6 Essential tips for settling perfectly in Brussels !

Moving to Brussels can be both exciting and overwhelming. From navigating public transportation to finding the right grocery stores, here are six essential tips to help you settle in smoothly.

1. Get to Know Public Transport: STIB/SNCB

Brussels has an excellent public transport system managed by STIB, which includes buses, trams, and metro lines that crisscross the city.

🌐 MOBIB Card: To get started, purchase a MOBIB card for seamless access to all STIB services. You can create your MOBIB card online via the STIB website or at any of their stations.

🎟️ Tickets: Tickets can also be purchased via the STIB app or at ticket machines located in metro stations. For regional and international train travel, SNCB is your go-to, with tickets available on their website or at train stations.

 Tip 1: Visit a STIB kiosk in larger stations like Gare Centrale or Schuman to get assistance with your MOBIB card or tickets.

 Tip 2: Download the STIB and SNCB apps to plan routes and check real-time schedules.

Whether commuting within Brussels or exploring Belgium, these networks are reliable and convenient ( most of the time 😊).

2. Easy Ways to Move Around Brussels: Scooters, Bikes, and More

Brussels is increasingly becoming a bike-friendly city, with multiple convenient mobility options. One standout choice is Villo!, the city’s public bike-sharing system. With numerous docking stations across the city, you can rent bikes for short or long periods, making it an affordable and eco-friendly way to explore your new home. To get started, download the Villo! app or visit their website to create an account and locate the nearest docking stations.

🚲 Explore Electric Rides and Beyond:
In addition to bikes, Brussels is equipped with electric scooters and e-bikes offered by apps like Lime, Dott, and Tier. Getting started is easy: download the app of your choice, create an account, and use the in-app map to locate and unlock a scooter or bike nearby. These rides are ideal for short trips and navigating the city quickly and conveniently. Other micro-mobility solutions such as shared mopeds (via apps like Felyx) are also gaining popularity, providing even more options to get around efficiently.

🚗 Uber and Ride-Sharing:
For longer distances or when the weather isn’t ideal, Uber is a reliable and accessible option for getting around Brussels. Simply download the Uber app, create an account, and you’ll be able to request a ride in just a few taps. With Uber, you can choose from a variety of ride types, from budget-friendly options to more luxurious choices. It’s a convenient way to reach destinations quickly, especially if you’re in a rush or carrying heavy items.

🚗 Shared Cars like Poppy:
For those who need a car for a short period but don’t want to own one, shared car services like Poppy offer a great alternative. Simply download the Poppy app, create an account, and use it to find and rent a car nearby. Poppy offers both electric and traditional vehicles that can be unlocked and used by the minute, hour, or day. It’s a convenient and flexible option for city trips, especially when you need to transport goods or have multiple passengers.

Quick Tips to Move Around Safely and Smartly:

• 🚲 Compare rates and packages on mobility apps to find the most budget-friendly solution for your travel needs.
• 🛣️ Stay safe: Use Brussels’ dedicated bike lanes and follow local traffic rules when cycling or scooting.
• 🪖 Safety First: Invest in a sturdy helmet and familiarize yourself with local cycling rules.
• 🚗 For convenience: Uber is a great option for longer trips or when you need a ride quickly, especially when carrying heavy loads.
• 🚗 Need a car? Consider using shared car services like Poppy for short-term car rentals when you need extra space or a vehicle for a longer trip.

3. Groceries Made Easy in Brussels

Brussels offers a variety of grocery stores to suit all needs and budgets, making shopping for your essentials convenient and affordable. Here are some top options:

🛒 Supermarkets & Stores:

• Colruyt
  Affordable prices and bulk items for budget-conscious shoppers. A go-to for everyday groceries.
• Delhaize
  Premium selection with a focus on quality, organic products, and international specialties.
• Carrefour
  Versatile chain with both large hypermarkets and small express stores for quick and convenient shopping.
• Aldi & Lidl
  Perfect for budget-friendly shopping with weekly deals on various groceries.
• Bio-Organic Stores
  For organic and eco-friendly options, try Bio-Planet and Rob for natural and health-conscious products.

