Is Belgium Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Insider's Safety Guide - Xplrverse

Introduction: My Journey Through Belgian Safety

The first time I visited Belgium in 2017, I accidentally left my backpack on a bench in Brussels’ Grand Place while photographing the guild houses. When I realized 15 minutes later, I sprinted back in panic—only to find it untouched, with locals keeping an eye on it for me. That moment crystallized something I’ve confirmed through dozens of subsequent visits: Belgium is generally a very safe destination, though like anywhere, it has its nuances.

Having lived just across the border in the Netherlands and spent countless weekends exploring every corner of Belgium—from the medieval streets of Bruges to the industrial-chic vibes of Antwerp—I’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of safety considerations throughout the country. In 2025, some things have changed since the pandemic, but Belgium’s overall safety profile remains strong.

This guide combines my personal experiences with current statistics and local insights to help you navigate Belgium with confidence. I’ll cover everything from city-specific safety concerns to health considerations, emergency contacts, and those essential street-smart tips I wish someone had told me before my first visit.

General Safety Overview of Belgium in 2025

Let me cut to the chase: Belgium ranks consistently among the safer countries in Europe for travelers. According to the Global Peace Index 2024, Belgium sits comfortably among the top 25 safest countries globally. The crime rates remain low, especially for violent crime, and the political situation is stable despite the occasional protests that characterize any democratic European capital.

That said, the safety landscape isn’t uniform across the country. Having criss-crossed Belgium more times than I can count, I’ve noticed distinct regional differences worth understanding:

Regional Safety Differences

Region	Safety Level	Main Concerns	Personal Notes
Brussels	Moderate-High	Pickpocketing, scams around tourist areas	Exercise caution around Brussels Midi/Zuid station and Molenbeek
Flanders (Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp)	Very High	Minor theft in tourist centers	I’ve walked alone at night in all these cities without concern
Wallonia (Liège, Namur, Charleroi)	High	Some economic depressed areas	Charleroi has a rougher reputation but improved dramatically since 2020
Coastal Areas (Ostend, De Panne)	Very High	Water safety in North Sea	Beach towns are exceedingly safe but watch for strong currents

What continues to surprise me after all these years is how safe Belgium feels at night. Last summer, I found myself wandering through Ghent at 11 PM, following the enchanting Ghent Light Festival pathways, and the streets were filled with families and seniors enjoying the evening without any sense of unease.

City-Specific Safety Information

Each Belgian city has its own character and specific safety considerations. I’ve spent significant time in each of these cities (some better than others), and here’s my honest assessment:

Brussels Safety in 2025

As Belgium’s capital and largest city, Brussels naturally has more safety concerns than smaller towns. The city center (particularly around Grand Place and the tourist core) is well-policed and generally very safe. However, there are a few areas where I’ve felt uncomfortable:

Brussels Midi/Zuid Station area: While the station itself is secure, some surrounding streets, particularly after dark, can feel sketchy. I once made the mistake of booking a budget hotel here and regretted it—not because anything happened, but the atmosphere wasn’t relaxing.
Anneessens and Molenbeek: These neighborhoods have improved dramatically since 2020 but still experience higher crime rates than other parts of Brussels.

The 2025 expansion of the Brussels police presence around Gare du Nord and implementation of the new “Brussels Safe Night” program has made evening transit much more comfortable.

Antwerp Safety

Antwerp feels significantly safer than Brussels, with its well-maintained streets and efficient public transportation. The main issues are:

Diamond District: Paradoxically, due to the high-value items, this area has excellent security but also attracts opportunistic thieves targeting tourists.
Red Light District near the port: Best avoided late at night, though it’s much smaller and less problematic than Amsterdam’s.

Insider Tip: The Antwerp city government launched the “Veilig Antwerpen” app in 2024, which provides real-time safety information and lets you report issues. It’s been tremendously helpful during my recent visits—I used it to report a suspicious character following tourists near Central Station, and police responded within minutes.

