Belgium : Safety by CityBelgium may be small on the map, but it¡¯s big on complexity, charm, and character.
Puzzle-pieced together between France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, it¡¯s a crossroads of European culture and politics.
That includes medieval towns and modern institutions like the EU and NATO.
The country¡¯s layered identity goes beyond language¡ªit¡¯s built into the structure of the state. Belgium is divided into three main regions:
- Flanders in the north (Dutch-speaking)
- Wallonia in the south (French-speaking)
- Brussels is a bilingual capital with a unique pulse.
Each region has its own government, tourism board, and vibe.
That means travel planning sometimes feels like you¡¯re hopping between mini-countries¡ªdifferent cuisines, different languages, and even different public holidays.
Belgium¡¯s past is stitched together with both royal opulence and battlefield scars.
From the cobbled streets of Bruges and Ghent to the somber fields of Flanders where WWI raged, history is never far.
Chocolate shops here aren¡¯t tourist traps¡ªthey¡¯re artisan-level experiences, and yes, you¡¯ll taste the difference.
When you get thirsty, the beer culture is beyond your imagination, down to specific glasses served with different flavors of beer.
Whether you¡¯re city-hopping by train or meandering through countryside villages, Belgium offers a surprisingly rich and varied trip¡ªall packed into a country you can cross in a few hours.
It’s worth taking the time to explore the whole country because no region is quintessential Belgium.
The full experience blends all three.
Warnings & Dangers in Belgium
OVERALL RISK: LOW
There's a low risk in Belgium, with the biggest concern being the ongoing terrorism risk. We'll talk about that in greater detail throughout this article. If you're the kind of person who says, "terrorism concerns aren't going to stop me from exploring the world," you'll be happy to know that's about the extent of major risks.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Public transport in Belgium is efficient and plentiful, but watch your belongings on metros and trains. Some taxis, especially near tourist hubs, may overcharge or avoid meters, so stick to licensed cabs or rideshare apps like Bolt or Uber when available. Also, transportation strikes can limit or block movement. Because of all that, it's a medium risk.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Busy areas like Brussels¡¯ Grand-Place and the major train stations are hotspots for pickpockets. Distraction scams are common, and theft often happens in a blink. Use a crossbody bag, keep zippers closed, and don¡¯t hang bags on chairs in caf¨¦s. While the risk is medium, it's also nothing that common sense and personal safety standards can't overcome.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
This is a low risk. Belgium isn¡¯t prone to earthquakes, wildfires, or major storms. Occasional flooding can disrupt rural areas, especially after heavy rain, but it rarely impacts city travelers. Still, check forecasts and transit updates if you're visiting during wetter months.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Violent muggings aren¡¯t common, but they do happen, particularly after dark in less-trafficked parts of Brussels or Antwerp. Avoid empty streets at night, especially near train stations, and steer clear of anyone acting aggressively or overly persistent. The risky parts of urban areas aren't generally where tourists would be anyway.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Belgium remains under a Level 3 (serious) terror alert. That's why we're putting this as a medium risk. While attacks are rare, high-profile incidents in recent years have targeted public spaces. Expect a visible police presence, and stay aware in crowded areas like transport hubs or festivals.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Tourists may encounter fake petitions, unofficial taxi drivers, or inflated restaurant bills in high-traffic zones. If something feels off¡ªlike someone handing you a bracelet ¡°for free¡±¡ªpolitely decline and walk away. Always double-check your bill before paying. While the risk is still low, it's helpful to know the common things to avoid.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Aside from the more sketchy parts of Brussels, there really isn't a risk for women?beyond what we've already discussed.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Belgian tap water is clean, safe, and held to strict EU quality standards. You can drink it straight from the faucet anywhere in the country without worry¡ªno need to buy bottled water unless you just prefer it.
Safest Places to Visit in Belgium
Remember how I mentioned earlier that Belgium is split into three regions?
This is more apparent than on the tourism website visitbelgium.com.
When you go to that website, it immediately gives you three options to choose from. Visit Wallonia, Visit Flanders, and Visit Brussels.
That means there isn’t one website that summarizes all the countries, at least not through the official channels.
I’m guessing that separate governments and budgets have something to do with that.
Following that lead, we’ll go through each region and highlight the most popular things to do and places to see.
Visit Brussels
For many travelers, Brussels is Belgium¡ªbut in reality, it¡¯s just one (bilingual) slice of the country.
As the capital of the EU, it has a global presence with a local heart.
Here, French and Dutch exist side by side, but English is widely spoken, especially around government districts and museums.
Brussels balances buttoned-up bureaucracy with offbeat charm.
Sure, you¡¯ll want to snap a photo at the Grand-Place, visit the Atomium, and check out the surreal Magritte Museum¡ªbut don’t stop there.
The comic book murals, flea markets at Place du Jeu de Balle, and the edgy caf¨¦s in Saint-Gilles show off a more laid-back, creative side of the city.
