Bruges Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Bruges.
Healthcare System
Belgium has one of the world's best healthcare systems, with universal coverage and high-quality medical facilities. Bruges has excellent medical infrastructure including modern hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) receive treatment at reduced costs, while non-EU visitors pay standard rates.
Hospitals
AZ Sint-Jan Brugge-Oostende AV (Ruddershove 10) is the main hospital serving Bruges, offering 24/7 emergency services, specialist care, and modern facilities. Several medical clinics throughout the historic center provide urgent care. Pharmacies can direct visitors to appropriate medical services.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (apotheek/pharmacie) are marked with green crosses and widely available throughout Bruges. At least one pharmacy operates on a rotating duty schedule for nights, weekends, and holidays (posted on all pharmacy doors). Most common medications are available, though some require prescriptions. Pharmacists are highly trained and can provide medical advice for minor ailments.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is strongly recommended for non-EU visitors, as medical costs must be paid upfront and can be expensive. EU citizens should carry their EHIC card. Insurance should cover emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, and medical repatriation.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a copy of your EHIC card (EU citizens) or travel insurance details at all times
- Keep a list of any medications you take, including generic names, as brand names may differ
- Pharmacies can help with minor health issues and recommend whether doctor consultation is needed
- Tap water in Bruges is safe to drink and of excellent quality
- If you need prescription medication, bring sufficient supplies as Belgian doctors may not prescribe without full consultation
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing occurs occasionally in crowded tourist areas, particularly during peak summer months. Thieves typically work in teams and target distracted tourists taking photos or consulting maps. Bicycle theft is also common.
Bruges has extensive bicycle traffic, and tourists unfamiliar with cycling in cobblestone streets or Belgian traffic rules may be at risk. Collisions between pedestrians and cyclists are the most common tourist accidents.
Bruges' historic cobblestone streets can be uneven, slippery when wet, and challenging for those with mobility issues or wearing inappropriate footwear. Falls are common, particularly in rainy weather.
Rental cars and vehicles with foreign plates may be targeted for break-ins, particularly if valuables are visible inside.
Bruges is famous for Belgian beer, and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to accidents, poor decisions, or vulnerability to theft. Late-night incidents occasionally occur near popular bars.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some tourist-oriented restaurants, particularly around Markt square, may have unclear pricing, add unexpected service charges, or bring unrequested items (bread, appetizers) that appear complimentary but are charged. Menus may have small print or different prices for terrace seating.
Some shops sell mass-produced chocolate at premium prices, claiming it's authentic Belgian artisan chocolate. These shops often have aggressive sales tactics and inflated prices targeting tourists unfamiliar with quality Belgian chocolate.
Individuals approach tourists offering 'special' or 'discounted' tours that may be overpriced, low-quality, or simply walk tourists to shops where guides receive commission on purchases.
Though rare in Bruges, card skimming devices can be attached to ATMs to steal card information and PINs. Distraction techniques may also be used while withdrawing cash.
Individuals approach tourists with clipboards asking for signatures on petitions (often claiming to be for deaf/mute charities or environmental causes), then aggressively demand donations or use the distraction for pickpocketing.
