Brussels Travel Tips

Title: Essential Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Brussels (Markdown Format)

Greetings and Meeting People

  • Salutations: A firm handshake is the common greeting, followed by a casual first name basis once acquainted.
  • Formality Level: Business people often use titles (“Monsieur”, “Madame”, “Mijnheer” or “Mejuffrouw”) when addressing each other.

Dining and Drinking Etiquette

  • Tipping: A service charge is usually included in restaurant bills, but it’s common to leave small change (up to 5%) for good service.
  • Table Manners: It’s considered polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Social Norms and Customs

  • Punctuality: Being punctual is appreciated. Arriving late can be perceived as rude or disrespectful.
  • Cycling: Brussels is a bicycle-friendly city, with numerous bike paths. Be aware of traffic rules, especially when sharing roads with cars.

Cultural Sensitivity and Respect

  • Public Displays of Affection (PDA): Public displays of affection may be considered inappropriate or rude.
  • Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended for visits to churches or religious sites.

Tips for Interacting with Locals

  • Language: While Dutch and French are the official languages, English is widely spoken by many locals, especially among younger generations.
  • Politeness: Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Belgian culture, so be polite and patient when interacting with locals.

Additional Tips for a Stress-Free Travel Experience

  • Pickpocketing: As with any major city, be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas such as the Grand Place or public transportation.
  • Transportation: Brussels has an extensive and reliable public transport system, including trams, buses, and metros, as well as an international airport.
  • Emergency Numbers: In case of emergency, call 100 (Police), 101 (Fire Department) or 112 (European emergency number).

Exploring Brussels’ Rich Cultural Landscape

  • Respecting Monuments and Museums: Always follow rules and guidelines when visiting monuments, museums, and historic sites.
  • Festivals and Events: Embrace the local culture by attending events such as the Brussels Beer Festival or Flower Carpet.

Happy travels to Brussels! Enjoy the rich cultural experiences while respecting the customs of its wonderful people.