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

Essential restrictionsPhotos & dronesCountry-wide guidance · Belgium

Belgium: no flash or tripods when taking photos in museums

Do

  • Personal photos without flash are generally allowed, except where marked
  • Flash, lights and tripods need the museum's prior written permission
  • Keep your distance from the works, as signed in each museum
  • Eat and drink only in the museum café or restaurant

Don’t

  • Don't touch exhibits or lean on walls and display cases
  • Don't use photos or videos commercially
  • Don't film staff so they can be identified (Musea Brugge)

Ignoring staff instructions can get you asked to leave immediately, and the police may be called if you refuse (KMSKA rules). Safe distances differ: at least 30 cm at Musea Brugge, 60 cm at KMSKA in Antwerp and 1 m at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts in Brussels.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: Official site: Musea Brugge – Visitor regulations

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