Avoid at Night and Other Warnings and Dangers in Brussels

Warnings and Dangers in Brussels: Avoid at Night

Brussels is a beautiful city with friendly locals and good food, but you still need to be careful when it comes to places you should avoid at night and other warnings and dangers.

[viator_tour destination=”458″]

Use Caution in the Red Light District

While it might be an interesting idea to head to the Red Light District when you are in Brussels, you do need to be careful. This area, which is near the Gare du Nord station, can provide some excitement, but it brings with it some dangers. Drug use is common here. In addition, the sidewalks are crowded with tourists and prostitutes. The prostitutes can become a little aggressive, so if you aren’t up for dealing with this sort of activity, you will want to find somewhere else to go in the city.

Watch Your Bags at the Train Station

One of the great things about Europe is the train system. It’s easy to navigate and inexpensive to get around from city to city and even country to country. There is a danger at the train station in Brussels that you need to be aware of, however. There are people there that watch for tourists to put down their bags, especially a backpack, and then run off with it.

A bag is easy to pick up and run off with. Once in the crowd, it can be difficult to find the person who took your bag, and it could be gone for good. Be sure to keep all of your possessions in sight at all times, and keep an eye out for specious characters.

Staying Safe from the Gangs of Brussels

Like other large cities, Brussels has a problem with gang activity. These gangs work in groups to mug tourists. There is no way to stay completely safe, but there are some tips to help you be less of a target. First, leave your expensive jewelry at home. If you see a gang, don’t cross the street. Instead, make eye contact and then walk by them quickly. If they ask for a cigarette and you have one, give them one but then move on.

Gare du Midi Isn’t Safe After Dark

Gare du Midi is another area where that you might want to avoid after dark. Tourists tend to be targeted for theft as well as other crimes. While most locals are very friendly, there are those who don’t like tourists, and they can be difficult to deal with. This seems to be especially true if you are American or are speaking English.

[viator_tour destination=”458″]

More from SmarterTravel:

• Brussels Travel Guide
• Brussels Things to Do – Attractions & Must See
• Brussels Shopping – Shops, Stores, and Best Buys

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about areas to avoid at night in Brussels.