We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

  • Meet the Team
  • Work with Us
  • Czech Republic
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Scandinavia
  • Philippines
  • South Korea
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Budget Travel
  • Work & Travel
  • The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
  • Travel Resources
  • How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Belgium » Brussels

18 BEST Places to Visit in Brussels (2024)

As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is known for many things. It could be the European Parliament that first springs to mind.

Some people jump straight to chocolate, cheese, and beer (and deservingly so). Of course, the history is what makes all this possible – the city even houses a UNESCO World Heritage site. This combination of qualities is what makes it such a popular destination for tourists from all walks of life.

There’s nothing quite like munching on some high-class Belgian chocolate while you check out architectural wonders that hold the weight of a very long history. And this is definitely something you should do when you travel to Brussels.

Brussels is a relatively small city, but that doesn’t mean that it’s always easy to navigate. When you travel to this city, you don’t want to miss out on some of its best, quirkiest, and tastiest sites.

That’s why we’ve created this list of the best places to visit in Brussels. It includes some standards and some places that only the locals know so that you get the best of all worlds during your trips.

best areas in brussels to visit

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Brussels:

These are the best places to visit in brussels, faqs on the best places to visit in brussels, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in brussels.

Saint Gilles Brussels

Saint Gilles

Our choice for the coolest place to stay in Brussels, Saint Gilles is a youthful, bohemian, trendy, multicultural, and lively part of the city.

  • Be inspired at the Art Nouveau Horta Museum.
  • Take a peek inside Horta pre-metro station to see architectural pieces signed by famous architects.
  • Enjoy fresh air and greenery at Parc de Forest.

As well as being the capital of Belgium, it’s also (arguably) the capital of Europe – housing the European Union too. That means you can expect all your stereotypical European delights, packed into one city. You’ll find incredible architecture, fantastic transport, an eclectic mix of cultures, and history coming out of its ears.

When you’re planning your European dream tour , you can’t miss some of these top attractions in Brussels. Let’s jump right into the city center.

best areas in brussels to visit

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – Grand Place – A great place to see in Brussels for architecture

Grand Plaza

  • The best place to start your travels in Brussels!
  • A beautiful and historic spot with amazing architecture everywhere you look.

Why it’s so awesome: There are several important must-see buildings in this area to check out as you’re visiting Belgium . At the top of the list of must-see places is this UNESCO world heritage site: the Grand Place. The Grand Place is right in the heart of Brussels, the Town Hall is one of the best-preserved areas in all of Europe. The architecture in this area is simply spectacular, mostly because of the Gildehuizen or guild houses, which have amazing stonework and gold decorations in the Baroque style with Flemish influences.

What to do there: You’ll want to spend plenty of time looking at the buildings in this area, because they’re both historical and stunningly beautiful. Afterwards, make sure you take some pictures of the famous Hotel de Ville or Town Hall, which was built in 1402. When you’re tired of taking pictures, check out the cafes and restaurants in the area for a rest surrounded by incredible beauty.

#2 – The Royal Palace – the best place to visit in one day

The Royal Palace

  • You’ll get some amazing photos at this palace when you’re visiting Brussels.
  • The official residence of the Belgian royal family.

Why it’s so awesome: This is the most important building in Brussels and probably in Belgium as a whole because it’s the official residence of the royal family. When they’re home you’ll see the flag flying high. It’s an imposing building surrounded by lush green and looks great in photos.

What to do there: You probably won’t be able to enter the building because the royal family is there, but it’s still worth visiting. At 2.30 pm, the ceremonial Changing of the Guard occurs, so that’s worth planning your day around. There are also several neoclassical buildings around the palace that you should explore including the Palais des Academies and the Palais des Beaux-Arts.

#3 – Manneken Pis – the best free thing to visit in Brussels

Mannekin Pis

  • A slightly naughty statue that’s one of the most popular points of interest in Brussels.
  • This statue is usually besieged by tourists, so get there early if you want to see it properly.

Why it’s so awesome: The clue’s in the name: this little guy is located along the Rue de l’Etuve – and has been traced back to 1388 – but little more is known about it. It’s often referred to as the oldest citizen in Brussels and is an image of a little boy urinating. As far as Brussels attractions go, Manneken Pis is surely a unique sight. There are lots of legends about this statue so go ahead and make up your own too.

What to do there: Arrive early to beat the crowds and get that iconic photo of the little boy urinating (you choose how rude you want to be). If you’re in Brussels during city celebrations, this statue is often dressed in costume, so make sure you have a look if you’re there at the right time.

best areas in brussels to visit

With a Brussels City Pass , you can experience the best of Brussels at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#4 – Belgian Comic Strip Centre – One of the more unique places to visit in Brussels!

Belgian Comic Strip Center

  • A great place to visit in Brussels if you remember the Smurf and TinTin.
  • This comic arts museum is held in a gorgeous building that was designed by Victor Horta.

Why it’s so awesome: This building is dedicated to cartoons and comic strips that were first created in Belgium. You might not know it, but the Smurfs and Tintin were born in Belgium, and the display celebrates this history as well as other works by Belgian and French comic artists over the years. This is one of the more unusual things to do in Brussels , which is why we like it so much!

What to do there: The displays at this venue rotate constantly, so every time you go, you’ll get to see something different. There are 200 original comic strip drawings included in the exhibition, and you’ll also learn more about the rising popularity of comic books. So, make sure you check out the sketches, sets, and manuscripts that explore this history as well.

#5 – Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site – A fascinating educational place to visit in Brussels

Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site

  • An active archaeological site that was discovered in the 1980s and is now open to the public.
  • This site was the former Palace of Brussels and excavations have uncovered cellars, tunnels and forgotten streets underneath the modern-day city.

Why it’s so awesome: It isn’t often that you get to explore an active archaeological site, but this is your chance to do just that. Since its discovery in the 1980s, researchers have found numerous tunnels and forgotten streets around the former castle, all of them buried by time and forgotten until very recently. So, if you’re interested in exploring a medieval palace with all its secrets, add this to your Brussels itinerary .

What to do there: Put aside a couple of hours to explore this site. The foundations of the palace have been cleared for tourists, and there are free audio guides available so you can more fully understand what you’re looking at and why it’s important. This is also one of the best hotspots in Brussels to take the kids, as the museum holds interactive programs to get them involved in the explorations.

#6 – Saint Michel Cathedral

Saint Michel Cathedral

  • A gothic style cathedral that was completed in the 15th century after centuries of work.
  • This cathedral looks amazing in person and even better in pictures, so make sure you take your camera with you.

Why it’s so awesome: This gothic cathedral is dedicated to St. Michel and St. Gudula, the patron saint of Brussels. It was founded in 1225 but wasn’t completed until the 15th century and is an amazing example of Gothic architecture. It’s topped by 69-meter-high towers and is lavishly furnished inside.

What to do there: The outside of the building is stunning but it’s the inside that will take your breath away. Make sure that you spend some time examining the stained-glass windows. The south transept depicts Charles V and Isabella of Portugal and the north transept shows Louis II and Mary. There’s also a chapel inside known as the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, and the stained glass in there depicts the Miracle of the Host, so make sure you see it.

mockup of a person holding a smartphone in white background with Holafly logo

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – The Atomium – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Brussels

The Atomium

  • This strange looking construct is one of the most famous places in Brussels for tourists and locals alike.
  • You’ll need to take the tram to reach this attraction, but it’s worth the trip.

Why it’s so awesome: The Atomium is a surreal-looking construct created by architect Andre Waterkeyn for the 1958 Brussels World Exhibition. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Brussels. This 102-meter-high aluminium and steel attraction is designed in the shape of a molecule of iron that’s been magnified 165 times. So, if you’re the type of person who’s always wanted to know what iron really looks like, this is your chance!

What to do there: It’s worth the tram journey to get to the location of this Brussels must-see, mostly because it’s so odd-looking. Make sure you take the chance to explore the interior as well, where four of the nine spheres present a show about human life called Biogenium. It’s one of the best free places to visit in Brussels. Take your picnic, or a beer, and enjoy this unique backdrop.

#8 – Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts

  • An architecturally striking collection of buildings that holds the Royal Library of Belgium, the Square – Brussels Meeting Center, the National Archives of Belgium, and a public garden.
  • There are not only some amazing books in this building but great museums.

Why it’s so awesome: The Mont des Arts was built between 1956 and 1958, so it’s a modern building that somehow fits perfectly with the buildings around it. The site sits between the Royal Palace and the Place de l’Albertine and is a complex of modern buildings that hold the city’s library, national archives, and meeting center.

What to do there: If you’re looking for Brussels vacation ideas, this is a great place to start because it’s close to most of the best tourist attractions in Brussels. The complex also offers amazing views of Brussels. From the elevated buildings, you can see all the way from the Grand Palace to the Atomium and everything in between. And at the other end of the building, you can see the Royal Square and the done of Saint-Jacques on the Coudenberg.

#9 – Notre-Dame du Sablon

Notre-Dame du Sablon, Brussels

  • Built around the 15th-16th century to replace an older chapel that was built around 1304.
  • The inside of the church is incredible, with some of the most beautiful stained-glass scenes you’ll ever see.

Why it’s so awesome: This church is considered to be one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in all of Belgium. The inside and outside of the building are equally amazing and look just as good in photos as well. The church also contains the burial chapel of the Thurn und Taxis family and a figure of the Virgin which is a copy of the figurine that was supposedly bought to the chapel by a woman the Virgin appeared to back in 1348.

What to do there: This is a truly stunning church and you’ll be amazed at the architectural mastery and the artwork when you visit. The stained-glass images inside the church are particularly popular, so make sure you spend time examining the scenes they depict.

#10 – The Parlamentarium – One of the most important places to visit in Brussels

The Parlamentarium

  • The best place to learn about Europe’s past and how to it came to be.
  • A fascinating display, even if you aren’t interested in politics.

Why it’s so awesome: The Parlamentarium is just outside of the city center and it has a visitor’s center that will give you a deeper insight into the Brussels of the present by exploring Europe’s past. The center has multimedia exhibits that explore what the World Wars were really like and how they influenced politics in Europe today.

What to do there: If you’ve ever wanted to learn about why the European Union was developed and how it influenced how Europe grew, this is the place to do it. So, take the tour at the center to learn more about the world you live in now and the people and events that shaped it. This is also a great place to take the kids if you want them to understand the larger stage of the world.

#11 – Cinquantenaire Park – most beautiful place to visit in Brussels

Cinquantenaire Park

  • On a fine day, there’s no better place to visit in Brussels if you need to relax in nature.
  • There is a museum in the park as well if you want to get a little culture in at the same time.

Why it’s so awesome: When it’s sunny in Brussels, all the locals head out to this park to enjoy the sunshine. In a busy modern city, it’s important to get out in nature sometimes and this is the easiest and the fastest way to do that. There is also a great museum in the park called the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History if you’re a war buff.

What to do there: This is the perfect place to have a picnic, hire a bike and do some cycling, or just enjoy the sights and sounds of nature right in the middle of the city. So, take a picnic and enjoy it on the grass, or just hang out near the fountain on the weekend in Brussels (Saturdays are always the best day for people-watching).

#12 – Mini Europe – a unique place to visit in Brussels

Mini-Europe

  • A theme park with 1:25 scale models of the best monuments in the EU.
  • This theme park is at the base of the Atomium, a huge model of an iron molecule, which makes this area a study of contrasts.

Why it’s so awesome: This park opened in 1989 and features 350 monuments from all around Europe. To dive into European top sights, this is the place to start. It’s the only place to see Mount Vesuvius, Big Ben, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa all in the same place. In fact, the theme park explores the most famous buildings from 80 cities in Europe and the attention to detail in each is simply astonishing.

What to do there: You have to admire the attention to tiny detail in this park. Each model is created using a silicone mould and resin or casts. They each took a long time to build, but some of them represent a level of dedication that most people just don’t have. For example, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela took 24,000 hours to build. Also, make sure you spend some at the new interactive exhibition at the park for an introduction to EU history through multimedia games.

best areas in brussels to visit

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#13 – The Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts – A great place to visit in Brussels if you are traveling solo

The Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts

  • One of the biggest and best art galleries in the world.
  • The museum has been open since about 1875, but the collection was first set up in 1797.

Why it’s so awesome: When you think of the best art in the world, you probably think of Paris and Italy. But when you travel to Brussels, you’ll discover a collection that rivals those famous places. In 1797, the art collection which is now in the museum was created in the former palace of Charles Lorraine. The collection is divided into two parts, the first focusing on Ancient art and holding pieces by Flemish and Dutch Masters from the distant past. The second part of the collection consists of modern art and mostly holds 19th and 20th-century works.

What to do there: Set aside some time to explore both the ancient and modern parts of this museum. These collections absolutely must be on your Brussels itinerary. Check out the artwork by Flemish and Dutch Masters; Petrus Christus, Dirk Bouts, Hans Memling and Gerard David. And afterwards, spend some time exploring more modern pieces and see how art in Belgium has changed and evolved over the years.

#14 – Royal Greenhouses of Laeken – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Brussels!

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

  • This location is only open to the public for 2 weeks in spring, but if you’re there at the right time of year then you’re in for a treat!

Why it’s so awesome: King Leopold II of Belgium created the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken between 1884 and 1886. They’re part of a huge complex, with thirty pavilions that are all connected to the Winter Gardens. From the outside, the greenhouses are massive glass domes that shine in the sun. And on the inside is a collection of exotic and tropical plants that are incredibly pleasing to the eyes and to the nose.

What to do there: These greenhouses are only open for 2 weeks in late April and early May, so if you want to see them then you’ll have to time your trip to coincide with the opening days. This is at the time when the flowers are blooming though, so it’s a beautiful time to appreciate the display. If you do manage to enter the greenhouses, make sure that you check out the geraniums and azaleas, which light up the corridors and catch the sunlight perfectly. The Greenhouse of Congo is also worth seeing for its collection of African plants and the dark history of colonialization this greenhouse represents.

#15 – The Musical Instrument Museum – Quite the quirky place in Brussels!

The Musical Instrument Museum

  • A great place to learn about a different side of Belgium’s history.
  • This is one of the best places to visit in Brussels if you’re interested in music.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is located in central Brussels and holds a collection of over 1,500 instruments. This includes both European and non-European instruments as well as a detailed exploration of how Brussels contributed to the making of recorders in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. The museum also explores the history of instrument inventor and Belgium native Adolphe Sax, who lived in the nineteenth century.

What to do there: The museum is open from Tuesday to Friday, so check out the opening hours before you just show up. Once you’re there, check out the floors of different types of instruments including mechanical, traditional, and keyboard instruments. Also, make sure you listen to the instruments as well as look at them. The museum offers free headphones that allows you to listen to up to 200 musical pieces created by the instruments on display. There’s also a sound lab where you can experiment with the instrument and see what sounds you can make.

#16 – Delirium Café – Cool place to see in Brussels with friends!

Delirium Café

  • One of the best places to visit in Brussels for beer fans.
  • This café has over 2,000 beers on tap.

Why it’s so awesome: This café claims to have the best beer in the world and they might just be right! Located in one of Brussels’ cobblestone backstreets, the café has one of the biggest beer selections you’ll ever see, which is why it’s really popular amongst the locals! The bar itself is also quirky and welcoming, with neon signs and posts from years past.

What to do there: Grab a few friends and head to this café at the start of a great night out! Try some of the Belgian beers and see for yourself if they offer the best beer in the world. And if you have trouble choosing a beer from the textbook-sized menu, just ask the bartenders. They have a vast knowledge of beer and can steer you towards something delicious. The café also offers a range of cheeses and other snacks to soak up the alcohol.

best areas in brussels to visit

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

#17 – Le Musée du Jouet (Toy Museum) – Awesome place to visit in Brussels with kids!

Le Museé du Jouet (Toy Museum)

  • A great place to take the kids or even the young at heart!
  • This museum is interactive, and the toys are meant to be played with, not just looked at.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is housed in an old mansion and is 3 floors and 20 rooms of toys, most of them dating from the 1950s through to the 1980s. However, there are some older toys on display, some of them from the 1800s! Some of the toys were donated, others purchased, but all of them are there to be enjoyed and played with.

What to do there: There are a huge range of toys at this museum, including the incredibly rare and the everyday. And best of all is the fact that you can play with them. So, take the kids with you, or just leave your inhibitions behind, and follow in the steps of children from generations before. There’s also a theater and old tram inside the museum, so you could spend hours at play!

#18 – Maison Dandoy – A must-see for foodies!

Maison Dandoy

  • You can’t visit Brussels and not eat Belgian waffles, and this is one of the best places to eat in Brussels !
  • All the waffles here are made to order, which is why they’re better than the waffles you’ll get at most places.

Why it’s so awesome: You can’t visit Brussels without eating Belgian waffles. They’re available at a lot of places in the city, but Maison Dandoy has the tastiest range. This shop has been making baked goods since 1829, which is why they know how to make the best waffles in the city. There are a few locations, so find one near where you’re staying in Brussels and indulge your sweet tooth! And everything is made fresh, which is what makes all the difference.

What to do there: You’ll probably need to visit this shop a few times while you’re visiting Brussels because no one can eat all the tasty varieties they have in a single sitting. Try the sweet Liege waffle as well as the fluffier Brussels waffles to see which one you enjoy the most. And you can have almost every sweet treat you can imagine on top of your waffles, including hot chocolate sauce, caramel and ice cream!

Get insured for your trip to Brussels!

I know what you’re thinking… Do I really need travel insurance for Brussels?

Absolutely, yes. Don’t forget to look after yourself first.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

best areas in brussels to visit

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Brussels.

Is Brussels worth a visit?

Brussels is definitely worth a visit. There are so many epic places to visit that you’ll probably feel a bit overwhelmed. From great food and culture to nightlife, parties and Belgian festivals , Brussels is great travel destination.

Which places in Brussels can you visit for free?

Check out these free places to visit in Brussels: – Grand Plaza – The Atomium – The Royal Palace

What places in Brussels can you visit at night?

The Delirium Café is one of the best places to visit at night in Brussels. With over 2000 beers on tap, you’re promised a tasty experience and a really good time.

Are there any good places to visit in Brussels during winter?

When it’s starting to get cold outside, these are the best places to visit in Brussels: – Belgian Comic Strip Center – The Parlamentarium – Maison Dandoy

Brussels is brimming with history and should be on every traveller’s itinerary when backpacking Europe. When you travel to Brussels, you want to experience all that this amazing and historic city has to offer. I mention that in homage to the importance of its incredible history before I mention the insane Belgian beer, waffles, and chocolate.

There are some MUST-SEE places to visit in Brussels: the Grand Place, the Royal Palace, and the town hall should be at the top of your list! But you should do that and combine your travel plan with the confidence to wander and find amazing sites, cafes, and eateries on your own. Hopefully, this list will spur on your imagination.

This is just a starting point to find the Brussels that you’ve always dreamed of experiencing. And that’s the only way that you’ll be able to discover your own list of the best places to visit in Brussels. That’s where the real Belgian adventure begins.

best areas in brussels to visit

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

Mathilde Magnier

Places to Visit in Brussels Pinterest Image

Share or save this post

best areas in brussels to visit

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Brussels   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Getty Images |

best areas in brussels to visit

19 Best Things To Do in Brussels

Updated February 2, 2023

Discover your inner child at the Belgian Comic Strip Museum , take a whirlwind tour of the continent at Mini-Europe or tickle your taste buds at a chocolate shop ( Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a good place to start). The Grand-Place is another

  • All Things To Do

best areas in brussels to visit

Grand-Place Grand-Place free

Whether you're just passing through Brussels or here for a week, you can't miss the Grand-Place. This square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits in the heart of Brussels and is renowned for its many Gothic and Baroque-style buildings. The Grand-Place is close to many of the city's main attractions, including the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral and the beloved Manneken Pis . At Christmas, enjoy the Winter Wonders light show at night along with a massive Christmas tree, and every August, admire an enormous carpet made of flowers inside the Grand-Place.

Travelers love the Grand-Place for its stunning architecture. Recent reviewers suggested visiting during the day and night; during the day to see the details of the architecture, and at night to witness the vibrant life that takes over the square. However, a common complaint among tourists was the constant crowds (and higher prices), but that's to be expected at such a big attraction. 

best areas in brussels to visit

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral free

Built in the Brabantine Gothic style and so named for its chapel dedicated to St. Michael and for housing the relics of St. Gudula, this cathedral's current structure dates back to the 11th century and took some 300 years to build. Inside, you will find stained-glass windows, statues, paintings, a new Grenzing organ and a crypt that may contain the remains of St. Gudula with ancient Roman graffiti on it. Below the current church are the remains of a 10th-century Romanesque church. Outside the cathedral is a square where you can sit on benches under the shade of honey locust trees.

Past visitors appreciated the architecture of the church, with some noting the beauty of the stained-glass windows in particular and described it as "amazing" and "stunning."

best areas in brussels to visit

Musical Instruments Museum Musical Instruments Museum

A former Old England department store built in the 19th century, the Musical Instruments Museum, also known as the "MIM," is housed in an Art Nouveau building located about a half-mile from the Grand-Place . Inside you'll find more than 1,200 instruments from around the globe displayed across four galleries. The museum gives visitors the opportunity to hear what these instruments sound like, as well. Inside, a restaurant touts fantastic views of the city.

Recent visitors were impressed with the variety of instruments inside the museum, as well as with the building itself. Some advised that there are few signs in English, so it can be a bit confusing. Many suggested parting with a few more euros to take advantage of the audio guide. Travelers also recommend taking a trip to the cafe, which offers great views of Brussels.

best areas in brussels to visit

Popular Tours

Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels

Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels

(3679 reviews)

from $ 52.96

Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels

Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels

(982 reviews)

from $ 69.51

Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels

Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels

(1360 reviews)

from $ 99.30

best areas in brussels to visit

Parc du Cinquantenaire Parc du Cinquantenaire free

Meaning "50th anniversary," Cinquantenaire Park was built in 1880 in honor of the 50th anniversary celebration of the independence of Belgium. It is a large French-style park inside the city surrounded by museums and filled with gardens with a large triumphal arch. The park also hosts a variety of festivities throughout the year, including concerts, fireworks and sporting events.

Past visitors said the park is a relaxing and peaceful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Brussels. They also recommend checking out the car tunnel that runs underneath the park.

best areas in brussels to visit

Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert free

Want to get in a little shopping while visiting Brussels? Make time for a visit to Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a Renaissance-style arcade built in the mid-1800s. With a glass roof once known as the "umbrella of Brussels," the building is worth seeing whether or not you want to indulge in any retail therapy. Around 6 million visitors come to the Galeries every year to enjoy stores selling everything from clothing to chocolate to diamonds. The Galeries Royales also house restaurants, art galleries, a cinema and theaters. Victor Hugo even once enjoyed hanging out here.

Past visitors said it makes a great place to see on a rainy day and described the building as stunning. Many also recommended checking out the extensive chocolate shops.

best areas in brussels to visit

Horta Museum Horta Museum

Art lovers should not pass up the chance to see where Victor Horta – one of the founders of the art nouveau movement – lived and worked. The home, which was built between 1898 and 1901 features murals, stained glass and mosaics that are largely intact from its original construction. As you walk through, keep your eyes open for Horta's influences, from the wing-like skylights to the winding banisters to the overhead lights stemming down from the ceiling like vines.

Recent travelers said the museum is a must-see attraction for architecture aficionados, but warned that you cannot take photos inside the museum and that lines are sometimes long.

best areas in brussels to visit

Cantillon Brewery Cantillon Brewery

When it comes down to it, a trip to Brussels isn't complete unless you've sampled the beer. Cantillon has been brewing traditional Belgian beers, including lambic, gueuze, faro and kriek, since 1900. During your tour, you may learn about brewing, bottling or even how barrels are cleaned, and if you plan ahead, you can even attend a public brewing session to see the action first-hand.

Recent visitors said they enjoyed exploring the brewery and learning how the beer is made. Others enjoyed sampling the unique taste of lambic beer. Reviewers recommended signing up for a guided tour to make the most of your visit.

best areas in brussels to visit

Mini-Europe Mini-Europe

This theme park north of central Brussels features scale models of more than 350 of Europe's most famous landmarks, from Athens' Acropolis and the canals of Venice to London's Big Ben and Paris' Eiffel Tower. Each replica comes complete with visual and sound effects. Be sure to bring your kids: Many of the park's miniature attractions are interactive, such as Naples' Mount Vesuvius and the Berlin Wall. 

Many past visitors agreed that Mini-Europe is a great place to bring children. They described it as adorable, cute and informative and recommended adding it to your itinerary.

best areas in brussels to visit

Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels

(438 reviews)

from $ 51.85

Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

(540 reviews)

from $ 38.62

Belgian Chocolate Making Class and Tasting in Brussels

Belgian Chocolate Making Class and Tasting in Brussels

(232 reviews)

from $ 66.75

best areas in brussels to visit

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in Brussels' historic center, is a group of six different art museums: the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Meunier Museum, Wiertz Museum, Magritte Museum and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum. Together, they offer a collection of 20,000 works, dating from the 15th century to modern day. Walking through the halls, travelers will be able to see works from Rubens, Rodin, Gauguin, Magritte and many more. There's also an impressive collection of works from the Flemish school, including Pieter Bruegel.

Past travelers were impressed with the museum's vast collection of art. Considering the size of the collection, many suggested allotting 2 1/2 or more hours to not just see the works, but to appreciate and enjoy them.

best areas in brussels to visit

Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

For those interested in military history, this museum makes for a great afternoon. Located within Cinquantenaire Park , the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History traces the world's military history over the last 10 centuries, displaying weaponry, uniforms and airplanes from various points in time. Spend a fair amount of time in the airplane hangar, which features some 130 aircraft, including zeppelins, F-16s and more. 

Recent visitors said this museum is well worth a visit and recommend seeking out the view of the city atop the terrace of the triumphal arch. Some warned that no cash is accepted and advised allotting several hours to spend in the museum.

best areas in brussels to visit

Museum of Natural Sciences Museum of Natural Sciences

Set aside plenty of time to spend at this museum, which will delight the science and dinosaur lovers of all ages. With some 38 million specimens on hand (only a fraction of which are on display), this museum has the largest natural history collection in Europe behind those in Paris and London. Don't miss the dinosaur gallery, the largest room in Europe devoted to dinos, to see a replica of the largest and most complete male T. rex known today, along with 30 complete iguanodon skeletons that were discovered in Belgium 1878. 

Past visitors said the museum is a great activity for kids, with many praising the dinosaur collection. Some reviewers advised visiting a weekday to avoid crowds.

best areas in brussels to visit

Atomium Atomium

The most popular tourist attraction in Brussels, the Atomium is a depiction of an iron crystal magnified more than 100 billion times that was originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels. Today, it houses multiple exhibitions, a panoramic view over the city and a restaurant with excellent views, and is considered to be a symbol of both Brussels and Belgium.

If there's one reason to head to the Atomium, it's the spectacular views of the city, according to many recent visitors. Travelers advised that it is far from other attractions, however, and that there can be long lines.

best areas in brussels to visit

Église Notre-Dame du Sablon Église Notre-Dame du Sablon free

Just south of the Grand-Place , the impressive  Église Notre-Dame du Sablon – which dates back to the 14th century – is worth a visit, according to recent travelers. The church's interior features two chapels dedicated to saints and decorated with marble statues. There are also statues of St. Paul and St. Augustine inside.

Past visitors said they were impressed by the statues and stained-glass windows in the church and used words like "stunning" and "magnificent" to describe the interior.

best areas in brussels to visit

Brussels Walking and Tasting Tour

(595 reviews)

from $ 75.58

Brussels Discovery Tour: Belgian food, chocolate, waffles, beer, sightseeing

Brussels Discovery Tour: Belgian food, chocolate, waffles, beer, sightseeing

(189 reviews)

from $ 98.19

Brussels Chocolate Beer Waffle and Belgian Whiskey All-in-One (Small Group) Tour

Brussels Chocolate Beer Waffle and Belgian Whiskey All-in-One (Small Group) Tour

(460 reviews)

from $ 153.36

best areas in brussels to visit

Belgian Comic Strip Center Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgium is the birthplace of many legendary comic characters, including Tintin and the Smurfs, and is also home to more than 700 comic strip artists. So it's no wonder the city pays tribute to the comic art in the form of a museum. The Belgian Comic Strip Center tells the story of European comics from their beginnings to modern day through a variety of permanent and temporary collections and a Comic Strip Library boasting more than 60,000 works.

Recent visitors enjoyed their experience at the Belgian Comic Strip Center with many feeling nostalgic to learn about comics they recall growing up. Past travelers were also impressed with the beauty of the art nouveau building, which was designed by architect Victor Horta (you can learn more about him at the Horta Museum).

best areas in brussels to visit

Manneken-Pis Manneken-Pis free

This little boy has become a renowned Brussels landmark. The Manneken Pis (which translates to "little man pee" in Dutch) is a bronze statue of a child relieving himself that also serves as a public fountain. Though the original statue dates back to the 17th century, the statue on display is actually a replica. Located just south of the Grand-Place , the statue has been the recipient of about 800 different costumes, many of which you can see at the Museum of the City of Brussels. He's even been kidnapped and returned multiple times. The statue's origin story is a bit disputed, but wherever it came from, its allure has endured.

Recent travelers were torn over Manneken Pis. Most agreed they were surprised by the boy's small size, and some maintain it's a must-see, while others say to skip it. Past visitors also warned that it is crowded at most times of the day.

best areas in brussels to visit

Train World Train World

Train enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at Train World, which sits about 3 miles north of the Grand-Place . Inside you can see restored train stations, dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s, learn about the history of Belgium's railway, see the oldest remaining steam engine in Europe, explore the reasons people use trains from travel to commuting and more.

Past visitors said they loved the interactive exhibits and that their kids did not want to leave. They also recommended a visit to the on-site restaurant.

best areas in brussels to visit

Parlamentarium Parlamentarium free

Read More »

best areas in brussels to visit

Mont des Arts Mont des Arts free

best areas in brussels to visit

Bruges Day Trip from Brussels

(294 reviews)

from $ 47.44

Private Brussels Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Custom

Private Brussels Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Custom

(85 reviews)

from $ 126.03

Brussels Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide, Kickstart your Trip

Brussels Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide, Kickstart your Trip

(65 reviews)

from $ 99.02

best areas in brussels to visit

BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts

best areas in brussels to visit

Things to Do in Brussels FAQs

Explore more of brussels.

Hotel Amigo, a Rocco Forte Hotel

Best Hotels

World Map

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

best areas in brussels to visit

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

best areas in brussels to visit

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

best areas in brussels to visit

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

best areas in brussels to visit

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

best areas in brussels to visit

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

best areas in brussels to visit

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

best areas in brussels to visit

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

best areas in brussels to visit

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

best areas in brussels to visit

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

best areas in brussels to visit

Full Suitcase Travel Blog

23 BEST Things to Do in Brussels (+Map & Insider Tips for Top Places)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 4, 2023

23 BEST Things to Do in Brussels (+Map & Insider Tips for Top Places)

Visiting Belgium’s capital city for the first time and wondering what to see and do in Brussels? In this article, you can find our recommendations for the very best places to see and things to do in Brussels. It will help you to make the most of your trip and explore the city just a bit deeper. Take a look!

