Entry Requirements and Visas
Belgium is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, which means that visitors from most countries can enter without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and many other countries benefit from this visa-free arrangement. Visitors from countries that require a Schengen visa should apply well in advance of their travel date. The application process typically takes two to four weeks, and applications must be submitted to the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country. A confirmed festival ticket and accommodation booking will strengthen your visa application. From 2025, visitors from visa-exempt countries will need to register under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) before travelling to the Schengen Area. The registration process is straightforward and can be completed online for a small fee.
- Check the current visa requirements for your nationality before booking
- Apply for any required visas at least eight weeks before your travel date
- Carry a printed copy of your visa or authorisation alongside your passport
Currency and Payments
Belgium uses the euro (€), as do most of the countries you are likely to visit during a European trip. Euros are widely accepted throughout the Schengen Area, and ATMs are readily available in all cities and most towns. Credit and debit cards are accepted at the vast majority of hotels, restaurants, and shops in Belgium and the surrounding countries. Contactless payment is standard, and many smaller establishments no longer accept cash at all. Carrying a small amount of cash (€50 to €100) is sensible for situations where cards are not accepted, such as some markets and rural businesses. Notify your bank before you travel to avoid your card being blocked for suspected fraud. Many bank
s now offer travel notification services through their mobile apps, making this a quick and straightforward process.Getting Around Europe
Europe's rail network is one of the most comprehensive in the world, and train travel is often the most practical and enjoyable way to move between cities. High-speed services connect Brussels to Paris in 1 hour 20 minutes, to Amsterdam in 1 hour 50 minutes, and to London in 2 hours via the Eurostar. For longer journeys within Europe, budget airlines offer competitive fares, particularly if booked well in advance. The main trade-off is the time spent at airports and the restrictions on baggage, which can be significant for festival visitors travelling with camping equipment. Intercity bus services are the most affordable option for budget travellers, with companies such as FlixBus operating extensive networks across Europe. Journey times are longer than by train, but the cost savings can be substantial.
Health and Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all international visitors to Europe. A good policy should cover medical treatment (including hospitalisation), trip cancellation or curtailment, loss of baggage and personal belongings, and personal liability. Citizens of EU member states are entitled to emergency medical treatment in Belgium under the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) scheme. Visitors from outside the EU should ensure their travel insurance includes medical coverage with a sufficiently high limit — medical treatment in Belgium is of high quality but can be expensive without insurance. Prescription medications should be carried in their original packaging with a copy of the prescription. Some medications that are available over the counter in your home country may be classified differently in Belgium, and having documentation from your doctor can prevent complications at customs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Belgium?
Citizens of many countries can visit Belgium visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the specific requirements for your nationality on the Belgian immigration authority website.
What language is spoken in Belgium?
Belgium has three official languages: Dutch (spoken in Flanders, where Tomorrowland is located), French (spoken in Wallonia), and German (spoken in a small eastern region). English is widely spoken in tourist areas and at the festival.
Is Belgium safe for tourists?
Yes. Belgium is a safe country for tourists. Standard urban precautions apply in city centres, but violent crime is rare.
Can I use my mobile phone in Belgium?
EU roaming rules mean that visitors from EU countries can use their phone in Belgium at domestic rates. Visitors from outside the EU should check their roaming charges or purchase a local SIM card.
Travelling to Europe for Tomorrowland is an investment that pays dividends far beyond the festival itself. Belgium and its neighbours offer extraordinary cultural, culinary, and historical experiences that complement the festival perfectly. With careful preparation and a flexible itinerary, your Tomorrowland trip can become the foundation of a memorable European adventure.