A Guide to the Top Sights of Brussels

Brussels is an ancient city that has undergone many changes over the years, yet it still holds its own as a city of culture and art. It is the capital of Belgium, located in the heart of Europe, and is home to more than 1.2 million people. As one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, Brussels is a great destination for tourists who want to explore the best of what Europe has to offer.

The city is well known for its beautiful architecture, its vibrant cultural life, its great food and beer, and its wide variety of attractions. From its stunning Gothic buildings to its world-renowned museums, there is something for everyone in Brussels. Here we have compiled a list of some of the top sights in Brussels which should not be missed when visiting the city.

Grand Place

The Grand Place (or Grote Markt) is the main square in Brussels and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. The square is surrounded by stunning Gothic buildings, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The most famous building on the square is the Town Hall, which dates back to 1402 and is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. There are also many other notable buildings, including the King’s House, the Breadhouse, and the House of the Dukes of Brabant. Every two years in August, the Grand Place is transformed into a magnificent flower carpet, made up of over half a million begonias!

Manneken Pis

No visit to Brussels is complete without a visit to the Manneken Pis statue. This small bronze statue has become a symbol of Brussels and is one of the most photographed sights in the city. The statue, which dates back to 1618, depicts a small boy urinating into a fountain and has become a beloved symbol of Brussels’ irreverent spirit.

Atomium

The Atomium is perhaps the most iconic building in Brussels and a must-see for any visitor. This giant structure was built in 1958 for the World’s Fair and consists of nine interconnected spheres, representing an atom of iron magnified 165 billion times. Visitors can take an elevator up to the top sphere and enjoy stunning views of Brussels from 100 metres above the ground. The Atomium also houses several exhibitions about science and technology, making it a great place to learn as well as explore.

Cinquantenaire Park

Cinquantenaire Park is a beautiful public park located in the centre of Brussels. The park is home to several monuments and statues, including a triumphal arch and a number of war memorials. There are also several museums and galleries located in the park, making it a great place to explore culture and art. The park is also a great spot for a picnic or a walk on a sunny day, with plenty of trees providing shade and plenty of space for relaxing.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of Brussels’ most impressive buildings and an important symbol of Belgium’s monarchy. The building dates back to 1731 and is home to several royals, including King Philippe and Queen Mathilde. The palace is open to visitors on certain days and offers guided tours which provide an insight into Belgian royal life. The palace park is also open to visitors on certain days and offers plenty of green space for relaxing or having a picnic.

Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique

The Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique (or Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium) is one of the most important art museums in Europe. The museum houses an extensive collection of Belgian, European, and international art from various periods and styles, making it an essential stop for any art enthusiast visiting Brussels. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, giving visitors an opportunity to explore different aspects of art history.

Mini-Europe

Mini-Europe is an outdoor miniature park located near the Atomium which offers visitors a unique experience. The park features miniature replicas of some of Europe’s most famous landmarks, including Big Ben in London, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. The models are incredibly detailed and are set in landscape settings which accurately reflect their real-life counterparts. In addition to exploring Europe’s greatest landmarks, visitors can also take part in interactive activities such as a virtual rollercoaster ride at Mini-Europe!

Popular Tours

If you’re looking for a great way to explore all that Brussels has to offer then why not book one of its popular tours? Here are two tours that are sure to give you an unforgettable experience:

Brussels Grand Tour

The Brussels Grand Tour is a comprehensive tour that takes you through some of Brussels’ greatest sights. The tour includes stops at many famous landmarks such as the Grand Place and Manneken Pis as well as hidden gems like Place du Châtelain. Along with visits to historical sites, you will also get a chance to sample some delicious Belgian food and beer in some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.

Full-Day Tour to Bruges

If you’re looking for an escape from Brussels then why not book a full-day tour to Bruges? This tour takes you out of Brussels and into one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities – Bruges. You’ll have time to explore its cobblestone streets, visit its many museums and art galleries, take a boat trip through its network of canals, and sample some delicious Belgian chocolates! This tour is perfect for those who want to explore beyond the city limits of Brussels and experience some of Belgium’s hidden gems.

Conclusion

Brussels is a city full of history and culture which makes it an incredibly exciting destination for tourists from all over the world. From its iconic landmarks such as Grand Place and Manneken Pis to its world-renowned museums such as Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique, there is something for everyone in Brussels. Don’t miss out on some of its popular tours either – from a comprehensive Brussels Grand Tour to a full-day tour to Bruges – you will be sure to have an unforgettable experience!