11 Essential Insights Before Visiting Brussels

Having had the privilege of calling Brussels my home for many years, I can say that this Belgian capital is a lively European center that warmly welcomes millions of visitors each year.

Yet, there are some insider tips about Belgian culture and Brussels specifically that can enhance your experience. Before diving into the delights of chocolate and beer, let me share some of my top local advice for newcomers to Brussels.

1. There Are Two Versions of Brussels, and Yes, It Can Be Confusing

Brussels is not just a city; it’s also a region. There’s the city of Brussels itself and 18 other towns (like Ixelles, Anderlecht, Schaerbeek, Saint-Gilles, and Molenbeek) that collectively make up the Brussels Capital Region, a part of the federal state of Belgium. Each town has its own mayor and local rules. Locals often refer to both the city and the region as 'Brussels' interchangeably, so if you find yourself confused, don't hesitate to ask for clarification.

2. Verify Your Airport Details

Brussels has two airports: Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi. Brussels Airport, the older and larger option, is located in Zaventem, about 20 minutes from the city center by train. In contrast, Brussels South is in Charleroi, approximately an hour's drive from Brussels, serving as Belgium’s main hub for low-cost airlines.

It’s quite common for travelers to confuse the two airports, resulting in taking a train or shuttle to the wrong location and potentially missing their flight. When in doubt, check your reservation: the IATA code for Brussels Airport is BRU, while CRL corresponds to Brussels South.

3. Leave the Car Behind

While remote working has eased traffic a bit, congestion in Brussels remains severe – the city ranks among the top 15 most congested urban areas in Europe. Locals often lament the scarcity of parking spots and the high costs of garages (€22 for a single day).

Additionally, Brussels operates as a Low Emission Zone, meaning older vehicles are prohibited. To enter the LEZ, obtaining a pass is necessary, but it’s free of charge. If you must bring your car, you can verify its eligibility and register on the LEZ Brussels Website.

The city center is quite walkable, and the public transport network is reliable. If driving is essential, consider parking at a Park and Ride location. Parking is complimentary, and all locations are adjacent to metro stations – you’ll reach the Grand Place in no time!

4. Utilize the metro, trams, and buses to navigate the city

The STIB/MIVB operates nearly all public transport in Brussels, making it fairly easy to navigate the city. However, the farther you venture from the center, the trickier it can become. Ticket machines are available at metro stations and major tram or bus stops. If you only need a single ride, contactless payment is an option. Just look for the gray validator as you enter a station or vehicle, tap your card or smartphone, and you’re set to go.

Most tourist sites (with the exception of the Atomium) are clustered in a compact area and are easily walkable. Therefore, you probably won’t need a day pass unless you plan to explore various neighborhoods in a single day.

5. Trains are an excellent choice for getting around

One of Brussels’ best-kept secrets is the overground train system, which can be a quicker way to navigate the city than trams or buses, especially to more distant areas. Just remember to buy a ticket before boarding. Interestingly, the STIB/MIVB route planner doesn’t effectively highlight this option, so using Google Maps is a better bet.

6. Avoid scheduling museum visits or upscale dinners on a Monday

Mondays are often a day off for many workers (like hairdressers and bakers), and this extends to museums and restaurants, which may also be closed on Tuesdays. While a few places might be open, if your focus is on culture or fine dining, it’s best to visit Brussels later in the week for more options.

7. Everything is bilingual in Brussels

As Belgium’s capital, Brussels operates officially in two languages. You’ll find everything, from road signs to advertisements, train announcements, street names, and information boards, presented in both French and Dutch, the country’s two primary languages (with German being the third). This can be perplexing if you’re unfamiliar; for example, the station known as Bruxelles-Midi in French is called Brussel-Zuid in Dutch.

I recommend choosing a language you feel most comfortable with and sticking to it. Just be aware of the two names for key locations like train stations—I’ve seen too many visitors miss their stops because of that!

The good news is that Brussels is a multicultural city, and you can easily navigate daily life using English. It’s unlikely that anyone will take offense if you communicate in English instead of one of the national languages.

8. Keep some coins handy for the restrooms

Known locally as “Madame/Monsieur Pipi,” these attendants are a common presence in fast-food outlets, stations, clubs, malls, and even cinemas. They play a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness before and after restroom use.

You’ll often find them chatting with patrons, reading, knitting, or doing crosswords during their breaks. Their service isn’t covered by the establishment, so a small fee is required to use the facilities. It’s typical to pay around €0.50 to €1, so keep some loose change handy since they generally only accept cash. A smile and a thank you will also go a long way!

9. Always keep an umbrella or raincoat handy

You might check the forecast and see that the weather looks promising during your stay in Brussels... but don’t be fooled. The weather here can change rapidly, and if there’s one thing Belgium is famous for (besides beer, chocolate, and fries), it’s its rain, ranging from a light drizzle to torrential downpours.

No Belgian would ever venture out without a compact umbrella or raincoat stashed in their bag “just in case.” Follow their example, and you’ll feel quite clever when that sudden shower catches everyone else off guard.

10. Kiss, handshake, or hug?

Ah, the classic awkward moment! You find yourself in a foreign land, and it’s time for introductions. In Brussels, where the French-speaking culture prevails, you’ll often witness people greeting each other with cheek kisses, even among strangers. Although COVID-19 changed this practice slightly, la bise is making a welcome return.

Conversely, Flemish culture tends to be more reserved, with people opting for a handshake or a simple “Hi” to acknowledge one another. If you’re ever in doubt, a handshake is the safest bet.

11. Babies, children, and dogs are often welcome in bars

This can be surprising for many visitors. In the afternoons, especially on weekends, it’s quite normal to see entire families in bars, with adults savoring their beers while babies nap in strollers and older kids enjoy soft drinks and games.

Cafés, pubs, and bars serve as social hubs, and for Belgians, children should be included in the fun, especially since smoking isn’t permitted indoors. Dogs are also considered part of the family and are typically welcomed, often receiving a bowl of water.