Belgium: Medieval Squares, Canals & Culture in the Heart of Europe

Belgium provides high-quality medical care through both public and private healthcare systems. EU residents can access services easily, and non-EU travelers are also well accommodated, though typically at full cost without insurance.

●  EU/EEA citizens can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or GHIC for reduced-cost or free treatment.

●  Non-EU visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical expenses.​

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●  Hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies are modern and well-staffed.

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●  GPs and specialists operate by appointment; emergency walk-ins are accepted at hospitals.

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●  Pharmacies (pharmacies/apotheken) are plentiful and typically open from 9 am to 6 pm.

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💡 Tip: Pharmacists in Belgium are highly trained and can recommend treatments or refer you to a doctor—don’t hesitate to ask for advice.

Belgium poses no unusual health risks for visitors. Standards of sanitation, food safety, and public hygiene are excellent.

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●  Tap water is clean and safe to drink nationwide.

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●  No vaccines are required for entry.

●  Seasonal allergies may flare in spring due to heavy pollen.

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●  Winter flu season peaks between December and February—consider a flu shot if traveling during this time.

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●  Urban air quality is generally good but may worsen in cities like Brussels during summer.

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💡 Tip: You may need a prescription for over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or antihistamines—check with a pharmacy if unsure.

Belgium is considered a safe country with low levels of violent crime, though petty theft and opportunistic crime can occur in tourist-heavy areas.

●  Pickpocketing is the most common issue, especially in Brussels Central Station, Grand Place, and on busy trams.

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●  Bike theft is widespread—always lock your bicycles securely.

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●  Demonstrations & strikes are common, particularly in Brussels, and may disrupt public transport or government services.

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●  Major terrorist attacks in 2016 led to increased security in public areas, but the threat level has since stabilized.

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●  Police are professional, bilingual (often multilingual), and approachable.

💡 Tip: Don’t leave bags unattended in public spaces—even for a moment. Abandoned items may be treated as suspicious and removed by police.​

Belgium has a well-organized public safety system, including police, emergency services, and tourist support hotlines.

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●  Tourist police units operate in central Brussels and other major cities.

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●  Medical emergency response is fast and effective, with modern equipment.

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●  Public signage is often trilingual (Dutch, French, English), particularly in Brussels.

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💡 Tip:  Keep a printed or offline copy of your travel insurance documents and emergency contact numbers—mobile reception can be patchy underground or in some rural areas.

Emergency services are accessible from any phone, with multilingual operators available.

●  General emergency (works EU-wide): 112

●  Medical Urgency Only: 100

●  Police (direct line): 101

●  On-call pharmacies (after hours): Look for the green cross sign outside or visit pharmacie.be to locate nearby services.

💡 Tip: Dialing 112 works from any mobile phone—even without a local SIM or active plan.

●  Bring your own basic medications, especially if you prefer certain brands not sold in Belgium.

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●  Be aware that Belgium has three official languages. If you’re in Flanders, Dutch may be dominant, while French prevails in Wallonia. Most staff in healthcare settings speak English, but this can vary.

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●  Belgium experiences icy pavements in winter and slippery cobblestones year-round. Wear good walking shoes.

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●  For psychological support, the Community Help Service (CHS) in Brussels offers English-language mental health support.​

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●  Most hospitals and clinics expect upfront payment from non-residents. Make sure your insurance includes reimbursement or direct billing coverage.

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💡 Tip: Consider SafetyWing or similar travel insurance to cover healthcare, cancellations, and theft, especially for longer stays.