Belgium Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Belgium.
Healthcare System
Belgium has one of the world's best healthcare systems, with universal coverage and high-quality medical facilities. The system is based on compulsory health insurance with a mix of public and private providers. EU citizens can access healthcare using the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU visitors will need private insurance.
Hospitals
Major hospitals in Brussels include UZ Brussel, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, and CHU Saint-Pierre. All major cities have well-equipped hospitals with emergency departments. Private clinics are also available for non-urgent care. Tourists can access emergency care regardless of insurance status, though payment will be required.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (apotheek/pharmacie) are widely available and identifiable by green cross signs. Many medications require prescriptions, but pharmacists can provide advice for minor ailments. Pharmacies operate on a rotation system for after-hours service, with information posted on pharmacy doors. Common over-the-counter medications are readily available.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended for non-EU visitors. EU citizens should carry their EHIC card. Even with EHIC, some costs may not be fully covered, so supplemental insurance is advisable. Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation and repatriation.
Healthcare Tips
- Keep a copy of your EHIC card or insurance details on your phone and in paper form
- Pharmacies can handle minor health issues and provide advice without needing to see a doctor
- Prescription medications should be brought in original packaging with a doctor's letter, especially for controlled substances
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Belgium
- EU standard health warning: tick-borne encephalitis exists in some forested areas; use insect repellent when hiking
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing is the most common crime affecting tourists in Belgium, particularly in Brussels. Thieves work in crowded areas, on public transport, and target distracted tourists. Bag snatching and theft from vehicles also occur.
Belgium maintains an elevated terrorism threat level due to its status as an EU capital and previous incidents. While the actual risk to individual travelers remains low, authorities maintain heightened security measures, and occasional threat-level increases can affect travel plans.
Belgium has extensive cycling infrastructure, but accidents involving tourists unfamiliar with local cycling rules and bike lanes are common. Pedestrians can also be at risk if they inadvertently walk in bike lanes.
Theft from parked cars, especially rental vehicles and those with foreign plates, is common. Thieves target cars at rest stops, parking areas near tourist attractions, and hotel parking lots.
While relatively uncommon, incidents of drink spiking have been reported in nightlife areas, particularly targeting solo travelers or those in large groups where individuals may become separated.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some establishments near major tourist sites inflate prices or add unexpected charges to bills. This includes charging for bread, water, or condiments that customers assumed were complimentary, or presenting different prices than those listed on menus.
Scammers posing as plain-clothes police officers approach tourists, claim to be investigating counterfeit money or drugs, and ask to inspect wallets or bags. They then steal cash or cards during the 'inspection.'
Individuals approach tourists asking them to sign petitions for charities or causes, then demand a donation or use the distraction to pickpocket. Sometimes accomplices work together while the victim is distracted.
Unlicensed taxis or dishonest licensed drivers charge inflated fares, especially from airports and train stations. They may claim the meter is broken, take unnecessarily long routes, or charge hidden fees.
Someone approaches and forcibly ties a bracelet or string on your wrist, then demands payment. They may become aggressive if you refuse to pay.