Good to know: We are from Belgium and have lived in and near Brussels for several years. So I can immediately tell you that there’s so much more to see in Brussels than you’d ever be able to cover on a short visit… Therefore, in this guide, we mostly focus on the most popular attractions that first-time visitors shouldn’t miss .

For each place and activity, we also share our insider tips and recommendations.

Read on to learn more about the most beautiful places to see in Brussels, the very best things to do, and the most typical Belgian experiences that will make your trip more memorable!

TIP: In order to help you plan your trip, we also created this map indicating all the best places to visit in Brussels. That way, you can see where everything is located and can easier plan your sightseeing itinerary.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Best places to see and things to do in Brussels Belgium

Good to know: We list the main landmarks and tourist attractions in the center of Brussels first, followed by places a bit further away.

In addition to all the ‘must-sees’, we include some of the most typical Belgian food experiences as well. After all, no visit to Brussels would be complete without tasting Belgian waffles, beer, or trying moules-frites . Find out!

BEST OF BRUSSELS IN A NUTSHELL: * MUST-SEE: Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Royal Galleries, Mont des Arts, Royal Palace, and Magritte Museum . * FUN TO DO: Belgian Beer World , Atomium , Mini-Europe , EU headquarters, food tours . * MUST TRY: Brussels waffles, moules-frites, Belgian beers, and Belgian chocolate. * WHERE TO STAY:  See our guide to the best areas to stay in Brussels and also to the most popular hotels in Brussels . * DAY TRIPS:   Bruges , WWI Battlefields , Antwerp . Best day tour – Ghent & Bruges in a day .

Here are the best things to do in Brussels:

1. Grand Place & Brussels Town Hall

If there is one place that you absolutely have to see in Brussels, it’s the Grand Place (or de Grote Markt , in Dutch). Grand Place is the main town square of Brussels, home to the impressive Brussels Town Hall and the most beautiful guild houses in the world.

Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. Even if this would be the only place you see in Brussels, Grand Place is worth a trip on its own!

Brussels Grand Place is amazing at any time of the day and in any season. Lots of big events take place here, including the annual Brussels Christmas Market in winter and the bi-annual Brussels Flower Carpet in summer. Often, there are (free) light and music shows at the town square in the evenings. It’s always magical!

But even if there is nothing special going on, I recommend visiting Grand Place during the day and also in the dark. The buildings are beautifully lit at night and it’s well worth coming back for it.

Practical info: You can visit Grand Place at any time and it’s free of charge. Brussels Town Hall can also be visited inside, but only with a guided tour that runs just a few days a week. More info here .

Best places to see in Brussels - Grand Place

2. Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is one of the most beautiful landmarks of Brussels! In fact, there is not one, but two connecting galleries – Galerie du Roi (Gallery of the King) and Galerie de la Reine (Gallery of the Queen).

Opened in 1847, these impressive galleries not only transformed the formerly poorer part of the city, but also put Brussels on the map as one of the greatest cities in Europe at that time. It quickly became the place to see and to be seen, attracting the rich and the famous. The former Café des Arts (now Taverne du Passage) was a popular meeting place for writers and artists, such as Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, and many others.

Nowadays, this impressive arcade houses many luxury boutique shops, beautiful cafés, and stores selling local delicacies and traditional Belgian chocolates. Inside, you’ll also find the Cinéma des Galeries, the historic movie theatre dating from 1939.

Practical info: The Royal Galleries are always open and it doesn’t cost anything to walk through them. The shops and the restaurants inside have varying opening times.

Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert in Brussels

3. Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis (the peeing boy) is the quirky symbol of Brussels. And while you’ll most likely be underwhelmed by the sight of this tiny statue, it’s one of the main landmarks of Brussels that every first-time visitor absolutely has to see.

A popular legend has it that a small boy stopped a fire from spreading in Brussels by peeing on it. And so the city was saved and the little peeing boy became its symbol. However, this is just one story and the origins of Manneken-Pis could be totally different – see below)…

The current statue dates from the early 17th century, but archives show that there was a similar fountain here as early as the 14th century.

Manneken Pis is normally naked, but he also has a huge collection of costumes that he wears for a variety of different occasions. He received his first set of clothes in the late 17th century and his oldest surviving costumes date from the 18th century.

Nowadays, Manneken Pis has over 1000 costumes, with 20-30 new items added to the collection every year. If you want to see his wardrobe and learn more about this peculiar little statue, check out the museum GardeRobe Manneken Pis .

LEARN MORE: The Real Story of Manneken-Pis in Brussels

Manneken Pis in Brussels

TIP: If you have the time, you may also want to locate the statue of a little peeing girl – Jeanneke-Pis . While not as famous as Manneken Pis and usually locked behind metal bars, this little fountain has always been a popular ‘hidden gem’ in Brussels. If you want to check it out, I indicated its location on our map above.

And no, that’s not all. Brussels has something with ‘urinating’ statues. There is also a Zinneke Pis , which is a statue of a peeing dog. This – for now – completes the trio of peeing statues of Brussels. But tourists sure seem to like them, so I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a few more of those appearing in the future.

Practical info: You can see Manneken Pis and other statues at any time and there is no fee. If you are interested in the museum, check the above link for more information.

Manneken Pis is one of must see things in Brussels

4. Brussels Cathedral

One of the most impressive buildings of Brussels – St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral – is another must-see in the city. It’s just 5 minutes walk from Grand Place and well worth the short detour.

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral is the main church of Belgium, where all the Royal religious ceremonies take place. This is where Belgian Royals get married, princes and princesses are baptized, etc.

The exterior of the Cathedral is really impressive. However, it’s very hard to appreciate its beauty because it’s literally squeezed in between different streets and buildings, which makes it difficult to see it in its full grandeur. The front façade is best visible as there is a small square in front of it, giving you a better perspective in order to admire this colossal building.

The interior of the Cathedral is beautiful too and can be appreciated much easier than its exterior.

Practical info: The Cathedral is open daily and you can visit freely. So if there’s no Mass celebration at that time, definitely take a look inside.

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral in Brussels

5. Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts (Hill of the Arts) is a little hill in the center of Brussels, offering one of the best viewpoints of the city . As you walk the stairs all the way to the top, you get to see a beautiful panorama of the Brussels skyline. This is the typical postcard view of Brussels.

Historically, this hill connected the lower working-class part of the city with the upper part where aristocrats used to live. The Royal Palace of Brussels can be found on top of the hill, whereas the Town Hall can be seen below.

At the bottom of the hill, you’ll find the statue of Belgium’s King Albert I and the landscaped Mont des Arts Garden . Another thing to look out for is the Carillon of Mont des Arts . It has 24 bells and an impressive star-shaped clock, but is a bit hidden out of sight and often overlooked by first-time visitors. However, it’s also well worth seeing, so make a little effort to locate it. You can find it on the eastern side of the archway above the street of Mont des Arts.

Practical info: All these places are outdoors and can be seen at any time. Also, don’t worry about the stairs – this is not a steep hill at all. Furthermore, if you don’t want or can’t do the stairs, you can just take the sidewalk of Mont des Arts Street that brings you to the top of the hill.

Mont des Arts Brussels

6. Musical Instruments Museum

Just at the top of the Mont des Arts, stands an impressive Art-Nouveau-style building that houses the Museum of Musical Instruments (MMI). This is one of the most beautiful examples of the Art Nouveau architecture that Brussels is famous for.

MMI has been established in 1877 and now has over 7000 musical instruments from all over the world and from many different periods. This is one of my personal favorite museums in Brussels.

Every visitor receives headphones that start to play the music of the instrument near you. This makes the visit even more special.

But even if you have no time to visit the museum inside, you really shouldn’t miss this beautiful building. It’s located on the popular tourist route anyway, so no need to make an extra effort or get out of your way for it.

Practical info: The museum is open daily except on Mondays and some public holidays. For more up-to-date information and opening times, please check the official website . This is one of the museums that’s included with the Brussels Card .

Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels

7. Royal Palace & Place Royale

Belgium is a monarchy and we have a beautiful Royal Palace right in the middle of Brussels. The Royal Family actually lives in another palace in Laken, on the outskirts of Brussels. The palace in the city center is where the Belgian King works. It’s also used for various ceremonies, state dinners, and other official occasions.

Normally, you can only admire the palace from the outside. Nevertheless, it’s worth passing by here because it’s a truly impressive building. Also, you can’t really miss the Place Royale Bruxelles , a big square with an equestrian statue of Godefroid de Bouillon in front of the Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg Church .

Good to know: The Royal Palace is only open for visitors for a brief period of time in the summer. It opens to the public after the 21 st of July (Belgian National Holiday) and stays open until the last week of August. You can visit every day except Monday and it’s free of charge. If you happen to be in Brussels during this time, it’s definitely worth a visit, but be prepared for the crowds.

Royal Palace - must see in Brussels

8. Brussels Park

Right in front of the Royal Palace, there is a nice small city park – Royal Park , also known as Brussels Park . Located on the former hunting grounds that in the past were reserved for the aristocracy, this public park was established in the 18th century.

Brussels Park is quite small and you can see everything in 15-30 minutes. It has several fountains and beautiful statues, and you can escape the hustle and the bustle of the city for a few moments here. There are also one or two cozy outdoor cafés in the park.

Practical info: The park is open daily, from 6 AM to 10 PM, and is free to enter. It’s more lively in the afternoons and on the weekends.

Brussels Park (Royal Park) fountain in summer

9. Petit Sablon Neighborhood

Just a short walk from the main tourist attractions, in the heart of Brussels, lies a very nice local neighborhood called Petit Sablon . It’s an area where historic architecture and modern artsy lifestyle mingle to create a very unique atmosphere. This is one of the nicest, trendier, but also very local parts of Brussels.

Don’t miss the Église Notre-Dame des Victoires au Sablon (Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon). It’s one of the most beautiful churches in Brussels! The little park at the Square du Petit Sablon , just opposite the street from the church, is also very nice. Don’t miss it.

For the rest, just stroll through the neighborhood, following the information panels that indicate all the main sights. One of my favorite places here is the town square Place du Grand Sablon . It’s lined with art galleries, trendy boutiques, artsy cafes, and luxury chocolatiers. On the weekends, this is where you’ll find Brussel’s most famous antique market.

Petit Sablon church and park in Brussels

10. Rue des Bouchers

Probably the most famous restaurant street in Belgium, Rue des Bouchers is another top tourist attraction in Brussels. It’s a colorful, lively pedestrian street, packed with bars and restaurants. Most of them offer all kinds of seafood, and you’ll see impressive displays of shellfish on ice all over the place.

Most restaurants here are really oriented towards tourists, with pictures on the menu, food displays, and waiters trying to convince you to sit down at their restaurant. It will take some willpower to cross this street without actually sitting down for a meal. But it’s also a very well-known place to see in Brussels, so even if you don’t plan to eat here, you should definitely check this street out!

Good to know: Rue des Bouchers is a popular place to try the traditional Belgian ‘moules-frites’ (mussels and fries) . However, in general, you’ll get better value for money in the more local restaurants. The best season for Belgian mussels is from the beginning of July to around mid-April.

Rue des Bouchers in Brussels

11. Place de la Bourse & Belgian Beer World

Place de la Bourse (Stock Exchange Square) is a town square in front of the old Brussels Stock Exchange building. It’s a popular place for all kinds of events and also political demonstrations.

The Stock Exchange building itself doesn’t really have an official name and is often simply called Palais de la Bourse (the Stock Exchange Palace).

This colossal 19th-century building has an impressive facade that makes you think of Greek temples. It’s even guarded by lion statues on the sides. After year-long renovations, the building is now beautifully restored and is home to the newest attraction in Brussels – Belgian Beer World .

This is an interactive family-friendly exhibition that introduces you to Belgian beer culture. At the end of the visit, you get to sample some beer at the Sky Bar. The bar is located on a beautiful rooftop terrace and offers nice city views – another great reason to come here.

Practical information: Stock Exchange Square is located just near Grand Place, so it’s really easy to include a visit here in any itinerary. If you want to visit Belgian Beer World, you can find more information and get tickets here .

Good to know: During the opening hours of the museum, you can only visit the rooftop terrace with a ticket. But in the evenings, when the museum is closed, you can go up to the Sky Bar for free.

Brussels Stock Exchange - Palais de la Bourse

12. Saint Catherine & Fish Market

Another really nice and more local area to see in the Brussels city center is the Saint Catherine neighborhood . It’s concentrated around the Saint Catherine Church and several town squares. The best-known square is Marché aux Poissons (Fish Market), where the old Brussels port used to be.

There is no actual fish market here. However, this part of Brussels is also a good place for (sea)food lovers and you’ll find many restaurants and cafes lining the streets. If locals go for seafood in Brussels, they’ll likely come here and not to Rue des Bouchers. Prices tend to be higher here as well, but you also can expect better quality.

In winter, this is one of the places where the Brussels Christmas market takes place. And in summer, you’ll find a lively area with outdoor restaurant terraces and a very pleasant vibe.

TIP: Don’t miss the Tour Noire (the Black Tower), a restored medieval tower surrounded by modern buildings.

Fish Market and Saint Catherine neighborhood in Brussels

13. Atomium

While most of the main Brussels tourist attractions mentioned above can be found in the city center, the most remarkable landmark of Brussels – the Atomium – requires a separate visit. It’s located on the western side of Brussels and can be reached by metro or with a hop-on hop-off bus (more info on the bus below).

The Atomium was built in 1958 as the flagship building of the Brussels World’s Fair, Expo 58. The nine spheres represent an iron crystal (magnified 165 billion times) and it was supposed to be torn down soon after the event, but it quickly became an unmistakable symbol of Brussels. It has recently been renovated, looks more impressive than ever before, and nobody can imagine the city without the Atomium anymore.

At the moment, Atomium is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Brussels. It’s impressive both, from the outside and well as on the inside. Inside, you’ll find is a museum, a panoramic restaurant, and a magnificent 360° panorama with unparalleled views over Brussels and its surroundings.

Practical info: You can see the Atomium from the outside at any time and it’s beautifully lit at night. For visits inside, see practical info and get your tickets here .

Best things to do in Brussels - Atomium

14. Mini-Europe

If you already make it all the way to the Atomium, then definitely visit the adjacent Mini-Europe as well. Here, you’ll find miniature buildings and landmarks from all over Europe, scaled to the size of 1:25.

It’s a fun way to discover the main landmarks from various European countries and maybe even find some travel inspiration for future trips. And if you ever wanted to take some fun pictures with the mini versions of the Eiffel Tower or Big Ben, this is your chance!

Mini-Europe is great for all ages. It’s fun for families visiting Brussels with kids, but it’s definitely not only for kids.

Practical info: Mini-Europe is an outdoor attraction, but is open daily, all year round, and is just one of the many places you can also visit in Belgium in winter . See here for more info and tickets.

TIP: If you are planning to visit both, Atomium and Mini-Europe, you can get a combi-ticket that saves a few euros.

Mini Europe is one of the best tourist attractions in Brussels

15. European Quarter

Brussels is the capital of Europe and there are many EU institutions in the city. Most of them are concentrated around Place Schuman, Place du Luxembourg, Place Jourdan, and Place Jean Rey. All these places are a few metro stops from the old town.

If you want to get to know more about the EU, then it might be interesting to visit the European Parliament in Brussels. There are several unique experiences that you can choose from, and it’s also free of charge. You should book in advance.

Practical info: You can see all the buildings from the outside at any time. For more information for a visit inside, please check the official website of the European Parliament in Brussels.

European Parliament in Brussels

16. Cinquantenaire Park

Located outside the city center, a short walk from the EU Quarter, the Parc du Cinquantenaire (Park of the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence). This is one of the biggest and most famous parks of Brussels. It has nice lawns, flower displays, fountains, playgrounds, a huge triumphal arch in the middle, and several big museums.

The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History is a nice place to see all kinds of military equipment, armory, but also tanks, and even aircraft. More info .

Autoworld is a car museum, with a big collection of vintage vehicles. This is one of the best museums to visit in Brussels with children and it’s not just for boys. More info .

The Art & History Museum has an impressive collection of works of art dating from various periods of time, from Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, and more. More info .

Most tourists who come to Brussels just for a day don’t get to this part of the city. But if you take a hop-on hop-off bus (more info below), you’ll definitely pass here. If you have more time, take a stroll through the park and visit one of the museums.

Practical information: You’ll need at least 30-45 min for Autoworld or for the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces. The Art & History Museum requires at least 2 hours of your time. For more information and opening times, please check their websites linked above.

TIP: All these museums are included with the Brussels Card .

Cinquantenaire Park in Brussels

17. Hop-on Hop-off Bus

If you want to see a lot of Brussels in a short time, then consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus . It’s especially convenient if you are planning to visit the attractions located a bit outside the city center. For the Atomium, Mini Europe, but also the EU buildings or Cinquantenaire Park, the hop-on hop-off bus is the best way to easily get there.

There are two routes and your ticket covers both of them. For the western side of the city including Atomium, take the Blue Route (aka Atomium Route). For the easter side, including the European quarter and Cinquantenaire Park, take the Red Route (aka Europe Route).

The advantage of taking the sightseeing bus is that it also passes the Royal Palace in Laken, the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, the Japanese Tower at the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, and several other interesting Brussels landmarks. You also get to see some colorful neighborhoods of Brussels that you’d totally miss otherwise.

Brussels sightseeing bus (hop on hop off bus)

18. Brussels Museums

Brussels has many museums and, depending on your interests and the time you have, you could consider visiting a few of them. However, with so many choices, it can be really overwhelming to decide where to go. So here are a few more suggestions, in addition to the ones already mentioned above. (You can also find these on our map of Brussels attractions).

In the heart of Brussels and just near the Musical Instruments Museum, you’ll find the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium . This is a complex of two museums – the Old Masters Museum and the Magritte Museum . You can visit one or both of them (combination tickets are available). The building is so large that you can spend a big part of the day here. More info here . If you have time for just one museum in Brussels, make it the Magritte Museum !

For nature, history, and dinosaurs, head to the Museum of Natural Sciences . The museum houses the largest Dinosaur Gallery in Europe and is a favorite among kids. However, it’s located somewhat far away from all the attractions in the city center. So you really have to make an effort in order to visit. More info here .

Brussels City Museum , located at the Grand Place town square, is dedicated to the city of Brussels. This museum is a great place to learn about Brussels and its history from the Middle Ages to modern times. More info here .

Other Brussels museums that are also worth considering are Comics Art Museum, Train World , BOZAR, and Choco-Story Brussels . But even if you’d somehow manage to visit all of these, you’ll just scratch the surface of all that there’s to see in Brussels.

TIP: If you are a museum fan and plan to visit several of Brussels museums in one trip, then definitely get Brussels Card . It will save you a lot of money.

Autoworld Brussels

Now that we covered all the best places to see in Brussels, here are some additional experiences that you don’t want to miss. Ok, you can skip the shopping but definitely don’t skip all the food and drinks that Belgium is famous for. Take a look at our suggestions with some insider tips!

19. Shopping at Rue Neuve or Avenue Louise

In addition to all the tourist sights and attractions, many people come to Brussels for shopping. It’s a great place for that indeed, with countless options and plenty of choices for all styles and budgets.

The busiest place in Brussels, Rue Neuve is the main shopping street of the city. It’s lined with big chain stores and looks and feels like any other big shopping area in the world. But if you’d like to do some shopping, this is the place to be.

For a more high-end shopping experience, head to Avenue Louise on the other side of the city center. Here, you’ll find expensive designer boutiques, with names as Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & co, Michael Kors, and similar.

Tiffany & co store in Brussels

20. Belgian Chocolate

No trip to Brussels would be complete without tasting some really good Belgian chocolate . There are probably hundreds of shops selling chocolate in the center of Brussels. And you can also visit Choco-Story Brussels , where you can learn more about Belgian chocolate and taste some of it.

TIP: If you are looking to taste some truly good Belgian chocolate, I recommend checking out the shops of traditional Belgian chocolate brands such as Neuhaus , Godiva , Leonidas , or Pierre Marcolini .

The traditional Belgian chocolate brands such as Neuhaus (est. 1857), Leonidas (est. 1913), and Godiva (est. 1926) have a long history, whereas Pierre Marcolini is the newcomer that opened his first shop at the end of the 20 th century.

Leonidas offers some of the best price-quality Belgian chocolates. Godiva and Neuhaus are somewhat more expensive and some of their chocolates require an acquired taste that not everybody will appreciate.

The chocolates of Pierre Marcolini are more contemporary and often quite daring. They come with a high price tag as well. But if you want to taste some of the best chocolate in the world, then definitely stop by one of their shops in Brussels.

Our personal favorite Belgian chocolate is the white ‘Manon’ praline from Leonidas . These pralines have coffee-flavored buttercream in a shell of white chocolate, with hazelnut in the middle. You can find them without hazelnut, with milk chocolate or dark chocolate as well, but definitely try the original one too! They were invented back in 1934, but are just as popular nowadays as they were almost a hundred years ago.

Our kids’ favorites are the Côte d’Or Praliné chocolates that come in many different varieties. You’ll find them in all Belgian supermarkets. They are much better and much cheaper than the chocolates sold in tourist stores.

Pierre Marcolini chocolate shop in Brussels

21. Belgian Waffles

It’s impossible to not mention Belgian waffles when writing about any major city in Belgium. You’ll see and smell the waffles in all the tourist areas in Brussels. And they’re so hard to resist.

There are so many different types of Belgian waffles, but the tourist places usually all sell just one or two kinds – the Brussels waffles and the Liege waffles . Usually the latter. The Brussels waffles are somewhat bigger, more ‘airy’, and not as sweet. They are rectangular in shape. Whereas the Liege waffles are quite thick and heavy, and they also contain more sugar. They are also somewhat more rounded than the Brussels waffles.

In addition, you can choose extra toppings that vary from whipped cream and chocolate to fresh strawberries and many others. If you dare, try a few toppings at once. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to try to eat it all while standing in the busy street, with hundreds of people walking by. This is the reason why we usually simply opt for a plain waffle when buying Belgian waffles from the street shops.

Still, the best traditional waffles are the ones you’ll find at these street stands and not at restaurants. Definitely give it a try!

TIP: If you have a few hours to spare, you can also check out this waffle-making workshop . It’s something fun to do in Brussels that you won’t find in many other places.

Belgian waffles for sale in Brussels

22. Belgian Beer

One of the best things to do in Brussels is go bar-hopping and try different Belgian beers in various pubs and cafes. There are many tourist-oriented places, but for a more authentic experience, look for older, traditional pubs and cafes.

Some of them have hundreds of different Belgian beers , many on tap, and always with their own matching glasses (see more about this in our guide to fun facts about Belgium ).

Here are just a few of the best beer cafes in Brussels (we also indicated them on the map): Delirium Café , Moeder Lambic , Café Mort Subite , Bier Circus , etc.

Don’t settle for the typical mass-production Belgian beer that you find all over the world. Make sure to ask for some local suggestions and try something that you can only find in Belgium!

Good to know: Some Belgian beers are very strong, so be careful if trying more than one or two of them on the same evening. On the other hand, there are also very light, fruity beers, that you will enjoy even if you are not a big fan of beer, like me.

Local’s recommendation: My husband’s favorite Belgian beers are the Trappist beers: Westmalle , Westvleteren ,  Orval , Rochefort , Achel , Chimay , and La Trappe . In Brussels, Lambic , Geuze , Mort Subite , La Chouffe , or Rodenbach are just a few popular choices.

TIP: If you want to taste various Belgian beers, but are not sure where to start or what to choose, check out this popular pub crawl or – if you are in the mood for more – this highly-rated tour that includes 7 beers and snacks .

Cafe Mort Subite in Brussels

23. Belgian Fries with Mayo

No visit to Belgium would be complete without trying some typical Belgian fries with mayo (and no, it’s nothing like fries or mayo that you’ll find anywhere else in the world). And while you can find good fries in the restaurants as well, the best ones come from the street stands called ‘ friterie ’ or ‘ fritkot’ .

For a couple of euros, you can have a delicious and quick meal. It’s perfect when you don’t want to sit down for a long meal during the day and rather spend your time sightseeing.

And yes, it’s not the healthiest option, but with all the chocolate, waffles, and beer, you’ll likely need to loosen your belt in Brussels anyway. So why not go for a full experience and try it all!

TIP: The most popular place to taste traditional Belgian fries in the center of Brussels is the friterie called Fritland , located on the western side of the Stock Exchange building. No matter what time of the day, there’s always a queue here, you can’t miss it. Another good place is Friterie Tabora , very close by to the Grand Place as well. I indicated both of these on our map, but there are many, many more good places throughout the city.

Belgian fries with mayonnaise

Where to Stay

There are so many nice hotels in various areas of Brussels that it’s really difficult to recommend just a few accommodations. For sightseeing, we recommend staying in the city center, close to Grand Place – this area really has it all and is also easy to access by public transport.

Here are some of the best hotels in the heart of the city center, close to Grand Place, for all budgets:

  • €€€€€ Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo .
  • €€€€ Warwick Grand Place .
  • €€€ NH Collection Brussels Centre .
  • €€ Motel One Brussels .

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Brussels (best areas & hotels for all budgets) & Most Popular Brussels Hotels (top 10 most-booked hotels in the city center)

So, this is our guide to the top things to do in Brussels and the main tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Belgian capital. I hope that this will help you make the most of your visit and get to know Brussels a bit better.

If you are visiting other Belgian cities as well, make sure to also check our guide to the best things to do in Bruges and also the best things to do in Antwerp (+ don’t miss our favorite local places in Antwerp ).

TIP: If you are looking for ideas on how to plan your trip, see our suggested Belgium itinerary for 3-4 days . It also includes tips for where to stay and how to get around. Check it out!

Have a great trip to Brussels!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

What to see and do in Brussels

More travel inspiration for some of the most beautiful cities all over Europe:

  • Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
  • Best Things to Do in Barcelona
  • Best Things to Do in Rome
  • Best Things to Do in Venice
  • Best Things to Do in Florence
  • Best Things to Do in London
  • Best Things to Do in Edinburgh
  • Best Things to Do in Liverpool
  • Best Things to Do in Manchester
  • Best Things to Do in Milan
  • Best Things to Do in Krakow
  • Best Things to Do in Lisbon
  • Best Things to Do in Geneva
  • Best Things to Do in Lucerne
  • Best Things to Do in Bern
  • Best Things to Do in Colmar
  • Best Things to Do in Salzburg
  • Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Thursday 28th of December 2023

Heading to Brussels early May. Also side trip to Luxembourg. Any tips on that? Also thinking of day trip to Ghent - worth it?

These guides are amazing. Thanks.

Friday 29th of December 2023

@Jurga, Thanks... Yes Luxembourg is a far ride so planning to stay two nights. Your site was very helpful. Thanks much.

Hi Janet, you can easily take a train from Brussels to Luxembourg and visit for a day, but it's a rather long train journey so start early. Ghent is much closer and you don't necessarily need a full day if you just want to see the main highlights, but it all depends on your interests. Some people love it more than any other city in Belgium. You could also combine it with Bruges. If you have time, I highly recommend visiting Antwerp. It's a very easy day trip by train and you can easily fill a day or even more there. It's our personal favorite. You can find several detailed guides on Antwerp and Bruges on our website - see here for an overview. Unfortunately, I haven't published anything about Ghent or Luxembourg city itself. In Ghent, the nicest place to be is around Korenlei/Graslei and St. Michael's Bridge. Don't miss Gravensteen Castle and Lam Gods painting at Saint Bavo's Cathedral. In Luxembourg, visit the old town around Grand Ducal Palace. We personally always love walking around Grund (this area is by the river and can be reached via elevators from old town). Also don't miss Bock Casemates. Hope this helps.

R. Robinson

Monday 18th of September 2023

Your travel guides are amazingly helpful! Thank you very much. I used the Iceland guide in June and currently in Brussels.

Thursday 21st of September 2023

Glad to help. Hope you enjoyed Belgium!

Colin Peart

Tuesday 15th of February 2022

Thanks for the great tips. The best blog I’ve found for Brüssels.

Wednesday 16th of February 2022

Glad to help, Colin. Have a great time in Brussels! (and don't forget that there's more to Belgium than its capital ;))

  • EN - English
  • PT - Portuguese
  • ES - Spanish
  • How it works
  • Become a Host
  • Download the app

Top Destinations

  • United States
  • United Kingdom

What type of experience are you looking for?

  • Non-Profit School
  • Permaculture project
  • Eco Village
  • Holistic Center
  • Guest House
  • How Worldpackers works

best areas in brussels to visit

Learn from the most experienced travelers of the community

Traveling with worldpackers, planning and budgeting for travel, make a living while traveling as a lifestyle, travel with worldpackers.

  • Using Worldpackers
  • Work exchange
  • Social impact

Plan your trip

  • Women traveling
  • Budget travel
  • Solo travel
  • Language learning
  • Travel tips
  • Get inspired
  • Digital nomads
  • Travel jobs
  • Personal development
  • Responsible travel
  • Connect with nature

Top destinations

  • South America
  • Central America
  • North America
  • More destinations
  • WP Life WP Life
  • Exclusive discounts Discounts
  • Europe travel guides

15 best places to visit in Brussels

No trip to western Europe would be complete without visiting Brussels, Belgium's capital city. Read on to discover all the best places to visit in Brussels, as well as practical travel advice for exploring Belgium on a budget.

best areas in brussels to visit

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Sep 10, 2021

places to visit in Brussels

Belgium is a small but powerful country. Belgium has played a significant role in European and world history, and it is the current headquarters for the European Union.

It is also an amazing tourist destination. Because it is a small country, it is located only a few hours away from the Netherlands, France, Luxembourg, Germany, and the United Kingdom. You can easily fit Belgium into a tour around Europe .

No trip to Belgium would be complete without visiting Brussels, the capital city. Brussels is a charming city with a lot of history and a lot of fun things to do. The city is relatively small, so it makes a great weekend trip from other nearby European countries.

In addition to the incredible landmarks, monuments, museums, and parks, Brussels is a gastronomic superstar. From the crispy fries served in paper cones, to the loaded Belgian waffles, to the world-famous Belgian beer, there is no shortage of comfort foods to try in Brussels.

In this article, I'll list all the best places to visit in Brussels as well as some other useful travel tips. I'll touch upon general knowledge of Belgium , the best places to visit in Brussels , what to eat and drink in Brussels , the best time to visit , how to get around the city , and helpful safety tips .

I'll also highlight a few Worldpackers work exchanges in Brussels and around Belgium , so travelers who want a deeper cultural experience can volunteer if they want to.

Traveling in Brussels, Belgium

General knowledge of Belgium

Language : French, Flemish

Currency : Euro (€)

Population : 11.4 million (The population of Brussels is 174,383)

Religion : The main religion is Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the most popular denomination.

Visas : People from most nationalities do not need a visa for a stay of less than 90 days.

Political significance : Headquarters for the European Union

Best places to visit in Brussels

Brussels has lots of amazing tourist attractions that are affordable, if not free. Here are all the best places to visit in Brussels , most of which are located in the city center and are very accessible for travelers.