Bruges and Ghent Safety

These gorgeous medieval cities are among the safest places I’ve ever visited in Europe. The only real concern is petty theft in high-tourist areas, particularly during summer months when the crowds can get intense. The canals in both cities, while beautiful, have claimed lives of intoxicated visitors who accidentally fell in—a sobering reminder to enjoy Belgium’s excellent beers responsibly.

I once left my camera on a café table in Bruges while using the restroom (not recommended!), and returned to find the waiter had safeguarded it behind the counter. This level of honesty is commonplace in these smaller cities.

Common Safety Concerns for Travelers

Petty Crime and How to Avoid It

Belgium’s primary safety concern for travelers isn’t violent crime—it’s opportunistic theft. During my 20+ visits to Belgium, I’ve never experienced any crime personally, but I’ve witnessed attempted pickpocketing twice, both times in crowded tourist areas.

The most common types of petty crime in Belgium include:

Pickpocketing: Particularly in crowded tourist areas, train stations, and public transportation.
Bag snatching: Sometimes by thieves on scooters or bicycles.
Restaurant/café theft: Items taken from chairs or tables while you’re distracted.
Hotel room theft: Less common but still reported occasionally.

To minimize your risk, I follow these practices religiously:

Use anti-theft bags with RFID protection (prices range from €50-120)
Never keep valuables in back pockets
Be extra vigilant at Brussels Midi station, especially when arriving jetlagged
Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash
Make copies of important documents stored separately

Scams Targeting Tourists in 2025

The scam landscape evolves constantly, and 2025 has brought some new twists on old classics. Current scams I’ve observed or heard about from fellow travelers include:

The “Brussels Welcome” Scam

This is a new version of an old classic that emerged post-pandemic. Friendly locals approach you near major attractions like Atomium or Grand Place, offering to take photos or provide “inside information” about special events happening that day. They’re exceptionally charming and offer to show you a “hidden gem” restaurant or exhibition, which inevitably leads to overpriced experiences where they receive kickbacks.

The Fake Tourist Police

During a trip in early 2024, I almost fell for this one myself! Individuals claiming to be plainclothes tourist police who ask to see your wallet to “check for counterfeit bills” that supposedly have been circulating. They’ll show fake badges that look official to the untrained eye.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #1: Never exchange currency at the small exchange bureaus near Grand Place or close to Brussels Midi station. Their rates are abysmal! Instead, use bank ATMs for the best rates, preferably those attached to actual bank buildings rather than standalone machines. My go-to is KBC Bank, which consistently offers fair rates and low fees compared to tourist-oriented services. This alone saved me about €40 on my last trip.

Terrorism Risk Assessment

Belgium experienced terrorist attacks in 2016, and the memory of these events still influences perceptions of safety. However, Belgian authorities have significantly enhanced security measures since then. The current terrorism threat level as of 2025 is at 2 on a 4-point scale (meaning “moderate”), down from level 3 in previous years.

The visible security presence at major transportation hubs, tourist attractions, and public gatherings is reassuring rather than alarming. During the 2024 Christmas markets, I noticed discrete but effective security measures that didn’t detract from the festive atmosphere.

Safety for Different Types of Travelers

Solo Female Travelers

As a male traveler, I can’t speak from direct experience, but I’ve traveled through Belgium with female friends and colleagues who’ve shared their perspectives. The general consensus: Belgium ranks high for solo female traveler safety, though standard precautions still apply.

My friend Elise, who regularly travels alone to Belgium for business, notes that she feels completely comfortable walking alone during daylight hours in all major cities. For evening activities, she exercises the same caution she would in any European city—staying in well-lit, populated areas and using registered taxis or ride-sharing services rather than walking long distances alone at night.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Belgium is one of Europe’s most LGBTQ+ friendly countries, having legalized same-sex marriage back in 2003. In my experience, same-sex couples can comfortably show affection in public, especially in major cities, without drawing negative attention.

The annual Belgian Pride in Brussels (usually held in May) has grown significantly in recent years and is a celebration embraced by the entire city.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #2: Belgium has an excellent network of public toilets that many tourists don’t know about. Instead of feeling obligated to purchase something at a café just to use their facilities, download the “Toilet Finder” app which shows all public toilets in Belgian cities. Many are free and well-maintained, especially the newer self-cleaning models installed since 2023. This might seem minor, but it’s saved me at least €3-5 per day on unnecessary café purchases.

