Is It Safe to Travel to Brussels After the Farmers’ Protests?

Naturally, travelers planning a city break or business trip are asking the same question: Is it safe to travel to Brussels right now?
The short answer is yes — with a few practical precautions.

This article explains what actually happened, the current situation on the ground, and what tourists should know before arriving.

What Happened in Brussels?

In mid-December 2025, farmers from across Belgium and neighboring countries gathered in Brussels to protest the European Union’s planned free trade agreement with Mercosur countries (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay).

The protests peaked on 18 December 2025, coinciding with an EU leaders’ summit. Thousands of farmers drove tractors into the city, particularly targeting areas around EU institutions.

Key protest actions included:

• Road blockages using tractors

• Dumping of agricultural products (such as potatoes and manure)

• Burning tires and fireworks

• Clashes with police using tear gas and water cannons

The demonstrations were highly visible and disruptive, but politically targeted, not random acts of violence.

Which Areas Were Affected?

The most affected zone was the European Quarter, especially:

• Around the European Parliament

• Place du Luxembourg

• Major roads leading to EU buildings

These areas experienced:

• Severe traffic congestion

• Temporary metro and tram disruptions

• Loud noise, smoke, and strong police presence

Tourist-heavy districts such as the Grand Place, central shopping streets, and most hotel zones were largely unaffected, aside from indirect transport delays.

Current Situation (As of 20 December 2025)

By the evening of 18 December, authorities launched a rapid cleanup operation. Burned debris, agricultural waste, and damaged road surfaces were cleared within hours.

As of 20 December 2025:

• No new protest waves have been reported

• Traffic has largely returned to normal

• Public transport is operating as scheduled

• Tourist attractions remain open

Some embassies, including the U.S. Embassy, issued temporary advisories during the protest days, but no long-term travel warnings are currently in place.

Is Brussels Safe for Tourists Right Now?

Yes. There is no indication of an ongoing security threat for tourists.

Important context:

• The protests were issue-specific, not anti-tourist or anti-foreigner

• No targeting of visitors, hotels, or attractions was reported

• Violence was limited to clashes between protesters and police

This situation is very different from security incidents such as terror attacks. It was a controlled civil protest, common in European capitals hosting EU institutions.

Practical Travel Advice for Visitors

While Brussels is safe, smart travel habits always help.

Areas to Be Cautious Around

• European Quarter during weekdays

• Large political gatherings or announced demonstrations

If new protests occur, they are likely to focus on the same EU-related zones.

Transport Tips

• Check local traffic updates if staying near EU institutions

• Allow extra time for airport or train station transfers

• Use metro and trams rather than taxis during peak hours

Stay Informed

• Monitor Belgian government or city announcements

• Check your embassy’s local advisories

• Hotel front desks often receive real-time city updates

Travelers should always be prepared for short-notice disruptions in Europe, especially during December. Similar situations were seen during recent European airport strikes affecting Christmas travel, where transport delays escalated quickly.

Will This Affect Christmas Travel to Brussels?

Unlikely. Brussels remains a popular destination in late December thanks to:

• Christmas markets

• Winter festivals

• EU institutions slowing down for holidays

With no ongoing demonstrations reported, tourism activity continues normally.

Staying Connected During Your Trip

During protests, mobile networks can become congested in specific areas. Having a reliable data connection helps you:

• Check real-time transport changes

• Follow official announcements

• Navigate around temporary closures

Many travelers now prefer eSIMs over local SIM cards for flexibility and instant setup.

Roafly offers coverage across Belgium and 200+ countries, with easy activation via iOS direct install, QR code, or manual setup — useful if travel plans change at short notice.

Final Verdict

Brussels is safe to visit following the farmers’ protests. The demonstrations have ended, cleanup was swift, and the city is functioning normally. Travelers should stay informed and avoid large political gatherings, but there is no reason to cancel or postpone a trip.

Check the latest local updates, plan transport smartly, and enjoy Brussels with confidence.

Check the latest Belgium eSIM packages before your trip to stay connected from the moment you land.