After living in Switzerland for around 5 years, we’ve finally decided to move so that we can start building our family together. It’s a new country for me, and it’s a return home for my hubby. After ten years of living here, and becoming a Belgian citizen hereafter, I’m happy to report that despite of its idiosyncrasies, Belgium has been and will remain to be my home.

As I reflect on my experience, here are the top ten things I’ve learned about living in Belgium.

Multilingualism Is the Norm.

It’s fascinating how easily Belgians switch between Dutch, French, German, and English. This linguistic diversity adds depth to daily interactions and has inspired me to pick up new phrases from multiple languages.

In Belgium, being multilingual is just how things roll. Almost everyone seems to juggle Dutch, French, and German like it’s no big deal. And honestly, don’t be surprised if you hear some English in the mix too, especially in cities or when hanging out with folks from different backgrounds. Whether you’re at work, ordering coffee, or just people-watching on a train, you’ll catch bits and pieces of different languages everywhere. It’s wild how naturally Belgians flip between them, and it makes every conversation a little more interesting.

For someone new, it’s both impressive and a little intimidating, but it kind of pushes you to pick up a few words yourself. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself saying “merci” one minute and “dank u” the next. That’s the beauty of living here. The country’s history and mix of cultures really shine through in daily life, and it makes you appreciate how unique and welcoming Belgium can be. Honestly, coming to Belgium means you’re in for a crash course in languages, but it’s all part of the adventure. While English is spoken in business and larger cities, knowing Dutch (Flanders) or French (Wallonia/Brussels) is essential for integration and daily life.

Public Transport Is Efficient (Mostly).

 While not perfect, Belgium’s trains and buses make it easy to travel between cities and even neighboring countries. It’s been liberating to explore without relying on a car.

Getting around Belgium is pretty easy thanks to its public transportation. The trains zip between big cities like Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Liège, and they’re usually pretty reliable. Buses and trams fill in the gaps, so you can get almost anywhere without needing a car. If you’re new here, it’s awesome not having to stress about driving—just grab a train or bus and you’re off exploring.

What makes Belgian public transport mostly efficient is how well everything fits together. There are plenty of connections and schedules are simple to follow, so you don’t end up waiting ages for your ride. Sure, there are delays sometimes or even the odd strike, but most of the time things run smoothly. Honestly, it feels pretty freeing to hop on a train for work or a spontaneous trip, and it’s good for the planet too since fewer people rely on cars. Even though it’s not perfect, the system really makes life in Belgium a lot easier—and more adventurous!

Belgium is also incredibly central in Europe, making it easy to travel to London, Paris, or Amsterdam, with a dense, reliable train system.

Food Is a Passion.

Beyond famous chocolate, beer, and waffles, frites (fries) are a staple, often served with mayo, and moules-frites (mussels and fries) is a national dish.

Belgian food is seriously awesome, and honestly, it’s a huge part of everyday life here. You can grab fries from a street vendor (they come in those classic paper cones), pop into a cozy café for waffles sprinkled with powdered sugar, or just wander into a bakery and be tempted by all the chocolate and pastries. Every region has its own thing. Flanders is all about big stews and fancy pralines, while Wallonia has rich cheeses and tasty meat dishes. It feels like there’s a chocolatier or bakery on nearly every corner, and people are genuinely proud of their food—whether you’re munching on a simple sandwich or going all out at a local brasserie.

But what makes Belgian food culture really special is how meals bring everyone together. Belgian cuisine blends influence from French, Dutch, and German traditions, so every meal feels a bit unique. And let’s not forget about the beer—Belgium’s brews are legendary and often paired perfectly with whatever you’re eating. Whether it’s a festival feast or just a quiet Sunday breakfast, food here is all about sharing good times and good flavors with the people you care about.

The Weather Keeps You Prepared.

Belgian weather is famously unpredictable. I’ve learned to always carry an umbrella or rain jacket, no matter what the forecast says.

Belgian weather is truly a wild card! One minute you’re soaking up the sunshine, and the next you’re dodging a sudden downpour—even when your weather app insisted it would stay dry. I swear, carrying an umbrella or rain jacket has become second nature here. Layers are your best friend because you’ll probably experience a bit of everything in a single afternoon: a little sunshine, a sudden chilly wind, and then a drizzle that comes out of nowhere. It keeps you on your toes, period.

There’s something strangely charming about never really knowing what you’re going to get. Plans might revolve around “weather windows” rather than actual forecasts, and everyone learns the art of the quick wardrobe change. But all those gray skies mean you seriously appreciate every bright, sunny day. When the sun finally makes an appearance, parks and cafés come alive, and everyone rushes outside to soak it up. Belgian weather might be unpredictable, but it’s all part of a Belgian life — you learn to embrace the surprises and just roll with it!

Bikes Everywhere

Cycling isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life. With dedicated bike lanes and beautiful trails, I’ve embraced biking as both a mode of transport and a leisure activity.

Biking in Belgium is honestly a vibe all its own! You’ll see folks of all ages cruising around, from kids in little helmets pedaling to school, grannies with flower baskets heading to the market, and even business types zipping by in full suits. The bike lanes here aren’t just a suggestion; they’re legit highways for two wheels. And with all the scenic paths through parks, old city streets, and along peaceful canals, it feels like an adventure every time you hop on. Rain or shine (and let’s be real, it’s usually a mix), Belgians just grab their bikes and go—it’s the most laid-back, practical way to get around.

One of the best things is that biking isn’t just about getting from point A to B — it’s a part of everyday fun. Weekend rides turn into impromptu picnics or café stops, and there’s always an excuse to explore a new corner of the city or countryside. Plus, you never have to worry about parking or traffic. In Belgium, life really does roll a little smoother on two wheels.

