Brussels: The Best Things To Do

Brussels – the capital of Belgium – is a vibrant, multi-cultural city with a plethora of activities and sights to explore. Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned explorer, there’s always something new and exciting to do in Brussels. From food tours, to beer tastings, to visits to famous landmarks and museums, Brussels has something for everyone. Here, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Brussels, with detailed descriptions and links to external sources to prove their legitimacy.

General Introduction

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the largest metropolitan area in the country. It is known for its mix of different cultures and its vibrant atmosphere. It is home to a number of famous landmarks and museums, as well as unique activities that you can’t find anywhere else.

The city is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to get around and explore. There are numerous bus and tram lines, as well as a metro network that covers the entire city. In addition, there are several bike rental companies, allowing you to explore the city on two wheels.

Brussels has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury apartments. There is something for everyone, depending on your budget and preferences.

Popular Activities

The most popular activities in Brussels include visiting the Grand Place, tasting Belgian beer, taking a food tour, exploring the city’s many parks, and visiting the Atomium.

The Grand Place is the main square in Brussels and one of the most famous sights in the city. It is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the town hall and the guild houses. It is a great place to watch the world go by and take in the atmosphere of the city.

Belgian beer is renowned for its quality and variety, and Brussels is the perfect place to sample some of the finest brews. There are a number of beer tours available, which will take you to the best pubs and breweries in the city. You can also sample beers from the local shops or visit one of the many beer festivals held in the city throughout the year.

Food tours are a great way to explore the city and sample some of the delicious local cuisine. The experienced guides will take you to the best restaurants, cafes and markets in the city and introduce you to the unique flavours of Belgian cuisine.

Brussels is also home to a number of parks and gardens, which are perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic. Some of the most popular include the Parc du Cinquantenaire, the Warandepark, the Bois de la Cambre and the Parc du Heysel.

The Atomium is one of the most iconic sights in Brussels, and is a must-visit for any visitor. This impressive structure was built for the 1958 Brussels World Expo and is now a popular tourist attraction. It is made up of nine spheres connected by escalators and stairs, and offers stunning views of the city from the top.

Additional Tips

When visiting Brussels, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind. Firstly, the city is relatively safe, but it is always best to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Secondly, the local currency is the Euro, so it is important to make sure you have enough cash for your trip. Thirdly, the weather in Brussels can be unpredictable, so it is a good idea to bring a variety of clothes so that you can be prepared for whatever the weather throws at you. Finally, Brussels is home to a number of festivals throughout the year, so if you are visiting during a festival, it is worth checking out what is happening in the city.

Conclusion

Brussels is an exciting, vibrant city with plenty of activities and sights to explore. From beer tastings to visits to famous landmarks, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes. We hope that with this comprehensive guide, you will be able to make the most of your trip and have a memorable experience in Brussels.

Insider’s Guide to Brussels: Your Ultimate Travel Companion

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a charming European city that is often overshadowed by the more popular cities of Paris and Amsterdam. But what many people don’t know is that Brussels with its awe-inspiring architecture, rich culture, and mouth-watering cuisine has a lot to offer for tourists. From hidden gems to off-the-beaten-path experiences, there’s something for everyone in this city. So, let’s explore some of the best things to do in Brussels that only locals would know.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

Apart from the famous Atomium, Manneken Pis, and Grand Place, Brussels has several hidden gems that are worth exploring. One such place is the ‘Coudenberg Palace’ that dates back to the 12th century and is now partially in ruins. Another off-beat attraction is the ‘Solbosch Park’, the largest park of Brussels that offers a peaceful respite from the hustle-bustle of the city. Also, visit the ‘Belgian Comic Strip Center’ to know more about the country’s unique comic culture.

Dining Spots: Explore Local Cuisine

Belgium is famous for its delicious food and drink culture. To get a taste of authentic local cuisine, visit ‘Au Vieux Saint Martin’ that serves mouth-watering ‘stoverij’ (beef stew) and other local delicacies. Next, try the world-famous ‘frites’ at ‘Frit Flagey’ or ‘Friterie du Café de la Presse’. For a sweet treat, visit ‘Wittamer’ for their lip-smacking ‘Brussels Waffle’ and ‘Cafégeorgette’ for some of the best ‘praline chocolates’ in the city.

Cultural Experiences: Traditional Festivals and Customs

Belgium is a country with rich cultural heritage and traditions that are still celebrated with great enthusiasm. One such festival is ‘Carnival de Binche’, a UNESCO-recognized festival that is a vibrant celebration. Another event to catch is the ‘Ommegang Festival’, a re-enactment of the Bourbon era that takes place in the Grand Place. And, to experience the local customs, visit ‘Maison Dandoy’, a biscuit factory established in 1829 that specializes in Belgian biscuits and cookies.

Local History: Fascinating stories from the past

Brussels has a rich history that dates back to the Roman era and has seen various invasions and occupations. One fascinating story is the ‘Manneken Pis’, a small bronze sculpture of a peeing boy that has been a symbol of the city since the 17th century. According to legend, the statue saved the city from fire by extinguishing the flames with his powerful pee. Another captivating story is the ‘Royal Greenhouses of Laeken’, a complex of greenhouses built in the 19th century that is only open for a few weeks every year.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For a unique experience in Brussels, visit ‘Poechenellekelder’ a pub full of puppets and puppetry paraphernalia. Or head to ‘Train World’, a railway museum with a vast collection of historic trains and memorabilia. And, for a surreal experience, visit the ‘Musée Art and Marges Museum’, a museum that displays works of art created by the socially marginalized people.

There you have it, some of the best hidden gems, cultural experiences, and unique suggestions to make your trip to Brussels an unforgettable one. So, pack your bags and head out to explore this charming city!