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 Belgium is a highly developed digital economy in 2026, it is still highly recommended to carry some Euro cash. Most major retailers, restaurants, and hotels in cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges accept "Contactless" and "Chip & Pin" payments (Visa and Mastercard are standard). However, Belgium has a lingering "cash-preference" for small transactions. Many local bakeries (boulangeries), small cafes, and traditional market stalls may have a €10 or €20 minimum for card payments or may not accept cards at all. Furthermore, if you plan to use the public restrooms in train stations or visit small, off-the-beaten-path pubs in the Ardennes, you will absolutely need coins (€0.50 or €1.00). Cash is also much easier for tipping (typically 5-10% for great service) and for buying small souvenirs at the weekend antique markets. A good strategy is to use a travel-friendly card like Revolut or Wise for larger purchases and keep about €50 to €100 in small denominations as a backup. Note that 200 and 500 Euro notes are often refused by small shops due to fraud concerns, so stick to 10s and 20s.