The Best Places to Visit in Brussels

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a vibrant, cosmopolitan hub of art, culture, and architecture. Home to the European Union and NATO, Brussels is an international political center and a great place to explore both new and traditional attractions. From the iconic Grand Palace and Manneken Pis Statue to the bustling food markets and Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something for everyone in Brussels. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a frequent visitor, here are the best places to visit in Brussels.

History of Brussels

The history of Brussels dates back to the 9th century, when the city was first established as a small fortress town on the banks of the Senne river. Over time, Brussels grew into an important trading hub and eventually became the capital of the Netherlands in the 15th century. In 1830, Brussels was declared capital of Belgium after the country gained independence from the Dutch. During the 19th century, Brussels underwent significant development and became an important cultural, political, and economic center. Today, Brussels is home to over 1.2 million people from all over the world and is the official headquarters of many European Union and NATO institutions.

Things to Do in Brussels

Brussels is a city full of things to see and do. From iconic monuments and historical sites to world-class museums and vibrant nightlife, here are some of the best places to visit in Brussels.

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Brussels and a must-see for any visitor. Located in the heart of the city, the Grand Palace is an impressive complex of Gothic and baroque buildings that house some of the city’s most important institutions. The palace is open to visitors every day of the week and offers guided tours that provide an overview of the history and architecture of this magnificent building.

Manneken Pis Statue

The Manneken Pis Statue is one of the most beloved symbols of Brussels. The bronze statue depicts a young boy urinating into a fountain and dates back to 1619. The statue is located in the Grand Palace and is one of the most photographed spots in the city. The Manneken Pis Statue has become an important symbol of Brussels and is often dressed up in costumes for special occasions like festivals and holidays.

Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is one of the most popular attractions in Brussels. Located in the historic Royal Quarter, MOCA houses an impressive collection of modern art from around the world. The museum also offers special exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year. MOCA is open to visitors every day from 10 am to 6 pm and admission is free for children under 12.

Food Markets

Brussels is well known for its vibrant street markets, which offer a unique opportunity to sample local food and products. Some of the best markets in Brussels include Marche du Midi (Midday Market), Place du Jeu de Balle (Ball Game Square Market), and Marche du Sablon (Sablon Market). These markets offer a wide variety of fresh produce, traditional Belgian dishes, artisanal products, and unique souvenirs.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants

Brussels is home to some of the best restaurants in Europe. The city boasts over 30 Michelin-starred restaurants offering a variety of high-end cuisine from around the world. Some popular Michelin-starred restaurants in Brussels include Comme Chez Soi, Le Cirio, Sea Grill, Bon Bon, and La Paix.

Popular Tours in Brussels

Brussels has a wide range of tours available for visitors looking to explore the city’s hidden gems. Here are two popular tours that you should consider when visiting Brussels:

Brussels Underground Tour

Explore Brussels’ hidden underground world with this unique tour that takes you beneath the city’s cobblestone streets and reveals its fascinating history. This two-hour tour starts at the Grand Place and takes you through centuries-old tunnels, crypts, catacombs, and cellars filled with stories from the past. Along the way you’ll learn about secret passages and hidden treasures as well as stories about famous personalities who once lived here. Book this Underground Tour to discover what lies beneath Brussels’ streets.

The Brussels Beer Tour

Belgium is renowned for its award-winning beers, so what better way to experience Brussels than by sipping some of its finest brews? This two-hour tour takes you on a journey through Belgium’s beer-making history while you sample some of its top brews along the way. You’ll visit traditional pubs, breweries, and beer halls while learning about Belgium’s unique brewing methods and sampling some local favorites. Book this Beer Tour for a truly unique experience in Brussels.

Conclusion

Brussels is an exciting city full of culture, art, history, and plenty of things to do. From iconic monuments to world-class museums and Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something for everyone in Brussels. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a frequent visitor, make sure to visit these best places to visit in Brussels for a truly unforgettable experience!