The Belgian currency is the euro (€, EUR). One euro corresponds to 100 cents.
Bills (Banknotes) come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 euro denominations. Coins come in 1 cent, 2 cent, 5 cent, 10 cent, 20 cent, 50 cent, 1 euro and 2 euro.
Foreign currencies are not accepted for payments in Belgium, except maybe at major international airports.
FreeCurrencyRates.comPayment methods in Belgium
Belgium has developed as a cashless society. You can make most payments with a credit card without having to carry cash. Before you go, check whether your credit card has contactless payment function. Some new vending machines and stores might accept contactless payments only.
- Credit/debit cards Credit and debit cards are now accepted everywhere. Most tourist attractions (such as museum, shops, restaurants) , stations and hotels accept payment by credit cards. Visa, Mastercard and American Express are widely accepted.
- Cash Cash is already less popular payment method in Belgium, however it is advisable to keep cash at hand, especially for small amounts. Cash is sometimes the only way to pay for smaller shops and restaurants, or make donations to churches. Some old luggage lockers and vending machines might also require coins.
- Mobile payment options Some shops accept payment from Paypal, Apple Pay or Google Pay but not everywhere.
- Bancontact (if you have) Bancontact is the widely accepted electronic payment method in Belgium. Bancontact cards are issued by more than 20 Belgian banks.
