Brussels
The de facto capital of the European Union is a cosmopolitan city of bureaucrats, diplomats, chocolatiers, and brewers. Brussels has a complex linguistic identity (French/Dutch) but operates largely in English in international circles, making it uniquely accessible to expats.
Best For
EU professionals, diplomats, lobbyists, and international organisation employees seeking Europe's political epicentre with world-class food, beer, and cultural life.
Monthly Temperature
Safety
Family Fit
Very family-friendly with subsidised childcare, excellent schools in multiple languages, and generous child benefits. The EU community creates a ready-made expat family network. Leafy suburbs like Uccle and Woluwe are popular with expat families.
Expat Fit
Arguably the world's most international city per capita. EU institutions, NATO, and hundreds of international organisations create a massive English-speaking expat bubble. Belgium's expat tax regime can exempt up to 30% of salary. The bureaucracy is uniquely complex but manageable with guidance.