Understanding Belgian Men in a Relationship – Full Guide

Smooth skin, blond hair neatly combed to the side, blue eyes sparkling with intelligence… these are just some of the many factors that attract women to Belgian men.

Even the ones who aren’t exactly Matthias Schoenaerts lookalikes have a certain rustic charm that makes them pretty hard to resist. Add to that a bit of reservedness and a lot of politeness and you know why Belgian men are worth your time!

Now that I have praised these gentlemen with all the compliments under the European sky, it’s time to get a bit more in depth with this full guide to Belgian men.

I’m going to talk about what to expect from men from Belgium when it comes to relationships, but also offer a glimpse into their personality and lifestyle and offer tips and advice to better understand & handle them.

Understanding Belgian Men

Belgium has three distinct regions: Flanders (Dutch-speaking and also where the amazing Bruges is), Wallonia (French-speaking), and Brussels (a bilingual mélange).

So, yes, Belgian men are a diverse group of people who have different characteristics depending on the region of origin, but a bit of generalization is required for such a guide to exist.

So let’s dive into a few things below that will help you better understand the already amazing Belgian man!

A Belgian Man’s Personality Traits

One prominent trait that most men from Belgium seem to share is their sense of politeness and courtesy.

Another things that you will definitely appreciate about them, is that Belgians are known for their manners and considerate behavior.

In a relationship, this politeness often translates into thoughtfulness and attentiveness towards their partners. You’ll find them opening doors, offering compliments, and showing genuine interest in your well-being. Chivalry’s not dead in Belgium – that’s a fact!

Another defining characteristic is their pragmatism. Belgians tend to be practical and down-to-earth. They approach life’s challenges with a rational mindset, which can be both reassuring and stabilizing in a relationship.

Unlike Polish men, who tend to lose their cool in tough times – expect Belgian men to be problem-solvers and level-headed during difficult times. Exactly the support you need in a long term relationship.

Belgian men are also known to be reserved and cautious. However, this doesn’t mean they lack passion or emotion, but they may take their time to express their feelings fully.

Building trust and forming a strong emotional connection with them might require patience, but the result is usually a deep and lasting bond.

So definitely something worth going thorough, even though it seems painful and outright odd at times. But if you’ve been with a German man before, you won’t be too surprised because this is how things are in the region.

Belgian Men’s Communication Style

Though initially hesitant, Belgian men are known for their direct and straightforward communication style in relationships. 

They appreciate honesty and expect the same in return. If there are issues or concerns, they prefer addressing them head-on rather than resorting to passive-aggressive behavior.

This open communication fosters trust and allows couples to resolve conflicts more efficiently.

It might take a bit of time to get used to their somewhat blunt style, but trust me that this is to be preferred overs somebody who says nothings and explodes only when the glass is full!

Belgian Men’s Dressing Sense

In Belgium, appearance holds a special place. It makes a bit of sense, since Belgium has one of the highest average salaries in Europe, and therefore they do afford to invest a bit more in their aspect, hygiene and overall health.

Belgian men are meticulous about their grooming – defying stereotypes that equate self-care with a lack of masculinity. They keep neatly trimmed nails and well-shaved beards as a standard and they always smell amazing. AMAZING!

Their fashion sense, heavily influenced by their chic French neighbors – keeps them impeccably dressed and in tune with the latest trends.

This means that, in order to catch a Belgian man’s eye, your wardrobe should mirror this commitment to style. 

You don’t have to go all flashy like women from Bulgaria or most women from the Balkans, that is… but you do have to invest a bit of time into how presentable you look each day if you really want to catch his attention.

What It’s Like Dating a Belgian Man

After dissecting Belgian men to the core, let’s take a look at what it’s like to be in a relationship with one.

Check this guide first – it is the best when it comes to learning everything about keeping a Belgian man hooked you no matter what. Read it to understand how men work and how to keep them happy (and yourself too!)

Fine Dining Is the Norm with men from Belgium

Belgium is renowned for its culinary treats. So, be prepared for some extraordinary dining experiences.

Yet, compared to their French neighbors, who can sometimes be overly extravagant, Belgian men prefer the cozy, down-to-earth approach when it comes to wining and dining.  

Home-cooked meals are often a staple in Belgian courting repertoires. Most Belgians know their way around their own kitchen and often rely on home-cooked delights to woo their partners. 

Respect for Individual Space

Unlike some people who let you into their personal space faster than you can say “hello,” Belgians appreciate their personal space and privacy.

So, don’t be surprised if he values his “me time” or encourages you to pursue your own interests.

It isn’t a sign of disinterest – instead, it reflects their commitment to maintaining a healthy balance in the relationship.

Their perspective on personal space can be pretty refreshing, especially in a world where some relationships tend to become all-consuming. Belgian men understand that spending time apart can actually strengthen the bond you share.

Equality in Relationships

Belgians are all about equality in relationships. They believe in shared responsibilities, both in the home and in decision-making.

