Interesting Places In Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a lively and vibrant city with plenty of things to explore and discover. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for another visit, you are sure to find something to do and see that will make your stay in the city memorable. From famous attractions to hidden gems, this blog post will provide a helpful guide for tourists visiting Brussels for the first time and give all the best tips on what to do and to see in the city.

Introduction

Brussels is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with a mix of historic sites, world-class art galleries, and beautiful parks. It’s also a great place to explore the Belgian culture, with its unique mix of French and Dutch influences. With a population of over one million, Brussels is the largest city in Belgium and the political capital of Europe. It is a thriving city with plenty of things to do, from visiting the world-famous Atomium and the iconic Manneken Pis, to exploring the bustling markets and enjoying the delicious food.

Atomium

The Atomium is one of the most iconic structures in Brussels, and one of the most popular tourist attractions. Built for the 1958 World’s Fair, the Atomium is a steel structure that is 102 meters tall and looks like a giant atom. It is composed of nine steel spheres, with two escalators and an elevator connecting them. Visitors can take a tour of the top sphere, which offers panoramic views of the city, or explore the other spheres, which house a museum, an exhibition on the history of the Atomium, and a restaurant.

Grand Place

The Grand Place is the main square of Brussels and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Town Hall and the King’s House. This is also the site of the annual Flower Carpet, which is a spectacular display of over 800,000 begonias and other flowers that covers the entire square. There are also many cafes and restaurants around the square, making it a great place to relax and people-watch.

Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a little boy urinating into a fountain. It is one of the most famous symbols of Brussels and is a popular tourist attraction. The statue is over 300 years old and has been dressed in hundreds of costumes over the years. There is also a museum dedicated to the Manneken Pis, which is located nearby.

Markets

Brussels is also known for its markets, which are a great way to experience the city’s culture and cuisine. The Grand Place Market is held every Sunday, where vendors sell a variety of produce, including fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats. The Marolles Flea Market is also a popular destination, with vendors selling antiques, vintage clothing, and other unique items.

Food

No visit to Brussels is complete without trying the local cuisine. Belgian cuisine is known for its hearty dishes, such as carbonnade flamande (beef stew), stoemp (mashed potatoes and vegetables), and moules-frites (mussels and fries). Belgian waffles and chocolate are also popular treats, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes around the city to explore.

Parks and Gardens

Brussels is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens. The Cinquantenaire Park is one of the most popular, with its lush gardens and wide open spaces. The park also houses the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and of Military History, which is a great place to learn about the history of Belgium. The Bois de la Cambre is a large park near the city center, and it is a great place to relax and take in the scenery.

Activities and Tours

If you are looking for a more in-depth experience of Brussels, there are many activities and tours available. For a comprehensive overview of the city, you can take a sightseeing tour that covers all the main attractions. You can also explore the city’s art and culture on a arts and culture tour. There are also food tours and walking tours available, which are great ways to explore the city and discover its hidden gems.

Conclusion

Brussels is a beautiful city with plenty of things to explore and discover. From its famous attractions to its hidden gems, there are many activities and tours that you can take to make your stay in the city memorable. Don’t forget to bring some euros and a comfortable pair of shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking during your visit. Lastly, don’t forget to try some of the delicious local cuisine, as it is a great way to experience the city’s culture and cuisine.