Bruges, Belgium

• Bruges is a small medieval city with canals, cobblestone streets, and Gothic buildings. The historic center is a UNESCO site and takes about 30 minutes to walk across. Most people in tourist areas speak English, though a few words of Dutch (Goeiedag for hello, Dank u wel for thank you) goes over well with locals.
• The city is generally very safe. Streets are well-lit and the center stays active in the evenings, so walking around after dinner is normal. Bruges is quieter and feels more peaceful than larger European cities.
• Pickpocketing happens occasionally in crowded spots like the Markt during summer, but it's less common than in bigger cities. The train station area can feel a bit empty late at night, though serious crime is rare. Police are visible throughout the center.
• The cafe culture makes it easy to sit alone with a book or laptop - nobody thinks twice about it. The city is small and walkable. Watch out for bikes when crossing bike lanes - cyclists have right of way and don't slow down much. Restaurant menus are posted outside by law, so you can check prices before going in.

Local language is Dutch (Flemish), not French - speaking French can offend people here. English is common in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and among younger people. Tourist police (050 44 86 86) and emergency services (112) have English speakers. Most restaurant staff and shop owners in the historic center speak English.

• The local language is Dutch (Flemish), not French. Speaking French can actually offend people here - stick to English in tourist areas or learn a few Dutch phrases. Goeiedag (hello) and Dank u wel (thank you) help.
• Belgians take punctuality seriously. Show up on time for reservations or you'll look unreliable. Lunch is around noon, dinner between 6-8pm.
• Service charges are included in bills, so tipping isn't expected. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is fine, but don't feel obligated.
• Keep noise down in residential areas and near churches. At religious sites, cover shoulders and knees and stay quiet.
• Restaurant etiquette is somewhat formal - wait to be seated, keep hands visible on the table (not in your lap), but don't rest elbows on the table. Book ahead for Friday and Saturday nights at popular places.
• Belgians are less direct than Americans and avoid confrontation. Handshakes are standard for first meetings; three kisses on the cheek are common among friends.
• Carry cash - smaller places often don't take cards. ATMs are easy to find in the center.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. General Emergency (Fire, Police, Ambulance): 112. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Walking is easiest - the center is small and most things are 5-15 minutes apart. You can cross the whole city in 30 minutes.
• De Lijn buses connect the center to the train station and outer areas. Tickets are €2.50 for 60 minutes. Buses run roughly 5:50am to 10pm daily, with some routes until 11pm weekdays and 2am Friday/Saturday nights. Buy tickets at sales points or machines before boarding to save money.
• Bikes are everywhere. Watch bike lanes when crossing - cyclists have right of way and don't slow down. You can rent bikes, but the center is small enough to walk.
• Taxis wait at the Markt and train station. Station to center costs under €10. No Uber here, but regular taxis work fine.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Bruges with local guides and curated experiences.