🛡️Safety Guide Antwerp

Be vigilant for pickpockets in crowded areas like the Meir, Grote Markt, and around Centraal Station, especially during peak hours or large events. Keep valuables secure.

While De Lijn trams and buses are safe, always watch your belongings, especially when it's crowded. Avoid isolated stops late at night if possible and plan your route.

Most of the city center is well-lit and busy, but certain areas like parts of Borgerhout or Stuivenberg can be less comfortable after dark. Stick to main streets.

Antwerp is bike-friendly, but ensure your bike (or Velo) is properly locked. Always use lights at night and obey traffic rules; cycle paths are common.

Always use official taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber. Unlicensed taxis can be unsafe, overpriced, and are best avoided, particularly late at night.

When out in bars or clubs, never leave your drink unattended. Drink spiking is a rare but serious risk. Always accept drinks directly from the bartender.

Familiarize yourself with emergency call points located in public areas, especially around larger stations and squares, for immediate assistance.

If a situation feels off or someone makes you uncomfortable, trust your gut. Remove yourself from the situation and seek a safe, well-lit area.

While generally secure, the large port area has industrial zones less frequented by tourists. Exercise caution if you find yourself in less populated sections.

When out and about, keep your phone, wallet, and passport in a secure, inside pocket or a cross-body bag that is difficult for pickpockets to access.

Never transfer a deposit or first month's rent before viewing the property in person and verifying the landlord's identity. Fake online listings are common.

If a 'landlord' claims to be out of the country and requests money for keys or a viewing, it's almost certainly a scam. Insist on local contact.

Be cautious of emails or texts impersonating official bodies like the Stadsloket asking for personal details or payments related to your 'Inschrijving'. Always verify sources.

Always check ATMs for suspicious devices before use. Be aware of people trying to distract you while you're at the machine. Cover your PIN.

Be wary of individuals approaching you with clipboards asking for signatures for petitions, especially if they then demand donations or try to pickpocket you.

When buying or selling items on platforms like '2dehands.be', always meet in a public place and inspect items carefully. Avoid sending money sight unseen.

Be skeptical of people knocking on your door offering unsolicited repair services, especially if they pressure you for immediate payment. Always get multiple quotes.

Understand your Huurcontract or Onderverhuurcontract. If you're unsure, seek advice from reputable housing organizations or a legal professional before signing.

Be cautious about sharing sensitive personal details like bank account numbers, ID copies, or passwords with unverified individuals or websites.

Only exchange currency at official banks or reputable exchange offices. Avoid street vendors offering better rates, as they are often fraudulent.

For any life-threatening emergency, call 112. This single number connects you to ambulance, fire, and police services across Belgium. State your location clearly.

For non-life-threatening police assistance, such as reporting a theft or minor incident, dial 101. Use this number for situations requiring police presence but not immediate danger.

Register with a local huisarts (General Practitioner) upon arrival. This is your primary point of contact for non-urgent medical issues and referrals to specialists.

Antwerp has several hospitals with emergency departments, including ZNA (ZiekenhuisNetwerk Antwerpen) locations like ZNA Stuivenberg and ZNA Middelheim, and Universitair Ziekenhuis Antwerpen (UZA).

Pharmacies are widespread. For out-of-hours needs, look for 'apotheek van wacht' (on-call pharmacy) signs or check online for the nearest open pharmacy.

If you're an EU citizen, ensure your EHIC is valid. It provides access to medically necessary state-provided healthcare during your temporary stay in Belgium.

For longer stays, register with a Belgian health insurance fund (mutualiteit/mutuelle) for comprehensive medical coverage. This is crucial for accessing healthcare affordably.

Various organizations in Antwerp offer mental health support. Your GP can provide referrals, or you can seek out services like Te Gek!?

For urgent dental care outside of regular hours, contact your registered dentist. If you don't have one, look for an 'tandarts van wacht' (on-call dentist) service online.

Keep a basic first aid kit in your home with essentials like plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

Always lock all doors and windows, even when you're just stepping out briefly. Many break-ins are opportunistic. Double-check before leaving.

In shared housing, establish trust and clear communication with your roommates. Discuss security measures and expectations for guests. Secure your own room.

Complete your 'Inschrijving in het bevolkingsregister' at the local Stadsloket promptly. This is legally required and ensures you receive official communications.

Most rental contracts require you to have home insurance (brandverzekering). This covers fire, water damage, and sometimes theft, protecting your belongings and the property.

Before signing any Huurcontract or Onderverhuurcontract, ask for the landlord's ID and verify their ownership or right to rent the property. This prevents scams.

Never give your keys to strangers. If you lose your keys, inform your landlord immediately, especially in shared housing, to assess rekeying needs.

If not already present, consider installing a peephole or door chain. This allows you to identify visitors before fully opening your door, adding a layer of security.

Ensure your shared accommodation has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them regularly. These are vital for your safety.

If you're expecting a package, make sure someone is home or arrange for it to be left at a secure pickup point. Avoid leaving valuable deliveries exposed.

Familiarize yourself with your immediate neighborhood. Know where local shops, police stations, and trusted public spaces are located. A sense of place increases safety.