Families with Children

Belgium is exceptionally family-friendly, with excellent infrastructure for traveling with children. Playgrounds are abundant, clean, and well-maintained. The biggest safety concerns for families typically involve:

Bicycle traffic in cities like Ghent and Bruges (cyclists have priority and move quickly)
Cobblestone streets that can be challenging for strollers
Ensuring children don’t wander near unfenced canals in historic cities

During my visit with my niece and nephew (ages 7 and 9), they were particularly enchanted by the Mini-Europe park in Brussels—a perfectly safe and controlled environment for kids to explore miniature versions of European landmarks.

Health and Medical Safety

Belgian Healthcare for Travelers

One aspect of safety that’s often overlooked is health security. Belgium boasts an excellent healthcare system, consistently ranked among Europe’s best. As an EU citizen, I’ve used my European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for minor health issues, but non-EU travelers should absolutely invest in comprehensive travel insurance.

Hospital emergency rooms (“Spoedgevallen” in Dutch or “Urgences” in French) provide high-quality care, though be prepared for potential language barriers in smaller facilities. In major cities, you’ll easily find English-speaking medical professionals.

In 2023, I experienced firsthand how efficient the system can be when I developed a severe ear infection in Antwerp. The hotel directed me to a nearby urgent care center where I was seen within 30 minutes, prescribed appropriate antibiotics, and charged a reasonable €45 for the consultation (reimbursed later by my travel insurance).

Water and Food Safety

Belgium’s tap water is entirely safe to drink throughout the country. It’s rigorously tested and meets strict EU standards. This is one easy way to save money and reduce plastic waste—a reusable water bottle will serve you well here.

Food safety standards are similarly high. Even the ubiquitous frietkoten (fry stands) are regularly inspected. The only caution I’d offer involves mussels (moules), a Belgian specialty—they’re delicious but should only be consumed at reputable establishments, particularly during months with an ‘r’ in them (September through April) when they’re freshest.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #3: Belgium’s pharmacies often offer excellent over-the-counter remedies at lower prices than many neighboring countries. Look for the green cross sign and the word “Apotheek” (Dutch) or “Pharmacie” (French). I always stock up on painkillers, allergy medications, and first aid supplies in Belgium—paying about 30% less than I would in France or the Netherlands. Just ask the pharmacist for “huismerk” (house brand) options for even better deals.

Transportation Safety

Public Transport Safety

Belgium’s public transportation network is comprehensive, reliable, and generally very safe. I’ve used every possible mode—from intercity trains to local trams, buses, and metros—at all hours without incident. However, there are some nuances worth knowing:

Transport Type	Safety Level	Precautions
Intercity Trains	Very High	Keep luggage in sight, especially during stops
Brussels Metro	High (daytime) Moderate (late night)	Avoid empty carriages late at night
Trams/Buses	Very High	Standard awareness of belongings
Taxis	Very High	Use licensed taxis with meters

The new security measures implemented throughout the Brussels metro system in 2024—including enhanced lighting, more security cameras, and increased staff presence—have significantly improved the perceived safety of the network.

Road Safety and Driving

Belgium’s road infrastructure is excellent, but driving habits can be aggressive, particularly in Brussels. One of my biggest mistakes was assuming that driving in Belgium would be as orderly as in neighboring Germany—it’s not!

If you’re planning to rent a car, be aware of these quirks:

The notorious “priority from the right” rule: vehicles entering from the right have right of way, even when you’re on what appears to be a main road
Trams always have priority
Speed limits are strictly enforced with cameras
The alcohol limit is lower than in many countries (0.05% blood alcohol content)

I learned about the priority from the right rule the hard way—with a near-miss in a residential neighborhood in Ghent that left me shaken and my passenger using some colorful Flemish expressions I hadn’t previously encountered!

Cycling Safety

Belgium is increasingly bicycle-friendly, with extensive dedicated bike lanes in cities like Ghent, Bruges, and Antwerp. Brussels is making progress but remains more challenging for cyclists.

