WHEN BEST TO GO

Belgium has a temperate climate making it an ideal city to visit all year round. However, though the climate is at its finest during July and August, these months also see much of the city’s residents go on holiday and thus the closure of many restaurants and attractions, especially during August.

LOCAL CUSTOMS

Smoking is banned in public places, including all restaurants and bars.

LANGUAGE

French and Dutch

CURRENCY

EURO

EXCHANGE RATE

$1 = EUR €0.70 £1 = EUR €1.14

COUNTRY DIALLING

CODE +32

24 HOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT

Ambulance or fire: 100

Police: 101

EMBASSY CONTACTS

US: +32 2 811 4300

UK: +32 2 287 6211

TIME ZONE

GMT+1

RELIGIOUS DEMOGRAPHIC

Christian

POPULATION

1.1 million

Business Hours

Shops open from 9am to 6pm on weekdays and Saturdays. However, smaller shops, or shops outside of main areas will close on Saturdays and at lunch times.