1. The Grand Place

2. the museum of musical instruments, 4. the museum of cocoa and chocolate.

5. Place du Jeu de Balle Market

6. Manneken Pis

7. Bois de la Cambre Park

8. The Gothic Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

9. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

10. Cinquantenaire Park

11. The Royal Palace of Brussels and Brussels Park

12. Train World and Schaerbeek Station

13. Winter Wonders

14. The European District

15. Mont des Arts

Places to visit in Brussels: Grand Place

The Grand Place is the main square of Brussels , and it is easily one of the city's best attractions. 

Quaint cobblestones fill the ground and incredible gold-trimmed buildings surround the square. The most famous building in the Grand Place is the magnificent Town Hall that was built in the early 15th Century.

The architecture and historical significance of the Grand Place is very impressive, and the spot has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

This is one of the best places to visit in Brussels for free , and also one of the best places to visit in Brussels during Christmas because the square fills up with charming markets. Even outside the Christmas Season, sometimes you can find a little flower market in the Grand Place on weekends.

Places to visit in Brussels: Museum of Musical Instruments

For a small fee of €6, you can enter the Museum of Musical Instruments  and embark on a journey through time. The museum displays instruments from lots of different periods in history, some of them small and simple, some of them massive and magnificent.

There are over 7,000 instruments to view, and you'll get a headset that plays the instrument for you when you stand in front of it. This is super cool because you'll be staring at a weird instrument from the middle ages, having no clue what it sounds like, and then your headphones will actually play the music for you so you can understand the instrument better.

On the tenth floor of the museum, you can witness an amazing view of the city. The museum is open on Tuesdays through Fridays from 9:30 am to 5 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm.

Places to visit in Brussels: Atomium

Originally created for the Brussels World's Fair in 1958, Atomium is now a significant landmark and museum of the city. The massive iron spheres are meant to show the composition of an iron crystal, and the whole structure stands at 102 meters tall.

Designed by engineer André Waterkeyn, the landmark symbolizes the importance of science. To enter Atomium, it costs €12 and you can visit all but three of the spheres. Inside is an exhibition that changes from year to year.

The top sphere has a nice restaurant, aunt here are also event spaces inside for various happenings in Brussels. Atomium is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm.

Places to visit in Brussels: Museum of Cacoa and Chocolate

Locally known as the Le Musée du Cacao et du Chocolat , the Chocolate Museum is an amazing place to visit if you're a chocoholic or just a food lover in general. 

Belgian chocolate is world-famous, so why not learn a bit more about how the heavenly treat is made?

The Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate has a lot of interesting chocolate sculptures and informative exhibits, as well as lots of free samples and a spinning wheel pouring out melted chocolate for dipping. You can also watch a demonstration to see exactly what the chocolate making process is like.

The museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is €6.

5. Place du Jeu de Balle Market

Places to visit in Brussels: Place du Jeu de Balle Market

This outdoor flea market is also known as the "Old Market" to locals, maybe because the market has been running since 1873. This is one of the most-visited markets in Brussels , and it is open every single day.

The flea market is massive, and you can find everything here from vintage clothes, shoes and accessories, to books, CDs and records, to sculptures and artwork. The theme of the market leans towards the vintage side, so you'll find lots of antiques and unique items.

Even if you don't plan on buying anything, walking through the market is a fun and interesting experience. You'll see lots of cool stuff, including artifacts and antiques from hundreds of years ago.

The market takes place in the Marolles District, where markets and merchants have been thriving since the 17th Century. At 7 am the market opens, and it closes at 2 pm on weekdays and 3 pm on weekends.

Places to visit in Brussels: Manneken Pis

This is one of Brussels' weirdest and most famous landmarks . Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a little boy peeing in the fountain below. Locals dress the boy up for events in the city, and even though the statue is silly it has become a vital part of the framework of Brussels.

He represents the joy and lightheartedness of Brussels' citizens, and tourists flock from all over the city to snap a photo of the little boy. This is an easy place to visit in Brussels for free , so if you're in the area you might as well stop by.

7. Bois de la Cambre Park

Places to visit in Brussels: Bois de la Cambre Park

Just south of the city center lies Bois de la Cambre Park , a public green space that provides an escape from the busy city. The park borders the Sonian Forest and covers over 100 hectares.

You can come here for a day to explore the forest and its walking trails, have a picnic in the grass amongst local families, or to take a short boat ride on the lake.

The park is closed to cars on weekends, so it is a great spot for biking, running, or roller blading without worrying about car traffic. It is also completely free to visit!

8. The Gothic Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

Places to visit in Brussels: Gothic Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

This gothic style Roman Catholic Church is located on Treurenberg Hill and is a beautiful addition to the urban landscape of Brussels. In addition to the Grand Place, this is also one of the best places to visit in Brussels during Christmas as you can often find carolers and concerts here.

It costs only €1 to enter the cathedral, and the opening hours are from 7:30 am to 6 pm on Mondays through Fridays, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm on Saturdays, and 2 pm to 6 pm on Sundays.

9. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Places to visit in Brussels: Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

For those who like to shop, this is one of the best places to visit in Brussels . Built in the middle 1800s, this indoor shopping center is much more beautiful than your average mall. The ornate decoration, arched windows, and rustic styling makes the shopping center a stunning place to visit even if you don't plan on shopping.

There are three halls: the King's Gallery, the Queen's Gallery and the Princes' Gallery. All three are long and spacious with high ceilings, so this is the perfect place to come and window-shop on a rainy day.

Places to visit in Brussels: Cinquantenaire Park

Also known as Jubelpark, this wide green space has lots of museums and monuments in addition to the beautiful gardens, picnic tables, and fountains. The park was built in the 1800s by King Leopold II in order to celebrate 50 years of Belgian independence.

There are three museums in the park: Autoworld, the Royal Military Museum and the Cinquantenaire Museum of Art. The most famous landmark in Cinquantenaire Park is the Arcade du Cinquantenaire, which is a magnificent and regal triple arch right in the middle of the park.

11. The Royal Palace of Brussels and Brussels Park

Places to visit in Brussels: Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Brussels used to be the home for the Royal Family, but they now live in the Royal Palace of Laeken just outside the city. But the King of Belgium still used the Palace of Brussels as his headquarters, so it is a very important building to the city and the country.

The Palace is only open to the public in the summer . During July and August, you can enter the palace for free between the hours of 10:30 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays). This is a great opportunity to witness the grandeur of one of Brussels' most significant buildings. Even for the rest of the year when the palace is closed to the public, it is still amazing to admire the building from the outside.

Brussels Park, also known as Warandepark, is located right next to the palace and is the largest public park inside the city center. So if you don't have enough time to venture to one of the further parks, this is a great stop inside the city for a picnic or a stroll.

12. Train World and Schaerbeek Station

Places to visit in Brussels: Schaerbeek Station

Train World is a relatively new museum in Brussels. It opened in 2015 inside Schaerbeek Station, a rustic red and white striped train station that is a famous landmark in the city.

The museum is, of course, about trains. It has the oldest preserved train in Europe on display, as well as lots of other cool pieces of locomotives throughout history. For those who love trains and learning about history, this is the place for you.

Train World is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day except Mondays . The last admission is at 3:30 pm because they recommend close to 2 hours for a visit. Tickets are €12 for people ages 18-64, and €9 for anyone outside that age range.

13. Winter Wonders

Places to visit in Brussels: Place Sainte-Catherine

If you are visiting Brussels during the wintertime , you have to check out the Christmas markets. The entire " Winter Wonders " phenomenon is a collection of different Christmas-themed events and locations, and within the realm of Winter Wonders is all the places to visit in Brussels during Christmas .

The Grand Place is one of the most exciting parts of Winter Wonders to visit. Other public squares in the city that become festive are the Place de la Monnaie , the Place Sainte-Catherine , the Place de Brouckère and the Marché aux Poissons . 

Common finds in Winter Wonders are lively Christmas markets selling trinkets, food, and drinks, Christmas trees, light shows, a ferris wheel, merry go rounds and other carnival rides, music performances, and parades.

14. The European District

Places to visit in Brussels: Berlaymont Building, European District 

Brussels is the headquarters for the organization that serves to guide and unite some countries in Europe through economics, politics, and social rights: the European Union. This is such an influential part of European culture and history, so it is cool to see the place where all the magic happens.

The European District is the area where all the European Union offices are based, including the European Commission , the European Parliament , and the Council of Ministers . In the evenings, lots of EU employees hang out in the nearby parks and bars, so it is a very lively area to experience at night.

15. Mont des Arts

Places to visit in Brussels: Mont des Arts

One of the best places to visit in Brussels for free is Mont des Arts , which translates to "Mountain of Arts." This is an area in central Brussels and was built under the orders of Leopold II. This king clearly had a lot of influence over the city and created lots of monuments that remain in modern Brussels.

In Mont des Arts, you can find landscaped gardens, statues, fountains, and other displays of public art, stairs leading up to a spectacular view, lots of museums, the Royal Library of Belgium and the National Archives of Belgium .

Many of the other Brussels attractions are located within walking distance of this central hub, so you'll definitely pass through here a few times while exploring Brussels. Mont des Arts is great for photo opportunities and for acting as a starting point for sightseeing in Brussels .

What to eat in Brussels

Belgium has so many local foods that are simply delicious. No visit to Belgium is complete without indulging in a few of the country's specialties.

Traditional Belgian waffles

Brussels is quite cosmopolitan, so you can find lots of international cuisines in addition to the local classics. There is a Chinatown in the city where you can find delicious Chinese food, and all the usual international restaurants, like Italian, Thai, American, Indian and Japanese are scattered all over the city.

But for those who want to taste the staple food items of Belgium, here are the best foods to try in Belgium .

The Belgian Waffle

Belgian waffles are heavenly. They are light and fluffy, but large and thick at the same time. You can get them topped with everything under the sun, and they are cheap and plentiful in Brussels.

There are two main types of Belgian waffles: the Brussels waffle and the  Liege waffle . A classic, fluffy Brussels waffle is the most popular, whereas the Leige waffle is a bit denser and doughier with sugar chunks caramelized into the dough.

You can't walk a few blocks through Brussels without finding a waffle shop. But some of the best cafés or restaurants to find classic Belgian waffles are Gaufres de Bruxelles , Maison Dandoy , Mokafé , and the café located right next to Manneken Pis, Le Funambule .

Pomme Frittes

For those who think french fries are French, think again. Classic french fries were actually created in Belgium, and the locals refer to them as "pomme frites." However, Belgian fries are much better than your average French fry from McDonalds.

They are soft on the inside and extra crispy on the outside, mainly because they are always cut by hand and fried twice. Sometimes they are cooked in animal fat for extra flavor, and they are usually served in a paper or cardboard cone with sauces on the side.

You can find Belgian fries in restaurants and cafés, but most locals get them from little stands or stalls in the street. Some of the best places to try high quality Belgian fries are Fritland , Belgian Frites , Chez Fernand and Chez Clémentine .

Belgian Chocolate

For those who love chocolate, (and seriously, who doesn't love chocolate?) Belgium has some of the best chocolate in the world. 

Lots of well-known chocolate companies around the world, like Godiva , Neuhaus , and Côte d'Or , were founded in Brussels. There is an abundance of chocolate shops all over the city, in addition to the Chocolate Museum .

Pierre Marcolini is one of the greats, Laurent Gerbaud specializes in dark chocolate, and Zaabär Chocolate Factory and Planète Chocolat both have chocolate-making workshops available. In any of these shops you can buy chocolate bars, truffles, drinking chocolate and other snacks, all in unique flavors or just plain.

All you have to do is wander to any chocolate shop you see and taste anything your heart desires; you definitely won't be disappointed.

Pastries and Desserts

If waffles and chocolate aren't enough, indulge in some of Belgium's best pastries. People normally associate lots of desserts with France, including éclairs and macarons, but you can still find high quality ones in Belgium due to the close geographical proximity.

Éclairs et Gourmandises is an amazing bakery that sells sweet and savory éclairs. Ladurée is a famous Paris-based dessert shop that also has a location in Brussels, so you can try these colorful little treats there.

Other pastries that are native to Belgium are mattentaart, a flaky pastry stuffed with cheesecake, Flemish beignets, hot dough balls sprinkled with powdered sugar, and merveilleux, little meringue cakes covered in cream, chocolate chips, and any other desired toppings like fruit or nuts.

Like chocolate shops, bakeries and pastry shops are scattered all over Brussels so you won't have any trouble finding some sweet treats in the city. Some of the most famous bakeries in Brussels are Les Temps des Tartines , Charli , and Chouconut .

Where to drink in Brussels

Heading to a pub, bar or restaurant for a glass of beer or wine is a widespread part of European culture. But beer is definitely the most cherished beverage in Belgium.

The Belgians have been making beer for hundreds of years now, and their beer is known and loved all over the globe. There are so many different beers produced in Belgium that you just have to ask the locals what they recommend.

Belgian beer

If you're a beer fanatic, you can definitely learn a lot about Belgian beer just by talking to the local bartenders and brewers. Even if you are not a huge fan of beer, kick back in a bar and order a glass or two just to taste the country's favorite beverage.

Delirium Café is the most famous place to drink beer in Brussels. This café holds the Guinness World Record for the most beers offered in one establishment. They sell over 2,000 beers, so you have lots of options when ordering a drink!

Toone is a classy bar that also doubles as a puppet theater, and L'Archiduc Bar is a rustic jazz bar with lots of high quality international wine options.

Other highly rated and unique places to drink around Brussels are Goupil Le Fol Wine Bar and À La Mort Subite .

The best time of year to visit Brussels

Located in northern Europe, Belgium has a temperate climate, meaning the summers are warm and the winters are cold.

Summer has the nicest weather, with warm temperatures and sunny days that are perfect for exploring. Because summer is peak tourist season, the city's attractions get a bit more crowded and flights are a little more expensive.

The winter can get very cold and bitter, so the weather is not ideal. But the charming Christmas Markets that fill the city in December make the cold seem cheerful and festive rather than dreary. Brussels is magical at Christmastime, and because this is the off-season the flights to Belgium will be a bit cheaper.

Spring and Autumn are probably the best times to visit Belgium . The weather is favorable and the crowds are tame. But there really is not any bad time to visit Belgium!

Exploring Brussels, Belgium

Safety in Brussels

Brussels is, overall, an extremely safe city for travelers to visit. Public transport is straightforward, though you can pretty much walk anywhere.

The biggest concern while traveling to Brussels is petty crime like theft and pickpocketing. To avoid these issues, follow simple travel safety tips and just keep your wits about you while exploring the city. Try to avoid walking alone, especially at night. While walking through crowded areas, keep a close eye on your belongings and leave most of your valuables locked up in a safe in your hostel or hotel.

The biggest crowds you'll find in Brussels are in the Grand Place and in the Christmas Markets. Just be smart while exploring these areas, especially at busy times. If you use common sense, you shouldn't have any problems in Brussels.

How to get around Brussels

This is easily the best way to get around Brussels. The city is small and pedestrian-friendly, so it is very simple to reach all the best attractions on foot. You should probably have a map or a navigation app like Maps.Me or Google Maps to help you navigate your way around.

It is very common to hire bikes in Brussels so you can travel more quickly around the city. Some popular bike rental places are CyCLO , Pro Velo , Blue-bike , and Swapfiets . Jump and Billy Bike also offer shared electric bikes for rent.

The metro in Brussels is very simple. It has only six lines, and a one hour ticket costs €2,10. You always have to validate your ticket before you get on the subway to avoid being charged a fine.

Bus or Tram

The bus is a bit slower than the metro and a ticket also costs €2,10. The tram is another great public transport option, as it runs on its own tracks and doesn't interfere with road traffic.

You can buy a bus or tram ticket in a metro station or local newsstand. On the bus, you can even buy a ticket from the driver, but it is recommended to buy your ticket beforehand just in case the driver runs out of tickets. If you plan on taking lots of public transport, you can get an unlimited one day pass for only €6.

Traveling in and out of Brussels

Europe has such an advanced system of public transportation that traveling around is a breeze.

Trains and long-distance buses are cheap and easy when traveling to other cities in Belgium or to other nearby countries. Brussels also has an international airport for flying in and out of the country.

For those who really want to save money while traveling , you can also take an overnight bus to and from Brussels to nearby cities like Amsterdam , Paris or London . Overnight buses aren’t the most comfortable, but they are super cheap and they help you save money for a night's accommodation.

Tips for traveling in Brussels, Belgium

Worldpackers experiences in Brussels

If you have a few weeks or more to spend in Brussels, why not try something different than the average tourist experience?

Doing a work exchange allows you to live like a local while working in exchange for free accommodation. This means you can experience the local culture more in-depth while saving money. 

For budget travelers who are keen to learn about different ways of life and have enriching cultural exchanges, this is the perfect opportunity .

There are two amazing volunteering opportunities within Brussels , both of them in hostels. Hostels are amazing places to do a work exchange because they are social environments where you can meet lots of locals and other travelers. You are bound to make close new friends, and you'll have ample time to explore Brussels on your time off.

This hostel needs housekeepers and bartenders . You will work 27 hours per week with one day off, and you'll have free breakfast, lunch and dinner in addition to a free bed in a shared staff dorm. You will also get free laundry and events, and you'll get to learn some useful new skills.

This hostel needs kitchen-hands, gardeners, housekeepers, and reception workers . There are different jobs here to suit all sorts of skill sets, and you'll have three days off per week plus free breakfast. 

If you are traveling around Belgium, there are plenty of other work exchanges available around the country . For example, you can volunteer at a holistic retreat center in Kapelle-op-den-Bos , help out with garden projects at a retreat center in Galmaarden , or learn about permaculture at an eco-farm in Heist-op-den-Berg . These volunteer experiences allow you to get outside, connect with nature and work with your hands.

For those who prefer the cities and like the idea of working in a fun, social hostel, you can also volunteer in hostels in Bruges or Antwerp . 

So head on over to Belgium, do a work exchange, explore Brussels, eat lots of waffles and chocolate, drink beer, and enjoy yourself!

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

Be part of the Worldpackers Community

Already have an account, are you a host, leave your comment here.

Write here your questions and greetings to the author

More about this topic

best areas in brussels to visit

25 absolute best things to do in Berlin

Top 10 best christmas markets in germany to visit.

best areas in brussels to visit

The ultimate Worldpackers guide to backpacking the Balkans

best areas in brussels to visit

How do Worldpackers trips work?

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

PlanetWare.com

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brussels

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 28, 2023

Brussels, capital of Belgium, principal seat of the Belgian Royal Family, and capital of the European Union, is a remarkably small, easygoing, and human-sized city for all its importance.

Unlike beautiful Bruges and Ghent, with their hordes of tourists, Brussels is Belgium's main economic and educational hub, which gives the city a more workaday feel than other towns.

Here, you get a proper feel for Belgian life, especially its fantastic restaurant and café culture.

Although Brussels may not have the star tourist attractions of other Belgian towns, the capital has more than enough things to do to keep visitors occupied for a couple of days, with a clutch of world-class museums and art galleries, as well as quirkier sightseeing highlights, such as the Atomium, and some wonderful remnants of old architecture in the old town quarter.

Once you've craned your neck at Gothic and Baroque splendor, don't forget to stock up on Brussels' famous chocolate.

Find out more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Brussels.

1. Stroll through Grand Place (Grote Markt)

2. visit mannekin pis, 3. saint-michel cathedral (sint-michiels kathedraal), 4. see belgium's famed comic heritage at the belgian comic strip center, 5. tour the place royale (koningsplein), 6. view the masterpieces inside the belgian royal museum of fine arts, 7. enter the atomium, 8. explore coudenberg palace archaeological site, 9. view mont des arts, 10. admire the stained glass of notre-dame du sablon, 11. visit the museums of parc du cinquantenaire, 12. stroll the parkland surrounding château royal, 13. enjoy the cupola view at basilique nationale du sacré coeur, 14. explore the abbaye de la cambre, 15. learn about chocolate at choco story brussels, 16. meunier museum, 17. shop inside royal gallery saint-hubert, 18. find foodie treats at place du châtelain market, where to stay in brussels for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in brussels, brussels, belgium - climate chart, more must-see places to visit near brussels.

Grand Place (Grote Markt)

Right in the heart of Brussels Old Town, the city's main plaza (known as Grand Place) is one of the best preserved in Europe and the city's top tourist attraction.

Much of the square's elegant character is due to the unique architecture of its elegant Gildehuizen (guild houses) with their magnificent gables, pilasters, and balustrades, ornately carved stonework, and rich gold decoration.

Grand Place's defining character is its uniformity of Baroque style, with some Flemish influences.

The harmony of its architecture is achieved by the short period of construction here, with most buildings raised between 1696 and 1700.

The history of the Grand Place dates back much earlier though. It was first established in the 11th century and evolved soon after, to become the political and economic center for the city.

The most recognizable building on the square is the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), built in 1402 with the intention of upstaging the Stadhuis in the rival city of Bruges.

Inside are several magnificent rooms. Among the most impressive are the Maximilian Chamber, hung with Brussels tapestries; the large Council Chamber with a superb ceiling by Victor Janssens and tapestries to his designs; the great banqueting hall and the Marriage Chamber, both beautifully paneled; and the Escalier d'Honneur, with murals illustrating the history of Brussels.

Address: Grand Place, Central Brussels

Brussels Grand' Place - Layout map

Along the Rue de l'Etuve is Brussels' best-known landmark, the Manneken Pis, usually besieged by a throng of tourists.

Although he can be traced back to at least 1388, nothing much is known about the origin of the figure of a little boy urinating, popularly referred to as "the oldest citizen of Brussels."

The Manneken is, however, surrounded by various legends. According to one, the fountain is a memorial to a courageous infant who averted a conflagration, according to another, it commemorates the son of a count who succumbed to a pressing urge while taking part in a procession.

The present statue was made in 1619 by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder and has been stolen on several occasions though always recovered. During major celebrations, events, and festivals in Brussels, the statue is famed for being dressed in costume.

Note that to see a collection of the range of costumes Mannekin Pis has been dressed in over the years, visit Garderobe Mannekin Pis just down the road. This small museum displays around 140 costumes from the fountain's very extensive wardrobe collection.

Address: Rue de l'Etuve, Central Brussels

Official site: https://www.mannekenpis.brussels/en/

Saint-Michel Cathedral (Sint-Michiels Kathedraal)

Dedicated to St. Michael and St. Gudula (the patron saints of Brussels) this Gothic church was first founded in 1225 but only completed in the 15th century.

The facade is impressive, rising majestically above a broad flight of steps and crowned with twin 69-meter-high towers designed by Jan van Ruysbroeck.

The beautifully proportioned interior (108 meters by 50 meters) is lavishly furnished and is home to some outstanding stained glass windows created by Bernard van Orley.

Head to the transepts to see the finest examples depicting Charles V and Isabella of Portugal (south transept) and the Hungarian royal pair Louis II and Mary (north transept), and then into the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, to the left of the choir, where the window illustrates the story of the Miracle of the Host .

Address: Parvis Street Gudule, Central Brussels

Official site: www.cathedralisbruxellensis.be

St Michael's Cathedral - Floor plan map

This gorgeous 1906 building, designed by Victor Horta, is home to the wonderful Comic Strip Center, devoted to the history of cartoons and comic strips in the country that gave the world The Smurfs and Tintin .

A constantly rotating exhibition of 200 original comic strip drawings by Belgian and French comic artists is shown here.

In addition, the museum documents the rise in popularity of Belgian and French comic strips through a cleverly curated collection of original manuscripts, draft sketches, and imaginatively reconstructed sets including Lucky Luke's saloon and Tim, Struppi, and Captain Haddock's moon rocket.

Address: Maison Waucquez, 20 Rue des Sables, Central Brussels

Official site: https://www.cbbd.be/fr/accueil

Royal Palace on Place Royale

A favorite attraction for photo-ops, the most important building on this square is the Royal Palace (Palais Royal), which is used by the Belgian royal family as an official residence.

The Belgian flag, flown from the roof, signals the sovereign's presence, and a ceremonial Changing of the Guard takes place every day at about 2:30pm.

From late July to late August, free guided tours of the palace's interior, taking in the grand reception rooms and halls, are available.

Surrounding the palace are an ensemble of cultural buildings boasting Neoclassical facades.

The Palais des Académies, home of the Royal Academy of Sciences and once the residence of the Crown Prince of Orange, and the Palais des Beaux-Arts (Paleis voor Schone Kunste) on the west side of the plaza, designed and built in the 1920s by Victor Horta, are two of the finest examples.

Address: Place des Palais, Central Brussels

Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts

Belgium's Royal Museum of Fine Arts (1875-81) combines four separate art museums, which together are one of the largest and best art galleries in the world.

The museum grew out of a collection first set up in 1797 and was originally housed in the former palace of Charles of Lorraine. This was transferred to the newly established Musées Royaux in 1846.

The Musée Old Masters holds a collection of famous works by Flemish and Dutch Old Masters. Well-known works on display here include Gerard David's Adoration of the Magi , Rogier van der Weyden's The Mourning of Christ , Pietà by Petrus Christus, and Dirk Bouts' Judgement of the Emperor Otto .

The halls of the Musée Modern concentrate on artwork from the late 19th century to the present. It combines temporary exhibition halls with the basement galleries of the Musée Fin-de-Siècle, dedicated to artwork from the period between 1884 and 1914, when Brussels was one of Europe's cultural capitals.

Neighboring the main building is the Musée Magritte , dedicated to the work of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte. This museum holds the largest Magritte collection in the world and is considered by many visitors to Brussels as the highlight of the city's many art tourist attractions.

Magritte (1898-1967) was one of the major artists of Belgium's surrealist art scene, and the museum displays its collection of his work chronologically, so visitors can view how his art changed across the years according to world events and his own personal and political influences.

Address: Rue du Musée 9, Central Brussels

Official site: www.fine-arts-museum.be

Atomium

Along with Manneken Pis, the Atomium is Brussels' best-known landmark attraction, and although it's a bit of a journey by tram to get out here, the bizarre 102-meter-high steel and aluminum structure, designed by the architect André Waterkeyn for the 1958 Brussels World Exhibition, is the city's most surreal sight.

The building represents a molecule of iron magnified 165 million times.

Today, visitors can enter the building to explore its sci-fi-style interiors. The lower spheres are home to a permanent exhibition on the history of the structure. The upper sphere has incredible panoramas across the city.

Address: Eeuwfeestlaan 20, Boulevard du Centenaire

Official site: http://atomium.be/

Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site

One of Brussels' most unique things to do is explore this active archaeological site, which was rediscovered in the 1980s.

Coudenberg Palace has been excavated to reveal the cellars and tunnels of the former Palace of Brussels, as well as forgotten streets that had been buried beneath the city for centuries.

The foundations of the medieval palace have been cleared to allow tourists the opportunity to explore, and the museum has free audio guides that take you through the dig site.

There are also interactive programs that encourage children to become involved, like the "Underground Treasure Hunt," which includes a flashlight, treasure map, period costume pieces, and a puzzle for them to solve.

Address: Place des Palais 7, Brussels

Official site: https://coudenberg.brussels/en

Mont des Arts

The Mont des Arts was created between 1956 and 1958, occupying the elevated site between the Place Royale and the Place de l'Albertine.

The architecturally imposing complex of large buildings includes the Bibliothèque Albert I and the strikingly modern Palais de la Dynastie and Palais Congrès.

From the square between them is a fine view of the lower central city. The Bibliothèque Albert I was founded during the period of Burgundian rule and comprises more than three million volumes together with a valuable collection of manuscripts and several interesting museums.

Address: Boulevard de l' Empereur, Central Brussels

Notre-Dame du Sablon

The 15th- to 16th-century church of Notre-Dame du Sablon (Onze Lieve Vrouw op de Zavel), generally considered one of the loveliest Late Gothic churches in Belgium, was built as a replacement for a small chapel first erected on the sandy expanse of the Sablon by the Crossbowmen's Guild in 1304.

The interior of the church is breathtaking, in particular because of its marvelous stained glass.

Also of interest is the burial chapel of the Thurn und Taxis family, partly the work of Luc Fayd'herbe.

Kept in the sacrarium is a figure of the Virgin, a copy, so legend has it, of a Madonna brought to the chapel in 1348 by a woman from Antwerp, Baet Soetens, to whom the Virgin had appeared.

Address: Rue de la Regence, Central Brussels

Parc du Cinquantenaire

The Parc du Cinquantenaire was established in 1880 to commemorate the country's 50th anniversary.

Its centerpiece is the monumental Palais du Cinquantenaire, the two wings of which, linked in 1905 by a massive triumphal arch designed by the French architect Charles Girault, house two of Brussels' most interesting museums.

The Royal Art and History Museum is home to Belgium's national archaeology collections, with pieces drawn from throughout the world, as well as one of the most extensive tapestry collections in the world.

The Belgian Army Museum and Museum of Military History (Koninklijk Museum van het Leger en van de Militaire Geschiedenis) provides an overview of the development of military technology and of the major campaigns fought on Belgian soil.

Address: Avenue de la Renaissance, Central Brussels

Parc du Cinquantenaire Jubelpark - Layout map

Although the Château Royal, home of the Belgian Royal Family, is not itself open to the public, the park surrounding it at Laeken is.

There are delightful footpaths and a number of attractions worth seeing, such as the monument to Leopold I at the center of the circular flowerbed in front of the palace.

The Japanese Tower , in the northernmost corner of the park, was originally built for the Paris Exhibition of 1900.

The hothouses, erected in Leopold II's time, are the highlight of the gardens and are open to the public during April and May when many of the plants are in flower.

Address: Avenue de Madrid, Laeken, Brussels

Basilique Nationale du Sacré Coeur

The Koekelberg district is dominated by the massive Basilique Nationale du Sacré Coeur (Nationale Basiliek van het Heilig Hart), the fifth largest church in the world and brainchild of Leopold II, begun in 1905 to mark the country's 75th anniversary.

The building was only completed in 1970. Not surprisingly, it displays something of a mixture of styles, impressing nevertheless by its sheer size (141 meters by 107 meters).

Inside is an excellent collection of art and an ongoing exhibition on the history of the basilica.

The picture of Christ giving his blessing, which hangs above the altar, is by Georges Minne.

From the cupola is a breathtaking view of the city and across the countryside to Antwerp . Binoculars can be rented on-site.

Address: Parvis de la Basilique 1, Koekelberg, Brussels

Official site: http://www.basilicakoekelberg.be/documents/home.xml?lang=en

Abbaye de la Cambre

In 1200, Cistercian nuns founded an abbey here, which was later destroyed in the 16th century but then rebuilt.

Now, set in lovely French gardens, the abbey houses the National Geographical Institute and an art college.

The former 14th-century abbey church is a slender, elegant building with Baroque vaulting.

Inside is a painting by Albert Bouts ( The Mocking of Christ) and the shrine of St. Boniface, a 13th-century Bishop of Brussels. The windows of the cloister are decorated with the arms of more than 40 abbesses and nuns.

Address: Rue du Monastere, Saint Gilles, Brussels

Chocolate-making demonstration

Right in central Brussels, this specialist museum's exhibits both tell the history of chocolate from the cocoa tree's early use by the Mayans and Aztecs through to the modern day, and show how chocolate is produced from the cocoa bean.

