The Best Things to do in Brussels in 2020

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, has always been a great place to visit—particularly for history buffs, culture enthusiasts and foodies. It’s as much a city of history and culture as it is of architecture and gastronomy. That being said, there are still plenty of great things to do in Brussels. So if you’re planning a trip there in 2020, here are the best places you should definitely check out.

Grand Place

The Grand Place is the very heart of Brussels. It’s the best place to start your exploration of the city. Located in the bustling centre of Brussels, the Grand Place is a remarkable square full of magnificent buildings. You’ll find some of the most famous landmarks of Belgium here, including the medieval gold guild halls, the impressive Maison du Roi from 1595, and a statue of Godfrey II of Leuven. From here you can also explore Brussels’ world-class dining scene, with a variety of restaurants and pubs located just a few steps away.

Horta Museum

Another great place to visit in Brussels is the Horta Museum. This museum is dedicated to the work of the renowned art nouveau architect and designer Victor Horta. Here you’ll find all his work and pieces on display, including furniture, interior designs and paintings. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops and lectures that tell the story of Belgian art nouveau. The Horta Museum is located in the south of Brussels and can be easily reached by public transportation.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Brussels, located in the city centre, is one of the most important sights in Brussels. Built between 1820 and 1857, this grand palace contains three regal apartments, each decorated with late 19th-century furniture, paintings and sculptures. Visitors of the palace can also tour the royal stables and discover its beautiful gardens – an ideal place for a walk on a sunny day. You can also find restaurants and souvenir shops located nearby.

Musical Instrument Museum

Also known as MIM in short, the Musical Instrument Museum is located in the centre of Brussels, just off Avenue de la Toison d’Or. This museum is one of the most interesting of its kind in the world, with more than 8,000 instruments from all over the world, as well as a vast collection of audio recordings from many different countries. Besides its permanent collection of instruments, MIM hosts regular concerts, workshops and interactive projects for visitors, making it a great place for families and culture enthusiasts alike.

Mini Europe

The last place on our list is Mini Europe, which traces the history of Europe through nearly 300 models built on a scale of 1:25. This underrated attraction is located at the foot of the Atomium building and is a great place to visit with kids – they’ll love exploring the iconic recreations of historical monuments from all over Europe. Mini Europe also offers audio tours in 11 different languages and hosts regular exhibitions on special topics such as music or painting.

So there you have it – our guide to the best places to visit in Brussels for 2020! Whether you’re looking for culture, architecture or history – there’s something for everyone in Brussels this year. So grab your passport, grab your map – and get ready for a unique adventure!

The Best Things to Do in Brussels in 2020: An Insider’s Guide

If you’re planning to visit Europe, Brussels should be on your itinerary. It’s a city renowned for its rich history, world-famous chocolate, beer, and waffles. Speaking of which, you should never leave the city without trying its famous chocolates and waffles. But there’s more to Brussels than its food and drinks. Here’s a complete guide that features some of the best things to do in Brussels in 2020.

Top Attractions to Visit in Brussels

While visiting Brussels, you can’t miss its jaw-dropping architecture, museums, and parks. Here are some of the top attractions that you can experience in Brussels.

1. Grand Place

Grand Place is located in the heart of Brussels and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the most beautiful squares in the world, with stunning architecture that will leave you breathless. It’s a perfect place to soak in the beauty of Brussels while having a cup of coffee at one of its outdoor cafes.

2. Atomium

Atomium is a fantastic monument that represents the nine atoms of a molecule magnified 165 billion times. It’s a place where you can visit via escalators and elevators and is an excellent spot to take panoramic views of the city.

3. Royal Museum of Fine Arts

Brussels is home to many art galleries and museums, but the Royal Museum of Fine Arts stands out for its expansive collection of artwork from the Flemish Masters. It showcases more than 20,000 paintings, including works from Van Gogh, Bosch, and Rubens.

Dining in Brussels

Brussels is home to many Michelin-starred restaurants, local breweries, and cozy bistros. Here are some dining spots that should be on your 2020 itinerary.

1. Peï & Meï Restaurant

Peï & Meï is a cozy restaurant located in Sablon, a trendy neighborhood in Brussels. It’s a perfect spot for foodies looking to experience a new concept in dining. The kitchen is run by a mother-and-son duo, and the cuisine created is influenced by various European cuisines.

2. La Maison du Cygne

La Maison du Cygne, located near the Grand Place, is one of the most elegant restaurants in Brussels. It serves a mix of traditional and modern Belgian cuisine and is known for its steak tartare.

Cultural Experiences in Brussels

Brussels has a rich history and is known for its cultural experiences. Here are some top cultural experiences which you can have while visiting Brussels.

1. Belgian Beer Tasting

Belgium is known for its beer, and Brussels offers the most extensive collection of beers in the world. You can visit any local pub for a beer tasting, or you can take a beer tour to get insights into the brewing process.

2. Belgian Chocolate Workshops

Belgium chocolate is famous across the world, and in Brussels, you can experience making it yourself. Check out some of the chocolate-making workshops and learn how to make different chocolate-based sweets yourself.

Local History in Brussels

Brussels has a tumultuous history, and remnants of it can be seen across the city. Here are some places that will take you on a journey back in time.

1. Brussels City Museum

Brussels City Museum is one of the most visited museums in Brussels. It houses the rich history of the city from the medieval ages to modern times. It’s a great place for history buffs, and the building itself is a piece of historic architecture.

2. Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a little boy peeing into a fountain. It’s a unique piece of public art and has an interesting history behind it. It’s definitely worth seeing while in Brussels.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for unique experiences off-the-beaten-path, then the following destinations may pique your interest.

1. Brussels Comic Book Route

Brussels Comic Book Route is a unique walk through the city, where you can see vibrant comic book murals covering different buildings across the city. It’s a unique way of exploring the city and learning about its rich comic book history.

2. Brussels Rooftops

Brussels has a few hidden rooftops that offer fantastic views of the city. Check out the terrace at the Music Museum, the terrace at the Maison Grand-Place, or the rooftop terrace of the parking 58 building. These hidden viewpoints offer panoramic views of the city and make for amazing photo opportunities.

Conclusion

Brussels has so much to offer, and this guide only scratches the surface. Whether you are planning to explore the city’s rich history, try different cuisine, or experience its unique culture, Brussels is a city that will leave you enchanted. Make sure to put it on your bucket list of places to visit in 2020.