The Ultimate Guide to Things To Visit in Brussels

Brussels is an ancient and beautiful city located in Belgium that is full of fascinating history, culture and attractions. It is home to some of the most beautiful and unique sights in Europe and the world, and is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a memorable and enjoyable trip. Whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, there are plenty of things to see and do in Brussels that will keep you entertained and captivated for days.

A Brief History of Brussels

Brussels was first founded as a small fishing village around the 10th century, but it wasn’t until the 13th century that it began to grow in size and population. Since then, it has become a major city in Belgium and one of the most important centers of government, business and culture in Europe. The city has seen many changes over the centuries, but it has managed to maintain its unique charm and beauty. Its cobblestone streets, vibrant culture and centuries-old buildings make it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

Facts and Figures about Brussels

Today, Brussels is home to over 1.2 million people, making it the largest city in Belgium. It is also one of the most densely populated cities in Europe and the third largest urban area in the European Union. It is known for its vibrant culture, art and cuisine, as well as its many attractions and landmarks. It is an incredibly diverse city with many different languages, religions and cultures represented.

What to See in Brussels

When it comes to things to see and do in Brussels, there is no shortage of options. From its famous landmarks to its unique neighborhoods, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the top sights you won’t want to miss when visiting Brussels:

Grand Place

The Grand Place is the city’s most iconic square. It is one of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike and is surrounded by beautiful gothic buildings, many of which date back to the medieval era. The square is home to many festivals throughout the year, including the European Festival in May, the Christmas market in December and the annual flower carpet display in August.

Mannekin Pis

Mannekin Pis is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks. It is a small bronze sculpture of a young boy urinating into a fountain that dates back to the 17th century. The statue is located on the corner of Rue de l’Étuve and Rue du Chêne and is one of the city’s most recognizable symbols.

Atomium

The Atomium is an iconic structure that was built for the 1958 World’s Fair. It consists of nine spheres connected by tubes that represent an atom’s nucleus and electrons, and stands 102 meters (335 feet) tall. Visitors can go inside the structure and explore its various exhibitions about science, technology and history.

Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of Belgium’s King and Queen. It was built in the late 19th century in a neoclassical style and has been home to many royal families over the years. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace’s royal apartments, gardens and galleries.

Mont des Arts

The Mont des Arts is a terraced garden located in the heart of Brussels that offers stunning views of the city. It is home to many sculptures, monuments and other works of art, as well as several cafés and restaurants. The area also hosts regular events such as live music concerts and outdoor cinema screenings.

Cinquantenaire Park

Cinquantenaire Park is a large public park located near the heart of Brussels. It is home to several museums and other attractions, including a triumphal arch known as the Arc de Triomphe du Cinquantenaire. The park also features beautiful gardens, a large lake and many monuments and sculptures from around the world.

European Parliament

The European Parliament building is one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks. It was built in the late 1950s and is home to the legislative body of the European Union. Visitors can take guided tours of the building which offer insight into how it operates as well as its history.

Popular Tours

In addition to its many sights and attractions, Brussels also offers many popular tours that will help you get to know the city better. Here are two popular tours that you won’t want to miss when visiting Brussels:

Bruges Day Trip from Brussels

If you’re looking for a day trip away from Brussels, a Bruges day trip is definitely worth considering. Bruges is one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities and located only an hour away by train from Brussels. On this tour, you will have the chance to explore the beautiful cobblestone streets of Bruges on foot, visit some of its most famous landmarks such as Markt Square, visit chocolate shops and sample local delicacies like waffles. You will also have time to explore Bruges independently or take part in optional activities such as horse-drawn carriage rides or canal boat rides. This tour can be booked through Viator.

Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

If you’re looking for something unique to do during your stay in Brussels, why not take part in a beer tasting tour? This tour will take you around some of Brussels’ best beer bars and local breweries where you can sample some of Belgium’s famous brews such as Lambic beer or Kriek beer. You will also learn more about Belgium’s beer-making traditions while tasting some delicious local beers. This tour can be booked through GetYourGuide.

Conclusion

As you can see, Brussels is an incredible city with plenty of sights to see and activities to do. From its iconic landmarks to its unique neighborhoods, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you are looking for historical sites or modern attractions, you won’t be disappointed with what this beautiful city has to offer. So why not plan your trip today?