The museum's chocolatiers also do live chocolate-making demonstrations of Belgium's famous praline chocolates, with free tastings, throughout the day.

This is a good stop if you've got small children in tow, and you need to break up an itinerary heavy on art museums and architecture.

The museum also hosts chocolate-making workshops, where the chocolatier will guide you in creating your own chocolate.

Address: 41 Rue de l'Etuve, Brussels

Official site: https://choco-story-brussels.be/en

The house and studio of Constantin Meunier (1831-1905) is now home to a museum dedicated to his work.

Meunier was a Belgian artist who, in his later paintings and sculptural works, concentrated on a social realist style that was hugely influential on artists throughout the early years of the 20th century. His sculptures of industrial workers are particularly well known.

The museum displays a selection of approximately 150 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and plaster models from its collection of 700, providing an excellent grounding and introduction to Meunier's work.

The building itself, which Meunier had built towards the end of his life, is a good example of Brussels' vernacular terraced housing.

Address: 59 Rue de l'Abbaye, 1050 Ixelles

Official site: https://www.fine-arts-museum.be/en/museums/musee-meunier-museum#

Royal Gallery Saint-Hubert

This elegant shopping arcade was designed by Belgian architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer and opened to the public in 1847.

Built in the popular, ornate Italianate style, with a glass-panel roof and arched shopfronts, the grand 213-meter-long arcade revolutionized retail architecture in Europe, replacing the narrow market alleys that had gone before and becoming the continent's first shopping center.

Its opening set off a trend for building similar arcades both elsewhere in central Brussels and in other cities across Europe.

Today, the Royal Gallery Saint-Hubert is prime territory for shoppers, especially if you want to pick up and take home some of Belgium's famed specialist chocolates, with plenty of chocolatiers in residence along the arcade's length.

The cafés within the arcade are also a good choice for an atmospheric break between sightseeing in central Brussels.

Address: 5 Galerie du Roi

Official site: https://www.grsh.be/en/home/

Waffles in a Brussels food stall

Head to Place du Châtelain on a Wednesday for the weekly food market, where you'll find everything from fruit and vegetables to pop-up stalls and cafés selling both local Belgian foods and cuisines from across the world.

For visitors looking for foodie souvenirs, there are plenty of traders selling local cheeses and cured meats, as well as fresh produce and baked goods.

Many people head here, though, for the market's casual dining options, with food stalls here offering everything from waffles and vegan burgers to Vietnamese and Middle Eastern dishes.

The market takes place every Wednesday from midday to 7pm. The surrounding streets are also full of cafés and restaurants, so the area is a lively dining hub throughout the week.

The best place to stay in Brussels for sightseeing is within walking distance of Grand Place (Grote Markt). This wide square in the heart of the Old Town is popular for its great shopping, dining, and well-preserved architecture and is a great place from which to explore attractions such as the Mannekin Pis fountain and Saint-Michel Cathedral.

image

Brussels, Bruges & Ghent : Brussels sits in the center of the country, making it the perfect home base for trips to some of Belgium's top tourist attractions , as well as sightseeing in neighboring countries. Near the coast to the northwest, in the Flanders region, the city of Bruges is a favorite tourist destination because of its medieval architecture and romantic canals. Between here and Brussels, the smaller city of Ghent has a similar ensemble of narrow alleys, beautiful buildings, and canal boats, without the mass of tourists.

image

North Belgium & The Netherlands : To the north of Brussels, the town of Antwerp gained its fame as a center of art and craftsmanship and is home to several noteworthy museums. The border with the Netherlands is not far from here, where you can explore the stunning churches of Breda , enjoy vibrant entertainment in Rotterdam , visit the countless museums of The Hague , or even spend some time enjoying the iconic city of Amsterdam .

image

Leuven, Liege & Germany: Back in Belgium, the small university town of Leuven sits east of Brussels on the way to Liège , the country's third largest city, which is celebrated for its industrial roots. Near the border with Germany, the cities of Cologne , Bonn , and Düsseldorf are easily within reach. West of Liège, Namur's central location at the junction of the Sambre and the Meuse Rivers made it an important trade city, and its citadel was a strategic military site, resulting in an interesting array of architectural choices.

image

Mons & France: Farther west and sitting near the border with France, the city of Mons (Bergen) is between Brussels and Paris , and is known for its impressive buildings and festivals. The town of Ypres sits closer to Belgium's coast, famous for being the site of major WWI battles, and just to the south in France, the city of Lille has many Flemish influences.

Brussels Map - Tourist Attractions

More on Belgium

Belgium Travel Guide

  • South Africa
  • Afghanistan
  • North Korea
  • Adventure + Outdoors
  • Amusement Parks
  • Backpacking Trips
  • Boating + Cruises
  • Budget Travel
  • Bus + Train Travel
  • Coasts + Islands
  • Country Trips
  • Fall Vacations
  • Family Vacations
  • Green Travel
  • Heritage + History
  • Honeymoons + Romance
  • Inspiration + Guide
  • Landmarks + Attractions
  • LGBT Travel
  • Markets + Bazaars
  • National Parks + Reserves
  • Nature + Wildlife
  • Parks + Gardens
  • Pets + Animals
  • Photography
  • Airlines + Airports
  • Budgeting + Currency
  • Business Travel
  • Celebrity Travel
  • Customs + Immigration
  • Deals + Rewards
  • Family Travel
  • Hotels + Resorts
  • Luggage + Packing Tips
  • Offbeat News
  • Photography Tips
  • Responsible Travel
  • Solo Travel
  • Tech + Gear
  • Travel Etiquette
  • Travel Warnings
  • Bars + Clubs
  • Celebrity Chefs
  • Restaurants + Cafés
  • Wine + Vineyards
  • Beach Hotels
  • Boutique Hotels
  • Hotel Openings
  • Hotel Reviews
  • Luxury Hotels
  • Mountain + Ski Resorts
  • Spa Resorts
  • Vacation Rentals
  • Asia Cruises
  • European Cruises
  • Festivals + Events
  • Museums + Galleries
  • Style + Design
  • Travel’s Best
  • Hotel with Agoda.com
  • Hotel with Booking.com

Get the best travel guides, tips, information & reviews!

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

best areas in brussels to visit

Gingtiangang Grassland Yangmingshan — The ultimate guide on how to go…

best areas in brussels to visit

Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in…

best areas in brussels to visit

Yamanashi blog — The Yamanashi travel guide & top things to…

best areas in brussels to visit

Guide to Suzhou nightlife — 5+ what & best things to…

best areas in brussels to visit

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

best areas in brussels to visit

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

best areas in brussels to visit

When is the best time to visit Malaysia? — The best,…

best areas in brussels to visit

Must eat in Cambodia — 15+ must try, most famous, popular…

Cafe Pomegranate Ubud

Best coffee shops in Bali — Top 10 best cafes in…

best areas in brussels to visit

Where to eat in Shenzhen? — 9 best restaurants in Shenzhen

best areas in brussels to visit

Must eat in Malaysia — 15+ most popular, famous dishes &…

belmond-la-residence-d-angkor-siem-reap-cambodia-prod

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

best areas in brussels to visit

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

best areas in brussels to visit

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Amankila, Bali, Indonesia. © Amanresorts

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

things to know, European river cruise

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Syrena Cruises, luxury cruises, halong bay, vietnam

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, Seoul

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

totoro ghibli museum

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Gion Matsuri Festival in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

national palace museum shilin district taipei city taiwan,

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Picture: Japanese waterfall blog.

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

Bergen, Norway5

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

best areas in brussels to visit

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

best areas in brussels to visit

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

best areas in brussels to visit

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

mekong delta travel blog tips southern vietnam (2)

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

Real-life experience-enhance-traveling-things to do at young age

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

tanuki-statue-ratel-symbol of lucky-japan

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

living in cave houses in andalucia southern spain (1)

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

koda-walking-concrete, Tallinn, Estonia, tiny homes

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Where to go in brussels — top 12 must & best places to visit in brussels.

best areas in brussels to visit

The first impression when coming to Brussels , Belgium is that the trees and flowers are overflowing everywhere, giving visitors a pleasant and comfortable feeling. It seems that Brussels is separate from the hustle and bustle of other Western capitals. As one of the ancient city of culture of Europe, Brussels is famous for its long-standing, magnificent architectures such as: Grand Palace, Royal Palace, Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, and Musical Instruments Museum (MIM)… So, where to go in Brussels (where to go out in Brussels)? Let’s check out our the 12 top places to visit in Brussels including must visit places in Brussels, best places to visit in Brussels, must see places in Brussels and famous places to visit in Brussels to help you make a perfect trip to the capital of Belgieum as well as European Union.

  • Brussels travel blog — The fullest Brussels travel guide for a great trip to Brussels on a budget for the first-timers
  • Where to visit in Georgetown? — 11+ must-see & best places to visit in Georgetown, Penang
  • Where to visit in Beijing? — 15+ top, must-visit & best places to visit in Beijing
  • Top things to do in Penang — 21+ must, unique & best things to do in Penang
  • 19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit at least one

The European Parliament

Best places to visit in Brussels — Grand Place

  • Address: Grote Markt, 1000 Brussel, Belgium
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: 1998
  • Entrance ticket: Free

Grand Place will definitely be the first place to visit that anyone will mention when talking about top tourist attractions in Brussels. This place is located right in the heart of the city and is known as a hub culture of Brussels as well as recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

grand place ,brussels blog,brussels on a budget,brussels travel blog,brussels travel guide,brussels visitor guide,

Grand Place was built in the 11th century with an area of ​​​​20,000 square meters. This place is ranked in the TOP of the list of the most beautiful squares in the world and the best preserved in Europe. I was truly mesmerized when I came here and witnessed the magnificence, majesty of this place. If you need a highlight to talk about the beauty of Belgium, the Grand Place is the correct example. In addition, you can find the way to the statue of a peeing boy called Manneken Pis. This is also a very famous symbol of Belgium and is only a few minutes walk from the Grand Place.

brussels blog,brussels on a budget,brussels travel blog,brussels travel guide,brussels visitor guide11

Where to go in Brussels: Atomium

  • Address: Pl. de l’Atomium 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Opening hours: Summer 10am – 6pm (ticket counter closes at 5.30pm)
  • Construction started: 1957
  • Opened: 1958
  • Admission: €15/Adult; Children under 17 years old and over 115cm: €8; Students, seniors (over 65 years old): €8

,brussels blog,brussels on a budget,brussels travel blog,brussels travel guide,brussels visitor guide,

Brussels is also known as the “capital of museums” with a system of more than 90 large and small museums. The most famous one is the Atomium – Science and Technology Museum, a giant building designed to simulate the structure of an iron molecule and built in 1958 on the occasion of the 58 World Fair (Expo 58). It’s considered as a symbol of the modern city of Brussels and has become one of the hottest tourist attraction in Brussels today.

Atomium,brussels travel blog,brussles blog (4)

Located near the King Baudouin Stadium in Heysel Park, Atomium is 102m high with a weight of 2,400 tons divided into 9 crystal spheres – the atomic symbol for the crystal structure of the element iron (Fe). You can walk in each sphere, climb to the top of this sphere and then down to the top of another sphere while can enjoy the view around the construction area and have the best overview of the city.

Atomium,brussels travel blog,brussles blog (1)

Must visit places in Brussels: Mini-Europe

  • Address: Av. du Football 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Admission: €15.5 or €27.5 to access both Mini-Europe + Atomium Museum
  • Online ticket booking link . If you intend to come here, you should buy tickets online in advance because I saw there were quite crowded people queuing to buy tickets.
  • Hours: 10AM to 6PM (last entry at 5pm)

best areas in brussels to visit

The Mini-Europe model park is located right next to the Atomium, home to 350 miniature versions of the most famous landmarks in the European Union.

Despite called miniature model park, each model is made in 1/25 of real size, with all the same delicate details as the original versions. You can even hear Big Ben’s bells or Venice’s mandolin.

best areas in brussels to visit

Top places to visit in Brussels: Palais de Justice (Law Courts of Brussels)

Address: Pl. Poelaert 1, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Opening hours: 9AM-5PM weekly Entrance ticket: free

best areas in brussels to visit

The Palais de Justice has long been one of the most popular tourist attractions in Brussels Belgium. Every year it welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world. Palais de Justice was built in nearly 20 years from 1866 to 1883 and is considered the most important building in Belgium. This place acts as a witness to the history of Brussels.

This building is a very massive architectural complex, with a dome of 104 meters high and weighing up to 24,000 tons of gold resting on huge pillars. The layout of the building is divided into 8 large courtyards, 27 large courtrooms along with 245 small court rooms and many rooms for other purposes.

best areas in brussels to visit

To get to this place, you should take tram 92 or metro from the center to stop Louise. (tram 92 can be caught from the park or the Royal Palace).

Must see places in Brussels: St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral

  • Address: Pl. Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Opening hours: 7am to 6pm (Monday-Thursday)/Saturday: 8.00 am to 3.30 pm/Sunday: 2pm to 6pm
  • Admission: free

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church and an important historical monument of the city of Brussels. Most parts of the church that have survived to this day wass built in the 13th century in Gothic style.

However, after a great remodel and the discovery of 11th-century Roman ruins at the foot of the cathedral, the church quickly became one of the city’s most visited religious landmarks.

best areas in brussels to visit

Before reaching the church, you will pass through a small park, often shaded by the two 64 meter high twin towers of the church. The park is a great place to stop for pictures of the surrounding area, and there are also beach-style loungers.

The interior of the church is quite empty compared to a typical Gothic style church. However, the ceiling with domes is extremely delicately decorated. Unfortunately, I couldn’t take pictures inside because I wasn’t allowed to take pictures inside. Inside the church, there are a few small exhibitions with tickets for you, the ticket price ranges from €1-2.5 only.

best areas in brussels to visit

The Church of St. Michael’s is just a few minutes’ walk from the center of Brussels and is open daily. It can be said that this is the most beautiful and majestic church among the churches I have ever visited. If you have come to Belgium, you should not miss this Brussels tourist attraction.

Best places to visit in Brussels : Mont des Arts Garden

Address: 1000 Brussels, Belgium

This park is also very beautiful. View from above can see almost the whole city. You can go from Grand Place for about 10 minutes walk or go from St. Michael’s Church then come here and go to the park complex, Royal Palace.

Best time to visit Brussels is in Spring or Summer

Best places to visit in Brussels: Place Royale (Royal Square)

It is one of the most important historical sites in Brussels and takes a central point in your exploration of the city’s history. This area is the royal residence and occupies a large area on the hill overlooking Brussels. Today, the whole area is called Place Royale and is administered by royal offices. This Brussels tourist attraction is always in the top of the famous Belgian attractions.

best areas in brussels to visit

At the center of the square is a statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, the first ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem from 1099 to 1100, on horseback, majestic in the middle of the Place Royale until 900 years after his death.

Place Royale is located in the center of Brussels and right next to the park so it’s easy to find. There is no fee to visit the square.

Where to go in Brussels: Royal Palace of Brussels

  • Address: Rue Brederode 16, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Hours: 10:30AM–3:45PM/Monday: Closed
  • Construction started: 1783
  • Opened: 1934

royal palace brussels

Although the King and Queen of Belgium live in a palace to the north of central Brussels, the Royal Palace is the main workplace. Most of the year visitors can only see the palace from afar, however, in the summer, the palace is open to the public every day, except Monday, completely free of charge.

Just cross Brussels Park to the Royal Palace. The large parkland is surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings and is the ideal location for panoramic shots of these buildings.

Royal Palace of Brussels Empire Room

The Royal Palace of Brussels is located right opposite the park.

Top places to visit in Brussels: Brussels Park

  • Hours: 6AM–10PM

Brussels Park is one of the city’s largest green spaces, covering more than 13 hectares (32 acres). Today, the park is spread out in the middle of the city center and holds an extremely important position for city residents.

Following the main road to the focal point is a large lake, with panoramic views of the Court and the Royal Palace.

best areas in brussels to visit

To the north of the park are the Brussels Parliament Building and the Royal Palace to the south. You can walk through the park to visit these two important architectures. In short, these 3 Brussels tourist attractions are right next to each other and located right in the city center, so you can all explore on foot.

Must see places in Brussels: Parc du Cinquantenaire

  • Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire 10, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Hours: 9:30AM–5PM
  • Monday: Closed

The Brussels Jubilee Park, or Parc du Cinquantenaire, is both a national monument and an urban park. The park was built during the reign of King Leopold II, to mark 50 years of independence of the Kingdom of Belgium. The magnificent archway stands out among the wide promenade streets and lush grasslands, welcoming visitors upon entering the park. There are 3 museums within Jubilee Park.

Arcades du Cinquantenaire (Triomfboog van het Jubelpark),brussels travel blog (1)

The south part is home to Autoworld, one of Europe’s largest car museums with over 400 cars with origins dating back to 1886. In the second area in the south wing is the Art & History Museum Parc du Cinquantenaire, which includes Art zone for the visually impaired – helping people with visual disabilities to perceive art by touching.

best areas in brussels to visit

On the north wing of the park is the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History. Here, you will have the opportunity to go through the history of the Belgian military with F-16 fighters and military relics from the 19th century.

Arcades du Cinquantenaire (Triomfboog van het Jubelpark),brussels travel blog (1)

Brussels Park is open to visitors every day. You do not need to buy tickets to the park, but each museum has its own entrance ticket. In my opinion, this is a tourist destination in Brussels that is worth visiting.

Best places to visit in Brussels: Bourse Building

Address: Pl. de la Bourse, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

The Brussels Stock Exchange Building is also known as the Bourse for short. This work has been one of the attractions in Belgium worth a visit.

The building was built at the request by Napoleon in 1801 as the largest stock exchange center in Belgium. The construction was not started until 1868 and completed in 1873.

best areas in brussels to visit

The Bourse building was designed to blend styles of the two artistic trends of the Neo-Renaissance and the Second Empire. This unique combination is expressed from the exterior architecture to the interior decoration.

Must see places in Brussels: Manneken Pis

Legend has it that when the Spaniards withdrew from the city of Brussels, they set fire to the city. At that time, there was a boy who dared to stand up in the middle of a fire to be a “firefighter”, extinguishing the fire by “peeing”, saving the city from being burned.

Peeing Boy Statue – Manneken Pis,brussels travel blog,brussels travel guide,brussels city guide (1)

That story has covered the statue of Manneken Pis with patriotism and made it famous around the world. Manneken Pis was designed and carved in stone by François Duquesnoy in 1619. In 1817 it was replaced with a bronze statue. Coming to Brussels, visitors all feel very curious and interested in this statue. Before leaving, everyone did not forget to take a commemorative photo with “The peeing boy”.

best areas in brussels to visit

In short, personally, there are many tourist attractions in Brussels that you should not miss. Actually, I don’t think Brussels is so beautiful and has so many attractive places to visit while the cost of travel, food or hotel is much cheaper than Amsterdam. Please refer to the article of sharing my Brussels travel guide to know about the reasonable route between these attractions. Unlike Germany or the Netherlands, most of Brussels’ tourist attractions are centrally located and within walking distance. Jubilee Park or Atomium, the Supreme Court only need to take a bus from the center or from Brussels Park.

brussels free walking tour, brussels travel blog

Above are the top 12 tourist attractions in Brussels, Belgium that I feel most impressive and interesting. There are also quite a few other places such as museums, EU Parliament, Brussels Parliament Building… If you have time, you can come and try to visit. The EU Parliament is just a 5-10 minute bus ride from Jublee Park, and the stock exchange is centrally located on the main street of Brussels, about 5.7 minutes walk from the Grand place. In the summer, people often gather quite a lot on the stairs here to watch the street.

Musical Instruments Museum,brussels travel blog,brussels blog (1)

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Brussels you can refer to

  • Private Brussels Airport (BRU) Transfers for Brussels
  • Private Charleroi Airport (CRL) Transfers for Brussels
  • Bruges Day Tour from Brussels
  • Brussels Hop On/Hop Off Bus Day Pass and Trip by Rail from London
  • Ghent and Bruges Day Tour from Brussels
  • Bruges Guided Day Tour from Paris
  • Brussels City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours
  • Brussels Card
  • Brussels City Sightseeing Bus Pass

best areas in brussels to visit

Are you looking for more top things to do in Brussels : Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Belgium guide here .

Related articles

Brussels travel blog — The fullest Brussels travel guide for a great trip to Brussels on a budget for the first-timers

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Gingtiangang grassland yangmingshan — the ultimate guide on how to go & top things to do, tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in tokyo, yamanashi blog — the yamanashi travel guide & top things to do in yamanashi, guide to suzhou nightlife — 5+ what & best things to do in suzhou at night.

best areas in brussels to visit

Kunming travel blog — The fullest Kunming travel guide for first-timers

best areas in brussels to visit

Yunnan travel blog — The fullest Yunnan travel guide for first-timers

best areas in brussels to visit

When is the best time to visit Philippines? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to travel to Philippines

best areas in brussels to visit

Nanjing itinerary 2 days — What to do & how to spend 2 days in Nanjing perfectly?

best areas in brussels to visit

What to do in Battambang? — 12+ must, top & best things to do in Battambang

Editor picks.

best areas in brussels to visit

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in...

best areas in brussels to visit

Gingtiangang Grassland Yangmingshan — The ultimate guide on how to go...

best areas in brussels to visit

Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in...

Popular posts.

best areas in brussels to visit

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

pineapple cake must buy in taiwan

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

korean honey

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

  • Inspiration + Guide 1450
  • Trip Inspiration 469
  • Thailand 209
  • Food + Drink 203
  • Coasts + Islands 193
  • South Korea 168
  • Vietnam 166
  • Travel Photos 144
  • Work for Us
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy

best areas in brussels to visit

Hi, I'm Charlotte

Browse the blog.

  • FREE RESOURCES
  • TRAVEL TIPS

CHARLIES WANDERINGS

THE BLOG FOR THE ADVENTUROUS TRAVELER WHO LOVES A TOUCH OF LUXURY NOW AND THEN

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

Belgium , BRUSSELS , Destinations · May 17, 2021

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

This post is also available in: Nederlands

There’s a reason that Brussels attracts so many tourists every damn year. This vibrant city, which is the capital of Belgium, is home to a ton of beautiful sites and here you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most typical things to do in Belgium!

Brussels, the cultural heart of Belgium , is home to some of the most well known landmarks in the entire country and even Europe! With a population of more than 2 million people it’s the largest municipality and historical centre of the country.

And while the city of Brussels already has a lot to offer there are also some beautiful places you must see right on the outskirts of the city.

This article will walk you through all of the top sights within the city centre of Brussels but I will also show you the best things to do around Brussels . Be prepared for historical landmarks, fairytale castles, beautiful gardens and magical forests!

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

1. grand place, the most famous place in brussels.

The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels and also the most visited place in our capital. That’s why if you can you should plan on visiting it in the early morning. Especially on the weekend you’ll then have one of the most beautiful squares in Belgium all to yourself!

It’s a magnificent place surrounded by guild houses and here you’ll also find the city’s Town Hall and the King’s House which now hosts the Brussels City Museum. The Grand Place was even voted the most beautiful square in Europe in 2010 and is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site .

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

A lot of festivities and cultural events are organized here such as a beautiful light show during the Christmas Period. But the most famous one has to be the Flower Carpet where every two years an enormous flower carpet is set up in the Grand Place for a few days. This is event is called Flowertime and a must visit if you haven’t so far! This year the event still has to be confirmed. And at least once in your life you should enjoy a Belgian beer at one of old bars surrounding the market!

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

2. Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

Welcome to the oldest shopping arcade in Europe ! The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert was even built before the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan and The Passage in St Petersburg. The gallery is split into two sections and is divided in the middle by the Rue de Boucher. This little street is lined with restaurants and is one of the biggest tourist traps in entire Brussels.

The Royal Gallery is the perfect place to do some window or real shopping during your day in Brussels. Here you’ll find some of the most beautiful and exclusive stores such as:

  • La Folie des Cadeaux  – A magnificent toy store that you simply have to enter.
  • Les Ecuadors  – If you’re looking for unique jewellery you’ll love this shop.
  • Maison Dandoy  – Try their home made speculoos, it’s amazing!
  • Delvaux – A luxury designer brand from Belgium , known for it’s beautiful handbags. You might want to check your credit card balance before entering :p.

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

3. Mont des Arts

The Mont des Arts is a historic site in the centre of Brussels, including the Royal Library of Belgium, the National Archives of Belgium and a public garden. It offers  one of the most beautiful viewpoints over the historic centre  of Brussels from where you can admire the spire of the City Hall. And on a sunny day you can even see the Atomium and the Koekelberg basilica from here!

These days the place is really popular with the locals. In the evening they will gather here for drinks which unfortunately also leads to a lot of empty bottles and cans laying around. If you really want to enjoy this place I suggest you visit in the morning or in the early afternoon. It’s definitely one of my favorite places to visit in Brussels thanks to the spectacular view over the city .

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

4. Grand Sablon

If you’re visiting Brussels during the weekend you have to pass by the Grand Sablon, one of the most beautiful places in Brussels! Every weekend there is the  Sablon Antiques and Books Markets  where you’ll find over 40 stalls selling artwork, porcelain and much more.

Surrounding the square are antique stores, designer boutiques, hotels, restaurants, an auction house and well-known Belgian chocolatiers such as Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini and Godiva.

The Grand Sablon in Brussels

5. Palace of Justice, the most impressive building in Brussels

The Palace of Justice is the most important court building in entire Belgium and has been under renovation for decades . Seriously, ever since I was a little girl I have only known it to be surrounded by scaffolding.

At the end of World War II the Germans started a fire inside of the building which caused an insane amount of destruction. Because of this never ending renovation the scaffolding got so rusted and unsafe that the scaffolding itself is in need of renovation. Nevertheless it’s one of the most beautiful and well known landmarks of Brussels.

If you’re visiting during the week make sure to also take a peek inside cause it’s one of the most impressive architectural marvels in Belgium!

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

6. National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, the most beautiful church in Brussels

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart is located on top of a hill in Koekelberg and can be spotted from miles away. It’s architecture was inspired by the  Basilique du Sacré-Coeur in Paris and it is  the largest building in Art Deco style in the world . Even that you can spot the National Basilica from miles away due to its grandeur it’s also one of those hidden gems in Belgium that not many tourists tend to visit.

Behind the Basilica you’ll find the Parc Elisabeth which offers an amazing view over this majestic building. It’s the perfect place to relax a little and maybe even enjoy a pic nic in the afternoon or early evening!

You can reach the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart with line 2 or 6 of the Brussels Metro.

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

The Atomium was originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World Expo, also known as  Expo 58 , and is now a  museum . The top sphere even hosts a restaurant which offers a panoramic view over Brussels. The Atomium depicts nine iron atoms in the shape of the body-centred cubic unit cell of an iron crystal, magnified 165 billion times. It wasn’t supposed to stand after the exhibition, but year after year it’s demolition was postponed until the city’s authorities decided to keep it.

You can easily reach the Atomium with line 6 of the Brussels metro and it’s also located close to the Parc of Laeken. Especially during spring it’s a wonderful place to go for an evening stroll. There are a ton of magnolia trees and cherry blossom trees in the surrounding area and in front of the Atomium itself is huge grass field.

The Atomium is one of the best places to visit in Brussels, especially if it’s your first time visiting the capital!

Opening hours  – The Atomium is open every single day (including holidays) from 10am to 6pm

Entrance fee  – €16

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

8. Château de la Hulpe, a beautiful castle around Brussels

Did you know that  Belgium holds the record for the highest amount of castles per square meter ? It’s crazy to think that a country this small holds over 2000 castles and more. It comes as no surprise that visiting one of these castles actually makes for the perfect day trip from Brussels.

The Solvay Castle is located in a beautiful park and is only 20 minutes driving from Brussels. It is surrounded by a beautiful park and offers the perfect contrast with the hustle and bustle of our capital.

To my knowledge there isn’t a real parking lot in the area but you’re able to park your car alongside the road.

Opening hours  – 8am to 9pm (6pm during the Winter)

Due to new police regulations the park remains open for visiting on the weekdays but is closed on the weekend. Access to the terraces of the Château, the houses/gardens and closed-off meadows is forbidden.

Entrance  – The park is free to enter

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

9. The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

Every year the  Royal Greenhouses of Laeken  open their doors to the public. It’s one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in Brussels during Spring. During this time most flowers are in full bloom and you get to witness what hundreds of gardeners work tirelessly on during an entire year!

This event only lasts for 3 weeks  so make sure to arrive very, very early!. When I visited 2 years ago I made sure to  be there at 8.30am , even that it only opens at 9.30am. And, it’s safe to say that I was very happy that I did cause not long after people started cueing up and a ton of tour busses started to arrive. There was a small rope on the other side of the street in front of the entrance which was pointed out as the designated waiting point.

As soon as it opens make sure to go to one of the ticket booths ( 2,5€ , free under 18) and head inside.

READ MY FULL GUIDE ON THE GREENHOUSES OF LAEKEN, INCLUDING A LOT MORE DETAILS & PHOTOS –  THE ROYAL GREENHOUSES OF LAEKEN, PLAN THE PERFECT VISIT

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

10. Castle of Groot Bijgaarden

The  Spring flower exhibition  in the park and the greenhouses of the castle of Groot-Bijgaarden offers an unforgettable flower experience! The park of 14 hectares incorporates nearly all spring bulb varieties and for the new flowering time, the gardeners of the castle have planted more than one million bulbs by hand. Special attention goes to the tulips, with almost 400 varieties, hyacinths and daffodils are also well represented.

I highly recommend visiting Floralia and it completely blew me away! There were soooo many stunning flowers and it was so easy to take beautiful photos!

Wearing a mask is obligatory for now but a lot of times you’ll find yourself at a distance of more than 5 meters of other people so it’s safe to take a photo without a mask on. I do recommend keeping it on when you’re just walking around!

Opening hours:  from 10 am to 06 pm. The ticket desk closes at 05:30 pm.

Ticket price : €14

FOR MORE STUNNING SPRING LOCATIONS IN BELGIUM MAKE SURE TO READ MY DETAILED ARTICLE INCLUDING A TON OF PHOTOS – SPRING IN BELGIUM, THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO SEE SPRING FLOWERS .

Spring In Belgium - 17 Beautiful Places You Have To See

11. Parc Josaphat, a beautiful park in Brussels

There’s a beautiful park near Laeken in Brussels and once a year its entrance becomes a stunning arch of pink flowers. The cherry blossom trees are perfectly lined up in a way that you’ll get the feeling that you’re walking through a pink tunnel.

Parc Josaphat is a rather unknown park compared to the others in Brussels but definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area! And especially during spring it’s one of the best places to visit in Brussels!

Spring In Belgium - 17 Beautiful Places You Have To See

12. Botanical Garden of Meise, a unique place to visit in Brussels

The Botanical Garden of Meise is definitely worth a visit and in April it’s pretty easy to  combine it with a visit to Floralia Brussels !

There are  two main highlights  at the park. On one hand there’s  the castle of Bouchout  and on the other you have  an enormous greenhouse  which is filled with all sorts of tropical plants and flowers.