It’s not about one person having the upper hand when it comes to dating a Belgian man – it’s about walking hand in hand (and not just literally), making choices together. 

Expect open discussions and joint problem-solving sessions – a true partnership!

Subtle Romance

If you’re expecting grand gestures like something out of a Hollywood movie, think again.

Unfortunately for the incurable romantics out there, Belgian romance is more understated but still genuine.

Think heartfelt conversations and meaningful gestures over flashy displays of affection, airplane messages on the sky or huge teddy bears offered as random gifts. 

Cherishing Family Connections

Sundays in Belgium often translate to cherished family time. So, when you start dating a Belgian man, you’ll frequently find yourself partaking in leisurely, extensive three-course lunches or dinners over the weekend (I mentioned that they love to cook, right?)

These gatherings come complete with bubbly conversations, delectable appetizers, and, of course, the warm company of your in-laws. 

The Belgian tradition of dedicating Sundays to family bonds means you’ll have the opportunity to build lasting connections and savor delicious meals, making each weekend a delightful adventure filled with love and togetherness. 

Tips for Dating a Man from Belgium

Now, about some pro tips for dating a Belgian man and winning his heart.

• Appreciate the Cuisine: Food is the way to a Belgian man’s heart. So, if you’re looking to impress a Belgian man, show your interest in his favorite dishes and maybe even learn how to cook some of them yourself.

• Punctuality Matters: Similarly to its neighbor Germany, Belgium is a nation of punctuality and organization. Belgian men take punctuality seriously. Being on time is a sign of respect, and they’ll appreciate your reliability.

• Engage in Intellectual Conversations: Many Belgian men value deep, intellectual conversations. They enjoy discussing a wide range of topics, from art and culture to politics and philosophy. Engage in these conversations, and you’ll find yourself forging a stronger connection.

• Respect His Individuality: Belgium’s cultural diversity means that regional influences can be significant. Respect the distinct cultural nuances based on where your Belgian man hails from.

• Learn a Bit of the Language: While many Belgians speak English, making an effort to learn some basic phrases in Dutch, French, or German (depending on the region they’re from) can earn you extra points. Bonjour, comment ça va? is a good start.

• Be Genuine: Belgian men appreciate sincerity and straightforwardness. Avoid pretentiousness or trying to be someone you’re not. Be yourself; it’s the most attractive quality you can possess – and if he somehow doesn’t like it, there are surely plenty who would!

Dating Etiquette in Belgium

Dating in Belgium comes with its own set of customs and etiquettes, and understanding these can make your dating experience with a Belgian man much smoother. 

The following are some dos and don’ts when dating a Belgian man to help you make a lasting impression.

1. Meeting Belgian Men

You can meet Belgian men in various settings, from online dating platforms to social events, bars, clubs, or introductions through friends.

When attending social events or bars, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation; Belgians are always approachable, although it’s not generally the norm for the woman to take the first step. But if he doesn’t get your hints… do it!

2. Initiating Interest

If you’re interested in a Belgian man, subtlety often works best. Avoid being overly forward or aggressive, as Belgians appreciate a more reserved approach.

Engage in meaningful conversations, showing genuine interest in his thoughts and opinions. Compliments are welcomed, but keep them sincere and modest.

After all, even though men from Belgium are open minded and all about equality, they still enjoy to be the ones who take the lead, especially early on.

3. Dressing Appropriately

Belgian men take pride in their appearance and often dress well, as we’ve already discussed above.

When preparing for a date, opt for smart casual attire that reflects your style while respecting the venue’s dress code.

Avoid overdressing, as Belgians tend to favor a relaxed, down-to-earth approach. A clean, well-groomed appearance is more important than extravagant fashion choices.

4. Behavior During a Date

During a date with a Belgian man, conversation topics can include interests, hobbies, travel, and cultural experiences.

Avoid overly personal or controversial subjects, especially in the early stages of dating.

Belgians appreciate courteous behavior, so listen actively, respect his opinions, and engage in friendly discussions.

Flirting in Belgium is often subtle, with an emphasis on respectful interactions. Maintain eye contact, smile genuinely, and use body language to convey interest.

When it comes to splitting the bill or accepting his offer to pay, Belgians often appreciate the gesture of sharing expenses, although he will most likely offer to pay for the first date (at least).

Wrapping up

Belgian men offer a unique blend of charm, politeness, and down-to-earth qualities that make them amazing partners, as you’ve probably concluded already from reading this article.

However, one thing you need to note is that Belgians prefer long-term relationships to shorter flings.

It’s a trend I’ve noticed even among younger Belgians: they value committed, lasting partnerships from a relatively young age, which is a refreshing take in my opinion, as the world seems to be shifting in the opposite direction.

But, of course, your observation might have been different. What do you think about Belgian men? Share your thoughts in the comments section below so we have an even clearer picture.