If you’re planning to explore by bike (something I highly recommend in Flanders), be aware that:

Helmets are not required by law but are recommended
Bike lights are mandatory after dark
The Blue-Bike sharing system at train stations requires registration but offers excellent value at just €12 per 24 hours

Staying Connected and Emergency Information

Emergency Numbers and Resources

The universal European emergency number is 112, which will connect you to emergency services throughout Belgium. Additionally, these specialized numbers are useful:

101: Police (non-emergency)
100: Ambulance and fire services
116 000: Missing children hotline
070 245 245: Poison control center

Save these in your phone before arrival. In an emergency, operators usually speak English, though starting with “Spreekt u Engels?” (Dutch) or “Parlez-vous anglais?” (French) is appreciated.

Staying Connected

Reliable connectivity enhances safety by ensuring you can access maps, translation tools, and emergency contacts. Belgium has excellent 4G/5G coverage throughout the country. Since 2021, EU roaming regulations have allowed European visitors to use their domestic data plans without surcharges.

For non-EU visitors, I recommend purchasing a local SIM card. As of 2025, the best value options are:

Mobile Vikings: My personal preference, offering 20GB for €15 (30-day validity)
Proximus: The largest network with excellent coverage, 10GB for €15
Orange: Good urban coverage, 15GB for €15

You can purchase these at Brussels Airport, major train stations, or electronics stores like MediaMarkt. Bring your passport, as ID is required for registration.

Sustainability Tip that Saves Money: Belgium’s tap water is excellent, so bring a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottles. This simple habit saved me about €5-10 per day during summer visits. Additionally, many Belgian cities including Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent have installed public water fountains in central areas as part of their sustainability initiatives. The “Fontaines d’eau potable” app shows all their locations.

Weather-Related Safety

Belgium’s climate is moderate, but weather-related safety concerns do exist:

Flooding

Climate change has increased flooding risks, particularly in Wallonia. The devastating floods of 2021 were a sobering reminder of this vulnerability. While tourist areas have improved flood defenses, be aware of weather forecasts if traveling to the Ardennes region or areas along the Meuse River during heavy rainfall periods.

Winter Conditions

Belgian winters are generally mild compared to Eastern Europe, but occasional snow and frequent freezing rain can make cobblestone streets treacherously slippery. I once spent an entire day in Bruges hobbling like an injured penguin after underestimating how slick the historic center would become after a light freezing drizzle!

Coastal Concerns

Belgium’s North Sea coast is popular in summer, but the sea has strong currents and tides. Always swim in designated areas with lifeguard supervision (indicated by red and yellow flags). The water is also significantly colder than many visitors expect—rarely exceeding 17°C (63°F) even in August.

Cultural Sensitivities and Legal Considerations

Language Dynamics

Belgium’s linguistic divide between Dutch-speaking Flanders (north) and French-speaking Wallonia (south) remains sensitive. In Brussels, both languages are official, but French predominates.

While this rarely poses safety issues, being aware of these dynamics helps avoid awkward situations. I made the mistake of confidently greeting everyone in French during my first trip to Antwerp, earning some cold responses until a kind local explained I was in Flanders, where Dutch is preferred.

Most Belgians in tourist areas speak excellent English and appreciate visitors who begin with a basic greeting in the local language:

“Goeiedag” (good day) in Flanders
“Bonjour” (good day) in Wallonia

Legal Considerations for Tourists

Belgium has some laws and regulations that might surprise visitors:

ID Requirements: You’re legally required to carry identification at all times
Photography: Taking photos of police or military personnel/installations can result in questioning
Alcohol: Public intoxication can result in fines or temporary detention
Cannabis: Despite Belgium’s liberal reputation, recreational cannabis remains illegal (unlike in neighboring Netherlands)

I learned about the ID requirement the hard way when I left my passport at the hotel and was stopped during a random check near Brussels Central Station. The officers were understanding but firm about the requirement.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Belgium Safety Action Plan

After years of exploring Belgium’s medieval towns, vibrant cities, and countryside, I can confidently say it’s one of Europe’s safer destinations. The rich chocolate, world-class beer, and extraordinary art can be enjoyed with minimal concern—provided you take basic precautions.

