Best Things To Do In Brussels

The size of the capital of Belgium is ideal for a weekend, but it will be essential to extend the trip to visit nearby cities such as the mythical Bruges. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Brussels.

Visiting the Grand Place in Brussels will allow you to discover the historical and aesthetic heart of the city. This magnificent square is one of the most emblematic destinations in Europe and an architectural jewel that reflects the rich history and cultural influence of the Belgian capital. Surrounded, in turn, by the City Hall, the Grand Place is an ideal setting for photographs and a showcase of Flemish art.

The buildings surrounding the Grand Place are a showcase of the Gothic and Baroque architecture that characterizes the city. The ornate facades, ornate details and sculptures that decorate the structures bear witness to the wealth and splendor that Brussels experienced during its historical heyday. The Brussels City Hall, with its tower and Gothic architecture, stands out as a focal point, drawing attention to the square from every angle.

One of the most traditional experiences you can have in Brussels is to visit the Manneken Pis statue. This is one of the most emblematic and beloved figures of the city and reproduces the tiny sculpture of a boy urinating in a fountain. This recreation has captured the imagination of visitors for centuries and has become an iconic symbol of the Belgian capital.

Located on a picturesque corner near the Grand Place, the statue embodies a playful spirit and sense of humor that reflects the city's welcoming and somewhat irreverent personality. In addition, the story behind the Manneken Pis statue is enigmatic and full of legends. Although its exact origin is uncertain, the figure has been part of the cultural fabric of Brussels since the 17th century and is often included in the itineraries of the best Brussels tours.

The most important thing, of course, is to get to know the historic center of Brussels. However, if you tour the center on your own, it is easy to stay there and this is only the surface of all that the city has to offer to the traveler.

With a guided tour of Brussels you will learn about the history of the city and discover its corners and monuments from a different perspective. These tours are not only limited to historical data that you can find in a guidebook, but are led by locals who bring you closer to the customs and legends of the city.

The most relevant stops

You may be one of those who think that shopping when you are traveling is an empty way to spend your time, but I assure you that if you do it in the Saint-Hubert galleries you will change your mind. These shopping malls with more than 200 meters long are one of the main attractions of the city.

In addition to marvel at its architecture, you will find luxury stores, jewelry stores, famous chocolate shops and terraces where you can enjoy a coffee. It is true that most of these places are reserved for people with a lot of money in their pockets, but you should not miss the experience of the walk.

If during your trip in Brussels you want to discover one of the most beautiful buildings of the city, which usually does not enter the most popular listings, I advise you to tour the Palace of Justice, an architectural work that is one of the best kept secrets of Belgium. Located at the top of Marollen Hill, the palace offers panoramic views of the Belgian capital.

The palace's architecture is a blend of neoclassical and Renaissance styles, and its monumental design reflects the ambition and splendor of the 19th century. The central dome, which towers over the city, is one of the largest in the world and becomes a recognizable landmark from various points in Brussels. One of the best alternatives to reach the Palace of Justice, while enjoying the surroundings, is to take the city's tourist bus.

Details of interest

• Price: Admission is free.
• Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm.
• Location: Pl. Poelaert 1, Brussels.

To discover the Sablon district in Brussels is to enter an elegant and sophisticated corner that embodies the cultural and artistic richness of the city. Located between the Grand Place and the Palais de Justice, this historic district is known for its cobbled streets, its buildings of varied architectural style and its cosmopolitan atmosphere. Sablon is a melting pot of antique stores, designer boutiques, art galleries and exquisite chocolate shops.

One of the highlights of the Sablon Quarter is the Grand Place du Sablon, which becomes a lively space on weekends thanks to its popular antiques and curios market. This market attracts both avid collectors and the curious in search of unexpected treasures. In addition, the neighborhood is famous for hosting some of the best chocolate shops.

The city of Brussels is much more than what you can see by taking a walk through the center, but sometimes we do not know very well what to see or what to look for. For that, the tourist buses of Brussels have a route designed with audio commentary and panoramic views that runs throughout the city.

Making use of the tourist buses also saves time in moving around the different points of interest in the city. It is also a way to avoid the winter cold in Brussels and long walks.

