Dating in Belgium – Part 1: Where and How to Meet People

When I first arrived in Belgium, I quickly realized that dating here can feel as uncertain as it does anywhere else. Yet for those of us settling into a new country, it carries an extra layer of quiet tension. How do we find someone who truly understands us, beyond the early small talk?

Over time, I’ve discovered that building connection begins with simply saying yes to invitations, no matter how tired or hesitant you feel. A dinner with a colleague, a friend’s housewarming, or a casual after-work drink might seem routine, but these gatherings hold the possibility of meeting someone whose company feels effortless. And if it doesn’t spark anything, you can always slip away early, knowing you tried.

Beyond familiar faces lie the rhythms of Belgian life itself. Wandering into a local festival, joining a book club, or exchanging a few words at your neighborhood café can blossom into friendships or something more, when you allow yourself to be open. The beauty of consistency reveals itself here too. Attending the same yoga class, art workshop, or volunteer event week after week gently weaves you into the community’s fabric.

There are also Meetups and local social groups, which can offer opportunities to meet new people. While not always smooth — some groups feel welcoming, others less so — they can still be worth trying. Whether it’s a language exchange, a hiking group, or a casual event for internationals, platforms like Meetup provide alternatives, especially when you’re starting from scratch.

Then there’s online dating. In Belgium, Tinder and Bumble are among the most commonly used free apps. They give access to a wide range of people, although intentions may vary greatly. Meetic, a paid platform, tends to attract people who are more focused on long-term relationships. That’s actually where I met my husband. I had no big expectations when I signed up. It simply felt like one more way to open a door. But sometimes, the right person appears just when you least expect it, and I feel grateful that our paths crossed there.

If you're more inclined to meet people face to face in a structured setting, dating events can also be an option. Dare to Date and Flashdate organize speed dating events across Belgium for different age groups. While I haven’t personally attended one, they offer a playful alternative to apps for those who prefer live interaction from the start.

That said, dating apps and events are not without risks. As with anywhere, you might encounter people with unclear or even harmful intentions. Be cautious. Always meet in public places, tell someone where you’re going, and take your time getting to know someone before getting too emotionally or physically involved. Use your judgment, and listen to your instincts.

What I’ve learned is that connection doesn’t come from any one method. It comes from staying open to possibility. Sometimes it starts with a chat at a friend’s gathering. Other times, it grows from an unexpected message or a shared moment at a community event. None of these paths are perfect, but each holds the potential to lead us somewhere we hadn’t imagined.

If you’re navigating the dating world in Belgium, whether with hope, hesitation, or both, I hope this offers you some grounded reassurance. Go at your own pace, stay safe, and keep showing up.