Top 10 Brussels Attractions

Brussels is Belgium’s capital city and a major tourist destination in Europe, attracting more than ten million visitors every year. It is renowned for its grandeur, as well as its charming cobblestone streets and world-famous museums. Here you will find iconic landmarks, picturesque neighborhoods, and a host of attractions that will make any trip to Brussels an unforgettable one. From the Grand Place to the Atomium and beyond, here are the top 10 attractions to check out in Brussels.

1. Grand Place

The Grand Place is the most recognizable landmark in Brussels and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Located at the heart of the city, this grand public square is lined with elaborate 17th-century guildhalls, which are now home to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars. It is also surrounded by some of the city’s most famous buildings, including the City Hall and King’s House. The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a flower carpet festival in August.

2. Manneken Pis

One of the most iconic sights in Brussels is Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue of a little boy urinating into a fountain. The history of this statue is shrouded in mystery, but it has become a symbol of Brussels’ rebellious spirit and irreverent attitude towards authority. Every now and then, the statue is dressed in outlandish costumes and paraded through the streets of Brussels.

3. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is one of the oldest shopping arcades in Europe. This neo-classical building was built in 1847 and it is now home to some of the city’s finest restaurants, bars, and boutiques. This is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a unique shopping experience in Brussels.

4. Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of the Belgian royal family and it is one of the city’s most impressive buildings. The palace dates back to the 18th century and it was designed in the neoclassical style. The palace is open to the public for guided tours and it also hosts a variety of events, including concerts and exhibitions.

5. Atomium

The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks. This enormous structure was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and it consists of nine interconnected spheres that are connected by escalators, elevators, and walkways. Inside the Atomium, visitors can explore interactive exhibits, view spectacular panoramic views of Brussels, or simply marvel at this unique feat of engineering.

6. Park Duden

Park Duden is a beautiful park located just outside the center of Brussels. This green oasis features lush gardens, winding pathways, and several ponds where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch. The park also has several monuments dedicated to important figures in Brussels’ history, as well as an impressive collection of sculptures and fountains.

7. Museum of Natural Sciences

The Museum of Natural Sciences is one of Europe’s largest natural history museums. Located in the heart of Brussels, this museum houses an impressive collection of specimens from all over the world. From dinosaurs to giant insects, visitors will be impressed by the sheer variety of specimens on display. There are also interactive exhibits where visitors can learn more about the science behind these specimens.

8. Les Galeries de la Reine

Les Galeries de la Reine is a series of interconnected shopping arcades located at the heart of Brussels. This shopping center features some of the finest restaurants and boutiques in the city, as well as several art galleries and performance spaces. Les Galeries de la Reine also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music performances and art exhibitions.

9. Magritte Museum

The Magritte Museum is devoted to the works of Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte. Located in central Brussels, this museum houses an impressive collection of over 200 works by Magritte, including some of his most famous paintings such as The Treachery of Images and The Son of Man. The museum also offers guided tours that provide insight into Magritte’s life and work.

10. Bois de la Cambre

The Bois de la Cambre is a sprawling park located just outside the center of Brussels. This picturesque park features winding pathways, lush gardens, and several ponds where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch. The Bois de la Cambre also hosts several events throughout the year, including live music performances, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions.

Tours to Discover Brussels

When visiting Brussels, there are two tours that offer an excellent way to discover the city’s charms:

Grand Place Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore Brussels’ Grand Place is with a guided walking tour that takes you through this square’s many historic monuments and attractions. This tour begins with a visit to City Hall for an overview of its history before exploring more closely each building surrounding it. You’ll learn about their architecture, history, and significance within Brussels’ culture as you meander through their alleys and courtyards. You’ll also get to enjoy some traditional Belgian treats along the way! This tour ends with a visit to King’s House which overlooks the square from atop its hill, providing unparalleled views to be enjoyed before heading back down to explore more attractions on your own.

Book a Grand Place Walking Tour here.

Brussels Beer & Chocolate Tasting Tour

Another great way to explore Brussels is on a beer & chocolate tasting tour! This tour takes you through some of Brussels’ most beloved beer taverns where you can sample some of Belgium’s finest ales from traditional lambic beers to robust Trappist ales. Along with beer tastings, you’ll also get to indulge in some delicious Belgian chocolate made from the highest quality cocoa beans available. This tour will take you through some lesser known neighborhoods in Brussels where you can further explore its culture and learn about local history while sampling some delicious drinks and treats!

Book a Beer & Chocolate Tasting Tour here.

Whether you are visiting Brussels for a short trip or an extended stay, there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy! From iconic landmarks such as Manneken Pis and the Atomium to shopping arcades like Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert or Les Galeries de la Reine, there are so many things to see and do in Brussels that you will never be bored! Tours such as the Grand Place Walking Tour or Beer & Chocolate Tasting Tour make for excellent ways to further explore this vibrant city!