A Guide to the Best Things to See in Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is an amazing city that is filled with history, culture and vibrant attractions. It is a place that celebrates art, has a unique food scene, and is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Europe. From the Grand-Place to the Royal Park of Laeken, Brussels is a city that never fails to surprise and delight visitors, no matter what time of year they choose to visit.

With its cobbled streets, historic buildings and picturesque canals, Brussels is an undeniably beautiful city. It is also home to some of the most impressive monuments and attractions in Europe, such as the majestic Royal Palace, the Atomium and the Manneken Pis. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or a relaxing day out in the park, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to see in Brussels and help you plan your perfect visit.

History of Brussels

Brussels has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century when it was first founded as a small fishing village. Over time, the city grew in prominence as an important trading hub and attracted merchants from all over Europe. By the 14th century, Brussels had become an autonomous city with its own governing council and was one of the most powerful cities in Europe.

During the 17th century, Brussels experienced a period of great prosperity and was home to some of the most renowned artists and architects in Europe. The city was also the center of science and learning, with universities such as the University of Louvain and the Free University of Brussels. This period of growth and prosperity was followed by a long period of decline during the 19th century, when the city was occupied by foreign powers.

After World War II, Brussels experienced a period of reconstruction and redevelopment. Today, it is a thriving metropolis with a population of over 1.2 million people and a thriving tourism industry. It is also home to many important European institutions such as the European Union and NATO.

What to See in Brussels

There are so many amazing things to see and do in Brussels, it can be hard to decide where to start. Here are some of our favorite attractions that no visitor should miss:

Grand-Place

The Grand-Place is one of the most iconic sights in Brussels. Located in the historic center of the city, this square is surrounded by beautiful guildhalls, ornate townhouses and other historic buildings. It is also home to the impressive 15th century Town Hall and the House of the Dukes of Brabant. The Grand-Place is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, who come here to admire the beautiful architecture or sample some local delicacies from one of the many cafes and restaurants.

Atomium

The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks. This unique structure was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and stands at an impressive 102 meters high. The Atomium consists of nine steel spheres connected by escalators, representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. At its top is a viewing platform, offering visitors stunning views of the city.

Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is perhaps one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks. This iconic statue depicts a young boy relieving himself into a fountain and has become a symbol of the city’s sense of humor and irreverence. The original bronze statue was first erected in 1619 and has since been replaced several times due to damage caused by vandals or weathering.

Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels is an impressive Baroque structure that was once home to the Belgian Royal Family. This building is now open to visitors who can admire its ornate architecture and grand rooms such as the State Apartments or the Throne Room. The palace grounds are also home to other attractions such as the Royal Museum of Fine Arts and the Royal Park of Laeken.

Popular Tours in Brussels

In addition to exploring these popular attractions on your own, there are also some great tours available that will help you get even more out of your visit to Brussels. Here are two popular tours that we recommend:

Brussels Royal Palace Tour

Discover the history and secrets of Brussels’ royal palace on this two-hour guided tour. Your guide will take you through some of the palace’s grand rooms such as the State Apartments, Throne Room and Grand Salon. You’ll also learn about how Belgium’s royal family lived and hear stories about their lives behind closed doors. Finally, your tour will end with a visit to the Royal Park of Laeken, where you’ll have time to explore this grand park on your own. Book a Royal Palace Tour here.

Brussels Chocolate Making Workshop Tour

Chocolate lovers rejoice! On this two-hour tour you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Belgium’s rich chocolate history as well as sample some delicious local chocolates. You’ll also get to take part in an interactive chocolate making workshop where you’ll learn how to make your own chocolate creations – complete with decorations and packaging – that you can take home with you as souvenirs. Book a Chocolate Making Workshop Tour here.

Conclusion

Brussels is an amazing city with plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. From its iconic landmarks such as the Manneken Pis and Atomium to its lesser known gems like the Grand-Place and Royal Palace, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. And with so many great tours available, it’s easy to make your visit to Brussels even more memorable. So why not start planning your trip today?