Belgium is home to historical battlefields, the canalled city of Bruges and one of the world’s most beautiful city squares – Brussels’ Grand Place – not to mention a food culture famous for its decadent chocolate, mussels and chips, and tasty beers. Now, the Australian government has upped Belgium’s appeal by lowering its travel advice for the country to the lowest level.
As of today (12 May), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advices Australians visiting the western European nation to “Exercise normal safety precautions”.
“We’ve reviewed our travel advice for Belgium and have lowered the overall travel advice level. We now advise exercise normal safety precautions,” it states on its Smartraveller website.
Belgium’s previous travel advice level – “Exercise a high degree of caution” – was in place largely due to the threat of terrorism in the country, a threat it says remains.
“Following a terrorist attack in 2023, the Belgian Coordination Unit for Threat Analysis is [sic] set the threat level for Belgium, including Brussels, at level 3 of 4, meaning there’s a possible and imminent threat,” Smartraveller states.
DFAT warns that terrorist attacks in the country could occur “anywhere and at any time” and that public places are at the highest risk.
“Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather,” it says.
“Crowded places such as music and cultural events, festivals, tourist areas, shopping areas, transport hubs, major sporting events and other public areas are possible targets.
“Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities. Report anything suspicious to the police.”
The Belgian capital, Brussels, is also home to “sensitive locations” such as EU and NATO institutions and government and foreign embassy buildings.
According to DFAT, temporary border controls are also in place for travel into France, the Netherlands and Germany from Belgium.
In April, the department also lowered its travel advice for nearby Germany and Denmark to the lowest level.
In October 2025, all non-EU nationals, including Australians, will be subject to the new European Entry/Exit System (EES) for travelling in and out of the Schengen Area, including Belgium.