🌿Local Markets:

• Marché du Midi (Sundays)
  One of the largest and most diverse markets in Brussels, offering fresh produce, international specialties, and local goods. A great place to explore the multicultural side of Brussels.
• Place Flagey (Saturdays)
  This bustling market features a wide selection of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and artisan products. It’s also home to food trucks, making it a lively spot for a weekend outing.
• Brussels’ Grand Place Market (Year-Round)
  A smaller market set in the heart of Brussels, where you can find high-quality local produce, flowers, and handicrafts.
• Place du Luxembourg (Wednesdays)
  A great market for fresh vegetables, fruits, and flowers, often visited by locals working in the nearby European Quarter.
• Le marché des Tanneurs (Sundays)
  A charming market located in the trendy Marolles district, offering fresh organic produce, flowers, and unique local goods.

🍞 Too Good To Go: 

• What is it?
  The Too Good To Go app helps reduce food waste by allowing you to purchase unsold food at a discounted price from restaurants, cafes, and stores.
• How it works:
  1. Download the Too Good To Go app.
  2. Browse available food in your area.
  3. Purchase a “magic bag” at a discounted price and pick it up.Save money and reduce food waste!

4. Master the Languages

Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. In Brussels, both Dutch and French are spoken, as the city is officially bilingual. However, Brussels is a cosmopolitan city, and many people also speak English well, especially in urban areas and among younger generations. So, even if you’re not fluent in Dutch or French, you’ll find that most people can understand and communicate in English. 🌍

While it’s possible to get by with English in many situations, learning some basic phrases in French or Dutch will help you navigate daily life more easily and show respect for the local culture.

Tip📱:

Apps like Duolingo or Babbel are great tools to start learning the basics. You can also join local language exchange groups to practice speaking and improve your skills in a friendly, social setting.

5. Furnish and Decorate Your Space with Ease

When moving into a new home, you might not need to furnish every room immediately, but finding the right decorations and essential furniture pieces can help personalize and elevate your space. Here’s a curated list of stores and options located in Brussels for stylish, affordable home decor and smaller furniture:

🏠 Popular Stores for Decorations and Smaller Furniture:

• IKEA (Anderlecht): Located in Anderlecht, just outside the city center, IKEA is a favorite for affordable home decor, small furniture pieces, and stylish accessories. It offers everything from coffee tables and storage solutions to decorative items for all room types.
• H&M Home (City Centre): For trendy, budget-friendly home decor, check out H&M Home in the Brussels city center. They offer a wide selection of cushions, rugs, tableware, lamps, and smaller furniture pieces that fit modern, minimalist styles.
• Maisons du Monde (Ixelles): This store, located in Ixelles, offers unique and stylish home accessories and furniture. From decorative vases to stylish lamps, it’s perfect for adding personality to your home.
• Zara Home (Avenue Louise): Zara Home offers contemporary and elegant home decor, such as stylish bed linens, small furniture, and decorative accessories. Their boutique on Avenue Louise is a great place to find minimalist yet chic pieces.

🪑 Vintage and Second-Hand Stores for Unique Decor:

• Les Puces de Bruxelles (Marolles Flea Market): Located in the Marolles district, this flea market is famous for its vintage and second-hand items. You’ll find unique furniture, home decor, and quirky accessories that can give your space a one-of-a-kind character.
• Troc.com (Brussels) : The Troc store in Brussels offers second-hand home goods, including furniture and decor. It’s a great place to find high-quality items at affordable prices.
• Vintage Shops in Les Marolles: The Marolles district is full of small, charming vintage shops selling one-of-a-kind decor, furniture, and accessories. Great for anyone who loves unique, pre-loved items with character.

🎨 Specialized Home Decor Stores: 

• Dille & Kamille (Avenue Louise): Located on Avenue Louise, Dille & Kamille specializes in natural, rustic-inspired home accessories, including candles, plants, storage solutions, and kitchenware.
• Sostrene Grene (Brussels City Centre): Known for its Scandinavian-style decor, Sostrene Grene offers an affordable range of home accessories, small furniture like shelves, and decorative items. Their Brussels city center store is perfect for finding stylish pieces on a budget.

6. Know the Emergency Numbers

🏥 It’s essential to have key emergency numbers saved:

• 112: General emergency number for police, fire, and medical services.
• 101: Police services.
• 100: Ambulance and fire services.

Tip: Keep these numbers handy on your phone and near your home’s landline, if applicable.

By following these tips, you’ll feel at home in Brussels in no time. From getting around the city to mastering local languages, each step will make your transition smoother and more enjoyable. Welcome to your new adventure!