It can get pretty toasty inside the greenhouse so if you want to spend some time here make sure to wear layers! In total you really don’t need more than 2 hours to visit the entire domain. Unless you want to read everything about every plant then you’ll need an entire day ;).

Opening hours : 9.30am until 6.30pm

Ticket   Price : €9

Spring In Belgium - 17 Beautiful Places You Have To See

13. Dinasty Monument

The Dinasty Monument can be found right in front of the main entrance of the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken . This beautiful monument is dedicated to the very first king of Belgium, Leopold I . It shows the King looking over to the Royal Castle, surrounded by nine columns, arranged in a circle. These columns represent the then existing 9 provinces of Belgium and each column holds a statue that embodies that province.

The Dinasty Monument is located at the Vorstenlaan and is a part of the park of Laeken. Make sure to visit this place at the end of March when the magnolia trees are in full bloom!

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

14. Chinese Pavillion and Japanese Tower

The Chinese Pavillion and Japanese Tower are both located at the edge of the royal estate and both of them were commissioned by Leopold II. Since 1946, the place has become an annex of the Royal Museums of Art and History where are exposed Chinese porcelain, furniture and tapestries dating from the 19th and early of the 20th century.  But due to architectural weaknesses the museums have been closed since 2013.

It is however still possible to visit the park surrounding both buildings!

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

15. Hallerbos Forest, one of the best places to visit in Brussels

The Hallerbos forest, also known as the bluebell forest, is one of the most magical places in Brussels. Once every year the forest transforms itself into a purple haze and the entire ground is covered with these pretty flowers.

Hallerbos Forest is located in Halle, South West from Brussels and can be easily reached by both car and bus. It’s free to visit and there are hikes especially dedicated to see as many bluebells as possible!

READ MY FULL GUIDE ON THE BLUEBELLS OF HALLERBOS, INCLUDING A LOT MORE DETAILS & PHOTOS –  HALLERBOS FOREST, A TRAVEL GUIDE TO THE BLUEBELL FOREST IN BELGIUM

best areas in brussels to visit

16. Gaasbeek Castle

Gaasbeek Castle was built in around 1240, during the middle ages. The Duke of Brabant created the “Land van Gaasbeek” (the country of Gaasbeek) in order to defend the Duchy of Brabant against the nearby counties of Flanders and Hainaut.

Gaasbeek Castle is surrounded by a huge park which is free to enter and definitely worth a visit! There is also a Museum Garden which will reopen on May 2021.

The park is open every day from 8am until 8pm (only 5pm until the end of March).

Across the street there is a spacious parking lot to leave your car.

16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

Where to stay in Brussels

The Hotel Brussels – Wake up with a view over the beautiful city of Brussels. The Hotel is a modern luxury hotel right next to all of the best luxury stores in Brussels and only 20 minutes walking from the Grand Place

best areas in brussels to visit

Warwick Brussels – Located only a short walk from the major sites in Brussels. On the hotel’s roof top terrace guests can enjoy the gorgeous open Brussels skyline and an unbeatable view of the Town Hall building.

best areas in brussels to visit

Vintage Hotel   – The most spectacular feature is an experience named ‘glamping’: a vintage Airstream Caravan from 1958 parked in a courtyard of the hotel. Here guests can relive a nostalgic experience with the bonus perks of modernity.

best areas in brussels to visit

Charlotte Lint is the founder of Charlies Wanderings. Charlotte has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing efficient travel guides and finding unique places to stay. Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

You’ll Also Love

best areas in brussels to visit

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

  • Free Resources
  • Privacy Policy

Charlies wanderings is a travel blog filled with unique adventures and wonderful storytelling through colorful photos and insightful travel guides.

COPYRIGHT © 2017 - 2022 CHARLIES WANDERINGS

All rights reserved. Photography and written content may not be reproduced without my permission.

Copyright © 2024 CHARLIES WANDERINGS Theme by 17th Avenue

Copyright © 2024 · Charlotte on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

Wandering Wheatleys - Logo

The 15 Best Things to do in Brussels, Belgium

Art aficionados, beer drinkers, comic book fans, and lovers of chocolate, moules-frites , and Belgian fries will find themselves right at home in the elegant and exciting Belgian capital. There are many incredible things to do in Brussels, and anyone planning a European vacation has to include the city on their itinerary. 

Brussels has a long history stretching back to medieval times, and you can start your journey at the Grand Place, where you’ll be surrounded by 17th-century guildhalls, the historic Hotel de Ville, and interesting museums where you can learn more about Belgian culture, history, and art. 

There’s Art Nouveau architecture to discover, historic churches to visit, and the futuristic Atomium building to explore. Then there are royal palaces, beer museums, fine Belgian restaurants, and who can forget the European Parliament, where you can see how Brussels became the European capital. 

With so many things to see, do, and eat, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Brussels for you. Tick off these fun and unique Brussels bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’re going to have an incredible time exploring the Belgian capital!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Brussels, Belgium

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to do in Brussels

1. explore centuries of history and culture at grand place.

Best Things to do in Brussels: Grand Place

If it’s your first time in Brussels, there’s no better place to start your sightseeing itinerary than the iconic, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grand Place . This is the historic center of the city’s Old Town, and you’ll love strolling through centuries of history and culture as you take in the sights, sounds, and attractions!

The Grand Place is home to a beautiful collection of buildings and architecture that’s spread around a large, central square. The square itself has been a marketplace since at least the 12th century (and likely much earlier), while much of the architecture you see dates back to the late 17th century. 

Unique Things to do in Brussels: Grand Place

You’ll enjoy the splendid Gothic and Baroque designs that surround the square. Delve a little deeper, and you’ll learn that the famous guildhalls and the Hotel de Ville (Town Hall) were all remarkably reconstructed in the wake of a French bombardment that reduced the city to rubble in 1695. The residents of Brussels rebuilt their city, and it rose from the ashes stronger, more vibrant, and eventually richer than ever before. 

The Hotel de Ville somehow survived the attack and is one of the few older buildings in the Grand Place. It dates back to the 15th century, and you can learn more about all this local history by visiting the Brussels City Museum , which is located in the King’s House, or by joining a walking tour of the city center. 

2. Search for the famed ‘Manneken Pis’ statue

Fun Things to do in Brussels: Manneken Pis

There’s no shortage of unique Brussels sightseeing attractions to visit, but one of the most popular is Manneken Pis , a tiny statue that’s somehow become one of the city’s most-visited spots.

Manneken Pis is a strange statue, and when you see it, you’ll wonder why it’s so popular. If you speak Dutch, you’ll know that the statue’s name literally means “Little Pissing Man” because it’s quite literally a statue placed on a fountain with a well-placed stream of water coming out of it!

Must do things in Brussels: Manneken Pis

The fountain where the statue is found was for a long time one of the city’s most important water sources, with references to it dating back to the 15th century. The statue was first built in 1618, although the one you see today is a replica. 

Students would frequently attempt to steal the statue, so the authorities decided it was best kept in the City Museum, just around the corner in Grand Place.

Manneken Pis is certainly an unusual attraction, but given its long history, it’s part of the quirkier soul of Brussels. If it weren’t for the tourists taking photos, you would struggle to even find it!

3. Sample Belgian beers in Brussels

What to do in Brussels: Belgian beers

If you love an excellent beer, you chose the right country for vacation because the bars and breweries of Brussels are overflowing with quality beverages. 

You’ll have endless beer choices in any bar, but to really learn more, we suggest either joining a craft brewery tour or visiting one of the many beer museums in the city (where tastings are a must!). 

Best Things to do in Brussels: Belgian beers

The most popular is the Cantillon Brewery and Museum , which was first established in 1900 and has since become a Brussels legend. 

The Schaerbeek Beer Museum offers a more intimate insight into Belgian brewing history. It’s a museum started off the back of one person’s personal collection of 300 different beers! After that, head over to the Museum of the Belgian Brewers for another look at all things beer. 

Book a Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

4. Explore the futuristic Atomium

Fun Things to do in Brussels: Atomium

The number one tourist attraction in Brussels isn’t an art gallery, a museum, or even a Belgian craft brewery; it’s a strangely futuristic building that was built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair. 

You’ll find Atomium in the northern suburb of Laeken, in the large public park where the fair was held over 60 years ago. At the time, Atomium’s unusually sleek design represented the future. And although it spent many years slowly falling apart in the park, it was renovated in the 2000s. After the renovation, it reopened to great fanfare, and today it’s been revitalized as an enduring symbol of the past, present, and future of Brussels.

Unique Things to do in Brussels: Atomium

Atomium consists of multiple spherical platforms (atom-like in shape) that stand over 100 meters tall. On the bottom floor (the bottom sphere, we should say) of this unique building, you can learn about the history of the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair. 

The second, third, fourth, and fifth spheres all hold ever-changing art galleries and exhibitions that provide a showcase for local and international projects. The sixth and final sphere is where you can find a restaurant and spectacular panoramic viewing gallery offering unbeatable vistas over the surrounding park and suburbs.  

Get your Atomium and Design Museum Ticket

5. Learn about the European Union at the Parlamentarium

Must do things in Brussels: European Union at the Parlamentarium

A visit to the fascinating Parlamentarium is one of the best things to do in Brussels. Because if you know even a little about European politics, you might know that Brussels is home to the European Parliament. 

The EU Parliament is one of Europe’s most important organizations, with members democratically voted in from each of the constituent EU member states. The EU parliament makes decisions, debates motions, and passes laws and legislations that have far-reaching effects – and you can learn all about it at the Parlamentarium visitors center! 

What to do in Brussels: European Union at the Parlamentarium

Parlamentarium is a unique exhibition that provides you with an in-depth but easy-to-understand breakdown of European history. You’ll learn the circumstances and events that brought about the desire and need for a unified Europe, particularly after the Second World War. And you’ll also learn how the union has expanded in recent decades.

The story of Europe is told through videos, galleries, and exhibitions. Along the way, you’ll learn about the work the EU does today and how it can make a difference to the lives of ordinary Europeans. Parlamentarium is located within the aptly named European Quarter, where you can also see many of the EU’s Brussels-based offices, ministries, and institutions. 

6. Explore Europe in miniature at Mini-Europe

Best Things to do in Brussels: Miniature at Mini-Europe

Head to Laeken in the north of Brussels, and you can visit one of the city’s quirkiest attractions. Mini-Europe offers visitors the chance to explore Europe in miniature, with a vast park dedicated to miniature versions of European landmarks. 

There are over 350 different mini attractions within the park. You’ll find the famous replicas of iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben, as well as explosive dioramas of Vesuvius. 

Cool Things to do in Brussels: Miniature at Mini-Europe

Everything is built to a scale of 1:25, and you’ll marvel at the detail of the dioramas and figurines found across Mini-Europe. Although it’s mini in character, the park is vast in ambition, and you’ll need at least two hours to truly explore. 

Get your Mini-Europe ticket

7. Explore the museums and monuments at Cinquantenaire Park

Unique Things to do in Brussels: Cinquantenaire Park

Escape the bustle of Brussels by visiting the pleasant surroundings of Cinquantenaire Park, a public park that first opened in 1880 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Belgian Revolution and the formation of the modern country. 

The park was designed to not only be a public space but to hold epic monuments and memorials. You can’t miss the lavish Cinqueantenaire Arch, which took decades to build and stands tall in the center of the park. Around the arch, you’ll find landscaped gardens and water features, making this a wonderful place for a morning or afternoon stroll. 

Brussels Bucket List: Cinquantenaire Park

Intriguingly, many of the public buildings built here for later expos and fairs are now home to some of the best museums in Brussels. If you’re interested in military history, head to the Military Museum. Here you’ll learn about Belgium ’s role in conflicts, with particular attention paid to the Great War of 1914-18, in which the nation was swept up. 

At the Art and History Museum , you’ll find a unique selection of historical exhibitions from prehistory to the modern era. There are art and history exhibitions here, and you can learn about the ancient world of the Egyptians and Romans, as well as medieval and contemporary art. 

The third museum in the park is Autoworld . This museum holds one of the largest collections of automobiles in the world, and you’ll be able to peruse classic cars dating back to the earliest years of motoring in the 19th century, as well as modern supercars and royal limousines.

8. Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Brussels Things to do: Royal Museums of Fine Arts

Visit Brussels, and art lovers will find themselves in one of the most art-loving cities in the world. There are galleries and art museums seemingly on every corner, but the most revered institution in the city is the Royal Museums of Fine Arts Belgium . 

Yes, that’s museums , plural – because this prestigious fine arts collection is so enormous, they need a total of six separate museums to even begin displaying all the art! The vast number of works in the collection numbers around some 20,000 pieces – ranging from medieval masterpieces to contemporary modern art. 

Must do things in Brussels: Royal Museums of Fine Arts

The focus, of course, is on fine arts, and if you have time to visit all six museums during your stay, you’ll see how the interpretation and impression of this genre have changed over the last 500 or so years. 

Start at the Old Masters Museum, where you’ll see the best Flemish paintings from the middle ages on display. The Modern Museum offers a more contemporary exhibition. You’ll love the contrasts between the two (if you can only visit two, as they are all in different locations, then we recommend these two first). 

The remaining four museums in the collection are devoted to more specific painters, sculptors, artists, and genres – including the Wiertz Museum, the Meunier Museum, the Magritte Museum, and the Fin-de-Siecle Museum. Each of these museums offers a targeted insight into the past, present, and future of Belgian fine arts. 

9. Join an Art Nouveau Walking Tour

Best Things to do in Brussels: Horta Museum

Exploring Brussels, you might start to realize that the city has a particularly unique architectural style in certain districts. This is Art Nouveau, of which there are hundreds of examples across the capital.

Art Nouveau rose to prominence as an extravagant style in the 1890s, and Brussels was one of the cities to fervently adopt the new designs. Art Nouveau was unique in that it went against previous, rigid forms of design that Europe had seen in centuries past. Instead of looking to religion and conformity, Art Nouveau instead looked to nature and the unusual. 

Cool Things to do in Brussels: Horta Museum

Today, you can learn more by visiting the Horta Museum , which is dedicated to Art Nouveau pioneer Victor Horta. To really understand more about the style and just how much of an effect it has had on the built environment of Brussels, we recommend joining an Art Nouveau walking tour of the city. These tend to focus on the Saint-Gilles area, where the highest concentration of Art Nouveau is waiting to be found. 

10. Take a chocolate tour of Brussels

Best Things to do in Brussels: Chocolate Tour

Belgium is a nation of chocoholics, and some of the world’s finest and most prestigious chocolate brands have a long history in the country. 

As the nation’s capital, much of the chocolatey action goes down in Brussels, where there are countless chocolate shops (both family-run businesses and internationally-known brands) serving up everything from milk chocolate to praline. 

Unique Things to do in Brussels: Chocolate Tour

With so much choice, you might not know where to begin your chocolate adventure. With that in mind, one of the most fun things to do in Brussels is a chocolate tour! You’ll learn the origins of chocolate, including how the Aztecs enjoyed brewing cacao into a hot drink long before Europeans began turning cacao into chocolate bars in the mid-19th century. 

Tours will vary in length, and the number of shops visited, but they are a great way to explore Brussels and enjoy lots of tasty treats. If you’d rather explore on your own, we recommend at the very least visiting the following chocolate shops: Neuhaus , Galler , and Mary . These are the oldest and best chocolate shops in Brussels, with Neuhaus dating back to 1857!

You can also visit Godiva , one of the biggest chocolate brands in Brussels. To learn how to actually make chocolate, then you’ll want to visit the Choco-Story . This is part museum and part kitchen, where you can book chocolate-making workshops run for small groups. 

Book a Guided Brussels Chocolate Tasting Tour

11. Nerd out at the Belgian Comic Strip Center

Fun Things to do in Brussels: Belgian Comic Strip Center

The Belgians have an affinity for comic books, and some of the world’s most timeless comic book characters originated here (or just over the border in France, too). You can delve into the fascinating world of comics and rediscover your inner child with a trip to the Belgian Comic Strip Center . 

Visiting this colorful, quirky, and fun museum is one of the most unique things to do in Brussels, and we know you’re going to love exploring tales of famous comics and characters like Tintin and the Smurfs. In fact, Belgium has at least 700 official comic book writers, so we expect you’ll be introduced to many more comics you might never have heard of. 

Brussels Bucket List: Belgian Comic Strip Center

The Belgian Comic Strip Center is located in a beautifully well-preserved Art Nouveau building just a short walk away from the Grand Place. Inside you’ll find exhibitions exploring different comics and their authors. The fun doesn’t end with the museum, either, because Brussels is a city that’s dedicated to its love of comic books. 

Across the city, you’ll find many famous comic strip locations that inspired authors, as well as a wonderful selection of murals depicting characters and scenes from comic books. You can find many of these by yourself. But the Belgian Comic Strip Center also runs guided tours along the Comic Book Route, which offer visitors an alternative way to experience Brussels. 

12. Feel like royalty with a visit to Belgium’s Royal Palace

Fun Things to do in Brussels: Belgium’s Royal Palace

One of the most regal and impressive places to visit in Brussels is the Royal Palace , a magnificent building you can find towering over Brussels Park. 

This is one of many royal palaces in Brussels, and despite being arguably the most impressive, the royal family spends very little time here. They prefer their residence in the north of Brussels, but if you do see the Royal Palace Guard outside, it means someone royal is at home. 

Must do things in Brussels: Belgium’s Royal Palace

The palace dates back to the late 18th century. It stands on the site of another palace that was destroyed previously, and once work commenced, successive kings and queens added their own touches to the residence. The palace is closed to the public for much of the year, although it’s well worth visiting the site and the adjacent Brussels Park anyway. 

If you’re in Belgium in the summer, it’s traditional for the King of Belgium to open the doors for public tours (he doesn’t lead the tours!) between July and August. 

13. Be awed by Notre Dame du Sablon

Best Things to do in Brussels: Notre Dame du Sablon

Brussels has its own Notre Dame, a local church that’s bound to awe with its beautiful architecture and unique history. 

You’ll find Notre Dame du Sablon (a church dedicated to Our Blessed Lady of Sablon) on Rue de la Régence, and you’ll instantly fall in love with the magnificent Brabantine Gothic facade that the church is famed for. 

Brussels Things to do: Notre Dame du Sablon

The church can trace its origins back to the 13th century, making this one of the oldest buildings in Brussels. It was originally gifted to the Crossbowmen’s Guild by Henry I, who was the Duke of Brabant. 

It was extended over the years, with the main elements you see today being built in the 15th century and with Neo-Gothic elements then added several hundred years later in the 18th and 19th centuries. 

14. Revel in festive cheer at a Brussels Christmas market

Cool Things to do in Brussels: Christmas market

Christmas is one of the best times of year to visit Brussels, and you’ll love how the city’s streets and squares are filled with markets and Christmas cheer! 

Brussels isn’t as well known for its Christmas markets as other European cities (we’re looking at you, Germany) but trust us, these aren’t markets to miss. The markets open on the last Friday in November, and they’ll stay open until January 1, meaning you can ring in the New Year here too. 

Fun Things to do in Brussels: Christmas market

You’ll find small markets all over the city, but the center of the Christmas activity is always the Grand Place (where else in Brussels?), where you’ll find market stalls, carol singing, and lots of festive food and drink. 

Book a Private Christmas Market Guided Tour

15. Dine on moules-frites and Belgian fries

What to do in Brussels: Moules-frites and Belgian fries

When in Brussels, you have to try the local specialties (chocolate aside!), which include the two classic Belgian dishes moules-frites and Belgian fries. 

Moules-frites is best described as the Belgian national dish, and it consists of mussels served with frites (or fries). The mussels are often cooked in a broth or sauce and best washed down with a Belgian beer. For some of the best moules-frites in Brussels, head over to Chez Léon . This place is super popular, so be prepared for a wait! 

Brussels Bucket List: Moules-frites and Belgian fries

Belgian fries are exactly what you think they are. These are thickly-cut potatoes that are fried twice and served up as a snack or side and covered in liberal quantities of sauce (especially mayonnaise). 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Brussels. What’s your favorite thing to do in Brussels?

Planning a trip to Belgium? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Frequently Asked Questions

If it’s your first time in Brussels, there’s no better place to start your sightseeing itinerary than the iconic, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grand Place. This is the historic center of the city’s Old Town, and you’ll love strolling through centuries of history and culture as you take in the sights, sounds, and attractions!

If you love an excellent beer, you chose the right country for vacation because the bars and breweries of Brussels are overflowing with quality beverages. You’ll have endless beer choices in any bar, but to really learn more, we suggest either joining a craft brewery tour or visiting one of the many beer museums in the city (where tastings are a must!). The most popular is the Cantillon Brewery and Museum, which was first established in 1900 and has since become a Brussels legend.

The number one tourist attraction in Brussels isn’t an art gallery, a museum, or even a Belgian craft brewery; it’s a strangely futuristic building that was built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair. You’ll find Atomium in the northern suburb of Laeken, in the large public park where the fair was held over 60 years ago. Atomium consists of multiple spherical platforms (atom-like in shape) that stand over 100 meters tall. On the bottom floor (the bottom sphere, we should say) of this unique building, you can learn about the history of the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair.

Visit Brussels, and art lovers will find themselves in one of the most art-loving cities in the world. There are galleries and art museums seemingly on every corner, but the most revered institution in the city is the Royal Museums of Fine Arts Belgium. Yes, that’s museums, plural – because this prestigious fine arts collection is so enormous, they need a total of six separate museums to even begin displaying all the art!

When in Brussels, you have to try the local specialties (chocolate aside!), which include the two classic Belgian dishes moules-frites and Belgian fries. Moules-frites is best described as the Belgian national dish, and it consists of mussels served with frites (or fries). Belgian fries are exactly what you think they are. These are thickly-cut potatoes that are fried twice and served up as a snack or side and covered in liberal quantities of sauce (especially mayonnaise).

One of the most regal and impressive places to visit in Brussels is the Royal Palace, a magnificent building you can find towering over Brussels Park. The palace dates back to the late 18th century. It stands on the site of another palace that was destroyed previously, and once work commenced, successive kings and queens added their own touches to the residence. The palace is closed to the public for much of the year, although it’s well worth visiting the site and the adjacent Brussels Park anyway.

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

Best Things to do in Brussels

About the Author:

Richard Collett

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

View all posts

Related Posts

The Best Things to do in Majorca, Spain

The 15 Best Things to do in Majorca, Spain

The Best Boutique Hotels in Riga, Latvia

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Riga, Latvia

The Best Boutique Hotels in Vienna, Austria

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Vienna

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Crazy Tourist

Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium)

15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium)

The capital of Belgium , Brussels, is a fascinating place with stunning architecture and fascinating history packed into every street and alleyway. The vibe of the city is hard to put your finger on. Sometimes it seems very business and bureaucracy focused, it is after all the administerial centre of the EU, but at other times it feels laid back and does not take itself too seriously: think Manneken Pis and The Comic Strip Centre.

It is this multi-layered atmosphere that makes Brussels such a great city to visit. It truly has something for everyone and offers European staples such as art and architecture alongside more unusual attractions. Don’t visit Brussels if you are on a diet as the fries, mussels and beer will soon have you indulging.

Spending just a couple of days in the city will allow you to see all of the major and most popular sights but if you are here for a week, you will be able to visit some more obscure, but equally fascinating attractions. Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Brussels:

1. Be Inspired by the Grand Place

Grand Place, Brussels

The Grand Place in Brussels is hidden away in the centre of the city but when you enter on foot, you are guaranteed to be left awestruck.

At the centre of the Grand Place is the beautiful 15th Century city hall but dotted around the square you will also be impressed by the six guild halls and their striking architecture.

The square is worth visiting several times at different times of the day. On certain days there is a flower market in the square and visiting at night is recommended.

2. Step back in time at the Old England Building

Old England Building

The Old England Building in Brussels was formerly a department store and was built in the very last year of the 19th Century.

The building attracts visitors because of its stunning facade but also due to the fascinating and vast musical museum it houses. The museum is home to more than 2000 musical instruments with historic value and gives guests a chance to listen to many of them.

The cafe on the roof of the building provides memorable panoramic views of the city.

3. Visit Brussel’s Notre Dame Du Sablon

Notre Dame Du Sablon

This spectacular Gothic cathedral began life in the 14th Century when it was used as a chapel by the Archer’s Guild.

It was extensively expanded in the next century to the popularity and supposed healing powers of the Madonna statue located within. The statue was allegedly stolen by a husband and wife team of thieves in a rowing boat.

The location of the statue is unknown but the story is commemorated by a lifesize model inside the building.

4. Learn about lace in the Costume Museum

Museum of Costume & Lace

Lace is one of Brussels’ oldest crafts and the art of needlepoint lace, which was first developed in Italy, was one of the main industries in Brussels.

The museum details of lace outfits were made as well as displaying many historical outfits.

The exhibitions are ever changing but are always well presented.

5. Admire Le Botanique

Le Botanique

Le Botanique was historically the botanical gardens of the city and still attracts a large number of guests in the modern day. The greenhouse, which dates back to the 19th Century, now regularly plays host to a range of performing arts and makes the place feel like more of a cultural centre than just a garden.

However if you are into greenery then the surrounding gardens are still intact and present in all their glory, and make for a welcoming change of pace from the city itself.

Ps: Le Botanique is included in the Brussels Bard which you can get here .

6. See the Palais Royal

Palais Royal, Brussels

Although the royal family of Belgium now spend their lives at Laeken, the Royal Palace in Brussels remains as their official residence.

The palace is open for tourists in the summer months and makes a worthy addition to any itinerary whilst visiting the city. The most notable room in the palace has a ceiling covered in the wings of beetles, forming an oddly beautiful mosaic.

The artwork as well as the interior decor is also as splendid as you might expect from a royal palace.

7. Laugh at the Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis

This odd statue has risen to fame and is a popular tourist attraction in the city. The name simply translates to “little man pee” and it has been given this name for obvious reasons.

The statue takes a little bit of skill in hunting down (unless you see it as part of a tour) but it is worth persevering. You will find it by taking the right lane away from the town hall.

The statue is thought to date back to the early 17th Century when it was designed by Jerome Duquesnoy.

8. Get your fill of art at the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts

Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts

If you are craving some top notch art (and you should be when in a European Capital) then look no further than the Musee Royaux Beaux Arts.

The museum incorporates collections of modern and ancient art across a range of styles. Famous works at the museum include the Fall of Icarus and various paintings by the Antwerpen painter Peter Rubens. There are also works by Anthony Van Dyke and Hans Memling on display.

Allow close to a full day to be able to fully appreciate the museum.

9. Relax in the Parc Du Cinquantenaire

Parc Du Cinquantenaire

The Parc Du Cinquantenaire has been around since the reign of Leopold II.

It is a great place to visit for a number of reasons, whether you plan on having a picnic on the grass whilst absorbing the stunning architecture, or whether you intend to appreciate the vast collection of 35,000 artifacts housed in the museums here, a trip to the Parc Du Cinquantenaire should be part of any trip to Brussels.

10. Enjoy a beer tour of Brussels

Beer Tasting in Brussels

Belgians are very proud of their beer and it has played an important role throughout the history of the city.

Tours are available that allow beer aficionados to experience the best pubs in the city as well as learning about the history of the beer and seeing how it is made in one of the city’s breweries. Whether or not you are a beer fan, this tour is worth considering due to the pride and historical value associated with beer in the city.

Tip: check out this Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

11. Appreciate the lesser known history of Brussels

Belgian Comic Strip Centre

It is not widely known or as appreciated by tourists as other aspects of Brussels history but the city is actually known for its comic book history.

The city has a museum which is dedicated to comics; The Belgian Comic Strip Centre but aside from that, you will also get a feel of how important comics are to the city when you gaze up at larger than life comic book murals on the side of building walls.

Hunting these murals down is an exciting way to get around the city too.

12. See and be seen at Cafe Belga

Cafe Belga

Something of an institution in the city of Brussels, the Cafe Belga is hugely popular with locals, expats and tourists alike.

Located at the heart of Place Flagey (which is itself somewhat of a cultural mixing pot), the Cafe has great views, a buzzing atmosphere and great, affordable Belgian cafe food. The cafe gets busy in the summer but this is part of its charm.

Whilst you are in the area, Frit Flagey is well worth visiting and serves some of the best fries in the city.

13. Enjoy the nightlife

Nightlife in Brussels

The nightlife of Brussels is varied and entertaining and has something to suit all tastes and budgets. One of the most worthwhile nights out is Madame Mustache, a club with waiters clad in sailors attire that plays a variety of different music.

Entry is free on weeknights but not weekends (it is also busier at the weekend). Dancing is the best way to enjoy your night here but if that is not to your liking there is always a table football room on offer.

There’s also a 4-Hour Locals Pub and Club Crawl which you can book here .

14. Learn about the city in the Broodhuis

Broodhuis

The Flemish name of this building translates to “The Bread House” due to the many centuries that the city’s bread market was held here.

Fittingly, the building is now home to a museum focusing on the history of the city of Brussels. The exhibitions range from the middle ages to the present day and are set over multiple floors.

If you had chance to visit the Manneken Pis, then you may be interested to see his costumes which are on display here.

15. Marvel at the Atomium

View from the Atomium

The Atomium, located in Heysel Park in the West of the city, is a jaw dropping model of an atom which just happens to be a whopping 100 metres tall.

The sculpture was made in 1958 to welcome a new and atomic age to Belgium and is an accurate depiction of an iron molecule except that it is about 165 billion times larger! The glass roofed lift takes guests to the top in a time of only 20 seconds, there they can enjoy a beer and snack before descending.

Admission ticket can be booked here .

15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium):

  • Be Inspired by the Grand Place
  • Step back in time at the Old England Building
  • Visit Brussel's Notre Dame Du Sablon
  • Learn about lace in the Costume Museum
  • Admire Le Botanique
  • See the Palais Royal
  • Laugh at the Manneken Pis
  • Get your fill of art at the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts
  • Relax in the Parc Du Cinquantenaire
  • Enjoy a beer tour of Brussels
  • Appreciate the lesser known history of Brussels
  • See and be seen at Cafe Belga
  • Enjoy the nightlife
  • Learn about the city in the Broodhuis
  • Marvel at the Atomium

thecoolexplorer.com

15 Best Places To Visit In Brussels

Are you ready to discover the heart and soul of Belgium? Brussels, the capital city, is a vibrant European metropolis brimming with history, culture, and delicious cuisine. And we are going to list down the 15 best places to visit in Brussels.

Imagine wandering through streets filled with Gothic architecture, indulging in rich chocolate truffles, and sipping on strong Belgian beer. It’s like stepping into a real-life fairytale.

But where do you start when there are so many incredible places to visit in Brussels? Let us guide you through the top 15 must-see attractions that will leave you awe-inspired and wanting more.

From the iconic Grand Place to the impressive Atomium structure, we have curated a list that showcases both the traditional and modern sides of this beautiful city .

So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!

15 Must-See Attractions

If you don’t go see the iconic Atomium and indulge in some classic waffle treats, you might as well stay at home with a can of Spam. The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most recognizable landmarks and offers stunning panoramic views from its observation deck. Once you’re done admiring the view, be sure to head back down for some delicious Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. These sweet treats are a must-try when visiting Belgium.