Festivals and Cultural Events Abound

Every season brings new festivities, from medieval carnivals and music festivals to seasonal markets. Belgians know how to celebrate.

Belgium is basically a party waiting to happen, no matter the time of year! From quirky medieval carnivals with wild costumes and confetti showers to music festivals where everyone’s dancing in the rain, there’s always something going on. Spring brings flower parades and chocolate fairs (yes, you read that right), while summer is packed with open-air concerts and food markets that make every weekend feel like a mini vacation. Trust me, even the tiniest towns find a reason to celebrate, and you’ll stumble into street performances or pop-up events when you least expect it.

What I love most is how everyone gets involved. You’ll see friends sharing waffles at Christmas markets, strangers singing together at folk festivals, and everyone just soaking up the good vibes. The energy is totally contagious, and you get to experience Belgium’s mix of traditions, music, and food in the best way possible. It’s impossible not to get swept up in the excitement—just follow the sound of laughter and drums, and you’ll always discover something new.

Sunday Quietude

Most shops close on Sunday, encouraging relaxation, family time, and a slower pace. It’s taught me the importance of balancing work and rest.

Sundays in Belgium are honestly a whole mood. The streets quiet down, shops close up, and suddenly the pace of life slows right down. It’s like everyone got the memo that today’s for chilling. You’ll spot families out for lazy walks, friends grabbing brunch at cozy cafés, and neighbors catching up in the sunshine. No one’s stressing about errands or deadlines—just soaking up that peaceful, easy feeling.

Forget about scrambling for groceries or rushing around. Sundays are made for lounging in PJs, sipping coffee, and just letting the day unfold. It’s prime time for a long, laughter-filled lunch or maybe a spontaneous trip to the park. Even the weather seems to chill out. You start to appreciate the little things—good company, slow moments, and the joy of doing absolutely nothing. For us at home, it’s the hearty Sunday breakfast – pistolé, bacon & eggs, and some koffiekoekjes! Belgium totally knows how to make Sundays feel special.

Diverse Architecture

Wandering Belgian cities, I’m constantly amazed by the mix of medieval, Art Nouveau, and modern buildings. Each city seems to have its own architectural identity.

Belgium’s architecture is honestly like a treasure hunt for your eyes. One minute you’re gawking at a centuries-old castle, and the next, you’re snapping pics of a funky Art Nouveau townhouse that looks straight out of a storybook. Cities like Brussels and Ghent are bursting with ornate facades, whimsical ironwork, and cobblestone streets that make you feel like you just stepped into a fairy tale. And don’t even get me started on the grand guild houses lining the market squares. They’re so gorgeous, it’s hard not to stare.

But Belgium doesn’t just live in the past. Modern glass towers and playful murals pop up around every corner, adding a fresh, creative vibe to the cityscape. You’ll stumble across a medieval cathedral, then turn a corner and find some quirky contemporary architecture that totally flips the script. Every neighborhood has its own personality, and wandering around feels like hopping between time periods. Seriously, even grabbing a coffee can turn into an impromptu architecture adventure. This country is a feast for anyone who loves cool, unique buildings!

High Taxes, High Benefits

Taxes are among the highest in the world, but in return, residents receive excellent healthcare, strong social security, and high-quality education.

Okay, so let’s talk about Belgian taxes—yeah, they’re pretty wild. Belgium’s got some of the highest taxes in the world, and it can feel like your paycheck is getting a serious haircut. You might grumble when you see how much gets taken out, but honestly, it’s not all doom and gloom. The upside? You get some seriously awesome perks in exchange. Think top-notch healthcare, generous social security, and schools that make you want to learn stuff. It’s kind of like paying VIP admission for the country’s best services.

People joke that in Belgium, you pay a lot but you get a lot. Need a visit to the doctor? It’s quick, affordable, and stress-free. Lost your job? The safety net’s strong and supportive. And don’t even get me started on the education system. Kids here have access to quality schools and cool programs. Sure, taxes can be a pain, but the benefits make life smoother and safer. So, while you might wince at your payslip, you’ll totally appreciate the peace of mind and the little luxuries that come with living here.

A Welcoming Community

Despite cultural differences, I’ve found Belgians to be warm, helpful, and proud of their heritage. Integrating into local life has been both challenging and rewarding. Belgians can appear cold or private at first, but once trust is built, they are loyal, long-term friends.

Making friends in Belgium is its own wild adventure, honestly! At first, you might think everyone’s a bit reserved or super private, but give it time and people open up in the coolest ways. The trick is to say hi, join a local fest, or just show up for a random coffee. Soon enough, you’ll find yourself chatting about everything from the weather to the best Belgian chocolate. Once you crack that shell, Belgians are loyal and genuine, and suddenly you’re part of their inner circle, invited to family dinners, backyard BBQs, or cozy pub nights. It’s all about patience and just being yourself.

Social life here is way more vibrant than you’d expect! There’s always something happening: neighborhood markets, quirky festivals, and spontaneous gatherings that can turn a regular evening into a party. People love sharing laughs over waffles, cycling trips, or late-night chats in the city square. You’ll get to meet people from all walks of life, and everyone’s proud of their traditions, so you’ll never run out of things to talk about or new customs to try. Honestly, Belgium’s got a sort of magic where strangers turn into friends, and every outing feels like you’re making memories for life.

Living in Belgium has been a transformative experience filled with new discoveries and personal growth. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity, and where every day offers something new to learn. If you get the chance to live here, embrace the journey.