Some unlicensed taxis or drivers may not use meters, take longer routes, or claim the meter is broken, resulting in inflated fares. This is uncommon but can occur at the train station.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Walking and Navigation
- Bruges is highly walkable—most attractions are within 20 minutes' walk of each other
- Stay aware of bicycle lanes (marked in red) and don't walk in them
- The historic center is car-free in many areas; follow pedestrian signs
- Cobblestones can be challenging—wear comfortable, supportive footwear
- Download offline maps as some narrow streets have poor mobile signal
- Streets are well-lit at night, but carry a flashlight for very dark alleys
- Watch for tour groups and stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
Money and Valuables
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuable jewelry
- Carry only what you need for the day
- Use credit cards with chip and PIN; inform your bank of travel dates
- Keep emergency cash separate from your main wallet
- Photocopy important documents and store separately from originals
- Belgium uses euros; exchange rates at banks are better than at exchange offices
- Most places accept cards, but small vendors may prefer cash
Accommodation Safety
- Use reputable booking platforms and read recent reviews
- Verify hotel/B&B addresses—some scams involve fake listings
- Keep room doors and windows locked, even when inside
- Know emergency exit routes from your accommodation
- Store valuables in room safes or hotel reception safes
- Be cautious about sharing accommodation details with strangers
- Verify staff identity before allowing entry to your room
Transportation
- Bruges is compact—walking is the best way to explore
- Bicycles can be rented but require confidence on cobblestones and in traffic
- Buses are safe and reliable; validate tickets upon boarding
- Train station is a 20-minute walk from the center; taxis and buses available
- If renting a car, note that parking is limited and expensive in the center
- Use official taxi stands or reputable apps; agree on fares beforehand
- Canal boat tours are safe and popular—use established operators
Food and Drink Safety
- Food safety standards are excellent in Belgium
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Bruges
- Check restaurant hygiene ratings if concerned (generally very high)
- Belgian beer is strong (8-12% ABV common)—pace yourself
- Food allergies: staff generally speak English and can advise on ingredients
- Avoid extremely cheap restaurants in prime tourist areas—quality may be poor
- Try local specialties from reputable establishments
Communication
- Official languages are Dutch (Flemish) and French; Dutch is primary in Bruges
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants
- Download translation apps for non-touristy areas
- Emergency services (112) have English-speaking operators
- Learn basic Dutch phrases—locals appreciate the effort
- Free Wi-Fi available in many cafes, hotels, and public spaces
- EU roaming applies for EU visitors; others should check international plans
Cultural Awareness
- Belgium is culturally diverse and tolerant
- Dress modestly when visiting churches (cover shoulders and knees)
- Tipping is not obligatory (service included) but rounding up is appreciated
- Photography is generally allowed but ask permission in shops and restaurants
- Respect quiet hours in residential areas (typically after 10 PM)
- Don't compare Belgium to the Netherlands—they're distinct countries
- Smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces and restaurants
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Bruges is very safe for women traveling solo or in groups. Belgium has strong gender equality, and women travelers rarely experience harassment or safety issues. The city's tourist-friendly environment, well-lit streets, and respectful local culture make it one of Europe's safest destinations for female travelers. Solo women can comfortably dine alone, explore at night, and use public transportation without concern.
- Solo women travelers report feeling very safe in Bruges day and night
- Harassment is rare; if it occurs, locals and police are supportive
- All accommodation types are safe; read reviews for solo traveler experiences
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers if desired
- Standard precautions apply: share itinerary with someone, avoid excessive alcohol consumption alone
- Women-only accommodations are available if preferred, though unnecessary for safety
- Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, seek help from shops, restaurants, or police
- Belgian men generally respect personal space; unwanted attention is uncommon
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps if walking alone very late
- Dress as you wish—Belgium has no restrictive dress expectations
- Sanitary products widely available at pharmacies and supermarkets
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Belgium has some of Europe's most progressive LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2003 (second country worldwide), discrimination is illegal, and comprehensive protections exist. Same-sex couples have full adoption rights and legal recognition.
- LGBTQ+ travelers can travel openly and safely in Bruges without concern
- Public displays of affection are generally accepted throughout the city
- While Bruges has a smaller LGBTQ+ scene than larger Belgian cities, it's welcoming
- Brussels (1 hour away) has extensive LGBTQ+ nightlife and events if desired
- Hotels and accommodations are LGBTQ+-friendly; same-sex couples can book double rooms without issue
- Belgian Pride events occur in various cities; Brussels Pride is in May
- Transgender travelers are protected by anti-discrimination laws
- Use standard travel apps to connect with LGBTQ+ community if desired
- Locals are generally progressive and supportive
- If discrimination occurs (extremely rare), report to police—it's illegal and taken seriously
- LGBTQ+-owned businesses exist throughout Belgium; look for rainbow flags
- Belgium recognizes same-sex marriages and partnerships from other countries
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Bruges, regardless of origin. While Belgium has excellent healthcare, non-EU visitors must pay upfront for medical treatment, which can be expensive. Insurance provides financial protection for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen issues. EU citizens with EHIC cards should still consider supplemental insurance for repatriation and non-medical coverage.
Travel insurance for adventurous travelers • Coverage in 200+ countries