Criminals attach devices to ATMs to capture card information and PIN codes, then create counterfeit cards to steal money from accounts.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Public Transportation
- Keep bags zipped and in front of you on metro and buses
- Be especially vigilant at Brussels Central, Midi, and Nord stations
- Avoid empty metro cars late at night; sit near the driver if possible
- Purchase tickets before boarding to avoid fines; ticket inspectors are common
- Watch for pickpockets when boarding and exiting crowded trams and buses
- Keep your phone secure; phone snatching through open windows or doors occurs
- The Brussels metro can be less safe late at night; consider taxis after 11 PM
Accommodation Safety
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables
- Keep your room locked even when inside
- Don't open your door to unexpected visitors; verify hotel staff through reception
- Check fire exits and emergency procedures upon arrival
- Be cautious about sharing your room number publicly
- Use door locks and security chains provided
- Report any suspicious individuals in your hotel to reception
Money and Valuables
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave extra cash and cards in hotel safe
- Divide money between different locations on your person
- Use credit cards for larger purchases when possible
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Keep emergency cash separate from your main wallet
- Photocopy important documents and store separately from originals
- Be discreet when using ATMs; avoid machines in isolated areas
Night Safety
- Stick to well-lit, populated streets after dark
- Avoid parks and poorly lit areas at night
- Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than walking long distances
- Travel in groups when possible, especially in Brussels
- Be aware that some Brussels neighborhoods are less safe after dark
- Keep your phone charged for emergencies and navigation
- Limit alcohol consumption to maintain awareness of surroundings
Document Security
- Carry a photocopy of your passport; leave the original in hotel safe when possible
- Take photos of important documents and email them to yourself
- Know your embassy or consulate location and contact information
- Report lost or stolen passports immediately to local police and your embassy
- Keep a list of credit card numbers and emergency contact numbers separate from cards
- Register with your embassy's traveler program if available
Cultural Awareness
- Belgium has three official languages (Dutch, French, German); English is widely spoken in tourist areas
- Be aware of language sensitivities; use French in Wallonia and Dutch in Flanders
- Respect local customs; Belgians value privacy and may seem reserved initially
- Tipping is not obligatory as service is included, but rounding up is appreciated
- Avoid discussing Belgian political divisions or language politics
- Photography is generally permitted but ask before photographing people
- Dress codes are generally casual but neat; Belgians tend to dress well
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Belgium is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The country has strong gender equality, and women traveling alone are common and accepted. However, as in any destination, women should take standard precautions, particularly at night in major cities. Street harassment is relatively uncommon compared to some other countries, but can occur, especially in certain Brussels neighborhoods and nightlife areas.
- Brussels is generally safe for solo women, but avoid walking alone late at night in less touristy areas
- Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than walking alone after dark
- Dress as you would in any Western European city; Belgium has no specific dress code
- Be assertive if you experience unwanted attention; Belgians respect directness
- Solo dining is completely normal and accepted; don't hesitate to eat alone
- Keep your phone charged and share your itinerary with someone back home
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Consider staying in well-reviewed accommodations in central, tourist-friendly areas
- The Brussels metro can feel less safe late at night; consider alternatives after 11 PM
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers if desired
- Catcalling is less common than in some countries but can occur; ignoring is usually most effective
- Women-only hostel dorms are available in major cities if preferred
- Emergency contraception is available from pharmacies without prescription
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Belgium is very LGBTQ+-friendly and progressive. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2003 (Belgium was the second country in the world to legalize it). Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal, and LGBTQ+ individuals have strong legal protections including adoption rights and anti-discrimination laws.
- Brussels' main LGBTQ+ district is around Rue du Marché au Charbon/Kolenmarkt in the city center
- Belgian Pride takes place annually in May in Brussels and is a major celebration
- Antwerp and Ghent also have active LGBTQ+ communities and venues
- Public displays of affection are generally safe in cities, though use discretion in conservative areas
- LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations are widely available; look for Rainbow Index certified hotels
- Same-sex couples can book double rooms without issues in mainstream hotels
- While cities are very accepting, smaller towns and rural areas may be more conservative
- The Belgian LGBTQ+ organization Çavaria provides resources and support
- Rainbow flags are commonly displayed in supportive businesses
- Transgender individuals are protected under anti-discrimination laws
- Gender marker changes on documents are possible under Belgian law
- Belgium has several LGBTQ+ specific travel resources and guides available online
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Belgium, even though it's a safe destination with excellent healthcare. While EU citizens can access healthcare through EHIC, non-EU visitors will face high medical costs without insurance. Even minor incidents like lost luggage, trip cancellations, or a visit to the emergency room can result in significant expenses. Belgium's location makes it a hub for onward European travel, increasing the value of trip interruption coverage.
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