Brussels Attractions – A Travel Guide for Tourists

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a vibrant and lively city that attracts tourists from all over the world. With its history going back as far as the 10th century, it is one of the oldest cities in Europe and is renowned for its many magnificent attractions. From its stunning architecture, to its gorgeous parks and gardens, to its vibrant culture, Brussels is a city that has something for everyone.

History of Brussels

The city of Brussels has a long and fascinating history. It was first established as a small fishing village in the 10th century, and over time it grew into an important trading center for merchants from all over Europe. In the 15th century, Brussels became the capital of the Duchy of Brabant, and the city flourished under the rule of the duke. By the 16th century, Brussels had become an important cultural center and was home to many noteworthy artists and intellectuals. It was during this time that some of the city’s most iconic landmarks were built, such as the Town Hall and the Grand Place.

In the 18th century, Brussels was annexed by France and became part of the French Empire. During this period, the city experienced great economic prosperity and was home to some of the finest examples of French Baroque architecture. Following the fall of Napoleon in 1815, Brussels became part of the newly formed Kingdom of the Netherlands, and it remained so until Belgium declared independence in 1830. Since then, Brussels has continued to be the political and economic center of Belgium and is today one of Europe’s most important cities.

Facts about Brussels

Brussels is home to over 1.2 million people and is one of the largest cities in Europe. It is a multicultural city where multiple languages are spoken, including Dutch, French, and English. The city is also known for its many world-class museums, galleries, theaters, and other cultural attractions. Additionally, Brussels is home to numerous international organizations, including the European Union and NATO.

Things to Do in Brussels

Brussels has something for everyone. From its stunning architecture, to its vibrant culture and nightlife, to its delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. Here are some of the best things to do in Brussels:

Explore the Grand Place

The Grand Place is one of the most iconic landmarks in Brussels. Located in the heart of the city, it is surrounded by many magnificent buildings such as the Town Hall, the King’s House, and the Maison du Roi. This beautiful square is a popular tourist attraction and hosts numerous events such as concerts and festivals throughout the year.

Go Shopping on Rue Neuve

Rue Neuve is one of Brussels’s main shopping streets and is home to some of Belgium’s most popular stores. Whether you’re looking for designer labels or local brands, Rue Neuve has something for everyone. There are also numerous cafes and restaurants along the street where you can take a break from all that shopping.

Visit St. Michael’s Cathedral

St. Michael’s Cathedral is one of Brussels’s most iconic churches. Located in the heart of the city, this beautiful building is one of the oldest churches in Brussels and dates back to the 12th century. It is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and is a popular tourist attraction.

Take a Walk Through Parc du Cinquantenaire

Parc du Cinquantenaire is a large public park located near the center of Brussels. This beautiful park features lush gardens and stunning architecture, as well as numerous attractions such as a museum complex and an old military fortification. It is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic lunch.

Visit Mini-Europe

Mini-Europe is an interactive park located near the Atomium in Brussels featuring miniature replicas of famous European landmarks such as Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower. This fun park is great for both adults and children who want to learn more about European culture and history.

Explore the Comic Strip Center

The Comic Strip Center is a museum dedicated to comic books from all over Europe. Located in central Brussels, this museum features original comic book art from some of Europe’s most famous artists as well as interactive displays about the history of comic books.

Popular Tours in Brussels

Brussels offers many different types of tours for tourists who want to explore all that the city has to offer. Here are two exciting tours that you should check out if you’re visiting Brussels:

The Grand Place Walking Tour

Explore one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks on this amazing walking tour. Led by experienced local guides, this tour will show you some of Brussels’ most beautiful monuments such as Town Hall, King’s House, Maison du Roi, as well as some lesser known gems like secret alleyways and hidden courtyards. You will also learn about the history behind each building so you can get a better understanding of why they are so important in Brussels. Book your Grand Place Walking Tour now.

The Belgian Beer Tour

Belgium is renowned for its world-class beer and this tour will show you why. On this tour you will visit some of Brussels’ top breweries to sample some delicious Belgian beer as well as learn about how it is made from experienced local brewers. You will also get to explore some of Brussels’ lesser-known beer bars and discover some hidden gems along the way. Book your Belgian Beer Tour today.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many exciting attractions to explore in Brussels. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant culture and nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this amazing city. Don’t miss out on all that Brussels has to offer by taking one of these popular tours!