Eat frites from a paper cone.
Try waffles in every possible form.
And if beer¡¯s your thing, dive deep into the city’s bar culture¡ªfrom centuries-old taverns to hip taprooms pouring obscure lambics.
Visit Wallonia
Head south of Brussels and you¡¯ll find yourself in Wallonia, the French-speaking region that feels distinctly slower with a rustic edge.
You¡¯ll find medieval towns, rolling hills, and castles straight out of fairytales.
Namur, the region¡¯s capital, has an old citadel with killer views, while Dinant looks like it was made for Instagram¡ªthink cliffs, riverbanks, and a saxophone-filled legacy (Adolphe Sax was born here).
Outdoor lovers head to the Ardennes for hiking, kayaking, and cave exploring, while spa-town loyalists make their way to… well, Spa, the original.
Wallonia also plays host to somber sites like Waterloo and Bastogne, reminding you that history runs deep here.
You¡¯ll need a rental car to explore comfortably¡ªpublic transport thins out beyond the cities¡ªbut the drives are scenic and calm.
Bring an appetite; the local cheeses, meats, and hearty dishes are worth the detour.
Visit Flanders
Flanders is where Belgium flexes its artistic side.
Dutch-speaking and densely packed with culture, this northern region is home to cities like Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, and Leuven¡ªeach with its own flavor and enough history to fill a bookshelf.
Bruges draws most of the headlines with its canals, cobblestones, and storybook skyline.
Ghent is the underrated pick: more locals, fewer tourists, and a killer mix of Gothic architecture and graffiti alleys.
Antwerp skews fashionable and forward-thinking¡ªthink diamonds, design, and street style¡ªwhile Leuven buzzes with student energy and surprisingly strong beer menus.
WWI history runs deep in Flanders Fields near Ypres, where travelers can visit war memorials, cemeteries, and the nightly Last Post ceremony.
The region is compact and well-connected by train.
You can day-trip like a champ.
And yes, the beer culture here is elite¡ªvisit an abbey, order the local brew, and don¡¯t even pretend you¡¯re just having one.
Places to Avoid in Belgium
Belgium is generally safe, but there are areas and situations where you¡¯ll want to stay sharp.
Tourist-heavy spots like Brussels¡¯ Grand-Place and the main train stations¡ªBruxelles-Nord, Centrale, and Midi¡ªsee frequent pickpocketing and distraction scams (think: spilled drinks or overly friendly strangers).
Violent crime is less common but has been on the rise, particularly in Brussels and parts of Antwerp.
Gang-related violence tied to drug trafficking has led to shootings and even bombings, especially in Antwerp¡¯s suburbs and around North Sea ports like Ostend.
While tourists aren’t the targets, being in the wrong place at the wrong time is a real risk.
Avoid calling them ¡°French fries¡± in Belgium.
In fact, the original “French Fries” were actually from Belgium.
The misnomer likely came from American soldiers during World War I who were served fries by French-speaking Belgians and assumed they were in France.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Belgium
- The Belgian police are reliable and approachable. For emergencies, dial 112, which connects you to police, fire, or medical help. Some cities like Brussels also have tourism police who speak English and assist travelers. For non-emergency police help, call 101. Save both numbers in your phone, just in case.
- Travelers can register for BE-Alert, Belgium¡¯s public warning system. It sends texts or emails in case of a serious emergency¡ªthink chemical leaks, terror threats, or weather hazards. It¡¯s free, and you don¡¯t need a Belgian phone number to sign up. Just visit be-alert.be and register your details before or when you arrive.
- You can drive in Belgium with a U.S., Canadian, or EU license, but make sure you¡¯re at least 21 and carry your passport and rental agreement at all times. Most rentals are manual, so if you want an automatic, reserve early. And yes, they drive on the right side of the road.
- If you¡¯re pulled over while driving and ticketed, don¡¯t expect to contest it later. In many cases, Belgian police will ask you to pay fines immediately, especially if you¡¯re driving a rental or have foreign plates. Refusing or failing to pay can escalate things quickly, so just pay and move on.
- Belgium has a driving rule called priority to the right, which means you must yield to cars entering from the right¡ªeven on small, residential roads. It can feel counterintuitive if you’re used to roundabouts or stop signs doing the work for you. Slow down at intersections and stay alert.
- Strikes and demonstrations, especially in Brussels, happen regularly. They¡¯re usually peaceful but can disrupt public transport, traffic, or access to city centers. Strikes in early 2025 even led to airports being shut down.
- Belgium takes its beer seriously, down to the glass. Each brew has its own cup, and you’re expected to leave it behind at bars or festivals¡ªstealing one isn¡¯t a cute souvenir; it¡¯s a fineable offense. And don¡¯t drink and drive; Belgium has low tolerance limits and strict enforcement.
- In Brussels and other Belgian cities, many museums, restaurants, and shops close on Mondays. It¡¯s not a holiday, just the norm. Always double-check opening hours before planning a big sightseeing day right after the weekend. Public transport still runs, so you can explore the outdoors or take a day trip.