How it works

Simply purchase a pass (you can do it online) for one or two days and activate it during the first use. For 24 or 48 hours, depending on your choice, you will have unlimited access to the Brussels sightseeing buses and can hop on and off as many times and at as many stops as you want.

Even if you are going to use the tourist bus to move between monuments faster than you would walk or take the metro, my recommendation is that, at least once, you take the full route to listen to the audio commentary about the city and enjoy the sights.

If you want to tour an artistic treasure that spans centuries of creation and visual expression, you can't miss the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium. This museum houses a collection of masterpieces of painting, sculpture and decorative arts. Divided into two sections, one dedicated to ancient art and the other to modern art, the exhibition will take you on a journey through time through various artistic currents and cultural movements.

The ancient art section of the museum presents a varied collection that includes masterpieces from the Flemish Renaissance and European art up to the 18th century. Paintings by Brueghel the Younger, Rubens and Van Dyck, as well as sculptures, decorative objects and applied arts complement the collection.

The modern art section presents a variety of works ranging from impressionism to contemporary art. You will find masterpieces by René Magritte and James Ensor, which shape this exhibition in one of the best museums in Brussels.

Details of interest

• Price: The entrance fee is approximately 13 euros per person. You will have free entrance to the museum with the Brussels Card.
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm.
• Location: Rue de la Régence 3, Brussels.

Continuing with the museums of Brussels, the Royal Art Museum of History of Brussels is another of the must-see of the city. Housed in the majestic Parc du Cinquantenaire building, this museum is a priceless treasure trove of artifacts and masterpieces spanning from antiquity to more recent times.

Each museum in this unique complex is dedicated to a specific theme, offering visitors the opportunity to explore diverse artistic expressions and discover the rich cultural heritage of Belgium and the world. Tickets for the Cinquantenaire Museum, as it is also known, will give you access to areas ranging from Egyptian and Roman antiquities to Islamic and Asian art objects.

In addition, the Museum of Musical Instruments, another component of this museum complex, exhibits a wide range of historical musical instruments that resonate with the evolution of music throughout the ages.

To walk through the Royal Park of Brussels is to step into an oasis of tranquility and beauty amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. This park, located in the heart of Brussels, is an iconic green space that offers a serene haven for locals and visitors alike. With its extensive paths, majestic trees and elegant statues, the Royal Park is a testament to the rich history and natural harmony of the Belgian capital.

The park, also known as "Parc de Bruxelles" in French and "Warandepark" in Dutch, is a window into Brussels' aristocratic past. It is flanked by the Royal Palace of Brussels and the wide green spaces invite you to enjoy a relaxing walk, a picnic or just a quiet moment in the middle of nature.

The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, whose name pays homage to two patron saints, stands in the heart of the city, dazzling with its Gothic splendor and rich history. From its façade to its intricate stained glass windows, the cathedral is a testament to the religious art and cultural influence that has left its mark on Brussels since the 16th century.

The cathedral's architecture reflects the grandiloquence of the Gothic style. Its tall towers and main nave are a testament to the artistic skill and dedication required to build religious monuments of this magnitude. Inside, you will find stained glass windows, side chapels, ornate altars and sculptures that bring to life the rich tradition of religious iconography.

Details of interest

• Price: Admission is free.
• Hours: Every day from 7.30 am to 6 pm.
• Location: Pl. Sainte-Gudule, Brussels.

Why a comic book route in Brussels? If you read Tintin or Asterix and Obelix comics when you were young, you will already have the answer; Belgium is a country that has produced great cartoonists. Today, besides being able to visit the Comic Museum in the capital every day from 10 am to 6 pm, you can also find in its streets different murals paying tribute to different masters of comics. To do this I recommend you book this comic book tour through the streets of Brussels or if you are an intrepid have fun with this exploration game Land of Comics.

Among the most prominent murals you have The Smurfs, Tintin, Spirou, Lucky Luke, Asterix and Obelix, Titeuf or Marsupilami. You can look for information on the official route or let yourself be surprised in your walks through the city by the different graffiti you find on your way.

