Do I need cash for Brussels?

Many shops and restaurants in Brussels accept credit cards, but not all. It is, therefore, recommended that you either ask before you order or ensure you have enough in cash to cover the bill.



While Brussels is a modern, tech-forward European capital, you should still carry a small amount of cash for a 2026 visit. Most major restaurants, hotels, and retail shops in the city center and around the Grand Place accept contactless payments, Visa, and Mastercard with no issues. However, Belgium has a unique quirk: some smaller, local establishments (especially "frietkoten" or chip stands and smaller bakeries) may only accept Bancontact (the local debit system) or cash, and may decline international credit cards for small purchases under €5 or €10. Furthermore, if you plan to visit the famous flea markets in Les Marolles or use public restrooms (which often have a "toilet attendant" or an automated coin slot), you will absolutely need €0.50 or €1.00 coins. For public transport, you can simply "tap" your contactless card on the STIB/MIVB readers, so cash is not needed for the Metro. A good rule of thumb for 2026 is to keep about €20 to €40 in small bills and coins in your pocket for those "Brussels moments" like a spontaneous waffle from a street van or a tip for a street performer in the Royal Park.

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If you prefer dealing in cash, then by all means get some euros out before your trip. But there are alternatives available, such as debit and credit cards. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in most European cities. American Express is too, but perhaps less widely.

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How much money will you need for your trip to Belgium? You should plan to spend around €142 ($150) per day on your vacation in Belgium, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, €42 ($45) on meals for one day and €17 ($18) on local transportation.

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To tip leave just a few Euro, or about 10% if the service was excellent! If you do not have smaller bills, let the server know what you want to pay, including any amount for tip, and what you expect back in change. If another staffer takes your payment for the bill, give the tip to your waitperson directly.

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Brussels public transport tickets prices Inner-city Brussels public transport uses unified ticketing system so you can use the same ticket for bus, metro, tram or a combination. The simplest way is to buy a single-fare ticket as you enter the vehicle. This costs €2,50.

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ATMs are the best way to access money abroad and are increasingly available. Your bank or credit card company may charge fees for withdrawals overseas and may have a limit on the amount you can withdraw daily, so be sure to consult with your bank about this.

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Buy currency before you travel.
Doing so gives you time to shop around for the best rate. Plus, when you arrive, you won't have to immediately find a bank or currency exchange. Do some research ahead of time to see if US dollars are widely accepted at places you plan to go to.

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Being the European Union's capital city, Brussels isn't a cheap place to live in. However, compared to other major European cities, the cost of living in Brussels, Belgium can be considered quite average. Let's have a look: Brussels is 13% more expensive than Barcelona.

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