Places To See In Brussels

Brussels – the capital of Belgium – is a vibrant and diverse city, full of culture and life. Founded in the 10th century, it is known as the home of the European Union. As the political and cultural centre of Belgium, the city is a popular tourist destination with a wide variety of attractions and activities to suit every taste and interest. From the picturesque Grand Place to the iconic Atomium, to the numerous museums and galleries, there is something for everyone in Brussels.

History and General Information

Brussels has a long and rich history that goes back many centuries. It is believed to have been first founded in the 10th century by a small group of people from the area that is now modern-day Netherlands. Over time, it became an important commercial and trade centre, as well as a city of culture and art. In the 19th century, Brussels saw an influx of immigrants from all over Europe, who brought with them new ideas and customs that helped shape the city’s identity.

Today, Brussels is one of the most important cities in Europe, with a population of over 1.2 million people. It is home to a variety of cultures, from French to Flemish, which combine to create an incredibly diverse and vibrant atmosphere. It is also a major political centre, as the headquarters of both the European Union and NATO are located in Brussels.

Iconic Sights

One of the most iconic sights in Brussels is the Grand Place, or Grote Markt. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, with its ornate 17th century buildings and cobblestone streets. It is a popular spot to admire the city’s architecture, and it also hosts many festivals and events throughout the year.

Another iconic sight in Brussels is the Atomium, an immense steel sculpture that was constructed for the 1958 World’s Fair. It stands at 102 meters tall and looks like an atom, with nine spheres connected by tubes that are meant to represent the structure of an iron crystal. The spheres are open to visitors and house a variety of exhibitions, as well as a restaurant and several other amenities.

Museums and Galleries

Brussels is home to a number of world-class museums and galleries, including the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the renowned Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte. The museum houses more than 200 of his works, as well as various displays that provide insight into his life and work. There is also the Museum of Natural Sciences, which offers visitors an opportunity to explore the natural world through its many interactive exhibits.

Other popular museums in Brussels include the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique, which has collections spanning from antiquity to the present day, and the Musée Wiertz, which houses the works of renowned Belgian painter Antoine Wiertz.

Popular Activities

One of the best things to do in Brussels is to sample some of its delicious cuisine. From world-famous Belgian waffles to French fries cooked in beef fat, there is something for everyone’s taste buds. There are also many bars and pubs where you can sample some of Belgium’s famous beers.

Shopping is also a popular activity in Brussels. The Grand Place, Rue Neuve, Avenue Louise, and Place du Châtelain are all great places to find unique gifts and souvenirs, as well as clothes, jewellery, art, and much more.

Tours

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Brussels, consider booking a guided tour through Viator. A popular one-day tour is “The Best of Brussels” tour which takes you to some of the city’s most iconic sights such as Grand Place and Atomium, as well as giving you a chance to explore hidden gems like Royal Park and Coudenberg Palace. The tour also includes admission to several museums and galleries, making it perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

Another great tour option is “A Taste of Brussels” tour which will take you on a culinary journey through the city’s most delicious food spots. You will get to sample some of Belgium’s famous dishes such as moules-frites (mussels with French fries) as you explore local eateries in different neighbourhoods. This tour also offers you an opportunity to learn more about local culture through food.

Finally, if you’re looking for something more active, consider booking a “Cycling Tour of Brussels” tour with GetYourGuide. This tour will take you on a leisurely ride around Brussels while you admire some of its most picturesque sights such as Grand Place and Royal Palace from a different perspective. You will also get a chance to explore some hidden gems that are off the beaten path as your guide shows you around Brussels’ unique neighbourhoods.

Conclusion

Brussels has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for unique shops or delicious food, or if you want to explore its iconic sights or delve into its rich culture. With so many activities and attractions to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what to do during your visit to Brussels. But with Viator and GetYourGuide tours offering guided tours of some of the city’s highlights as well as hidden gems, you can make sure you make the most out of your trip. So if you’re planning on visiting Brussels for the first time, keep this guide handy – you won’t want to miss out on all that this vibrant city has to offer!