Etiquette & taboos

Etiquette & taboos

Understanding local customs is where a journey begins. Find the topics that matter to you and feel at ease wherever you go.

Belgium

1 rules found

Cultural sensitivitiesTemples & religious sitesCountry-wide guidance · Belgium

Belgium: cover shoulders and knees in churches and move quietly

Do

  • Covering shoulders and knees is the safest choice
  • Walk and speak softly inside and silence your phone
  • During Mass or prayers, give way to worship; some areas may be closed
  • Follow on-site signs and staff instructions on photography

Don’t

  • Don't enter in sleeveless tops or shorts
  • Don't photograph people who are praying
  • Don't eat, drink or give loud commentary inside

Dress requirements vary between Belgian churches and are usually reminders rather than grounds for refusal; dressing to cover shoulders and knees will satisfy even the stricter ones.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: Official site: Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp – Visit

Site-specific notes 3

Taken from the "don'ts" on each site page here. Open a site for its full etiquette and background.

Carnival of Binche, Belgium

  • Rushing into the procession to grab oranges
  • touching the Gilles' masks and feather hats
  • setting off fireworks in restricted zones

Ghent

  • Using flash in the altarpiece gallery
  • pushing or running on the castle walls
  • stepping backwards near the edge of waterside steps to frame a shot

Grand Place, Brussels

  • Climbing the façades, statues and fountains
  • entering the Flower Carpet area and ceremony zones