To maximize your safety while enjoying all Belgium has to offer, follow this 5-step action plan:

Prepare your digital safety net: Download offline maps, save emergency numbers, and install the BE-Alert app for emergency notifications (free from Belgian government)
Pack strategically: Bring an anti-theft bag, an RFID-blocking wallet, and a money belt for your most valuable documents
Register your trip: U.S. citizens should use the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), while other nationalities should check their embassy websites for similar services
Create a safety contact routine: Set up regular check-ins with someone back home, especially if traveling solo
Trust your instincts: If a situation feels wrong, remove yourself calmly and find a public place or official help

I’ve made mistakes in Belgium—getting lost in Brussels’ confusing street layout, misunderstanding local customs, and once memorably boarding a train in the wrong direction (ending up in Liège instead of Antwerp!)—but I’ve never felt genuinely unsafe.

The real danger in Belgium isn’t crime—it’s that you’ll fall so deeply in love with the country’s extraordinary blend of history, art, food, and warm hospitality that leaving will feel like the real threat to your well-being!

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Belgium

Is Brussels safe at night for tourists?

Brussels is generally safe at night in the main tourist and entertainment areas. The Grand Place, Sablon, and European Quarter remain well-lit and populated until late. However, I recommend avoiding areas around Brussels Midi/Zuid station and parts of Molenbeek after dark. The city has implemented the “Brussels by Night” safety program in 2024, increasing police presence in entertainment districts between 10 PM and 4 AM on weekends.

Is Belgium safe for American tourists?

Absolutely! Americans are welcomed warmly throughout Belgium and face no specific safety concerns. The cultural and language differences are navigated easily, as English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The U.S. State Department currently rates Belgium as Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions), their lowest travel advisory level.

Are there areas in Belgium that tourists should avoid?

While Belgium has few genuinely dangerous areas, certain neighborhoods have higher crime rates. In Brussels, parts of Molenbeek, Anderlecht, and areas immediately surrounding Brussels Midi station deserve extra caution, especially after dark. In Antwerp, the area north of Central Station (around De Coninckplein) has higher rates of drug-related activity. Charleroi, while improving, still has industrial suburbs with higher crime rates that offer little for tourists anyway.

Is pickpocketing common in Belgian cities?

Pickpocketing exists in major tourist areas but isn’t as prevalent as in cities like Barcelona or Rome. The highest risk areas are Brussels Central Station, Grand Place, and crowded tourist attractions. The Belgian tourist board has reported a 15% decrease in reported pickpocketing incidents since 2022, partially credited to increased CCTV coverage and plain-clothes police officers in high-risk areas.

How safe is public transportation in Belgium?

Belgian public transportation is very safe, clean, and efficient. Intercity trains rarely present any safety concerns. The Brussels metro system has improved security significantly since 2020, with additional security personnel and better lighting. The only precaution I’d recommend is increased awareness on night buses or the last metro trains, particularly on weekends.

Do I need travel insurance for Belgium?

While not legally required for EU citizens, I strongly recommend travel insurance for everyone visiting Belgium. Healthcare is excellent but can be expensive for non-EU visitors without insurance. A comprehensive policy covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and theft typically costs €5-10 per day—a small price for peace of mind.

Is tap water safe to drink in Belgium?

Belgian tap water is completely safe to drink throughout the country and meets or exceeds EU quality standards. It’s regularly tested and perfectly fine for consumption. In fact, Belgium ranks in the top 10 European countries for water quality according to the European Environment Agency’s latest reports.

What should I do in case of an emergency in Belgium?

For any emergency, dial 112 (the European emergency number) or 101 specifically for police. Operators typically speak English. For medical situations that aren’t life-threatening, visit a pharmacy (“Apotheek”/”Pharmacie”) or find the nearest hospital emergency department (“Spoedgevallen”/”Urgences”). Your hotel staff can also provide valuable assistance in emergencies.