kiss on the cheek (usually one, sometimes two or three). Address people with "Monsieur/Madame" (French) or "Mijnheer/Mevrouw" (Dutch) until invited to use first names.
Be ready for a relaxed pace of service; meals are often enjoyed without rush. Wait for the bill; it is not customary to rush a diner. Tipping is not mandatory, as service is included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Some topics are best avoided to maintain a respectful atmosphere.
Belgium is a progressive country with legal gender equality. Brussels is very LGBTQ+-friendly.
Brussels makes access better, but its historic architecture can be a challenge for travelers with mobility needs. Modern areas generally offer better access. Many major museums have elevators and wheelchair ramps. Newer public transport is more accessible. STIB/MIVB provides detailed information on accessible terminals and routes. Get in touch with specific attractions directly for specific details regarding their features.
Brussels is working to make access better, but its heritage architecture can be a challenge for travelers with mobility needs.
Brussels makes access better, but move with awareness. Historic areas, with cobblestone streets, narrow sidewalks, and flights of stairs, can be difficult. Modern areas and buildings usually offer better access.
Some institutions provide audio guides, tactile exhibits, or sign language interpretation for specific tours (check in advance). Guide dogs are generally permitted in public places.
Several organizations and websites offer valuable data to help plan an approachable trip to Brussels.
Thorough planning ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable trip, especially in a city with historical elements.
Brussels Airport aims to offer good access for passengers with reduced mobility. Services like assistance, accessible restrooms, and adapted transport are generally available.
Passengers requiring special assistance should inform their airline in advance (at least 48 hours prior to leaving) to ensure arrangements are in place upon arrival and departure.
From the airport, accessible train and bus services connect to Brussels city center. Specific details are available on the STIB/MIVB website and airport information pages.
For detailed accessibility information and planning, consult the STIB/MIVB website for public transport, and Accessible.brussels for broader regional information. Direct interaction with attractions for specific requirements is always the best way.