When it comes to experiencing local culture, Brussels has plenty to offer. One hidden gem worth checking out is the Saint-Géry district, which is known for its lively nightlife scene and unique architecture. You’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants here where you can enjoy a night out on the town while immersing yourself in the local culture.

For those who love shopping, there’s no shortage of options in Brussels. The city is home to several shopping districts, including Rue Neuve, which features a mix of high-end designer stores and affordable fashion boutiques. You’ll also find plenty of specialty shops selling everything from chocolate and beer to handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Now that you’ve explored some of Brussels’ best food, local culture, hidden gems, nightlife scene, and shopping districts, let’s move on to another must-visit spot: Grand Place. This historic square is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful public spaces thanks to its ornate Gothic architecture and impressive collection of 17th-century buildings.

Grand Place

You can’t miss the stunning Grand Place, a must-see destination in Brussels. This historic square is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe. The buildings surrounding the square date back to the 17th century and feature intricate details and stunning facades.

best areas in brussels to visit

The best time to visit Grand Place is in the evening when it’s lit up with lights, creating a magical atmosphere. If you’re hungry or thirsty, there are plenty of food and drink options available at one of the many cafes or restaurants that line the square. You can try traditional Belgian waffles or chocolate while taking in the sights and sounds of this bustling area.

If you want to learn more about Grand Place’s history and architecture, consider taking a guided tour. There are multiple tours available that will give you a deeper understanding of this iconic location. Plus, there are several nearby attractions such as the Manneken Pis statue and Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral that are worth checking out too.

As you leave Grand Place behind, make your way towards Atomium for an unforgettable experience at another one of Brussels’ top attractions.

After admiring the beauty of Grand Place, head over to Atomium for a unique and unforgettable experience in Brussels.

best areas in brussels to visit

This architectural marvel is a must-visit attraction that stands 102 meters tall and was built for the 1958 World Expo. The nine steel spheres are connected by escalators and offer stunning panoramic views of Brussels from different vantage points. The Atomium also features a viewpoint attraction where visitors can see the exhibition spaces that showcase various scientific discoveries and innovations.

One of its most impressive features is the light show that illuminates the spheres at night, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Additionally, if you’re feeling hungry after exploring all that Atomium has to offer, there’s even a restaurant inside one of its spheres where you can enjoy delicious Belgian cuisine.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Brussels during special events like New Year’s Eve or National Day, then make sure to check out how the Atomium celebrates. With fireworks displays and other festivities taking place around this iconic landmark, it’s truly an unforgettable sight to behold.

The price of the Atomium ticket includes:

  • the entire visit to the Atomium, including the permanent exhibition, the temporary exhibition, and the panorama.
  • the entire visit to Design Museum Brussels (150m from the Atomium), including the permanent exhibition [The plastic design collection] and the temporary exhibitions.

INDIVIDUAL [<20 people]

  • Senior [≥65]: €14
  • Adult [18-64]: €16
  • Child [>115cm-17]: €8,50
  • Child [≤115cm]: €0
  • Student [with card (international)]: €8,50
  • A person with a disability: €8,50

After experiencing all that Atomium has to offer, don’t miss out on seeing another famous Brussels attraction – Manneken Pis!

Manneken Pis

Now, let’s talk about the quirky and beloved statue of Manneken Pis in Brussels. This iconic statue depicts a little boy peeing into a fountain and is considered one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

best areas in brussels to visit

The history and legend surrounding Manneken Pis are shrouded in mystery, but it’s believed to have been created in the early 17th century.

One interesting fact about Manneken Pis is that it has a costume tradition. The statue is often dressed up in various outfits depending on the occasion or event that’s taking place in Brussels. These costumes range from traditional Belgian attire to superhero costumes, making for some truly unique photo opportunities.

Manneken Pis is not only a popular public art piece, but it also serves as an important symbol of Brussels’ cultural heritage. Tourists from all over the world come to see this iconic statue and take home tourist souvenirs such as miniature replicas or postcards featuring its likeness.

Now that you know more about Manneken Pis, let’s move on to our next destination: The Royal Palace of Brussels!

Royal Palace of Brussels

As you approach the Royal Palace of Brussels, you cannot ignore the grandeur of its architecture and historical significance. This magnificent palace is the official residence of Belgium’s royal family and is situated in the heart of Brussels.

best areas in brussels to visit

Visiting the Royal Palace is unarguably one of the best places in Brussels to get an experience like no other. It provides a glimpse into Belgium’s rich history and culture. The palace houses numerous rooms that are open to visitors, including a throne room, mirror room, and various galleries displaying works of art. The palace gardens are also open to visitors during certain times of the year. The gardens are impeccably designed with beautifully manicured lawns, fountains, statues, and flowers.

The best time to visit the Royal Palace would be during summer when it is open to visitors for free. Guided tours are also available for those who want a more immersive experience. These tours provide insightful information about the history of this magnificent building and its connection to Belgium’s monarchy.

After exploring this historical gem, head over to the Belgian Comic Strip Center just a few blocks away.

Belgian Comic Strip Center

If you’re a fan of comics, you’ll love the Belgian Comic Strip Center located just a few blocks away from the Royal Palace in Brussels.

best areas in brussels to visit

This museum celebrates the rich history and influence of Belgian comic strip art, which has been a beloved art form in Belgium since the early 20th century.

The center is housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building that was designed by Victor Horta, one of Brussels’ most famous architects.

Inside the museum, visitors can explore exhibitions and events dedicated to some of Belgium’s most famous comic strip artists like Hergé (creator of Tintin), Peyo (creator of The Smurfs), and Franquin (creator of Gaston Lagaffe).

You can also enjoy interactive experiences that allow you to learn about various aspects of comic strip creation such as writing, drawing, and coloring.

The center even offers workshops for those who want to try their hand at creating their own comics.

As you exit the museum, head towards the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula where breathtaking Gothic architecture awaits you.

Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

best areas in brussels to visit

Located just a short walk from the Belgian Comic Strip Center, you can admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. This cathedral is one of the most significant landmarks in Brussels due to its historical and cultural significance.

It was constructed in the 13th century and has been renovated several times over the centuries. The architectural beauty of this cathedral is truly captivating with its intricate details, tall spires, and stained glass windows that allow beautiful light to shine through.

Inside, visitors can view religious artifacts like paintings, sculptures, and tapestries that date back to various periods in history. The cathedral also plays an important role in local traditions such as hosting royal weddings and funerals.

The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is a must-see when visiting Brussels due to its rich history, breathtaking architecture, religious artifacts, cultural significance, and important role in local traditions.

After exploring this magnificent landmark, head over to Mini-Europe where you can see miniature versions of famous European landmarks from across the continent without leaving Brussels behind!

Mini Europe

Get ready to experience Europe in a unique way with Mini Europe, one of the best family-friendly attractions in Brussels.

Mini Europe is one of the best places to visit In Brussels.

This interactive exhibit showcases miniature replicas of famous European landmarks from across the continent. From the Eiffel Tower to the Colosseum and even Big Ben, you’ll feel like you’re traveling across Europe without leaving Brussels.

But Mini Europe isn’t just a fun and entertaining attraction – it’s also an educational experience for visitors of all ages. Each miniature replica is accompanied by informative plaques that provide background information on each landmark’s history and significance. It’s a great way to learn about different cultures and architectural styles while having fun at the same time.

After exploring Mini Europe, head over to Parc du Cinquantenaire – just a short walk away – where you can continue your journey through European history.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

You’ll definitely want to stroll through Parc du Cinquantenaire, which is just a short walk away from Mini Europe, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Europe. Built for the 1880 National Exhibition, this park boasts stunning architecture and fountains, making it an ideal spot for picnics or simply taking a leisurely walk.

Parc du Cinquantenaire is one of the best places to visit in Brussels

The centerpiece of the park is the triumphal arch which dates back to 1905. If you’re interested in learning more about the history behind this magnificent park, take one of their history tours. You can learn about the original purpose of the exhibition and how it shaped Belgium’s identity as a nation.

There are also several landmarks nearby that are worth checking out such as Autoworld Museum and Royal Military Museum. Throughout the year there are various events held at Parc du Cinquantenaire that celebrate local culture such as food festivals and concerts. So make sure to check if anything is happening during your visit!

Overall, this park is perfect for those who appreciate architecture and want to explore Brussels’ rich history. Once you’ve finished exploring Parc du Cinquantenaire, head over to our next destination – Brussels City Museum where you can learn even more about this fascinating city!

Brussels City Museum

Ready to dive deeper into Brussels’ history? Then don’t miss Brussels City Museum ! This museum houses a collection of interactive exhibits and artifacts that showcase the city’s evolution from its humble beginnings to a bustling metropolis.

best areas in brussels to visit

One of the highlights of the museum is its artifacts collection. Here you’ll find everything from medieval swords and armor to 18th-century paintings and sculptures. Each piece has been carefully curated and provides insights into Brussels’ past, highlighting how it has developed over time.

Additionally, the architectural design of the building itself is impressive – featuring Gothic-style arches and vaulted ceilings. To make your visit even more enjoyable, guided tours are available with knowledgeable staff who can answer any questions you may have. They will take you through each section of the museum, providing detailed explanations about all the exhibits on display.

Overall, this museum is an excellent way to learn more about Brussels’ fascinating history. As you leave Brussels City Museum feeling enriched by all that you’ve learned, head next door to explore another unique attraction: The Musical Instruments Museum.

Musical Instruments Museum

Hold onto your hats, because the Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels is going to blow your mind with its collection of over 8,000 instruments from all around the world!

Musical Instruments Museum

The museum is housed in a beautifully restored Art Nouveau building that alone is worth the visit. But once you enter, you’ll be transported into a world of musical history that will leave you awestruck.

The museum not only displays rare instruments but also offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to play some of them. You can even rent an audio guide to learn more about each instrument’s unique sounds and origins.

If you’re lucky, you might catch one of their instrument workshops where musicians come to demonstrate how they are played.

Once you’ve explored the Musical Instruments Museum’s wonders, head over to Autoworld just down the road for another exciting adventure.

After immersing yourself in musical history at the Musical Instruments Museum, Autoworld is just a short walk away and offers a fascinating look at the evolution of automobiles.

Best places to visit in Brussels: Autoworld

As you enter the museum, you’ll be greeted by vintage cars that date back to the 19th century. The collection includes more than 250 vehicles that showcase automotive history from different eras.

Automobile enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the classic car exhibitions that feature brands such as Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Bugatti. You can learn about car restoration techniques as well as discover how cars have become an integral part of society throughout the years.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on various themes related to automobiles.

As you leave Autoworld and make your way to Palais de Justice, take a moment to appreciate how far transportation has come since its inception. From horse-drawn carriages to modern-day supercars, Autoworld provides insight into how technology has shaped our world through the automobile industry.

Palais de Justice

If you’re looking to explore the historical significance of Brussels, then the Palais de Justice is a must-visit. This architectural marvel, standing tall on a hill overlooking the city, has been an integral part of Belgium’s legal system since its construction in the late 19th century.

Apart from its role as a courthouse, this iconic landmark also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Brussels. Climb up to the dome at the top for an unforgettable view that stretches as far as Atomium and beyond.

The Palais de Justice may not be at the top of most tourist maps, but it’s well worth taking time out of your schedule to visit. Whether you want to learn more about Belgium’s legal system or simply marvel at one of Brussels’ most impressive buildings, make sure you add Palais de Justice to your itinerary.

And with its central location just minutes away from other popular attractions like Sablon and Grand Place, it won’t take long before you find yourself immersed in the heart of Brussels’ rich history.

Speaking of which, next up on our list is another iconic landmark – the Basilica of the Sacred Heart!

Basilica of the Sacred Heart

As you approach the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, your eyes will be drawn to its towering presence like a beacon in the Brussels skyline. This magnificent basilica is an architectural marvel that boasts a unique blend of Art Deco and Neo-Gothic styles.

It was built in the early 20th century to commemorate King Leopold II’s golden jubilee as well as to serve as a symbol of Belgium’s devotion to Christianity. The history and religious significance of this stunning structure are awe-inspiring.

The Basilica has been an integral part of Belgian culture since its construction, drawing pilgrims from all over Europe who come to pay homage to Saint Hubertus, the patron saint of hunters. Its stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings add another layer of beauty and mystery, making it one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks.

Apart from its remarkable architecture and historical importance, the Basilica also offers visitors a breathtaking viewpoint over Brussels City. You can take an elevator up to the dome for panoramic views over the city or climb up 52 meters on foot for even more spectacular vistas.

The view from atop this beautiful building is simply unmatched – you can see all across Brussels and even catch a glimpse of some surrounding villages. With such rich art and design elements coupled with a fascinating history and religious significance, visiting The Basilica Of The Sacred Heart should be on every traveler’s bucket list while exploring Brussels.

Now that you have soaked up all this great information about one landmark site in Brussels, why not head out for some fresh air at one of their parks?

Brussels Park

To fully immerse yourself in Brussels’ beauty and leisure, you should take a stroll through Brussels Park. This park is one of the most popular destinations in the city and for good reason.

Not only does it boast beautiful scenery and relaxing spots, but it also has a rich historical significance. As you walk through Brussels Park, you’ll notice plenty of picnic areas where you can stop and enjoy a meal with friends or family.

The lush greenery provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon spent outdoors. But that’s not all – if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife during your visit! Keep an eye out for squirrels, ducks, and other critters as they go about their day. For those who prefer to stay active while enjoying nature, there are plenty of outdoor activities available at Brussels Park.

You can take a jog around the park’s perimeter or rent a bike to explore the area on two wheels. There are also tennis courts and basketball hoops available for those looking to work up a sweat. No matter what your preferred activity may be, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful park in the heart of Brussels.

So, you’ve now come to the end of this article and hopefully have a better idea of where to visit in Brussels. Don’t forget that there are many more places to explore and experience than just these 15!

Perhaps it’s a coincidence that each of these attractions holds so much significance and charm that they’ve become well-known landmarks. Or maybe it’s not a coincidence at all, but rather a testament to the rich history and culture of this beautiful city.

Either way, make sure you take some time to wander through the streets and discover your own hidden gems in Brussels. Happy travels!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

best areas in brussels to visit

Brussels’ top 10 museums and attractions

16 February 2022

Are you coming to Brussels and need some inspiration for your visits? Join us to discover the capital's unmissable museums and attractions, thanks to our list of the most popular, in terms of visitor numbers. These sites have been a guarantee of quality since their creation. And, as always in Brussels, there is something for everyone: indoors and outdoors; history, heritage, science, art and culture; traditional and contemporary museums; typical Brussels locations and places of power, etc. You are bound to be won over! So let's go, Brussels can’t wait to show you what it's all about!

1. Art, art and more art at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts!

The most visited group of museums in Brussels, this cultural marvel’s reputation is well-established. The  Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium , or RMFAB, is made up of several locations covering countless periods and artistic movements and genres. Near place Royale, you can visit the Old Masters Museum , the Modern Museum , the Fin-de-Siècle Museum and the famous Magritte Museum . In Ixelles, discover the Wiertz and Meunier museums . They house works by great artists such as Memling, van der Weyden, Bosch, Bruegel, Rubens, David, Alechinsky, Delvaux, and many others, so don't miss them!

2. The emblematic Atomium

The undeniable symbol of Brussels and a national icon , you haven't really visited Brussels if you haven't seen the Atomium . This nine-sphered monument represents an elementary iron crystal magnified 165 billion times! But why did the designers choose an iron crystal? It was a nod to progress and research in the field of science, matter and nuclear energy - in its peaceful use of course. Built for the 1958 World Fair , the building was, like many other buildings, to be dismantled after the event! Inconceivable today...Between 2004 and 2006, the Atomium underwent a full restoration that returned it to its former glory. If you're in the area, it's worth waiting for nightfall: the Atomium is lit up with 2970 LED bulbs!

3. See all of Europe in 2 hours at Mini-Europe

Looking for some playfulness and fresh air, but also fancy stretching your legs? Then  Mini-Europe  is for you! Also on the Heysel plateau , just a stone's throw from the Atomium, you can walk along comfortable paths and discover the most beautiful buildings and sites in Europe, in miniature. Marvel at the miniature Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, Vesuvius and the splendid Grand-Place in Brussels, which took countless hours of work to model! This site is particularly suitable for children , who can enjoy a variety of fun activities !

4. The dinosaurs of the Natural Sciences Museum

Are you curious by nature and love to learn? Then head to the museum attached to the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences ! The many sections of its permanent exhibition –Dinosaur Gallery, Gallery of Evolution, Living Planet, Mineral Room, etc. – not to mention the variety of temporary and themed exhibitions, will satisfy your hunger for knowledge. The institution is housed in an imposing complex of buildings by Leopold Park, in the heart of the European Quarter . So, if you feel like it, you can also enjoy a breath of fresh air in this lovely and historic green space!

5. Understanding Europe and its parliament at the Parlamentarium

Understanding how the European Union works isn’t always easy... thankfully, at the  Parlamentarium , You can travel back through the history of the continent, take a seat in a theatre for a 360-degree panoramic view of Europe and its Parliament, hear testimonies from European citizens, and much more! The Parlamentarium is open 7 days a week and admission is free . Visitors can explore the exhibitions freely and in all 24 of the EU’s official languages ! There's no reason not to go!

6. The ninth art in all its glory at the Belgian Comic Strip Center

Did you know that Brussels is the capital of comic books ? The ninth art is a defining theme of the Belgian capital and has been for almost a century, with countless comic book authors coming from Brussels. Comics are omnipresent and can be found in the streets and alleys of numerous Brussels districts. So what better way to get to know Brussels' comic book heritage than a through a visit to the  Belgian Comic Strip Center , a museum entirely devoted to the subject, housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building in the very centre of the city? Its regularly updated permanent exhibitions and extensive programme of temporary exhibitions invite you to discover the many facets of comics. Join Tintin and Co on an adventure!

7. The birth of Europe at the House of European History

A wonderful green setting in a particularly dense and urbanised area, the Leopold Park is home to some prestigious buildings - the Eggevoord Tower, Solvay Library and the former Georges Eastman Dental Institute, which now houses the  House of European History . As a space for learning, reflection and debate, the museum presents the history of Europe in a way that highlights to visitors the diversity of perspectives and interpretations. Like the Parlamentarium, the House of European History is open 7 days a week and admission is free .

House of European History, as seen from Leopold Park

8. An exhibition or concert at Bozar

As vast as it is unsuspected, this palace of fine arts occupies a building designed by one of Belgium's architectural masters: Victor Horta , the undisputed leader of the Art Nouveau style . It's a multidisciplinary space dedicated to the arts in the broadest sense: exhibitions, dance, concerts, cinema, etc. The  Centre for Fine Arts , known for some years now by its generic name Bozar , is renowned for its famous Henry Le Boeuf concert hall with remarkable acoustics, which hosts the final of the Queen Elisabeth Competition.

9. The history of the Belgian railways at Train World

Opened in 2015 in the old Schaerbeek train station , which remains partially active, this veritable temple to the train boasts a breathtaking and contemporary scenography by François Schuiten . Dedicated to the history of the Belgian railways , the museum is housed in a group of buildings that combine old heritage and new construction. It presents historical vehicles, objects, photos, text and audiovisual archives, etc. Did you know that the history of the railways in Belgium goes back a very long way, it’s almost as old as Belgium itself! It’s time you paid  Train World  a visit, there’s so much to learn!

La Douce, the mythical locomotive at Train World

10. The Art and History Museum, for lovers of ancient civilisations and customs

An institution without which Cinquantenaire Park would be very different, the  Art and History Museum  is part of the larger Royal Museums of Art and History. The museum's collections are astonishingly diverse... At the Art & History Museum, you'll cross the continents from prehistory to the 20th century. Prehistoric flints, Egyptian mummies and other ancient artifacts, impressive medieval tapestries, Buddhas, a collection of Belgian Art Nouveau... come and marvel at this grandiose museum! The surrounding park also offers you the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, and even to visit two more museums —  Autoworld  and the  Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History  - if you fancy it.

Practical information

Royal museums of fine arts of belgium.

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium assemble six different museums: the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Meunier Museum, Wiertz Museum, Magritte Museum and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Halfway between sculpture and architecture, the Atomium was designed and built for the Brussels World's Fair (1958), for which it was the flagship building and emblem. Representing an iron unit cell (9 iron atoms) magnified 165 billion times, the monument with its unique silhouette has, over time, grown to become the symbol of Brussels and Belgium. On the inside the Atomium offers, not just the most beautiful view of Brussels, but also an entirely astounding and surreal ride through its interior spaces and volumes which alone makes a visit worth it. The Atomium ticket automatically includes the entrance to the Design Museum Brussels (150m away).

Atomium

Mini-Europe

The whole of Europe animated in miniature! Be amazed! Mini-Europe is a park featuring all the wonders of Europe, in miniature. Bonsai trees, flowery groves and dwarf trees embellish the 350 monuments which have been reproduced at scale 1/25. Thousands of lifelike figurines and animations! Set off the eruption of the Vesuvius and admire the takeoff of the Ariane rocket. The two hour walk, which is both entertaining and educational, will let you (re)discover the 27 member states of the European Union and the United Kingdom, their historical, architectural and cultural wealth This establishment has been awarded the Brussels Health Safety Label

Mini-Europe

Institute of Natural Sciences

The Institute of Natural Sciences: a great day out, naturally! In the largest Dinosaur Gallery in Europe, you can meet the famous Bernissart Iguanodons, T.rex, Triceratops, Diplodocus, and 34 other species. But that’s not all! The Earth is swarming with life - rediscover it in the new Gallery, Living Planet, through an aesthetic, family-friendly and scientific approach to biodiversity. Learn about the human body and how we evolved in the Gallery of Humankind and go back in time in the Gallery of Evolution. You can also find out about urban species in BiodiverCITY, discover 250 years of the history of Natural Sciences through 14 iconic specimens, beware of the kings of the Cretaceous seas in the Mosasaur Hall or admire the magnificent crystals in the Mineral Hall. And last but not least, don't miss the temporary exhibitions and all the activities of the Educational Service: more information at www.naturalsciences.be.

Institute of Natural Sciences

Parlamentarium

Please note! The Parlamentarium will be closed on 24, 25 and 31 December 2023 and on 1 January 2024. Have you ever wondered how the European Union works and how it affects your daily life? The Parlamentarium has it covered! Thanks to its interactive tools like a 360° cinema, a role play game for students and a giant interactive floor map, you’ll learn everything there is to know about the European Parliament. Discover the path that led to today’s European Union and what Members of the European Parliament are doing to tackle Europe’s biggest challenges. * Free * Available in 24 languages * Book online : see practical information

Parlamentarium

Comic Strip Museum (Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée)

A world full of comics An accomplished attraction located in the heart of Brussels, the Comics Art Museum has been honouring the creators and heroes of the 9th Art for 30 years. The regularly renewed permanent exhibitions and a diversified programme of temporary exhibitions enable visitors to discover the countless aspects of comics art. Famous characters lead the way towards new adventures, an encounter with a world where creativity has no limits. Enhanced by an exceptional Art Nouveau home designed by Victor Horta, the Comics Art Museum is just as much a tribute to the pioneers as a glimpse of contemporary comics art.

Comic Strip Museum  (Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée)

House of European History

Please note! Closed on 24, 25 and 31 December 2023 and on 1 January 2024. Get ready for a journey like no other! The permanent exhibition begins with the myth of the goddess Europa, exploring Europe’s ancient roots and the continent’s heritage of shared traditions, before Europe’s dramatic journey towards modernity in the 19th century and rebuilding process following World War II. A multimedia guide in 24 languages gives you new ways to interact with the exhibition, while special activities and Family Discovery Spaces allow children to grasp the story of Europe. Located next to the European Parliament in a striking Art Deco building in Parc Léopold, the House of European History is an essential part of any tour of the city. * Free * Available in 24 languages * Book online: See practical information

House of European History

Centre for Fine Arts - Bozar

It’s impossible to talk about culture in Belgium without mentioning the Centre for Fine Arts located in Brussels. Whether it comes to exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, movies or projects concerning literature and architecture, BOZAR will always put originality and innovation first. They prove to keep a finger on the pulse with their varied and sophisticated programme. Besides emphasizing the importance of creation, quality and a rich artistic offering, BOZAR is especially concerned about the total experience of the visitors.

Centre for Fine Arts - Bozar

Train World

Train World is a unique railway experience that takes you from the very first steam locomotives to the flashing high-speed trains! It is a universe that appeals to all the senses in order to grasp the many different dimensions of the railways. A visit to Train World is an active and surprising outing. You can walk among locomotives, take a seat in 100-year-old trains, visit a railway house and walk across a real railway bridge. You will even experience how it feels to drive a train!

Train World

Art & History Museum (RMAH)

Embark on a fascinating journey through art and history! Come and stroll among the prehistoric flints and Egyptian mummies, walk between the ancient glasses and stand back to contemplate the impressive medieval tapestries. Immerse yourself in the oriental world as you pass Asian Buddhas and travel to the other side of the world to see a gigantic statue from Easter Island. You still have to admire the magnificent collection of Belgian Art Nouveau... The Art & History Museum is part of the Royal Museums of Art and History (RMAH) that also cover the Musical Instruments Museum (MIM), Halle Gate and the Museums of the Far East (currently closed for renovation).

Art & History Museum (RMAH)

10 must-visit Art Nouveau houses and mansions in Brussels

At the end of the 19 th  century, Victor Horta broke with the dominant, traditional architectural styles in Brussels, giving birth to the iconic Art Nouveau genre. Along the streets of our capital, numerous houses and mansions bear witness to the emergence and blossoming of this unprecedented style.

The best time to go to Brussels

Alex Reynolds

Aug 28, 2021 • 6 min read

Jardin Mont des Arts at dusk

Whether you arrive in the heat of July or the crisp cold of January, there's never really a bad time to visit Brussels © kavalenkava / Shutterstock

From convivial Christmas markets in winter to colorful blossoms come spring, Brussels changes through the seasons. Though many locals herald the coming of the (usually) warm summer months, when beer gardens are at their sunniest and the streets are bustling, there are plenty of pros for skipping the crowds and planning a visit outside of peak season. Here’s our guide to the best time to visit Brussels.

A group of people relax on the floor of the main square in Prague. Many other groups of people sit around them. The sun is shining and historic white buildings line the square.

High Season: June to August

Best time for festivals and events

Summer is many Bruxellois’ favorite season, and it’s clear why: festivals and events every week, 10pm sunsets, and the ability to eat, drink, and make merry on outdoor terraces without a blanket... most of the time.

The downside? Crowds. Though Brussels doesn’t see as many visitors as neighboring capital cities like Paris or Amsterdam , the comparatively small city can feel overwhelmed by tourists, and prices rise accordingly. Either be strategic when deciding which neighborhood to stay in or accept that you have to deal with queues (for attractions and to get to the bar) if you travel to Brussels in the summer.

Crowd gathered at the iconic Grand Place in the centre of Brussels during Christmas evening at dusk. A large Christmas tree stands in the middle of the square.

Winter Season: November to January

Best time for Christmas markets

Grey as winter in Belgium can be, the twinkling lights and spiced scents of Christmas markets in Brussels will brighten your spirits. The city hosts one of the biggest festive markets in the country, the Plaisirs d’Hiver (Winter Wonders). Every year from late November to the first week of January, millions of visitors roam among hundreds of stalls, shopping for trinkets as they sip steaming drinks.

Outside of Christmas and New Year, accommodation prices tend to be lower in the city too, making winter a good time for shoestring travelers to visit.

The arcade du Cinquantenaire in Brussels, Belgium, on a sunny day with flowers in the foreground.

Spring Season: April to May

Best time for photography

Spring weather in Belgium is so erratic, Flemish speakers have a name for it: aprilse grillen. But photographers willing to bear swinging temperatures and bursts of rain, heat, and/or snow will be rewarded: spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Brussels.

Cherry trees blossom with pink, one million flowers color Groot-Bijgaarden castle for the annual Floralia event , and carpets of wild bluebells sprout in forests around the city . Aside from packs of nature photographers and locals on spring breaks, spring is a shoulder season, and a relatively quiet time to visit the city.

A pot of steaming mussels, with black shells and orange inners, stand on a table next to a plate of fries and a pint of beer.

Fall Season: September to November

Best time for foodies

Travel to Brussels in autumn, and you can literally taste the changing seasons. Wild boar and roast pheasant replace light summer menus, while farmers’ markets proffer baskets of fresh mushrooms picked from local forests. It’s also prime mussels season, making fall an ideal time to try the city’s most famous dish: moules-frites (mussels and fries).

September offers the best chance of good weather (and is generally an excellent time to be in the city), while at the very end of the season, Christmas markets start to stir into life.

The lowest of the low season: overcast days and too-long nights blanket muted streets, especially post-Christmas and New Year’s revelry. Key Events : River Jazz Festival , BRAFA Art Fair

Days are still dreary but a bit shorter. Shrove Tuesday (more commonly known as Mardi Gras) sometimes falls at the end of February. Carnival is a big – and UNESCO-listed – celebration in Belgium, but you’ll need to venture to smaller towns near Brussels such as Binche for the most fanatical festivities. Key Events : Anima: The Brussels International Animation Film Festival

Raincoats at the ready: March showers bring April flowers in Belgium, so expect wet conditions in Brussels. Room rates tend to be low before the Easter season kicks in. Key Events : Museum Night Fever

A person holds out a disposable plate containing a large Belgian waffle. The large sugary snack is smothered in chocolate sauce.

Brussels’ streets blossom with colors, with few foreign tourists to see them. Belgian families on Easter holidays are the only crowds to expect, who you’ll likely find engaging in an easter-egg hunt or two (a popular Easter tradition in this chocolate-fixated city). Key Events : Floralia , BIFFF Fantasy Film Festival

Warmth brings Brussels to life: the city goes unabashedly rainbow for Pride, thousands of residents march in the musical, car-less Zinneke Parade, and long weekends are the norm during Christian holidays Ascension and Pentecost. A great time to be in the city for those who like a lively city break. Key Events : Pride , Zinneke Parade , Iris Festival , Brussels Book Fair , Kunsten Festival des Arts

Tourists flood into Brussels, locals escape to the city’s best parks , and though it can feel crowded, it’s hard to stay frustrated when the sun finally shines. A number of music and art festivals roll into town, bringing a party atmosphere to the city. Key Events : Couleur Café , Fête de la Musique , Bruneaf , Guignolet Dans le Parc , Hopla!

A sticky start to Belgians’ summer holidays: Brussels’ buildings aren’t designed to handle warm weather, air conditioning is rare, and July is the peak tourist season. Hot food might seem unappetizing in the humidity, but don’t resist – July marks the start of mussels season! Key Events : Ommegang , Belgian National Day, Bruxelles les Bains , Brosella Festival , Midi Fair , PleinOPENAir

Still hot, still busy, and Belgians are out in force to squeeze one more holiday in before schools resume. Don’t miss locals’ favorite Brussels Summer Festival: ten days of live concerts all over the city. Key Events : Flower Carpet , Brussels Summer Festival , Bruxelles les Bains , Classissimo , Théâtres Nomades , Insifon

One of the best times to visit Brussels: tourist crowds are thinner, the weather is slightly cooler (but usually still sunny) and everyone seems a lot more relaxed. Beer takes centre stage in terms of festivals, with the Belgian Beer Weekend a calendar highlight for local hopheads. Key Events : Belgian Beer Weekend , Comic Strip Festival , Affordable Art Fair , Les Nuits Botanique , 20 km of Brussels , Brussels International Film Festival , Folklore Festival

The main hall of the Musees Royaux des Beaux-Arts. The white interiors are dotted with artworks, which people walk between and stand to admire.