Visiting the Hergé Museum in Brussels will take you into the exciting world of the creator of one of the most iconic characters in the history of comics: Tintin. This museum, located in Louvain-la-Neuve, pays tribute to the talent and creativity of Hergé, the pseudonym of Georges Remi, who brought to life the unforgettable adventures of the intrepid reporter and his friends.

The museum presents a diverse collection ranging from original sketches and scripts to Hergé's personal objects. There you can explore the stages of the creative process behind the Tintin stories, from the first ideas to the final pages of the comics.

The exhibits are innovatively designed, using multimedia technology to immerse visitors in the worlds of the characters and the settings of the hero's adventures. The Hergé Museum is usually included in Brussels comic book tours.

Details of interest

• Price: The entrance fee is approximately 15 euros per person.
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10.30 am to 6 pm.
• Location: Rue du Labrador 26, Brussels.

The European Parliament can be visited every day until 18:00 pm except on exceptional dates. Inside you can access the hemicycle, the plenary room and the visitor center with detailed information about each country.

It is located in the European district, a bit far from the center but accessible by subway. If you are going to visit the parliament during your visit to Brussels do not forget to also visit this neighborhood and some of its main points of interest such as the Belayrmont building, the Council of the European Union, the Leopold Park and the Cinquantenaire Palace.

You've probably heard that when the Eiffel Tower was erected in Paris, the city's inhabitants were up in arms, even though today it has become a symbol par excellence of the city. The same goes for the Atomium in Brussels.

This stainless steel structure of more than 100 meters was built for the 1958 World Exposition, representing an atom. Today it is one of the symbols of the city to which you can buy tickets for the Atomium and access to contemplate the aerial view of Brussels or to eat in the restaurant located in one of its spheres.

The Mini-Europe theme park in Brussels will offer you a miniature world full of charm and wonder. This park offers a unique experience by allowing visitors to tour detailed replicas of iconic monuments and landmarks from across the continent. Mini-Europe captures the essence and diversity of European destinations in one place, offering a visual and educational journey.

The miniatures, which respect a 1:25 scale, are meticulously crafted and capture the architectural details of the original monuments. From the Eiffel Tower to the Roman Colosseum to the Vienna Opera House to London's Tower Bridge, each reproduction is designed to provide an authentic and picturesque view of Europe's cultural and architectural richness.

Details of interest

• Price: The entrance fee is approximately 22 euros per person.
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.
• Location: Av. du Football 1, Brussels.

Surely Belgian chocolate needs no introduction or at least not among cocoa lovers. I can tell you firsthand that in few European cities you will find a delicacy as exquisite as this one. You will have dozens of opportunities to taste it while you walk around the city, but you can also take one of the chocolate tours in Brussels.

It is a guided tour in which you are first introduced to the manufacture of chocolate (you can even taste the raw materials during the manufacturing phase and be surprised how its flavor changes throughout the process) and then you can try the different types that exist.

This tour also takes you through some of the most typical cafes and stores of the Belgian capital where you can find chocolate and sweets to enjoy on the spot or to take home as a souvenir of your trip. Especially recommended if you visit Brussels with children. And of course, you can not leave Brussels without tasting the delicious waffles, by booking this waffle workshop you can learn the recipe and make your own. Irresistible!

If chocolate is Brussels' delicacy par excellence, beer is undoubtedly its most famous drink. The Belgian capital is famous worldwide for its craft beer and places like the Delirium Tremens Café have more than 2000 different brands. You can try them on your own, but if you go on one of the many beer tours that will take you through the best breweries in Brussels, the experience will be much more complete.

This type of tour is divided into several parts: the history of beer and its importance in the country, the brewing process and, of course, the tasting. Far from being a boring monologue by the guide, booking a beer tour is more of an opportunity to spend some relaxed time with a local and get to know the city from a less official perspective than when you are sightseeing.

Located on the Koekelberg hill in Brussels, this imposing church is an architectural testimony of devotion and grandeur. Its dome and towers rise majestically over the city, creating a landmark visible from various points in the Belgian capital and providing a place of reflection and contemplation.

