To Do in Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city full of life and history. It is the home of the European Union and the headquarters of many international organizations. The city has a population of over 1.2 million people and is the largest urban area in Belgium.

Brussels is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful architecture. The city has a long history, with roots dating back to the Roman Empire. It was also an important political center in the Middle Ages, which is reflected in its many grand buildings and monuments. From the iconic Atomium to the beautiful Grand Place, Brussels has something to offer everyone.

History

The area around Brussels has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of settlements from the Roman era. The city’s modern name is likely derived from the Old Dutch word “Bruocsella,” which means “settlement in the marsh.” During the Middle Ages, Brussels became an important political center, due to its strategic location between France and the Netherlands. The city was home to a succession of dukes, counts, and princes, who built many of the city’s grand buildings and monuments.

In the 18th century, Brussels was occupied by the French and was later annexed by the Netherlands. In 1831, Belgium gained its independence and Brussels became the country’s capital. In the 19th century, the city experienced rapid industrial growth and population growth. Today, Brussels is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, home to people from all over the world.

What to Do in Brussels

Brussels offers something for everyone. There are many museums and galleries to explore, as well as historical buildings, parks, and gardens. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene and a wide range of restaurants and cafes. Here are some of the top things to do in Brussels.

Visit the Grand Place

The Grand Place is one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks. The square was built in the 13th century and is surrounded by magnificent guild houses, which date back to the 17th century. Today, the square is used for festivals and events throughout the year. It is also home to some of Brussels’ most popular restaurants and cafes.

Explore the Atomium

The Atomium is a unique structure that was built for Expo ’58, a world’s fair that took place in Brussels in 1958. The structure consists of nine stainless-steel spheres connected by tubes that represent atoms of iron magnified 165 billion times. The spheres are connected to form a cube-like structure, which houses an exhibition area, a restaurant, and an observation deck with breathtaking views of Brussels.

Visit the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of Brussels’ most impressive buildings. Built in the 19th century, it is home to Belgium’s royal family. The palace is open to visitors on certain days of the year and offers guided tours of its grand interiors. The palace grounds are also open to visitors, who can explore its gardens and admire its stunning architecture.

Explore City Center

The city center of Brussels is full of attractions and activities. Here you can find many of the city’s most iconic buildings, such as the City Hall, Manneken Pis statue, and Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert shopping arcade. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes here, as well as a buzzing nightlife scene.

Visit Cinquantenaire Park

Cinquantenaire Park is a large public park located in the heart of Brussels. The park was built in 1880 to commemorate Belgium’s 50th anniversary and it is now one of the most popular spots in the city. Here you can find many attractions, such as an art museum, an aquarium, a rose garden, and an old Fort.

Popular Tours

In addition to exploring all that Brussels has to offer on your own, there are also plenty of tours available for visitors who want to learn more about the city’s history, culture, and attractions. Here are two popular tours that you can book:

Brussels City Tour

This tour gives visitors a comprehensive look at some of Brussels’ most famous sights. It starts from Central Station and takes you past many of the city’s iconic monuments such as Grand Place and Manneken Pis statue. You will also have the chance to explore lesser-known areas and view hidden gems like Place du Jeu de Balle flea market. The tour ends with a visit to Cinquantenaire Park. You can book this tour online in advance for a discounted rate.

Belgian Beer Tasting Tour

This tour takes visitors on a journey through Belgium’s beer culture. It starts at Central Station with a visit to Cantillon Brewery – one of Belgium’s oldest breweries – where you will sample some delicious Belgian beers. Then you will explore some of Brussels’ most popular beer bars and learn about local beer-making techniques from experienced brewers. The tour ends with a visit to one of Brussels’ best beer cafes for more samples and time for conversation with your guide. You can book this tour online for a discounted rate.

Conclusion

Brussels is an exciting city with plenty to see and do for everyone who visits it. Whether you’re looking for historical sights or want to experience some of Brussels’ lively nightlife scene – there’s something here for everyone! Make sure you check out some of the popular tours available too; they are a great way to learn more about this amazing city and its attractions!