The Ultimate Guide to Places to Visit in Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and a beautiful city, full of life and history. It is located at the heart of Europe, and it is one of the most vibrant cities in all of Europe. It is home to the headquarters of European Union and NATO, making it a major hub for international politics. The city is also known for its vibrant cultural scene and amazing architecture. With its colorful streets, beautiful parks, and world-class art galleries, there is something for everyone in Brussels.

History of Brussels

The city of Brussels has been around since the 9th century, when it began as a small fishing village. Over time, it became an important trading center and developed into a thriving metropolitan city. The city was first mentioned as “Brusel” in 847 AD and by 1185 AD it had become an official part of the County of Brabant. The city has played a major role in the history of Europe and it has been ruled by the Spanish, French, Dutch, and Belgians throughout history. It was a major industrial center during the 19th century, when it was known as the “capital of Europe”. Today, it is a major political center as well as a cultural hub.

Population and Location

Brussels is home to around 1.8 million people and is the largest city in Belgium. It is located at the very center of Belgium, surrounded by the Walloon Region in the south and the Flemish Region in the north. The city is located approximately 50 kilometers from Antwerp, 70 kilometers from Amsterdam, and 150 kilometers from Paris.

Main Attractions in Brussels

Brussels is known for its many attractions, including spectacular architecture, world-famous museums, historical monuments, and beautiful parks. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Brussels:

Grand Place

The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the main square in Brussels. Located in the heart of the city, it is surrounded by beautiful old buildings, including the City Hall, the Breadhouse, and the King’s House. It is also home to many historic monuments, such as the Maison du Roi and the Town Hall. Every year in August, the Grand Place hosts a flower carpet event where hundreds of thousands of flowers are arranged in intricate patterns on the square.

Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis is a small bronze sculpture of a boy peeing into a fountain located in central Brussels. It is one of the most famous landmarks in Brussels and one of the most visited tourist attractions in all of Belgium. The statue dates back to 1619 and has become an icon of Brussels. It is said that placing a dress on the statue can bring good luck to those who do so.

Atomium

Atomium is a giant structure designed for the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels. It consists of nine giant steel balls connected by tubes which represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. The structure stands 102 meters tall and offers spectacular views from its observation decks. Inside the structure there are exhibits about science, technology and culture which are open to visitors.

Museums

Brussels is home to many world-class museums, such as Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique and Autoworld. Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique houses a large collection of artwork from different periods in Belgian history, while Autoworld features over 200 classic cars from different eras. The Magritte Museum is dedicated to the works of famous surrealist artist René Magritte and has an extensive collection of his works.

Parks

Brussels has many parks and gardens which are perfect for relaxing or taking a stroll. The Parc du Cinquantenaire is one of the largest parks in Brussels and features a large archway and several monuments. Bois de la Cambre is another popular park with an artificial lake, gardens, and beautiful pathways. The Parc de Bruxelles has many fountains, statues, and ponds and is a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing or taking in the sights.

Popular Activities In Brussels

In addition to sightseeing, there are plenty of activities to do in Brussels which will make your trip even more enjoyable. Here are some of the most popular activities in Brussels:

Beer Tasting

Belgium is known for its delicious beer and there are many beer-tasting opportunities in Brussels for those looking for an authentic experience. There are many bars that offer beer-tasting sessions where you can sample different kinds of beer from all over Belgium and learn about their history and production process. You can also visit one of the many craft breweries in Brussels for a more immersive experience.

Chocolate Tasting

Belgian chocolate is world-famous for its rich taste and high quality so chocolate-tasting should definitely be on your list when visiting Brussels. There are many chocolatiers that offer chocolate-tasting sessions where you can sample different kinds of chocolate from all over Belgium. You can also visit one of the many chocolate museums in Brussels to learn more about the history of chocolate making in Belgium.

Cycling Tours

One unique way to explore Brussels is by bike. There are many cycling tours that take you through some of the most iconic sights in Brussels while providing commentary about its history along the way. If you’re feeling adventurous you can even rent a bike and explore on your own!

Tours In Brussels

Brussels Grand Tour

The Brussels Grand Tour is a three hour tour exploring some of the most iconic sights in Brussels, including the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Atomium, and much more! On this tour you will learn about the history and culture of Brussels while taking in its beautiful sights. The tour includes a visit to some of the most popular museums including Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique and Autoworld. You can book this tour on Viator.

Taste Of Belgium Tour

The Taste Of Belgium Tour is an immersive tour where you get to explore Brussels’ culinary delights! On this tour you will visit local markets to sample authentic Belgian dishes such as waffles and Flemish stew as well as traditional Belgian beers. You will also get to visit some of Belgium’s most famous chocolate shops to sample delicious Belgian chocolate! You can book this tour on Viator.

Atomium Tour

The Atomium Tour is an exciting tour that takes you inside one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks – Atomium! On this tour you will get to explore all nine levels of this fascinating structure while learning about its history and significance to Brussels’ culture. You will also get to experience spectacular views from its observation decks! You can book this tour on GetYourGuide.

Conclusion

Brussels is an amazing city full of history, art, culture, and delicious food! There are so many things to explore and activities to do that you won’t ever be bored during your visit to Brussels! Whether you want to explore the city’s iconic attractions or learn about its rich history through tours or tastings there is something for everyone to enjoy in Brussels!