Is Brussels Worth Visiting?

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with plenty to explore and enjoy. As the headquarters of the European Union, the city is full of political, economic and cultural importance and is significantly enriched by its ethnic and religious diversity. Whether you’re a history lover, fan of architecture, or looking to enjoy some culture with your family, Brussels has something to offer everyone.

History

The first recorded human activity in Brussels dates back to the 6th century BC, when a Celtic tribe known as the Belgae lived in the area. During the Middle Ages, Brussels soon became an important trading city and was appointed as the capital of the Duchy of Brabant in the 13th century.

In the 15th century, Emperor Maximilian I made Brussels the official residence of the Habsburg dynasty and for a time, it was one of the most influential cities of Europe. By the late 18th century, it was home to the famous philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

Today, Brussels still retains much of its mediaeval city center in buildings like the Gothic Town Hall, which dates back to 1402; churches like St. Michael’s Cathedral; and the lovely Grand Place with its cobblestone squares and grandiose baroque architecture.

Cultural Attractions

Brussels also boasts a wide variety of cultural attractions, from its many historic theaters, opera houses and concert halls, to art galleries and museums. One notable museum is the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, which features works by masters like van Dyck, Albert Bouts, Rubens and Rembrandt. Visitors can also explore the MIMA (Millennium Iconographic Museum of Art), which houses a large collection of contemporary art from all over the world.

The Royal Palace, the official residence of the King and Queen of Belgium, has been converted into a museum and visitors can learn about the country’s rich history through its exhibits. There is also much to discover about Brussels’ unique past in the Magritte Museum; one of the world’s largest collections dedicated to the painter surrealist Rene Magritte.

Family Activities

Brussels has plenty to offer families looking for a fun and educational holiday experience. The Mini-Europa theme park features scale models of some of Europe’s most iconic landmarks, while the Cinquantenaire park is perfect for picnics, ice-skating and bike rides.

A visit to Brussels wouldn’t be complete without trying some traditional Belgian dishes. Home to some of the world’s finest chocolatiers and beer makers, Brussels is also renowned for its culinary delights. Enjoy classic dishes like mussels with fries or perhaps try something more adventurous such as rabbit stew.

Conclusion

Thanks to its many historical and cultural attractions, beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, Brussels is a city that should not be missed. There is something for everyone here – from food lovers to culture enthusiasts – making it an ideal destination for a family holiday. So if you’re thinking about traveling to Brussels, why not make it your next destination? The Brussels Map is an invaluable guide for navigating this beautiful city.

An Insider’s Guide to Brussels: Is it Worth Visiting?

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is often overlooked by tourists in favor of its neighboring cities. However, this charming city has a lot to offer, from its stunning architecture to its delicious food and beer. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you through some of the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help you decide if Brussels is worth visiting.

Top Attractions

One of the most iconic attractions in Brussels is the Atomium, a landmark building that was built for the 1958 World Expo. The Atomium offers spectacular views of the city from its observation deck, and there are exhibitions and a restaurant housed within the structure.

Another must-see attraction in Brussels is the Grand Place, a stunning central square surrounded by beautiful buildings dating back to the 17th century. The Grand Place is also home to the famous Manneken Pis statue, a small bronze statue of a boy peeing into a fountain.

For art lovers, the Musée Royaux des Beaux-Arts is a great place to visit. This museum houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks from the 15th to the 21st century.

Dining Spots

Brussels is well known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of great dining spots to choose from. One popular restaurant to try is Chez Leon, a traditional Belgian restaurant that specializes in mussels and fries. For something a little more upscale, head to Comme Chez Soi, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves modern Belgian cuisine.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by one of Brussels’ many chocolatiers such as Neuhaus, Godiva, and Leonidas, to sample some of the world’s best chocolate.

Cultural Experiences

One of the best cultural experiences in Brussels is a visit to the Musée Magritte Museum, which is dedicated to the works of the famous Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Magritte’s work in the world and provides an in-depth look into the life and art of this unique painter.

Brussels is also known for its vibrant comic book culture, and visitors can explore this artistic side of the city by taking a Brussels Comic Book Route, a self-guided walking tour that takes you past over 50 murals of your favorite comic book characters.

Local History

Brussels is steeped in history, and visitors can get a glimpse into the city’s past by visiting the Palace of Justice, a stunning building that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. This impressive structure was built in the late 19th century and is the largest building constructed in the 19th century.

Another historical site to visit is the Saint-Michel Cathedral, which was built in the Gothic style between the 13th and 15th centuries. Visitors can also visit the nearby Royal Palace of Brussels, which is home to the Belgian royal family and is open to the public for tours during the summer months.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who want to get off the beaten path, head to the charming neighborhood of Sainte-Catherine, which is known for its cozy cafes, trendy boutiques, and scenic canals. This area is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring the local shops and art galleries.

For nature lovers, take a trip to the nearby Sonian Forest, one of the last remaining beech forests in Europe. The forest covers over 10,000 acres and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including deer, foxes, and squirrels.

In conclusion, Brussels is definitely worth a visit. From its iconic landmarks to its delicious cuisine, stunning architecture, and rich history, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. So pack your bags, hop on a plane, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Brussels!