Brussels: The Best Places To Visit

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is one of Europe’s most overlooked destinations, but it should be on the top of any traveler’s list. It may not have the beauty of Paris, the romance of Venice or the grandeur of London, but Brussels is a city with a unique charm that’s definitely worth exploring. Whether you’re a fan of history and art, or you’re looking for a great gastronomical experience, Brussels has something for everyone.

A Brief History of Brussels

Brussels traces its beginnings to the 10th century when it was founded as a small fishing village. Over the centuries, it grew into an important trading center and a fortified city, and became an administrative hub for the Duchy of Brabant in the 15th century. In 1830, Brussels was declared the capital of Belgium following its independence from the Netherlands.

Today, Brussels is a vibrant and modern city that is home to around 1.2 million people. It is known for its impressive architecture, global cuisine, and its thriving arts scene. Its iconic sights like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis and Atomium make it one of the most recognizable cities in Europe.

Explore the Grand Place

The Grand Place is the heart of Brussels and one of its most popular attractions. This stunning square is surrounded by 17th-century guild houses, City Hall and the King’s House, all adorned with intricate ornamentation and sculptures. Every two years, the square plays host to a magnificent flower carpet, made up of more than 800,000 flowers in a stunning display of colors and shapes.

See Manneken Pis

The iconic Manneken Pis statue is one of Brussels’ most recognizable landmarks. This bronze statue of a young boy peeing into a fountain has become an unofficial symbol of Brussels, and is said to bring luck to those who rub its head. The statue was first made in 1619 and has been restored several times over the years. It has even been dressed up in various costumes throughout its history.

Visit the Atomium

The Atomium is the most famous landmark in Brussels and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world. This iconic structure was originally built for the 1958 World Fair and it is now one of Brussels’ most visited attractions. The Atomium stands 103 meters high and consists of nine steel spheres connected by long tubes. It offers spectacular views of Brussels from its observation decks and it also houses a number of exhibitions about science and technology.

Take a Tour of Brussels

For a comprehensive overview of Brussels, take a guided tour with an experienced local guide. A guided tour gives you a chance to explore all the must-see sights in Brussels in a short amount of time, as well as learn about its history and culture. Popular tours include walking tours, bike tours, open-top bus sightseeing tours, and even chocolate tours that let you sample some of Belgium’s famous treats.

Experience Brussels by Bike Tour

A bike tour is the perfect way to explore the city and get up close to its iconic sights. You can take a leisurely ride through the city center and explore cobbled streets and canals, as well as some of Brussels’ most famous sights like the Grand Place and Manneken Pis. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels and will take you through some of the city’s most beautiful parks and squares. Book a bike tour in Brussels to explore the city in an unforgettable way.

Discover Brussels on an Open-Top Bus Tour

An open-top bus tour is another great way to see all the major attractions in Brussels without getting tired out from walking or biking around the city. The bus tour takes you on a loop around the city center, with audio commentary in multiple languages. You can hop on and off at any stop along the route to explore further or come back later on in the day. Book an open-top bus tour in Brussels to make sure you don’t miss any of the city’s must-see sights and attractions.

Go on a Chocolate Tour

Belgium is known for its world-famous chocolate, so it would be wrong to visit Brussels without taking a chocolate tour! On this tour you can sample some of Belgium’s finest chocolates and learn about their history and production process from an experienced guide. You will visit some of Brussels’ best chocolate shops, learn about different types of chocolate and get to sample some delicious chocolates along the way. Book a chocolate tour in Brussels to get your sweet tooth fix!

Experience Local Cuisine

Brussels is home to some amazing restaurants that offer all kinds of global cuisine that reflects its multicultural population. From traditional Belgian fare such as mussels and french fries (or “frites”) to international dishes like Mexican tacos, there’s something for everyone here. Be sure to try out the Belgian waffles (or “gaufres”) which are usually topped with cream, chocolate or fruit – they are delicious!

Shop at Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is one of Europe’s oldest shopping arcades, dating back to 1847. This historic shopping center is home to a range of upscale stores, cafes, restaurants and cinemas set within beautiful 19th-century architecture. It’s definitely worth a visit if you want to get away from the usual tourist traps and experience some truly unique shopping!

Relax at The Parc du Cinquantenaire

The Parc du Cinquantenaire is one of Brussels’ most popular parks located in the heart of the city. This lush oasis is home to beautiful flower gardens, tranquil ponds and winding pathways perfect for leisurely strolls or romantic picnics. The park also features several monuments including the Triumphal Arc which was built to commemorate Belgium’s 50th anniversary in 1880.

Conclusion

Brussels is a vibrant city full of life, culture and history that should not be overlooked when visiting Europe. From iconic sights like The Grand Place and Manneken Pis to delicious global cuisine and historic parks, there’s something for everyone in Brussels – whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax and enjoy everything this city has to offer!