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is notable for its art deco and neo-Byzantine design, which combines classical and modern elements in a unique fusion. The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with its central nave and high dome creating a sense of spaciousness and solemnity. The stained glass windows and decorations display a rich color palette and a level of detail that reflects the attention devoted to every aspect of the construction.

Details of interest

• Price: Admission is free.
• Hours: Every day from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• Location: Basiliekvoorplein 1, Brussels.

Walking the Rue des Bouchers is one of the best alternatives to get to know the culinary and cultural scene of Brussels. This picturesque street, located in the historic center of the city, is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, restaurants and outdoor terraces. Also known as La Rue des Bistrots, this cobblestone street is a foodie's paradise.

La Rue des Bouchers is dotted with a variety of restaurants offering traditional Belgian dishes and international cuisine. Shop windows filled with culinary delights, from mussels to waffles and sweets, invite passersby to explore the authentic flavors of the region.

The Saint Géry district in Brussels is one of the bohemian and lively corners of the city. In recent times, this district has undergone a revitalization that combines history and modernity in a very interesting way, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings and eclectic mix of bars, restaurants and art galleries.

Among the architectural gems of the area, the former church of Saint Géry, which gives its name to the district, has been transformed into a cultural and event space, hosting exhibitions and artistic activities. Place Saint Géry, the epicenter of the neighborhood, comes alive with its open-air terraces and festive atmosphere, especially during the markets offering local products and handicrafts.

Rarely does the fame of a small city surpass even that of the capital of the country, but in the case of Belgium this is true for Bruges. The city known as "The Venice of the North" is located one hour from Brussels and is the most visited city in the whole country.

You can visit Bruges on an organized tour or you can get from Brussels to Bruges on your own, but before I give you the details I will tell you why it is so famous. Bruges is a place crisscrossed by canals and full of medieval buildings and cobblestone streets.

The whole city resembles a fairytale landscape being at the same time a cultural center of reference with emblematic buildings such as the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Church of Our Lady, the Town Hall or the Monastery of the Vineyard.

How are the excursions to Bruges

Although the duration of the excursions to Bruges is usually one day, you also have other options. On an organized day trip from Brussels, an expert guide will tell you the secrets of the city and show you all its nooks and crannies. This type of tour also includes transportation to and from the center of Brussels and sometimes you can book a tour to Bruges that includes Ghent in the tour.

The prices of the excursions from Brussels to Bruges are quite affordable; therefore, and because what you will see in Bruges in this type of tours will allow you to get a very complete idea of the city, my recommendation is to hire the organized tour. Check if the chosen tour includes food or not; otherwise here are recommendations for eating in Bruges and also some tips if you make the trip from Brussels to Bruges with children (whether organized or on your own).

Bruges is not the only city near Brussels that you can visit during your trip. Belgium's train network is characterized by its excellent performance and abundant connections. This means that from Brussels you can also reach cities like Antwerp, Ghent or Liège, either on your own or as part of organized excursions.

If you are up for it, you can also go from Brussels to Amsterdam in the day or go to Luxembourg from Brussels. My advice is to plot your own route with a map in front of you and then look at which excursions cover the stops you have decided to make as often the price is well worth it and you will get much more out of your time than going on your own.

In addition to all there is to see in Brussels, the activities you can do if you go to Brussels in summer are very different from those you will do if you visit Brussels at Christmas. Every time of the year has its charm in this city, but since the Belgian capital does not reach extremely high temperatures, the month of August in Brussels is usually among the favorite ones for tourists.

If you want to avoid the summer crowds and the high prices that can occur in the month of December in Brussels on the occasion of Christmas, I advise you to go in the month of March to Brussels since the temperatures will not be as cold as in the winter and there will not be as many people as in the summer months.

Whatever time you go, I recommend you to get the Brussels tourist card, the Brussels Card, with which you will get the most out of your trip. You can buy the 24, 48 or 72 hour pass and customize it with the attractions that interest you most. A great investment!

After the when, comes the how much. The city of Brussels is manageable for two days, or you can even see Brussels in one day if you book the transfer from the airport to the center of Brussels and don't waste time on arrival. However, since it is well connected to nearby cities, you can also stay in Brussels for three days or even spend 4 days in the Belgian capital and take the opportunity to explore its surroundings.