The City of Brussels: A Tourist Guide

The City of Brussels has been around for centuries, and today is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Located in the heart of Belgium, the city is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern life. From the iconic Grand Place to the luxurious shopping district of Avenue Louise, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, there are plenty of things to do in Brussels. Here’s an in-depth look at what there is to see and do in this magical city.

A Brief History

The City of Brussels is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with its origins dating back to the 11th century. Originally called Bruocsella, it was founded by a small community of fishermen who built a fortress on an island in the Senne River. Throughout the Middle Ages, Brussels grew to become an important city in the Duchy of Brabant and eventually emerged as the capital of Belgium. Today, the city is a bustling metropolis of over one million people, with a diverse and vibrant culture that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and art.

Things to Do

Brussels has something for everyone, from art lovers to foodies and history buffs. Here are some of the top attractions and activities that make this city such a fantastic place to visit.

The Grand Place

The Grand Place is the heart of the city and a must-see for any visitor. This beautiful square is surrounded by ornate guildhouses and the imposing Town Hall, which was built in the 15th century and is still used today. Every two years in August, the Grand Place comes alive with festivities during the Ommegang Pageant. The festival features traditional music, dance, and costumes, as well as plenty of food and drink.

Manneken Pis

The iconic Manneken Pis is one of Brussels’ most beloved landmarks. This small bronze statue of a boy peeing dates back to 1619 and has become an iconic symbol of the city. It is dressed in costumes throughout the year and is known for its mischievous antics. The Manneken Pis can be found at the corner of Rue de l’Etuve and Rue du Chêne.

Museum of Ancient Art

The Museum of Ancient Art is one of Brussels’ most impressive museums. The museum houses an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts from the 15th to 19th centuries. Highlights include works by Bruegel, Rubens, and Van Dyck, as well as masterpieces by Flemish painters such as Jan van Eyck.

Atomium

The Atomium is an iconic symbol of Brussels and a must-see for any visitor. This giant structure was built for Expo 58 in 1958 and has since become a beloved landmark. The Atomium consists of nine steel spheres connected by escalators, which visitors can ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city.

Food Tours

Food tours are a great way to explore Brussels’ culinary culture. On these tours, you’ll visit some of the city’s most famous restaurants and sample local specialties such as Belgian waffles, mussels, and fries. You’ll also get to experience some iconic dishes such as moules-frites (mussels and fries) and stoemp (mashed potatoes). These tours are a great way to experience Brussels’ culinary culture firsthand.

Popular Tours in Brussels

The City of Brussels is full of unique sights and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Here are two popular tours that will help you make the most out of your trip:

Beer Tasting Tour

Belgium is famous for its beer, so what better way to explore Brussels than on a beer tasting tour? On this tour, you’ll visit some of the city’s best breweries and sample some of Belgium’s finest beers. You’ll also get to learn about Belgian beer-making traditions from local experts, with tastings at each stop along the way. Book a beer tasting tour today to experience the city’s rich beer culture firsthand.

Atomium Tour

The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks, so why not explore it on a guided tour? On this tour, you’ll get exclusive access to all nine spheres of the Atomium, with guided commentary at each stop along the way. You’ll learn about the history and construction of this giant structure while enjoying stunning views from the top of the Atomium. Book an Atomium tour today for an unforgettable experience!

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for art, culture, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. From the iconic Grand Place and Manneken Pis to food tours and museum visits, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in this magical city. And with two popular tours – beer tasting and Atomium – there are plenty of ways to make your trip even more memorable. We hope this guide has provided you with an overview of what there is to do in Brussels and given you some ideas for your next trip!