Brussels Top Attractions: A City Guide for Tourists

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a beautiful city with a rich and varied history. Located in the heart of Europe, it has long been a centre of commerce, culture, and politics. Boasting an impressive selection of attractions, from iconic monuments and art galleries to world-class shopping and Michelin-starred restaurants, it has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed family holiday, Brussels has something to offer.

A Brief History of Brussels

The city of Brussels has existed since the Middle Ages when it was founded by the Duke of Brabant. Since then, it has been ruled by a long list of rulers including the Spanish and Austrian Habsburgs. During the 19th century, the city underwent a major transformation. The old fortifications were replaced by wide boulevards, parks and gardens and impressive public buildings were constructed. By the start of the 20th century, Brussels had become one of Europe’s most important cities.

Today, Brussels is the capital of Belgium and one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe. It is home to over one million people, making it the largest city in Belgium. It is also the headquarters of many European institutions, including the European Union and NATO. This cosmopolitan atmosphere gives the city a unique character and charm.

Famous Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Brussels is the Grand Place, a stunning town square located in the heart of the city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is lined with colourful 17th-century buildings, many of which house cafés and restaurants. In summer, it is a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. On certain days, the square is transformed into an open air market full of fresh produce and crafts.

The City Hall of Brussels is another must-see attraction in Brussels. Located opposite the Grand Place, it is an impressive Renaissance-style building with a magnificent spire. Inside, visitors can explore an impressive collection of artworks, including paintings by Rubens and Flemish tapestries.

The Atomium is a spectacular piece of architecture that has become an iconic symbol of Brussels. Built for the 1958 World Fair, this giant structure is made up of nine steel spheres that represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Visitors can take an elevator up to the top sphere for incredible views over Brussels.

The Manneken Pis is one of Brussels’ most famous sculptures. This iconic bronze statue was first erected in 1619 and depicts a small boy urinating into a fountain basin. Despite its small size (just 61 cm tall), it has become a symbol of Brussels and is often dressed up in traditional costumes throughout the year.

For art lovers, Brussels has plenty to offer. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium houses an impressive collection of artworks from all periods including Flemish Primitives, 19th century paintings, and contemporary art. The Museum of Modern Art also has an impressive selection of works from modern artists including Picasso and Magritte.

Unique Experiences

In addition to its famous attractions, Brussels also offers plenty of unique experiences that can’t be found elsewhere. The city is home to a number of excellent chocolate shops where you can sample some of Belgium’s famous chocolate creations. These shops range from traditional chocolate makers to trendy new chocolate boutiques.

If you’re looking for something more culinary, then you should check out one of Brussels’ many excellent restaurants. From Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional Belgian pubs, there’s something for every taste and budget. For a unique experience, you can even take a food tour and sample some of Brussels’ best dishes.

Brussels is also a great place to learn about its history and culture. The BELvue Museum offers a fascinating insight into the city’s past, while the Musical Instruments Museum showcases an amazing collection of instruments from all over the world.

Popular Tours

There are plenty of tours available to explore the best bits of Brussels. Here are two popular tours that are highly recommended:

Grand Place & Old Town Walking Tour

This two-hour tour takes visitors around the Grand Place and old town area of Brussels. You will visit some of the city’s iconic landmarks such as City Hall and the Manneken Pis and learn about their history and significance. You will also discover hidden gems such as small cobbled streets and hidden courtyards. You will get to sample some delicious Belgian chocolates as well as some local beers along the way. This tour provides a great introduction to Brussels and is perfect for first-time visitors. Book Grand Place & Old Town Walking Tour here.

Atomium & Mini Europe Guided Tour

This three-hour tour takes visitors around two iconic attractions: The Atomium and Mini Europe. You will explore these incredible structures up close and learn about their history from your knowledgeable guide. At Mini Europe you will discover miniature models of 1:25 scale replicas of famous European landmarks such as The Eiffel Tower, The Colosseum, Big Ben and more. You will also get to take an elevator up to the top sphere of The Atomium for breathtaking views over Brussels. Book Atomium & Mini Europe Guided Tour here.

There are plenty more tours available to help you make the most out of your time in Brussels – from day trips to Bruges to food tours and beer tastings – so be sure to check out what’s on offer before you go!

Conclusion

Brussels is an exciting and vibrant city with plenty to see and do for visitors from all over the world. From iconic monuments such as City Hall and The Atomium to unique experiences like sampling Belgian chocolates or taking a beer tasting tour, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed family holiday, you won’t be disappointed!