Brussels: The City of Surprises and Top Things To Do

Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is a city full of surprises and unique experiences. With its majestic architecture, delightful cuisine, and a vibrant and diverse population, it’s no wonder that millions of tourists flock to this charming city every year.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, there’s no shortage of things to do in Brussels. From its world-class museums, delicious cuisine, and stunning art galleries to its lively nightlife and beautiful parks, Brussels has something for everyone.

General History of Brussels

Brussels has been inhabited since the 7th century, although the first official mention of Brussels was in 1047. During the Middle Ages, Brussels was an important center of trade and commerce. It was also a key power center in the 15th century when it was the capital of the powerful Burgundian Netherlands.

The city was damaged and occupied several times during the Napoleonic Wars until it finally became part of the newly established United Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1815. In 1830, Brussels was declared the capital of independent Belgium and it has been so ever since. Today, it’s home to more than 1.2 million people and is home to two official languages: French and Dutch.

Famous Sights

Brussels is a city full of iconic sights and attractions that are sure to dazzle visitors. The most famous sites include the Grand Place, which is home to some of the most beautiful buildings in Europe; the Manneken Pis, a 17th century bronze sculpture of a little boy peeing; and the Atomium, a giant steel structure that was built for the 1958 World’s Fair.

No trip to Brussels is complete without a visit to the Royal Palace, home to Belgian monarchs since 1831. The palace is open to the public and visitors can take a guided tour to learn all about its history and architecture. The nearby Parc du Cinquantenaire is another popular attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Belgium’s history with its various monuments and museums.

Gastronomy

Brussels is renowned for its gastronomy, so make sure you leave room for some culinary adventures. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in Europe, serving everything from traditional Belgian dishes such as mussels and fries to more exotic fare like Moroccan couscous.

For an unforgettable dining experience, head to one of Brussels’ Michelin-starred restaurants for some high-end cuisine. If you’re looking for something more casual, you can always find an excellent selection of bars and cafes serving up beers, wines, and delicious snacks.

Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Brussels comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. From chic bars and nightclubs to lively pubs and underground speakeasies, there’s something for everyone in this city. The Saint-Gery district is one of the most popular nightlife spots in Brussels, with its eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, try one of Brussels’ many jazz clubs for some live music and drinks. For something different, check out one of the city’s many beer bars or sample some Belgian craft beers at one of the many beer festivals throughout the year.

Shopping

Shopping in Brussels is a must-do for any visitor. From high-end designer stores to flea markets and everything in between, you’ll find something to suit your style and budget. The Grand Place is home to some of the city’s most exclusive boutiques, while Rue Neuve is a great place to find more affordable items.

The Marollen district is a great place to find vintage clothes and antiques, while Avenue Louise is known as the city’s luxury shopping street. For souvenirs, head to one of Brussels’ many chocolate shops or pick up a unique piece of art at one of the many galleries around town.

Example Tour 1: Best Of Brussels City Tour

Experience all the best sights of Brussels on this comprehensive city tour. This tour takes you through all the major attractions in Brussels including the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Royal Palace, and Parc du Cinquantenaire as well as several other iconic landmarks. You’ll also be able to explore some of the city’s hidden gems such as the Sablon district with its art galleries, boutiques, and cafes as well as other off-the-beaten-path attractions. The tour also includes stops at some of Brussels’ best restaurants for snacks and drinks so you can get a taste of local cuisine along the way. Plus, you’ll get to take in all the stunning architecture that makes this city so unique. This tour will give you an unbeatable insight into all that Brussels has to offer and is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Book Best Of Brussels City Tour here.

Example Tour 2: Brussels Beer Tour

Experience one of Belgium’s best-loved traditions – beer tasting – on this unique tour of Brussels’ best breweries and bars. Your knowledgeable guide will take you on a journey through Brussels’ brewing history as you explore some of its most renowned breweries. You’ll get to sample different types of Belgian beer such as lambic beer and Trappist ales in a variety of venues such as dive bars and traditional pubs as well as trendy breweries. You’ll also get to learn about how these beers are made and how they differ from each other. This tour provides an unforgettable insight into Belgium’s love affair with beer and is sure to be an enjoyable experience for beer lovers everywhere. Book Brussels Beer Tour here.

Example Tour 3: Chocolate Tasting Tour

Experience one of Belgium’s most beloved traditions on this delicious chocolate tasting tour in Brussels. Your guide will take you on a journey through some of the city’s best chocolate shops as you sample some of Belgium’s finest chocolates from both traditional and modern chocolatiers. You’ll learn all about how chocolate is made from bean to bar as well as how to discern the different types of chocolate and appreciate their different flavors and textures. You’ll also get a chance to explore some hidden gems such as boutique chocolate shops where you can sample unique flavors from all over the world. This tour is sure to be an indulgent experience for any sweet tooth! Book Chocolate Tasting Tour here.

Conclusion

No matter what your interests are or how much time you have in Brussels, you won’t be disappointed with all this city has to offer. From its rich history and culture to its delicious cuisine and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this charming Belgian capital. Make sure you take your time exploring all that Brussels has to offer – you won’t regret it!