- Belgium has three official languages¡ªDutch (Flemish), French, and German. Cities often have totally different names depending on the language. For example, Antwerp in English or Dutch becomes Anvers in French.
- Public toilets in Belgium often come with attendants, even in train stations or malls. They keep the place clean and will likely have a small dish out for coins¡ª€0.50 to €1 is standard. Always carry some change, and don¡¯t be surprised if the attendant expects payment before you flush.
So... How Safe Is Belgium Really?
Other countries usually rate countries on a four-tiered scale, with one being the lowest and four being the highest.
The U.S., Canada, and Australia rank Belgium at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
The reason?
Terrorism.
The concerns are tied to the fact that the Belgian government¡ªalso using a four-tiered scale¡ªputs the country at Level 2: Severe Threat of a terrorist attack.
You can always check the current Terror Level at the Belgian National Crisis Center’s website,?crisiscenter.be.
This heightened alert follows several attacks, including the October 2023 shooting in Brussels, where a gunman killed two Swedish nationals, reportedly in retaliation for Quran burnings in Sweden.
While you can’t avoid the risk entirely, you can take steps to limit it.
For example, avoid crowded areas, festivals, and demonstrations.
You can also be helpful by reporting suspicious activity.
It’s also worth mentioning the national strikes that were vowed to take place monthly starting in March 2025.
The plan was to do this “until further notice.”
The strikes are protesting the government¡¯s proposed austerity measures, including pension reforms and public-sector cuts.
Overall, common sense and situational awareness go a long way toward helping you enjoy your time in Belgium.
How Does Belgium Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Belgium | 70 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
Belgium is part of the Schengen Area, so travelers from the U.S., Canada, UK, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days. Just ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure. You'll likely be asked to show proof of a plane reservation headed home.
Currency
Belgium uses the euro (€), and cards are widely accepted. Still, carry a bit of cash for small purchases or markets¡ªsome spots don¡¯t take foreign cards. Currency exchange isn¡¯t usually necessary if you're already carrying euros from elsewhere in Europe. Keep a change with you for the public restrooms.
Weather
Expect unpredictable weather¡ªBelgium is known for sudden rain, overcast skies, and mild temperatures. You'll never regret carrying an umbrella here. Summers are comfortable, while winters are damp and chilly, not extreme. Pack layers and a light raincoat year-round. Snow is rare in cities but more common in the Ardennes region.
Airports
Brussels Airport (BRU) is the main international hub, with good connections across Europe and beyond. Smaller airports like Charleroi serve budget carriers. Security is tight due to past incidents, so arrive early and expect visible police, especially during alerts or high-traffic periods.
Travel Insurance
Medical care in Belgium is excellent but expensive for non-residents. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover health issues, trip delays, or lost baggage. Make sure your policy includes coverage for strikes or civil disruptions, which occasionally impact transport and schedules.
Belgium Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High ¡ãC |
5 | 7 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 20 | 14 | 8 | 5 |
| Low ¡ãC |
0 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 6 | 3 | 0 |
| High ¡ãF |
41 | 45 | 52 | 59 | 64 | 72 | 72 | 72 | 68 | 57 | 46 | 41 |
| Low ¡ãF |
32 | 36 | 37 | 43 | 48 | 52 | 52 | 52 | 50 | 43 | 37 | 32 |
Belgium - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Antwerp | 65 |
| Brussels | 60 |
| Ghent | 70 |
| Waterloo | 85 |
Hmm… interesting points of view. Visited Belgium for 12 days back in 2011 and, while staying in Bruxelles, we (me and my wife) made day trips to Gent, Bruges, and Liege, by train. It felt, overall, pretty safe.
I liked a lot Bruges and Gent and of course the old center of Bruxelles. We also traveled a lot by tramway inside Bruxelles. Never felt unease about crime or anything. There were, here and there, places where the surroundings maybe were not the most appealing (like bland or even dangerous-looking), but that was it. Those were most probably just appearances. People were nicely behaving, with very few exceptions.
Now we’re planning a road trip to Belgium and the Netherlands, for this September. While in Belgium we will stay for 2 nights in Leuven, and also shortly visit Mechelen (coming from Dordrecht) and, maybe, Antwerp (although we’ll probably skip the latter, as too big and time-consuming).
I will return here with some impressions on what (if anything) has changed from our previous trip – concerning the general good feeling we had back in 2011.
In the last several years violent crime at night has become a real concern. That was never a problem before. This type of crime, sometimes very serious, is usually done by drunk younger people, like under 25, after 22:00 when dark (in the summer it can still be light then and is safe) until sunrise.
Personally I make sure I am inside after dark or if not that I am not where drunk people are, like in or near commercial districts, i.e., bars, nightclubs. If I am I try to stay in well lighted areas with other people around. Stay away from groups of drunk young people at night!
Otherwise Belgium is very safe!