A Tourist Guide to Places to Visit Near Brussels

Brussels is the capital city of Belgium, and it is the de facto capital of the European Union. It is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, with its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. Brussels is a great destination for a short break or a family vacation, as it is full of attractions and activities to suit all tastes and budgets. From the impressive Grand Place to the wonderful art galleries and museums, there is something for everyone in Brussels.

History of Brussels

The city of Brussels was first settled in the 9th century by the Germanic tribe known as the Franks. The city was a major center of commerce and trade during the Middle Ages and was an important center of power during the Protestant Reformation. It was also the site of many famous battles during the Napoleonic Wars. The city was rocked by a major fire in 1695 that destroyed much of the city center. The city was rebuilt in the Baroque style, which can still be seen in many areas of the city. The city was occupied by France from 1794 to 1815, and then it became the capital of Belgium after it gained independence from the Netherlands in 1830.

Facts about Brussels

Today, Brussels is a bustling city with a population of over 1.2 million people. It is the home of the European Union, and many international organizations are based in Brussels. It is also a major international hub for business, finance, culture, and politics. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums featuring world-renowned works of art. The city is also home to some of Europe’s most impressive architecture, including the iconic Atomium, the Grand Place, and the Royal Palace.

Things to Do in Brussels

There are plenty of things to do in Brussels, both for tourists and locals alike. Popular attractions include taking a tour of the Grand Place, exploring the Royal Palace and its gardens, admiring the architecture of the Atomium, going shopping along Rue Neuve and Avenue Louise, visiting one of the many museums or art galleries, or enjoying some traditional Belgian cuisine. The city also offers plenty of activities for families, such as taking a boat ride on the River Senne or visiting one of the many parks and gardens.

Places to Visit Near Brussels

Brussels is surrounded by many wonderful places to visit, both in Belgium and in neighboring countries. Here are some of the best places to visit near Brussels:

Antwerp

Antwerp is a beautiful city in northern Belgium, located just an hour away from Brussels. It is renowned for its stunning Flemish Renaissance architecture and its vibrant culture. Popular attractions include taking a stroll along the beautiful Meir shopping street, exploring Ruben’s House Museum, admiring the works of Peter Paul Rubens at the Cathedral of Our Lady, and taking a boat ride along the River Scheldt.

Bruges

Bruges is a stunningly beautiful city located in northwest Belgium, just two hours away from Brussels. It is renowned for its stunning architecture and quaint canals, making it one of Europe’s most picturesque cities. Popular attractions include exploring Markt Square with its iconic Belfry tower, admiring the works of Michelangelo at Onze-Lieve-Vrouwkerk Church, visiting the Church of Our Lady, and taking a boat ride along one of the city’s many canals.

Ghent

Ghent is an enchanting city located in northwest Belgium, just an hour away from Brussels. The city is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, its vibrant culture, and its world-famous university. Popular attractions include exploring Gravensteen Castle, admiring the works of Jan van Eyck at St Bavo’s Cathedral, taking a stroll along Graslei Riverfront Promenade, or shopping along Patershol Street.

The Hague

The Hague is a stunningly beautiful city located in The Netherlands, just two hours away from Brussels. It is renowned for its iconic architecture, its vibrant culture, and its world-renowned art galleries and museums. Popular attractions include exploring Binnenhof Palace and Gardens, visiting Madurodam miniature park, admiring the works at Mauritshuis Royal Picture Gallery Museum, or taking a stroll along Scheveningen Beach.

Popular Tours Near Brussels

If you are looking for an exciting way to explore some of these places near Brussels, there are many great tours available. Here are two popular tours that you can book directly through Viator or GetYourGuide:

Viator’s ‘Day Trip from Brussels to Antwerp’ Tour

This day trip from Brussels to Antwerp takes you on an exciting journey through one of Belgium’s most charming cities. You will explore some of Antwerp’s most iconic attractions such as Rubens House Museum and Cathedral of Our Lady. You will also take a boat ride along the River Scheldt and explore some of Antwerp’s unique historic neighborhoods such as Eilandje and Schipperskwartier. At the end of your trip you will have some free time to explore Antwerp’s vibrant shopping streets or to relax with a cup of coffee in one of Antwerp’s many cafes. To book this tour click here.

GetYourGuide’s ‘Day Trip from Brussels to Bruges’ Tour

This day trip from Brussels to Bruges takes you on an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most picturesque cities. You will explore some of Bruges’ most iconic attractions such as Markt Square with its iconic Belfry tower as well as Onze-Lieve-Vrouwkerk Church and Church of Our Lady. You will also take a boat ride along one of Bruges’ many canals and explore some of Bruges’ unique historic neighborhoods such as Burg Square. At the end of your trip you will have some free time to explore Bruges’ vibrant shopping streets or to relax with a cup of beer in one of Bruges’ many pubs. To book this tour click here.

Conclusion

Brussels is an amazing city with plenty to offer tourists and locals alike. From its iconic architecture to its vibrant culture and rich history, there is something for everyone in Brussels. And if you are looking to explore further afield there are plenty of wonderful places to visit near Brussels such as Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent and The Hague – all easily accessible via day trips or other tours available through Viator or GetYourGuide. So whatever you are looking for on your next holiday to Brussels – be sure to check out all that this wonderful city has to offer!