The foliage and temperatures may start to change, but events and festivals carry on. Prices are much easier on the wallet in low season. However, the fear of chilly drizzle tempts few tourists, making this a good time for hardy culture vultures keen to enjoy the city's top sights, like the  Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts and the cheeky Manneken Pis , without the crowds. Key Events : Nuit Blanche , Comic Strip Festival , Culinaria , Nuits Sonores

Local travel picks up for a week during school breaks. Otherwise, November is cold and quiet as people prepare for the holiday season kicking off at the end of the month. Key Events : Bright Brussels Festival of Light

December marks the best time to visit Belgium in winter. Though the sun sets before 5pm and days are cold, the streets are alive with cockle-warming activity. Stalls specialising in Glühwein (hot spiced wine) pop up in the centre of the city, Place de Brouckere is taken over by an ice skating rink, and a towering tree lights up the Grand Place. Key Events : Plaisirs d’Hiver

You might also like: The best of Brussels on a budget 10 alternative Christmas markets in Europe The 10 best day trips from Brussels

Explore related stories

best areas in brussels to visit

Mar 27, 2024 • 8 min read

While it’s hard for anyone to leave Paris, these day trips offer bucolic nature, gorgeous cathedrals and more – all only an hour or so away.

best areas in brussels to visit

Mar 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Amsterdam architecture over the tulips.

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

best areas in brussels to visit

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

best areas in brussels to visit

Feb 9, 2024 • 12 min read

Paris-in-5-Shops.png

Jan 10, 2024 • 5 min read

best areas in brussels to visit

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Portrait of a happy mother and son riding on the train and looking through the window while pointing away - transport concepts

Dec 25, 2023 • 11 min read

best areas in brussels to visit

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Nightjet train

best areas in brussels to visit

16 Amazing Gardens and Parks in Brussels to Visit on Your Next Trip

Looking for parks in Brussels? Brussels is a wonderfully diverse city. The gritty neighbourhoods of the South and North, the buzzing city life in the centre, and the relaxed surrounding communities make Brussels a great place to live in or visit.

Brussels has many green spaces, including many quiet parks and gardens. If you’re exploring the city or are just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there are 16 parks, forests, and open spaces you should visit .

Table of Contents

Best Gardens and Parks in Brussels Map

Parks in Brussels

In the Green Heart of Europe, Brussels is a city of parks. Brussels has more than 250 green spaces, ranging from large public parks to private gardens and terraces. 

Many offer an oasis of peace and quiet in the city’s heart, but others are better known for their busy cafés and restaurants.

The parks in Brussels are a fantastic place to spend your time. Whether you’re looking for a quiet stroll or a family day out, there’s something for everyone.

Leopold Park

parc de leopold, parks in Brussels

Parc de Leopold  offers an excellent view of the city skyline, especially at sunset. It has many green areas and fountains, as well as cafes and restaurants where you can have a drink or eat something delicious while enjoying the view.

best areas in brussels to visit

The Royal Park is one of the most famous recreational areas in Brussels. It covers an area of about 125 hectares. 

The park is divided into two parts: the upper part, designed by landscape architect Edouard Frere and contains a small zoo that attracts kids, and the lower part, with its ponds and waterfalls.

Bois de la Cambre

Parc de Bois de la Cambre is located at the edge of Brussels and is one of the largest green spaces in the city. 

It is famous for its large variety of trees (more than 1,500), many species of birds and insects, and its beautiful flowers that can be seen every spring.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Parc du Cinquantenaire, best parks in brussels

The   Parc du Cinquantenaire , located in the heart of Brussels, is one of the most beautiful parks in the city.

It covers an area of 26 hectares, and it’s a great place to relax, enjoy the sun and have fun with your family.

The main monument is an obelisk called La Renaissance, erected in 1887. It represents a young woman holding up a torch with one hand while holding scales with her other hand – symbolizing justice and equality.

In addition to La Renaissance, several fountains throughout the park add to its beauty and splendour.

Parc du Heysel

This park is near the Heysel Stadium, famous for hosting matches during the 1982 FIFA World Cup. 

The park features an artificial lake with a beach and an amusement park.

Elisabeth Park

This park has several gardens and sculptures located in the heart of Brussels. 

It also features an outdoor concert hall where you can enjoy concerts during summer nights.

Parc d’Egmont

Located on the hilltop of Mont des Arts, this park offers spectacular views of the city below and its famous museums and buildings, such as Palais de Justice and Palais de la Nation.

Gardens in Brussels

There is no shortage of green spaces in Brussels. The city’s parks are abundant and well-maintained, and many gardens and public squares are scattered throughout the city.

Gardens in Brussels are a great way to escape the city. Whether you want to sit down and read a book or go running, there are plenty of parks in Brussels to choose from.

Garden of the Mont des Arts

The Mont des Arts garden is located between Place Sainctelette and Place du Jeu de Balle. It’s a relatively small park with a view of the buildings on Place du Jeu de Balle. 

The garden is built around a statue of Pierre-Paul Rubens, born in this area. In fact, Rubens Street (Rue Rubens) is named after him.

Woluwe-Saint-Pierre

Parc de Woluwe is one of the biggest parks in Brussels. It features a lake, playgrounds and even a miniature railway.

Jean-Felix Hap Garden

Jean-Felix Hap Garden

This park was created by a philanthropist who wanted to allow people to enjoy nature at its best. It’s a small garden but has a lot to offer: waterfalls, ponds and terraces that you can relax on after a busy day at work.

There are also many different plants and flowers, and trees that provide shade during hot summer days.

Square Ambiorix

Square Ambiorix, park in brussels

Located just behind Place Sainte Catherine in Brussels’ Latin Quarter. The square is surrounded by tall buildings but has plenty of grassy areas where children can play football or hide-and-seek while their parents watch them from the benches nearby or relax under the shade of one of the many trees growing in this beautiful square park in Brussels’ Latin Quarter.

Botanical Garden of Brussels

Botanical Garden of Brussels

The Botanic Garden , located on the left bank of the Senne River, is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Belgium . It was founded in 1845 by Belgian King Leopold I.

The garden has over 15,000 plant varieties from around the world, and it also contains a collection of tropical plants collected by Belgian explorer Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza (1839–1905). The garden also has an orchid house with 2,500 species worldwide.

Abbaye de la Cambre

Abbaye de la Cambre is an old abbey that has been converted into a museum. It is located along the Canal du Midi (which runs through Brussels) and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts are one of the highest points in Brussels, with great city views. Several trails lead up to it, but it’s also accessible by tram from Place Sainte-Catherine.

Porte de Hal (Halle Gate)

The Porte de Hal (Halle Gate) was once part of the city walls of Brussels, but now it’s just a gate with a park behind it where locals like to take their dogs for walks.

Have fun visiting the gardens and parks in Brussels 🙂

Plan Your Trip to Belgium

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the  full disclo s ure   for further information .

Book your flights >>>

View Places to Stay in Belgium >>>

Or find accommodation on Vrbo >>

Discover Tours and Activities >>>

Find Your Perfect Hire Car >>>

… Or Book a Private Transfer >>>

Find somewhere to store your luggage when you arrive >>>

More on Belgium

List of Cities in Belgium

Your Antwerp City Break Guide

Best Theme Parks in Belgium

Discover Western Europe >>>

Return to Homepage >>>

best areas in brussels to visit

Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

  • Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ 55 Inspirational Cruise Quotes
  • Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ Finland’s Nuuksio National Park with Kids
  • Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The 9 Best Switzerland Cities to Visit in 2024 [The Family Edition]
  • Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The BEST Water Parks in Poland to Visit with Kids (2024)

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

  • 13 Best Places To Visit In Brussels In 2024 That Highlight The Charm Of The City

23 Mar 2023

Brussels, the unassuming, easy going capital city of Belgium and the administrative hub of European Union offers the quintessential Belgian experience without the touristy hype.

Grand facades, magnificent cathedrals, some amazing and quirky museums, the unique and imposing Atomium and melt in mouth Belgian chocolates – there are a lot of places to see in Brussels that await your presence. So if you’re on a holiday, then this fascinating small city with big surprises and a glorious history will delight you.

13 Best Places To Visit In Brussels

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Brussels city that you must go through before you leave. Take a look!

  • Grand Place
  • Atomium & Mini Europe
  • Belgian Comic Strip Centre
  • St. Michael And St. Gudula Cathedral
  • Royal Museum Of Fine Arts
  • Manneken Pis
  • Jardin Du Petit Sablon
  • Notre Dame Du Sablon
  • Mont De Arts
  • Villa Empain
  • Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
  • Magritte Museum

1. Grand Place

splendid with flowers

The grand city centre oozing with history, magnificent architecture and a splendid flower-carpet (twice a year) is one of the best places to visit in Brussels to feel the vibe of the city. Probably the largest and most beautiful square in Europe, flanked by the majestic Gildehuizen (guild houses) is one of the best places in Brussels to enjoy a drink, pick a tour or simply sit and feel the pulse of this vibrant city. The ornate historical buildings surrounding the cobblestoned square displaying intricate stone-work, stunning gold decoration, baroque gables and awe-inspiring architecture give the Grand Place its unmatched grandeur and elegance. You can stroll over to breathe in the fragrance of local flower market thrice a week and be awed by its surreal beauty when it is lit up at night. Ideal for: Architecture, History, People-watching

Suggested Read: In Pictures: 35 Most Beautiful Cities In Europe Will Make You Want To Trip There

Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Explore the most beautiful places to visit in Europe, from Paris to the Venice canals and from the Greek islands to the Swiss alps. Book customized packages by expert agents on TravelTriangle. Inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing and meals. Best holiday experience Guaranteed. Book Now

best areas in brussels to visit

Magnificent Switzerland Holiday 6D/5N Package @ Rs 69,999

Plan your trip today!

best areas in brussels to visit

Magnificent Europe Tour 7D/6N Package @ Rs 70,975

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

best areas in brussels to visit

France & Switzerland Tour Package 8D/7N @ Rs 90,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

best areas in brussels to visit

Scintillating Spain & Portugal Tour 11D/10N @ Rs 101,150

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

best areas in brussels to visit

6 Country Europe Tour Package 12D/11N @ Rs 118,650

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

best areas in brussels to visit

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Atomium & Mini Europe

iconic steel aluminium wonder

The impressive and iconic steel-aluminium wonder is to Brussels what Eiffel Tower is to Paris. It’s amazing to look up at this model of an iron atom magnified to 165 times its size and a thrilling experience to be whisked to the top of this 100m high gleaming architectural marvel. You can combine the trip and ticket with a visit to Mini Europe which is equally riveting and exciting for kids as well as adults. With detailed models of the best European cities, interactive sections and working models this miniature wonder is a popular Brussels attraction.

Ideal For: Family time, Photography

Suggested Read: 10 Places For Shopping In Brussels That Will Give You A Shopper’s High

3. Belgian Comic Strip Centre

filled your heart with joy

Let the child within gaze with delight and wonder at those familiar comic strip characters that have made you laugh and filled your heart with joy. In this magnificent 19th century art deco building designed by the master architect Victor Horta, you can walk through a 3D Smurf village, visit Captain Haddock’s moon rocket and peep through Lucky Luke’s salon. With dedicated sections for Tintin, Asterix, Smurfs and many other Belgian and French comic strips, you can delve deeper into the magical world of your favourite characters. The detailed history of comic strips and the journey to their present day graphic novel form is fascinating.

Timings: 10AM to 6PM every day Entry fee: 10 Euros/adult; 3.5 Euros/child. Concessional fee for senior citizens, students and group tickets

4. Town Hall

masterpiece of gothic achitecture

The most spectacular building around the Grand Place, the Town Hall has several grand rooms displaying its magnificence. With its spire towering above all other buildings, the Town Hall is considered a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. While the impressive facade adorned with numerous sculptures is a sight to behold, the opulent interiors will leave you spellbound. Rich tapestries and stunning ceiling of the Council Chamber, beautifully panelled walls, amazing artwork and murals will take your breath away. The seat if the Mayor of Brussels, the Town Hall also hosts many free concerts and looks stunningly beautiful when lit up at night. Ideal for: Architecture, History

Suggested Read: These 12 Hostels In Brussels Will Add Comfort To Your Experience

5. St. Michael And St. Gudula Cathedral

impressive archways, pretty sculptures

Dedicated to the patron saints of Brussels, this majestic poetry in stone is as beautiful on the inside as it is spectacular on the outside. The magnificent preaching stand, impressive archways, pretty sculptures and the gorgeously detailed stained glass windows are a treat to the eyes. A short walk from the main station, this fantastic Gothic-style cathedral is a must-visit on your Brussels sightseeing itinerary. It is worth spending an hour here reading up on its history, architecture and spiritual significance and stealing some tranquil moments.

Ideal for: Tranquillity, Photography, Architecture

6. Royal Museum Of Fine Arts

finest place to visit in brussels

Even though not as famous as the Louvre or Musee d’Orsay, Belgium’s Royal Museum of Fine Arts will surprise you with its amazing collection of jaw-dropping art and is one of the finest places to visit in Brussels for art aficionados. Curated into three different and interesting sections, it is one of Europe’s largest art galleries featuring the works of masters like Rubens, Van Dyke, Rembrandt, Magritte and Brueghel.

Timings: 10AM to 5PM (Mon-Fri); 10Am to 6PM (Sat-Sun) Entry fee: 13 Euros for all three sections. Free entry on first Wednesday of every month.

7. Manneken Pis

landmark attraction of brussels

Undoubtedly one of the most popular Brussels tourist attractions, this quirky bronze sculpture of a small boy urinating in the fountain must not be missed while in Brussels. A copy of the original one (which is now in the Brussels Museum), this landmark attraction is an embodiment of Belgian humour and rebellious spirit. Manneken Pis (literally meaning the small man) has a wardrobe of more than 900 costumes which he is dressed up in couple of times a year on special occasions. Ideal for: Photography, History

Suggested Read: 15 Most Romantic Cities In The World

8. Jardin Du Petit Sablon

breath in the refreshing air

This serene oasis in the heart of the city is a great place to take a break from the hectic Brussels sightseeing and breath in the refreshing air. The charming landscaped garden with an impressive Egmont and Hornes Fountain is studded with 48 bronze sculptures depicting historical occupations. It’s the perfect spot for a truly European experience while soaking in some history on the side.

Ideal for: Relaxation, History

9. Notre Dame Du Sablon

striking beautiful cathedral

As you stroll through the city ticking off the best places to visit in Brussels, don’t miss out on this strikingly beautiful cathedral. Displaying an elegant amalgamation of the Gothic and Renaissance styles of architecture, the church interiors are adorned with exceptional stained glass windows and an ornately carved pulpit and organ. After visiting the church you can stroll to the beautiful park nearby, sip a coffee at the local cafes and marvel at this majestic structure.

Ideal for: Architecture, Photography

Suggested Read: These 10 Best Craft-Beer Bars In Brussels Will Leave You Wanting For More

10. Mont De Arts

panormic city view

A lovely little hill dotted with as many as 10 museums and an atmosphere that can’t be beaten, Mont De Arts is surely one of the top places to visit in Brussels for experiencing the best that this charming city has to offer. You simply sit here and enjoy the street performances, walk up to some of the interesting (Magritte Museum for art lovers, the unique Musical Instruments Museum, amongst others) or marvel at the panoramic city views. Sunset is a great time for some picture postcard-worthy shots of the city, and then witnessing the glittering spectacle as night sets in. Ideal for: Photography, Museums, Relaxation

11. Villa Empain

Villa

Image Source

Built by the famous Swiss architect, Michel Polak in 1930-1934, Villa Empain is a place that you ought to add to your list of places to visit in Brussels. It was a private house before but after its restoration in 2009-2011, it was opened for public. Villa Empain is a marvelous piece of artwork which is popular throughout Belgium due to its stunning interiors.

Ideal For: Art Lovers

Suggested Read: 11 Churches In Brussels That Will Make Your Experience Worth Remembering

12. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is Europe’s first covered shopping arcade and if you are a shopaholic you should totally visit this great spot in Brussels. Designed by architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer in the years of 1846 and 1847 and since then it attracts a lot of tourists every year. You must visit all the three galleries which are called The King’s Gallery, the Queen’s Gallery and the Prince’s Gallery on your shopping spree to make the most out of it.

Ideal For: Shopping buffs

13. Magritte Museum

Magritte Museum

Opened in 2009 to the public, Magritte Museum is one of the most frequented places to visit in Brussels. All the travelers who love art and history must pay a visit to this museum which is dedicated to the Belgian artist, René Magritte. The museum has 200 original sculptures, Magritte paintings, and drawings. You can have a look at the famous artworks like Return, Scheherazade and The Empire of Lights once you step in this museum.

Further Read: 10 Most Popular Europe Trips To Plan Ultimate Escape

There is no end to the Brussels attractions and experiences to savour in this wonderful city. At the end of a long day of sightseeing, sip some uniquely Belgian beer and let the city work its magic. And now you must plan your European vacay with TravelTriangle and enjoy a personalized itinerary and trip.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Brussels

Where should I go near Brussels?

There are so many places you can visit near Brussels like: 1. Gaasbeek Castle 2. Flemish city of Ghent 3. Villers Abbey 4. Lion’s Mound 5. Hallerbos 6. Antwerp 7. Sonian Forest

What is Brussels famous for?

The cuisine and gastronomy are the two things Brussels is famous for. You will find a number of historical and architectural landmarks, some of which are listed under UNESCO. Try waffles and fries when in Brussels. There is a huge variety of beer that you will find in Brussels.

Is Brussels a good tourist destination?

Yes, Brussels is absolutely amazing destination where there is so much to explore and see. From chocolate to beer, Brussels is famous for quite a things. If you like exploring medieval cities with cobbled streets, then you are going to love this place. Besides, you will find a lot of lively cafes and restaurants in Brussels.

How many days do you need in Brussels?

If you want to explore Brussels at its best, then you should spend 3-4 days otherwise a couple of days are fine if you can’t squeeze in much time.

Do they speak English in Brussels?

Most people speak French in Brussels. The english-speaking native speakers are very less but it is safe to assume that they understand Engish language.

What to pack when visiting Brussels?

Here is what you should pack for visiting Brussels: 1. Down jacket 2. Raincoat 3. Sweatshirt 4. Comfortable shoes 5. Refillable water bottle

Can I drink the tap water in Brussels?

Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Brussels, unlike in other countries. It tastes pleasant.

What to visit in Brussels in 2 days?

Some of the most popular places to visit in Brussels in 2 days are: 1. Manneken Pis 2. Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke 3. Grand Place 4. Atomium 5. Victor Horta's major townhouses 6. Villa Empain 7. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert 8. Notre Dame du Sablon 9. Mini Europe 10. Musical Instrument Museum

How many days in Brussels is enough?

If you are planning to visit Brussels solo or with your family and friends, two days is often enough to enjoy sightseeing tours, culinary retreats, and more. If you want to enjoy slow travel and travel around the entire length of this city, we would recommend a 7-day trip to soak in the culture of this place.

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

best areas in brussels to visit

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

best areas in brussels to visit

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

best areas in brussels to visit

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

best areas in brussels to visit

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

best areas in brussels to visit

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

best areas in brussels to visit

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

best areas in brussels to visit

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

best areas in brussels to visit

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

Recent Posts

best areas in brussels to visit

10 Meilleurs endroits à visiter en juin dans le monde pendant vos vacances d’été en 2024.

best areas in brussels to visit

2024 में मोरक्को में घूमने के लिए सबसे अच्छी जगहें जो आपकी सांसें रोक लेंगी!

best areas in brussels to visit

Places To Visit Near Varanasi Within 200 Km

Statues symbolise stories and events from history

9 Facts About Statue Of Liberty That Will Mesmerise You

Interesting Facts About Mecca and Madina in Saudi Arabia

5 Interesting Facts About Mecca And Madina In Saudi Arabia

Wanderlust Wonders for teens

Ultimate Travel Bucket List For Teens To Unleash Your Inner Adventurer

Trending Blogs

best areas in brussels to visit

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

best areas in brussels to visit

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

best areas in brussels to visit

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

Skiing In Krasnaya Polyana

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

a couple in front of taj mahal

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

Best honeymoon destinations in the world

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

  • TravelTriangle
  • Places To Visit »
  • Tour Packages
  • Honeymoon Packages
  • Family Packages
  • Budget Tour Packages
  • Luxury Tour Packages
  • Adventure Tour Packages
  • Group Tour Packages
  • Kerala Tour Packages
  • Goa Tour Packages
  • Andaman Tour Packages
  • Sikkim Tour Packages
  • Himachal Tour Packages
  • Uttarakhand Tour Packages
  • Rajasthan Tour Packages
  • Tour Packages From Delhi
  • Tour Packages From Mumbai
  • Tour Packages From Bangalore
  • Tour Packages From Chennai
  • Tour Packages From Kolkata
  • Tour Packages From Hyderabad
  • Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
  • Kerala Tourism
  • Goa Tourism
  • Sikkim Tourism
  • Andaman Tourism
  • Himachal Tourism
  • Uttarakhand Tourism
  • Rajasthan Tourism
  • Hotels in Kerala
  • Hotels in Goa
  • Hotels in Sikkim
  • Hotels in Andaman
  • Hotels in Himachal
  • Hotels in Uttarakhand
  • Hotels in Rajasthan

Where to Stay in Brussels: 9 Best Areas

Where to stay in Brussels

Are you wondering where to stay in Brussels ? In this article, we look at the best areas to stay in Brussels so that you can fully experience all it has to offer. Let us help you to figure out which neighborhood is best for you!

As a major centre for European institutions and culture and the capital city of Belgium , Brussels has an amazing variety of cultural and scenic sites as well as many architectural, culinary and entertainment venues for visitors to explore.

World-famous for its chocolates and beers , Brussels is also home to nearly 90 different museums, beautiful gardens, verdant parks and renowned monuments. The city offers a wide variety of popular restaurants, bars and nightlife choices.

With the city’s abundance of guest accommodations of different types, visitors never need to be concerned about where to stay in Brussels.

The two nearby airports, Zaventem and Charlero i, provide easy travel to the city for international travelers, and the metropolitan area offers transportation by train, bus, taxi and car for visitors.

Brussels is a compact city with a wide selection of visitor accommodations located within a short distance of the city’s centre and major tourist attractions.

The city is very easy to get around , and there are plenty of beautiful, captivating and intriguing attractions to engage, inspire and delight visitors of all ages. The metropolis of Brussels has a population of more than 2.1 million residents and is the largest city in Belgium.

It it the most densely populated area in the country and is a region of high wealth that includes residents from both the French and Flemish communities.

The European Union has its main base of operation in Brussels, and NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) also has headquarters in the city.

Brussels is one of the leading financial centres in Western Europe and is considered an Alpha-global city due to its integration with global economies.

The Brussels area metro is the only rapid transit system in the country, and the city is called a hub for road, rail and air transportation , which is of great benefit to travelers during their stay in Brussels.

Known for its excellent cuisine along with its architectural and historical landmarks , museums and many visitor attractions, Brussels is also celebrated as a capital of comic strip creation and production.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Brussels: Best areas to stay in Brussels

Many different areas of the city of Brussels offer attractive and comfortable accommodations for visitors, with something suitable for every preference and traveling budget. Neighborhoods such as the following welcome guests to friendly, appealing and desirable hotels, guest houses, inns and B&Bs:

1. City Centre, the best area to stay in Brussels

Where to stay in Brussels: Grand Place

As the main town square in Brussels, La Grand Place dates back to the 12th century. It was once an important food market, and today it is still a well-known venue for fine Belgian cuisine as a World Heritage site .

Located in the heart of the city, this neighborhood is rich with history and culture from many centuries.

Historic regal buildings surround the square, and the famous Gothic spire of the Brussels Town Hall towers above the square and is easily seen from points throughout the city. The Bread House in the bakers’ market quarter displays additional high spires and ornate sculptures.

Buildings bordering the square offer architectural features of the Gothic, Baroque and Louis XIV architectural periods . Streets of areas in Brussels leading into the square have the names of foods that were sold daily in the old market, like chicken, cheese and herbs.

There are some traditional Belgian restaurants on the square, which can have upscale prices. For more reasonable meals, visitors are welcome to visit the Turkish and Mediterranean eateries in the smaller streets nearby.

Major visitor attractions in Grand Place – Saint Gery are plentiful and display ingenious works of note in the fields of art and architecture, many with strong historical and cultural significance for all areas in Brussels, such as the following:

  • Mont des Artes. – In this fascinating neighborhood, you can visit ten large galleries and museums and many smaller art venues and exhibitions. Located on a hill between the Grand Place and the Royal Palace, this f amed museum quarter of the city includes the Royal Museum of Fine Arts , the National Archives of Belgium and the Belgian Royal Film Archive (CINEMATEK). Picnic in the lush beauty of the Mont des Artes garden while enjoying amazing views of the city.
  • Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium . – This is the most comprehensive of the art museums in Brussels, containing major works of six of the country’s most valuable art collections in four different museums.These museums display more than 20,000 art works that include items from the Ancient Art Museum of Brussels and eight floors of art of the 20th and 21st centuries. This amazing and massive museum complex includes works of Rubens and other Old Masters as well as popular Belgian comics in one of the most enthralling neighborhoods in Brussels.
  • Place Royale . – As one of the most celebrated historical sites of all areas in Brussels, the expansive open square was once home to the ancient Palace of Coudenberg, which burned in 1731 and was never rebuilt.Today, the royal offices of Belgium overlook this elegant square, which is bordered by impressive 19th century neoclassical architecture. The 18th century church, St. Jacques-sur-Coudenberg , displays an elaborate bell tower, and at the centre of the square stands a famous statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, the first ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem more than 900 years ago.
  • Royal Palace of Brussels . – Although the King and Queen of Belgium reside in a palace north from central Brussels, they work in the Royal Palace. For this reason, you will want to be observant while in this district, since you may very well see them. During the summer , the Palace with its marvelous interiors and sculptures is open to the public , and visitors are traditionally greeted by the monarchs at the Royal Palace doors.

With its central location, this neighborhood can be accessed easily by metro, bus or car.

Guest accommodations in this area of the city for a stay in Brussels include hotels, traveler’s inns, rental apartments and B&Bs ranging from low budget to upscale room rates. Many offer restaurants along with WiFi and a wide range of other guest room amenities.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CITY CENTRE

  • ($$$) Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo
  • ($$) Hotel Hubert Grand Place
  • ($) Motel One Brussels

2. Sablon, elegant neighborhood close to city centre

Brussels neighborhoods: Sablon

The Sablon (or Zavel) neighborhood of Brussels is a lively, upscale area that offers stylish bars and chic restaurants as well as an abundance of chocolate shops.

The Gothic Notre-Dame du Sablon Church is a famous landmark here, standing adjacent to the busy Place du Grand Sablon with its popular weekend antiques markets .

You can visit the acclaimed Jewish Museum on the Rue des Minimes with exhibitions about the lives, history and culture of Belgian Jews. Nearby, the Magritte Museum displays the art of this renowned Belgian surrealist painter.

Throughout this area among the neighborhoods in Brussels, charming chocolate shops and art galleries are plentiful, offering a pleasing mixture of sweets and contemporary art.

Well-known restaurants in the neighborhood include L’Ecailler du Palais Royal and Les Petits Oignons. L’Ecailler du Palais Royal offers diners a luxurious setting and elegant salon for enjoying fabulous gourmet fish cuisine while Les Petits Oignons is a more casual, family-operated restaurant serving delicious French and Mediterranean recipes both indoors and in an outdoor courtyard.

Additional sites in the Sablon neighborhood that you will want to visit during your stay in the city include the following:

  • Eglise Notre-Dame du Sablon . – This Gothic church dating from the 15th century separates the two squares of the Sablon, the Grand Sablon and the Petit Sablon. Legends reveal that in 1348, Beatrijs Soetkens received a vision from the Virgin Mary that told her to steal a statue of the Madonna from the church in Antwerp and place it in the Sablon Chapel.Ever since then, the Sablon church has been home to a pilgrimage, and there is a yearly procession in honor of this statue. Many classical music concerts and organ recitals are presented here, free to the public in one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Brussels.
  • Square du Petit Sablon Hidden Garden . – A beautiful neo-Renaissance style garden in this area tucked away from the view of passersby is enriched with outstanding 19th century sculptures and a statue-fountain. Ten impressive marble statues form an arc in memory of illustrious Belgian earls who were killed, sculpted by famous Belgian artists. This garden is a favorite place to relax for a few minutes while sightseeing in the city during a stay in Brussels.

This district has both elite hotels and short-term apartment rentals for visitors to such areas in Brussels as well as some lower-cost guest inns and B&Bs for a stay in Brussels. Sablon is easily accessible by metro, bus and car.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SABLON

  • ($$$) Le Louise Hotel Brussels – MGallery
  • ($$) NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon
  • ($) Hostel Bruegel

3. Avenue Louise, upscale area with luxury shops

Best places to stay in Brussels

Avenue Louise (French) or Louizalaan (Dutch) is a main Brussels thoroughfare extending southeast from Louise Square to the Bois de la Cambre, which is 2.7 km. away.

This prestigious avenue and district is one of the most expensive in the city. It offers a wide selection of upscale designer shops and boutiques as well as luxury restaurants and noted landmarks.

These major visitor sites include the Louise Tower, which is one of the tallest office buildings in Brussels, the lovely King’s Garden and Le Phénix 44, a 16-ton bronze sculpture by Olivier Strebelle, honoring the anniversary of the liberation of Brussels.

Several stunning Art Nouveau buildings are located in this area along with many attractive diplomats’ residences in one of the most engaging neighborhoods in Brussels .

Avenue Louise and another nearby street, Toison D’Or, form the ideal Brussels neighborhood for u pscale shopping enthusiasts . Luxurious shops and boutiques here display fashionable designer names and brands such as Chanel and Dior.

Also in close proximity is P lace du Chatelain , an enchanting square with attractive cafes and a flower shop offering blossoms of amazing beauty as well as a charming outdoor marketplace.

Louise Square is a primary transportation hub in the city, offering both a tramway and metro station to accommodate a large traffic flow through the area, as one of the busiest neighborhoods in Brussels.

This area is well-known for its luxury restaurants with unequaled gourmet cuisine and for some popular, more casual eateries as well.

Luxury prices are the general norm in this area, and guest accommodation prices are mostly high-end. However, some less-costly guest inns can also be found nearby. Avenue Louise is one of the best places to stay in Brussels.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BRUSSELS IN AVENUE LOUISE

  • ($$$) Steigenberger Wiltcher’s
  • ($$) Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie
  • ($$) Hotel Manos Stephanie

4. Ixelles, one of the best areas to stay in Brussels

Where to stay in Brussels: Ixelles

This neighborhood is one of the most diversified international neighborhoods in Brussels as well as one of the most centralized. It offers an active combination of nationalities that form a friendly, welcoming neighborhood for visitors to enjoy. Ixelles is often said to be Brussels at its best.

