You might (incorrectly) assume language tips aren’t necessary to visit Belgium, because it doesn’t have it’s own language. But this is exactly the reason you’ve never been so wrong.
Here’s the thing. You potentially need language tips on three different tongues!
For this reason, Belgium’s National Day on 21st July is the ideal time to take a closer look at the languages of Belgium.
Plus, it’s also your official excuse to indulge in steamy mussels, Belgian chocolate-drenched waffles, and, naturally, a chilled Belgian beer (or two).
So, let’s break down Belgium’s linguistic banquet.
What are the Three Official Languages of Belgium?
Belgium may be small. But it speaks big. In fact, it has three official languages on top of its regular use of the lingua franca, English:
- Dutch (Flemish) – Spoken in Flanders, the northern part of the country. It’s similar to the Dutch you hear in the Netherlands. Although it has its own local flavour.
- French – Dominates in Wallonia down south. In addition, it’s also the main language in the bilingual Belgian capital Brussels.
- German – The smallest language group, spoken near the eastern border. All the same, it still gets official status.
Quick Language Tips for Business or Leisure Travellers
The rule of thumb doesn’t always apply in terms of the above categorisation. It’s going too far to suggest total linguistic anarchy, where language tips become lost in the melee. But, it’s wise to keep the following intel up your sleeve:
- In Brussels, you’ll see French and Dutch bilingual signs everywhere
- Most Belgians are multilingual, e.g. Dutch and French, and often English too
- Locals can be sensitive about language identity, so don’t assume Flemish = Dutch or Walloon = French.
Why It Matters
Learning a few local phrases goes a long way when ordering your next portion of moules frites.
So, there’s no better day than Belgium National Day for team “Bonjour”, “Hallo” or “Guten Tag” to toast its culture, cuisine and linguistic diversity.
At la Academia, we have a brilliant variety of language courses and tuition option for French, Dutch and German.
Get in touch and join us for lessons packed with language tips extending beyond the classroom or Zoom screen. After all, the languages of Belgium are meant to be lived.