What Are the Popular Tourist Attractions in Brussels?

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and serves as the country’s center of government, commerce and trade. It is also one of the most visited cities in Europe and is home to some of the world’s most amazing tourist attractions. From its vibrant multiculturalism and European charm to its unique medieval architecture and excellent gastronomy, Brussels is the perfect destination for travelers seeking to explore the best of what Europe has to offer.

Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, a food enthusiast or someone who just loves a good time, there are plenty of things to do in Brussels. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions and what they have to offer:

Grand Place

Grand Place is one of Brussels’ well-known sights and a popular destination for tourists around the world. Constructed in the late 16th century, this incredible square is most famous for its neo-Gothic Town Hall that overlooks several opulent guild houses and a Baroque reservoir. The square also features regular flower markets and festivals for those seeking a more festive atmosphere.

Manneken Pis

The iconic Manneken Pis or Little Boy Peeing statue may be small, but it is one of Brussels’ most beloved sights. The bronze statue was created by sculptor Hiëronymus Duquesnoy in 1618 and has become an important symbol of Brussels’ culture. Over time, Manneken Pis has featured over 1000 different costumes for special occasions and holidays such as Christmas, Easter and more. The statue also houses a special herb cabinet designed to attract visitors and bring luck.

Atomium

The Atomium is a 103-meters tall building shaped like a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times inspired by the atomic era symbolism. Constructed for the 1958 World Fair, this modern structure stands at the Heysel Plateau in Brussels and houses nine spherical stainless-steel clad spheres connected by tubes and supports. Visitors can ride the tube in each sphere up to the 102nd sphere for breathtaking views of its surroundings. The Atomium also features an interesting permanent exhibition on its historical and architectural aspects showcasing its technological achievements.

Cathedral of St. Michiel and St. Gudula

The Catholic Cathedral of St. Michiel and St. Gudula is a Gothic masterpiece built on the ruins of two earlier churches between 1226 and 1567. Its strikingly large east front spire is famous throughout Brussels and its architects are said to have been influenced by the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire its intricate stained glass windows, soaring arches, frescoes and marble sculptures—all made in different styles from Romanesque to Baroque.

Magritte Museum

Explore renowned surrealist artist René Magritte’s huge collection of oil painting at the Magritte Museum located on Brussels’ Royal Museum of Fine Arts campus. The museum displays over 200 of Magritte’s works, showcasing his entire career from his earliest experiments to his most famous paintings such as Empire of Light, The Listening Room and The Pleasure Principle among hundreds of others. The museum also contains Magritte’s personal collection of photographs, posters and illustrated books and organizes both temporary and permanent exhibitions.

Brussels Park

The Brussels Park dates back to the 19th century when King Leopold I expanded it from his royal palace’s private gardens to create this recreational oasis for tourists. Today, the park covers 17 hectares of land and features many attractions such as its ornate lake, forests full of tall trees, fountains, statues, historic monuments and a Japanese tower. During summer months, visitors can enjoy water sports on the lake, guided walks around its archaeological sites, occasional concerts or simply relax on its many available benches or terraces.

These are just a few of the top tourist attractions that Brussels has to offer. Whether looking for a place to appreciate art or just relax in nature, travelers visiting Brussels will find it all in this fantastic city. For more information about Brussels’ unique attractions or to book a hotel stay, visit Hotels.com.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Brussels: Beyond the Tourist Traps

Brussels is a city that is known for its stunning architecture, world-renowned chocolate, and the famous Atomium. While these spots are popular with tourists, there is so much more to this city than meets the eye. As a local, I have compiled an insider’s guide to some of the lesser-known, yet equally exciting attractions that Brussels has to offer.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems in Brussels

While Grand Place and Manneken Pis are must-see places in Brussels, there are a couple of hidden gems that only locals know about. For instance, the Cinquantenaire Park, located in the European Quarter, is an oasis of tranquility nestled at the heart of the bustling city. Home to a magnificent triumphal arch, incredible museums, scenic paths, and picturesque gardens, it’s a perfect place to unwind and take a break from the city’s noise.

Another hidden spot worth visiting is the Marolles Flea Market, which only operates on weekends. It is Brussels’ most vibrant market, showcasing a wide array of antique treasures, unique handicrafts, and vintage clothes. The market also offers delicious street food and Belgian waffles, which make perfect snacks for a day of treasure hunting.

Dining Spots: Discovering Brussels’ Food Culture

Belgium is renowned for its cuisine, and Brussels is no exception. Frites, Moules-frites, and Waffles are undoubtedly the most famous Belgian dishes. But there’s more to the city’s culinary culture than just these staples.

For instance, if you fancy delicious seafood, Chez Leon is the go-to restaurant for locals. Chez Leon has been serving Brussels since 1893, and the mussels served here come with various mouth-watering sauces that are incredibly innovative. Another great spot to eat is La Roquette, a bistro that serves traditional cuisine with a contemporary twist. They offer a refreshing, light cuisine that pairs well with Belgium’s famous craft beers.

Cultural Experiences: Celebrating Brussels’ Traditions and Festivals

Brussels has a rich history, vibrant culture, and multiple traditions that are celebrated throughout the year. One of the most renowned events in the city is the Ommegang procession, which honors the visit of Charles V to Brussels in 1549. This yearly event is a brilliant representation of Flemish folklore, with hundreds of locals dressed up in 16th-century costumes and parading through the city.

Another exciting event is the Iris Festival, which coincides with the Belgian National Day in late July. This festival celebrates Brussels’s linguistic duality, featuring concerts, street performances, and fireworks displays that reflect the city’s diversity.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from Brussels’ Past

If you’re interested in the city’s history, Brussels has plenty of fascinating stories to offer. For example, the Atomium, Brussels’ most recognizable landmark, was originally built for the World Expo in 1958. Today, it stands as a symbol of humanity’s technological progress, with its nine shimmering spheres representing an atomic unit cell.

Another captivating tale is the one of Saint Veronica’s Veil, a revered relic housed in the Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral. The veil is said to be the one that Saint Veronica used to wipe the face of Jesus while carrying his cross. The cathedral is awe-inspiring as it is, but the relic elevates the experience to another level of spiritual significance.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences in Brussels

If you want to experience Brussels like a true local, you’ll have to go off the beaten path. How about a trip to the Musical Instrument Museum, which features over 8000 musical instruments from all over the world? Alternatively, you can explore the impressive Atomium by night, when its spheres are illuminated, contributing to the stunning night scenery of Brussels. You could visit a secret rooftop bar that only locals know about, for breathtaking views of the city while enjoying a Belgian beer.

In conclusion, there is so much more to Brussels than the typical tourist attractions. As you embark on your journey, follow this insider’s guide to discover the lesser-known secrets of the city. Remember, it’s not just about getting to know the city’s landmarks and history, but also fully immersing yourself in experiencing its modern culture, lifestyle, and gastronomy.