This neighborhood is extremely popular with the expatriate community and includes distinctly different areas. Châtelain has trendy cafes while the Bois de la Cambre offers verdant land and cool ponds.

Active Chaussée d’Ixelles includes Matongé, the African quarter with lively, late-night bars and music to entertain a large student population.

This neighborhood intersects with Avenue Louise with its more upscale shops, restaurants and guest accommodations. Ixelles is widely known for ts communal atmosphere, character and style.

Visitor attractions not to be missed in Ixelles include the following busy and engaging sites:

  • Chausée d’Ixelles . – This major shopping street in the neighborhood offers stores selling a wide range of items, from food to the latest fashions in clothing. The African hopping centre offers multiple stylish hairdressers, clothing stores and music shops. This area sells the same popular major brands that are offered on the wide Rue Neuve, but without the large crowds and long lines of purchasers. After a relaxing shopping spree on Chausée d’Ixelles, you can enjoy a pleasant stroll all the way to Fernand Coq.
  • Place Fernand Coq . – At this small square right outside the Chausée d’Ixelles, you will find another popular shopping area. This trendy, casual district offers friendly Belgian pubs where you can relax over a beer in the outdoor area.

If your preference is for a fine glass of wine, stop in L’Îlor Corse , a wine bar serving featured wines from Corsica that offers charcuterie specialties and desserts. To enjoy a marvelous meal, choose Il Nobile , a favorite Italian restaurant in the area.

Another stylish venue for a delicious dinner is Amour Fou , a popular French choice.This restaurant also offers a large variety of cocktails and mocktails to suit every taste along with delicious burgers and fries with dancing for all later in the evening.

Although the permanent housing in this area tends to be large townhouses and expensive apartments, there are hotels, guest inns and some B&Bs and youth hostels with low-budget accommodations.

This neighborhood is easy to reach by metro, bus, car or on foot during a stay in Brussels.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN IXELLES

  • ($$$) Hotel Le Châtelain
  • ($$) The Hotel Brussels
  • ($) Hygge Hotel

See also: Where to stay in Bruges , where to stay in Ghent

5. European Quarter, safe international neighborhood

Neighborhoods in Brussels: European Quartier

Every visitor to Brussels must spend some time in the lively, engaging squares and elegant green spaces of the European quarter with its intriguing shops and renowned museums.

The favorite starting point for a tour of this neighborhood is Place du Luxembourg , commonly called “Plux,” an excellent example of a neoclassical station square.

This area, one of the most international neighborhoods in Brussels, has a wide selection of attractive terraces and popular restaurants , making it an ideal social venue for youthful expats and workers at the EU institutions nearby.

Many types of cuisine are available here, including popular organic choices. Here you can truly experience international Brussels.

At Place Jourdan (Jourdanplein), both a local and international center, there are numerous different terraces, cafes and stylish restaurants of all types offering a wide variety of menu selections.

At Rond-point Schuman (Schuman roundabout), you can get a stunning view of two of the three hubs of decision-making by the EU officials.

At night, this area is lit for a spectacular evening stroll past the lovely Europa building. From this vantage point, you can enjoy a grand view of famous Cinquantenaire Park’s triumphal arch as well.

At Place Jean Rey (Jean Reyplein), you will be welcomed to many gourmet venues and trendy boutiques and shops during your stay in Brussels.

After some browsing through the fascinating shops along Place Jean Rey, stop in Le Grand Central , one of the largest and most trendy bars in all areas in Brussels.

At Maison Antoine , sample the Belgian frites or decide on a Belgian-French meal in the fashionable Art Deco interior of Residence Palace . For more exotic cuisine, try Oriento or El Turco restaurants in this area, one of the most intriguing neighborhoods in Brussels.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE ERUOPEAN QUARTER

  • ($$$) Stanhope Hotel by Thon Hotels
  • ($$) Radisson RED Brussels
  • ($) Apartments Berlaymont OHY

6. Saint Gilles, popular and residential neighborhood

Best areas to stay in Brussels: Saint Gilles

This residential neighborhood is noted for its Art Nouveau architecture and Indie art galleries.

The Horta Museum is famed for its beautiful stained glass and ceramics by Victor Horta, and the Museum of the Gueuze in the Cantillon brewery displays the history of the city’s spontaneously fermented beers.

On Sundays, the huge Midi Market located at Brussels-South Railway Station offers a wide array of items for sale from clothes to exotic spices. In this area, there are plenty of innovative new boutiques along with artsy cafes, stylish restaurants and friendly bars .

This neighborhood can be reached easily from the city centre via Gare du Midi train station.

One slight disadvantage here is that the streets near Gare du Midi can be somewhat dangerous after dark, so it is best to enjoy the nightlife with your travel partners or as a group.

This district is also well-known for its foodie hangouts, hip cafes and multicultural cuisine , including Turkish breads and foods prepared with Moroccan spices and honey from the Ardennes.

Locals frequent the Place van Meenen on Monday afternoons to enjoy wine and oysters from Normandy.

Casual relaxation and an enjoyable stay in this neighborhood, one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Brussels, is enhanced by the following features:

  • Boutique Hotels . – Many former townhouses in Saint Gilles have been renovated as boutique hotels displaying quaint or unique styles and offering comfortable relaxation. Some are very budget-friendly to accommodate travelers of all ages and travel expense allowances. For this reason, many backpackers, students and other young visitors to the city stay in Brussels in this area.
  • Neighborhood Strolls . – This area is an ideal place to explore on foot away from the busy centre of the city. While strolling on Chaussee de Waterloo , you can sample many varied styles of cuisine and discover numerous intriguing shops, boutiques and bars.

There is a variety of guest accommodations in this district, as one of the most frequently visited neighborhoods in Brussels, ranging from quality hotels to lower-budget B&Bs and hostels .

The most popular places to stay in Brussels in this area are small, boutique guesthouses.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BRUSSELS IN SAINT GILLES

  • ($$) Hotel Manos Premier
  • ($) The Scott Hotel Brussels
  • ($) Catalonia Brussels

7. Gare du Midi, transport hub and affordable accommodation

Gare du Midi Brussels

This station, also called Gare du Zuid or South railway station, is the most traveled rail station throughout all areas in Brussels . This South station is a major entrance-way into Brussels, both for rail travelers within Belgium and those from points across Europe.

This station makes all districts of the city easily accessible to travelers since the station building is also home to a Metro station, the Gare du Midi Zuidstation, also served by Metro and Premetro services.

There are a number of reasonably priced hotels near the Gare du Midi as well as other moderate to low-cost guest houses and hostels along with a variety of restaurants, eateries, bars and cafes.

Travel conveniences offered by the Gare du Zuid and its location in the city include the following:

  • Easy Transport to Varied Destinations . – Train travel is fast, simple and convenient for commuting to and from all areas in Brussels from all other points in Belgium. Passengers can easily connect with the Eurostar high-speed rail service between London and mainland Europe and with the THALYS high-velocity rail routes to Amsterdam, Cologne and Paris.
  • Convenient Transport to Central Brussels . – The Gare du Midi trains runs on two Metro lines: LIne 2, which starts and ends in Simonis, and Line 6, which runs to and from King Baudouin and Simonis. Once travelers arrive in Gare du Midi, it takes only about ten minutes to get from the station to Grand Place and Brussels City Centre by Metro.

Gare du Midi area is one of the most popular places to stay in Brussels for backpackers and budget travelers.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BRUSSELS IN GARE DU MIDI

  • ($$) Pullman Brussels Centre Midi
  • ($) B&B Hotel Brussels Centre Gare du Midi
  • ($) MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles Gare du Midi

8. Saint-Joose-ten-Noode, multicultural area close to downtown

Best places to stay in Brussels

This district is both the most densely populated and the most deprived neighborhood of all the neighborhoods in Brussels. Considered a diamond in the rough, this area offers plenty of cultural gemstones for visitors to discover.

Some of its older, more worn-down streets are lined with expensive cars. Here you will find an abundance of the city’s ever-popular foods—frites (fries), gaufres (waffles) and beer. In this unique neighborhood, wealthy residents live beside the most socially excluded residents in the city.

Saint-Josse Square offers a stunning church, L’église Saint-Josse , with its faux-Baroque façade, which was not actually built until 1867.

In this colorful neighborhood , strong cultural influences of Turkish and Middle Eastern origins are evident. The Turkish residents have introduced their culture of hospitality to the city along with their ayran, a healthy yoghurt beverage and their many kebab variations.

The Arab Cultural Cente r in this area has been a prominent influence since 1988.

Nearby, you will see a frites van, serving the best frites in the city . On Place Jourdan or Place Flagey, you will find tasty, crisp frites, but the frites van located on Place St. Josse is said to offer the ultimate in top-quality frites available throughout the city.

This fine reputation was earned by the fact that this company processes the potatoes in the chipping machine just a few moments before sending them into the fryer.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SAINT-JOOSE-TEN-NOODE

  • ($$) nhow Brussels Bloom
  • ($) Hotel Du Congres
  • ($) Jacques Brel Youth Hostel

9. Brussels Expo, best area to stay in Brussels for expo visitors

Best areas to stay in Brussels: Expo Brussels

Expo 58, the 11th World’s Fair, was hosted by Belgium in this district of Brussels. Today, this site is well-known for the Atomium , a giant model of a cell unit of an iron crystal, with each of its spheres representing an atom. Millions of travelers have visited this locale since then.

Designed and assembled as the centerpiece for the 1958 World Expo in Belgium, this now refurbished structure is a very popular visitor’s site. Four of the upper spheres are open for guests to visit to enjoy a restaurant and exhibitions.

The Atomium is on the edge of stunning Ossegempark.

Today Brussels Expo is the main event and trade fair area of the Belgian capital .

Hotels, inns and guest houses in this area are available in a wide range of prices, with many moderately priced to accommodate families, students and other young people. There are also some B&Bs and youth hostels scattered through this area.

There is an abundance of restaurants and smaller eateries in this district for the convenience of the large numbers of visitors to this area of the city throughout the year. There are also plenty of bars and cafes for casual drinks and lighter food.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BRUSSELS EXPO

  • ($) Hotel La Roseraie
  • ($) Pegasus Apparthotel Brussels Expo Atomium
  • ($) ibis Hotel Brussels Expo Atomium

Visiting Brussels is an exciting, educational, enthralling and fun-filled experience for travelers from around the globe today.

This historical city has embraced contemporary concepts, fashion and lifestyles, offering a fascinating combination of international cultures and cuisine along with characteristically Belgian styles, traditions and culinary delicacies.

The diverse and intriguing neighborhoods in Brussels offer many attractive hotels, inns and other guest accommodations, with a wide variety of prices to suit all travelers’ budgets. This vibrant, friendly city welcomes one and all to come and enjoy its many treasured sites and secrets.

Photos: Shutterstock

Leave a comment Cancel reply

best areas in brussels to visit

Best Things To Do in Brussels

Brussels , capital of Belgium and seat to the European Parliament is the heart of Europe both physically and politically. With an incredible 60 million people living within 300 km from the city, a few days in Brussels is an enticing prospect as there so many things to do in Brussels.

Attracted by world-famous destinations such as the UNESCO World Heritage Grand Place, the whimsical Manneken Pis or its traditions for chocolate and beer making is it any wonder that 3 million people choose to spend at least one day in Brussels every year?

Add the futuristic Atomium, a lustrous contrast to the grandeur of its medieval center, its amusing comic strip walking tour, and a hearty dish of moules frites and you have the recipe for a city to suit all the family. And then you should add a few days to your stay to do a few day trips from Brussels, for example to Bruges or Ghent .

If you only have a day or two in Brussels, a great way to see the top sights is the Hop on Hop off tour in combination with the Brussels Card . It not only gives you easy transportation between the sights, but also free entry to 41 museums and attractions in Brussels. Book your Brussels Card/Hop on Hop off ticket here >>

To help you decide on the best Brussels itinerary, here is our guide to the things to do in Brussels.

Top Things to Do in Brussels

Grand place.

The first attraction for any Brussels itinerary is a visit to the remarkable Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Brussels is one of Europe’s most stunning squares.

Originally a 12th-century market place, visitors cannot fail to be impressed by the magnificent architecture lining the Grand Place. Reconstructed following 3 days of bombardment by the French army in 1695 the square’s splendid building includes examples of gothic, baroque, neoclassical and neogothic architecture.

Brussels Town Hall

The most impressive building in Grand Place is undoubtedly the 15th century Brussels Town Hall. The square’s only remaining medieval building is located on its western side. In addition to its imposing tower reaching almost 100 meters in height, the building’s impressive facade is adorned with sculpted decorations. Guided tours of the rich interior are also available.

Kings House

On the opposite side of Grand Place lies the hugely impressive gothic revival styled King’s House. Known as Broodhuis (Bread House) in Dutch the building was rebuilt in 1873 by architect Victor Jamaer. The Kings House has been home to the Brussels City Museum since 1887.

Manneken Pis

Following the splendid Grand Place, it is just a short walk south to the junction of Rue du Chêne and Rue de l’Êtuvee. Here amongst the inevitable crowds, you’ll find the Manneken Pis, Brussels’ most well-loved symbol and landmark. Considering this is a 61 cm tall statue of a naked boy urinating gleefully into a fountain the extent of its beloved adoration is hugely impressive.

Manneken Pis is symbolic of the Belgian sense of humor and irreverence. Add in the hundreds of costumes he is dressed in each year to celebrate anniversaries and significant occasions and you have a statue visited by thousands of sightseers every day. You can find his image across Brussels on a magnitude of souvenirs. Seemingly such an item can not be from Brussels if it is not adorned by the Manneken Pis!

The origins of the little boy design are uncertain with several variations and legends told to tourists each year. From 2-year-old Duke Godfrey urinating on opposition troops from a tree in the 12th century to a boy called Little Julien in the 15th century urinating on a burning fuse of explosives at the city walls to a boy urinating on a fire to prevent the king’s castle burning down. What is known though is that the original fountain erected in 1618 designed by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder sits in the Brussels City Museum. The replica viewed by millions since its erection in 1965.

Palais Royal

A 15-minute walk southwest of the Grand Place and Manneken Pis in the Royal Quarter lies the Royal Palace. Constructed in 1820 on the former site of the Palace of the Dukes of Brabant the Palace was modified in 1904 in the style of Louis XVI. Despite not being home to the Royal Family since 1831 the Palace remains the headquarters of the constitutional monarchy. Prominent guests, such as Heads of State, often stay there during their visit to Belgium’s capital city.

Each year from the 21st July, Belgium’s National Day, the Palace is open to visitors to tour its internal rooms. During the summer until early September visits are possible every day except Monday. For those visitors that have thought ahead, the adjacent Park of Brussels, a verdant oasis in the city, is ideal for a picnic or short stop.

Located 8 km north of the city center the Atomium , named after its design based on an iron crystal atoms magnifies 165 billion times is another of the city’s major landmarks. Accessible via the city metro system in around 40 minutes many visitors spending just a short time in Brussels will consider whether a visit here is worth the effort.

Yes, this futuristic style landmark does not boast the history and architectural elegance of the Grand Place and rest of Brussels center but it does retain an elegance and uniqueness to be admired. Designed and constructed for the Brussels World Fair in 1958 this 102-meter tall edifice doubles as exhibition space as well as dramatic sculpture.

Approaching the Atomium from Heysel metro station the Atomium looms over you like a visitor from another planet. Picture the giant machines from War of the Worlds and you have a sense of its stature. The design with its nine interconnected spheres no doubt splits opinion among the 600,000 annual visitors.

They cannot be in any doubt though that this gleaming marvel is unique with no close comparisons anywhere in the world. Part of the joy of a visit to the Atomium is to walk beneath and around its site to see the shape evolve and present interesting angles and geometric wonder.

Internally the Atomium houses permanent and temporary exhibits including one centered around its design and the 1958 world fair. Traversing the spheres and levels by escalator the light shows provide an added sensual attraction and experience. In the top sphere, there is also a bar and restaurant offering panoramic views over the surrounding area and the city of Brussels to the south.

The Atomium is open every day of the week between 10.00 and 18.00. Adult tickets cost €15.00 and children €8.00. Tickets combining visits to the Atomium together with the adjacent Mini Europe are also available for €27.50 and €21.10. Book your tickets here >>

Mini-Europe

Adjacent to the Atomium is Mini-Europe, a miniature park celebrating the most important landmarks from over 80 cities of the European Union. Here at a scale of 1:25 the Eiffel Tower is 13 meters high and Big Ben just 4 meters tall. Given the other treasures awaiting you on Brussels itinerary, we suggest a visit here should only be considered for those staying longer.

Comic Strip Walk

The attraction of any city break, no matter the length of your visit is the freedom to walk its streets at your own pace stumbling across sights low down in any guide book. To enhance the enjoyment of such a walking tour Brussels has an added experience to reflect its light-hearted nature and celebrate one of the country’s most famous sons.

Among its historic architecture and narrow streets above its restaurants, bars and chocolatiers you’ll find buildings brightly decorated with comic characters and cartoons. The most famous depicting Tintin, his dog Snowy, and friend Captain Haddock can be found on Rue de l’Étuve between the Grand Place and Mannekin Pis.

These many cartoons make for a hugely enjoyable treasure hunt style walking tour and fascinating activity for children of all ages. Brochures detailing the location of each cartoon mural are available for €2.50 from tourist centers and information desks across the city. You can also book a guided comic walking tour that tells you more about the history of the comics, the artists, and more. Book your ticket here >>

Whilst Brussels is not known as a major shopping destination visitors during their one day in Brussels should head to the beautiful Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Designed by the architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer and completed in 1847 this parade of symmetrical arched shopfronts beneath an arched glass planed roof and delicate iron framework is a visual delight.

Its architectural splendor only enhancing the feeling of luxury and exclusivity of its boutique stores and cafés. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert can found east of the Grand Place and is accessed via the Rue de la Montagne.

Without a doubt, the most popular souvenir visitors will take home from Brussels is Belgian chocolate . Manufactured here since the 17th-century chocolate is one of the country’s most important exports. As you walk the streets of Brussels it is inevitable that you will find yourself in more than one of its delightful chocolatiers.

Names such as Godiva, Neuhaus, and Leonidas appear on almost every street corner tempting customers with their free samples. The tackier yet still delicious offerings come in Manneken Pis designed tins adorned in the kits of a selection of the continent’s most successful football teams.

A great way to learn more about Belgian chocolate – and of course try some – is a Chocolate tour with visits to some of the best Chocolatiers in Brussels. Book your ticket here >> Or even better? How about a Chocolate Making Class ?

All visitors spending one day in Brussels will at some juncture need to stop for refreshment and sustenance, even with the large number of free samples consumed. Belgium is as famous for its wide selection of beer as it is for its chocolate.

With over 180 breweries in the country, we recommend ordering a wooden tasting paddle allowing you the opportunity to sample as many as six different options, or even better, do a beer tasting tour . Frequently accompanied by a bowl of crisps or nuts these 14 cl servings are an excellent way to taste simple lagers, fruit beers, wheat, and Trappist beers.

Pick one of the numerous bars close to the Grand Place and you can even enjoy your paddle whilst sitting outside in the fresh air, admiring the historical architecture, and watching the world go by. Book your beer tasting tour here >>

Another popular Belgian dish ideal for a quick snack waffle kiosks almost outnumber chocolatiers in the center of Brussels. Their sweet enticing smell an unseen but unmistakable symbol of the city.

The Brussels version is larger and thicker than its Liège cousin but they share the same favored toppings of chocolate, whipped cream, and fruit-based sauces. Who can resist such a delight when they can be bought for as little as €1.50?

French Fries

Potato fries may be named after its much larger neighbor but these worldwide favorites are originally from Belgium. Belgians pride themselves in their ‘frites’ stalls and Brussels is no different.

Long queues form at their numerous stalls displaying the ‘Brusselicious’ mark guaranteeing quality. Such establishments serve freshly cut chips fried in beef or horse fat served with homemade sauces. Often open until the early hours these fries make for a perfect post beer treat.

Moules-Frites

Should a simple snack of French fries not suffice you will be tempted by another of Brussels’ most favorite and widely ordered dishes. As you walk its streets the popularity of moules frites illustrated by both the number of restaurants and a variety of recipes on offer.

Traditionally served in a black mussel pot of 500 grams or 1 kilo and accompanied by the finest French fries moules frites makes the perfect culinary celebration of your trip to Brussels.

Getting to Brussels

With its close proximity to some of Europe’s major cities and populous countries, Brussels is easily accessible to millions.

Brussels boasts 3 main train stations – Brussels Nord, Brussels Midi, and Brussels Centrale. Whilst all three lie on the same line the busiest is Brussels Midi, home to Eurostar trains to France and the UK as well as intercity trains across Europe.

Located just a mile south of Grand Place Brussels Midi is just a 20-minute walk or 10-minute taxi to the city’s center. London can be reached in a little over 2 hours, Amsterdam 3 hours, Cologne 3 1/2 hours and Paris just 1 1/2 hours.

Whilst arriving by car will be an attractive option since 1st January 2018 Brussels and its surrounding region have been designated a Low Emission Zone (LEZ). In addition, foreign-registered vehicles must register online prior to entering. For these reasons and for ease of access visitors should strongly consider utilizing one of the many park and ride car park areas on the outskirts of Brussels.

As you can see, Brussels is definitely worth a trip. I hope you enjoyed my recommendations for the best things to do in Brussels.

This article was written by Paul Rought. Paul was born and raised in Solihull, just outside Birmingham in the center of England. After university, he moved to London in the mid-1990s to become a Chartered Surveyor and has lived there ever since.

Paul’s initial travel experiences were family holidays to the Mediterranean although a school cruise to Greece, Egypt, Turkey, and Israel was a childhood highlight. Concentrating on his move to London his next travel adventure wasn’t until 1999 and a backpacking trip to Thailand and Hong Kong. It was love at first sight. He was immediately enthralled by Hong Kong, the skyscrapers, the city buzz, the food, and the language. His love for Asia continues to this day although Japan has overtaken Hong Kong in his affections. Paul is definitely a city person and ideally would visit New York, Tokyo, Sydney, and London every year. Just don’t push him to pick a favorite!

He loves all things sport and still follows Birmingham City despite 40 years of mostly pain. On autumn and winter Sunday evenings you’ll find him somewhere in front of a TV with his favorite bottle of red enjoying NFL.

He blogs at The Two That Do . Go check it out and also follow him on Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Best Things To Do in Brussels – Pin for later:

Planning a trip to the Belgian capital? Here are the Best things to do in Brussels that you should not miss!

IMAGES

  1. Top Tourist Attractions in Brussels

    best areas in brussels to visit

  2. Best Things to Do in Brussels

    best areas in brussels to visit

  3. Brussels Travel Guide

    best areas in brussels to visit

  4. 10 Top Things to do in Brussels Attractions and Much More!

    best areas in brussels to visit

  5. 21 Fun Things to Do in Brussels in 2020

    best areas in brussels to visit

  6. Top 10 best things to see & do in Brussels

    best areas in brussels to visit

VIDEO

  1. 🏙️ Where to Stay in Brussels 2024: 6 TOP Areas & Hotels #travel #belgium

  2. Places to visit in Brussels|Brussels itinerary|Christmas Market

  3. BRUSSELS

  4. A weekend in BRUSSELS

  5. Brussels

COMMENTS

  1. 18 BEST Places to Visit in Brussels (2024)

    It's one of the best free places to visit in Brussels. Take your picnic, or a beer, and enjoy this unique backdrop. #8 - Mont des Arts. An architecturally striking collection of buildings that holds the Royal Library of Belgium, the Square - Brussels Meeting Center, the National Archives of Belgium, and a public garden.

  2. Must-see attractions in Brussels

    The best places to buy chocolate in Brussels Top 10 best spots for prawn croquettes in Brussels: edition 2023. Shrimp croquettes are veritable icons of Belgian gastronomy, and are a real "must" when you visit Brussels. Top 10 best spots for prawn croquettes in Brussels: edition 2023

  3. 19 Best Things to Do in Brussels

    Ranking of the top 19 things to do in Brussels. Travelers favorites include #1 Grand-Place, #2 St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral and more.

  4. 5 best neighborhoods to explore in Brussels

    Best area for a quick visit Brussels' center and nearby Saint-Gery neighborhood, encompassing the gilded Grand Place and the ever-busy lanes leading to it, are the best place to begin. Walk from the center in any direction, and you're guaranteed to come across at least one museum, restaurant, and/or shop selling miniatures of the Manneken ...

  5. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Brussels

    3. Atomium. 15,980. Speciality Museums. Unavoidable icon of Brussels and Belgium, unique creation in the history of architecture and emblematic vestige of the World Fair in Brussels (Expo 58); the Atomium is the most popular tourist attraction of the Europe's Capital. See full details.

  6. 23 BEST Things to Do in Brussels (+Map & Insider Tips for Top Places)

    Find out! BEST OF BRUSSELS IN A NUTSHELL:* MUST-SEE: Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Royal Galleries, Mont des Arts, Royal Palace, and Magritte Museum. * FUN TO DO: Belgian Beer World, Atomium, Mini-Europe, EU headquarters, food tours. * MUST TRY: Brussels waffles, moules-frites, Belgian beers, and Belgian chocolate.

  7. 13 best things to do in Brussels

    Snacking on fries is a must do while in Brussels. Portions come in many shapes with many sauces—mostly variants of mayonnaise—but the classic method is to eat the fries straight from a paper cone. Maison Antoine in Place Jourdan is a centrally located cult favorite, but prepare to wait in line! The Africa Museum in Tervuren, a city ...

  8. 15 best places to visit in Brussels

    Here are all the best places to visit in Brussels, most of which are located in the city center and are very accessible for travelers. 1. The Grand Place. 2. The Museum of Musical Instruments. 3. Atomium. 4. The Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate. 5. Place du Jeu de Balle Market. 6. Manneken Pis. 7. Bois de la Cambre Park

  9. 18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brussels

    1. Stroll through Grand Place (Grote Markt) Grand Place (Grote Markt) Right in the heart of Brussels Old Town, the city's main plaza (known as Grand Place) is one of the best preserved in Europe and the city's top tourist attraction. Much of the square's elegant character is due to the unique architecture of its elegant Gildehuizen (guild ...

  10. Top 12 must & best places to visit in Brussels

    Best places to visit in Brussels: Place Royale (Royal Square) It is one of the most important historical sites in Brussels and takes a central point in your exploration of the city's history. This area is the royal residence and occupies a large area on the hill overlooking Brussels.

  11. 16 Best And Beautiful Places To Visit In Brussels, Belgium

    The Atomium is one of the best places to visit in Brussels, especially if it's your first time visiting the capital! Opening hours - The Atomium is open every single day (including holidays) from 10am to 6pm. Entrance fee - €16. 8. Château de la Hulpe, a beautiful castle around Brussels.

  12. The 15 Best Things to do in Brussels, Belgium

    Don't forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Brussels, Belgium. Quick Navigation Links. 15 Fun and Unique Things to do in Brussels. 1. Explore centuries of history and culture at Grand Place. 2. Search for the famed 'Manneken Pis' statue. 3. Sample Belgian beers in Brussels.

  13. 15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium)

    Let's have a look at the best things to do in Brussels: 1. Be Inspired by the Grand Place. Source: Pigprox / shutterstock. Grand Place. The Grand Place in Brussels is hidden away in the centre of the city but when you enter on foot, you are guaranteed to be left awestruck. At the centre of the Grand Place is the beautiful 15th Century city ...

  14. Where to Stay in Brussels: 12 Best Places & Areas

    What area of Brussels is best to stay in? Choosing the perfect area in Brussels largely depends on your preferences and travel goals. Here's a quick rundown of some top areas: 1. Grand-Place: The heart of Brussels, ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to major attractions and vibrant nightlife. 2.

  15. 31 Best Things to Do in Brussels, Belgium

    Things to Do in Brussels, Belgium. If you're looking for things to do in Brussels, here are some of the best options: 1. Visit the Grand Place. Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers. Address: Grote Markt, 1000 Brussel, Belgium. The Grand Place is the primary tourist destination in the city of Brussels, Belgium.

  16. 15 Best Places To Visit In Brussels

    Discover the top 15 must-visit places in Brussels. From historic landmarks to delicious food, this guide has it all.

  17. Brussels' top 10 museums and attractions

    The most visited group of museums in Brussels, this cultural marvel's reputation is well-established. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, or RMFAB, is made up of several locations covering countless periods and artistic movements and genres.Near place Royale, you can visit the Old Masters Museum, the Modern Museum, the Fin-de-Siècle Museum and the famous Magritte Museum.

  18. Best time to visit Brussels

    December marks the best time to visit Belgium in winter. Though the sun sets before 5pm and days are cold, the streets are alive with cockle-warming activity. Stalls specialising in Glühwein (hot spiced wine) pop up in the centre of the city, Place de Brouckere is taken over by an ice skating rink, and a towering tree lights up the Grand Place.

  19. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Brussels (UPDATED 2024)

    See ways to experience (31) 2023. 3. Atomium. 15,976. Speciality Museums. Unavoidable icon of Brussels and Belgium, unique creation in the history of architecture and emblematic vestige of the World Fair in Brussels (Expo 58); the Atomium is the most popular tourist attraction of the Europe's Capital.

  20. 16 Amazing Gardens and Parks in Brussels to Visit on Your Next Trip

    The Parc du Cinquantenaire, located in the heart of Brussels, is one of the most beautiful parks in the city. It covers an area of 26 hectares, and it's a great place to relax, enjoy the sun and have fun with your family. The main monument is an obelisk called La Renaissance, erected in 1887. It represents a young woman holding up a torch ...

  21. 13 Best Places To Visit In Brussels

    Mont De Arts. Villa Empain. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Magritte Museum. 1. Grand Place. The grand city centre oozing with history, magnificent architecture and a splendid flower-carpet (twice a year) is one of the best places to visit in Brussels to feel the vibe of the city.

  22. Where to Stay in Brussels: 9 Best Areas

    1. City Centre, the best area to stay in Brussels. As the main town square in Brussels, La Grand Place dates back to the 12th century. It was once an important food market, and today it is still a well-known venue for fine Belgian cuisine as a World Heritage site.

  23. Best Things To Do in Brussels

    Located just a mile south of Grand Place Brussels Midi is just a 20-minute walk or 10-minute taxi to the city's center. London can be reached in a little over 2 hours, Amsterdam 3 hours, Cologne ...

  24. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Brussels (Updated 2024)

    2. Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Wander through the Les Galeries Saint Hubert, a gorgeous glass roofed arcade in the center of Brussels. Lined with cafes, theaters and luxury stores, the Les Galeries Saint Hubert also has the distinction of being the first covered shopping arcade in Europe.

  25. Where do Parisians go on holiday? From Arles to Chablis ...

    Stop off at one of the 33 towns along the way for cellar tours and wine tastings - particularly in the walled city of Beaune, Burgundy's wine capital. You can start the route in Beaune by taking ...