What Can You Do In Brussels?

When tourists and natives alike ask themselves what they can do in Brussels, the answer is often overwhelming, as the city offers a plethora of activities, sights, and attractions. Whether you’re looking to explore the culture or the outdoors, or want to take some time to people-watch near the iconic Manneken Pis statue, there’s no shortage of things to do in Brussels.

For culture-minded visitors, Brussels boasts some of Europe’s most iconic landmarks, most notably the Atomium and its beautifully illuminated exterior that’s designed to represent a unit cell model of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Then there’s Grand Place—the city’s old-town square—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s filled with Medieval architecture and cobbled roads. Visitors can also explore the city’s Royal Palace, Music Instrument Museum, and a selection of excellent art galleries.

If vibrant nightlife is your thing, then Brussels is the perfect place for you to be. Thanks to its ever-increasing bar scene and plethora of trendy nightclubs, there’s plenty of fun to be had after dark. For a different take on culture vultures, travelers can explore Brussels’ rock, jazz campground pubs, or try their hand at brewing beer. And if you don’t feel like dancing the night away—or drinking too much beer—you can always explore the city’s culinary delights, with some of its best cuisine created using traditional Belgian recipes.

Travelers who prefer a slower pace may want to check out the city’s many parks and gardens. At Parc du Cinquantenaire, you can take a leisurely stroll through the grounds, enjoy incredible views of the skyline and wander around some of the city’s priceless monuments. The park also hosts a huge variety of events throughout the year. For those interested in more outdoor pursuits, there are plenty of areas great for running, cycling and nature walks.

Of course, no trip to Brussels would be complete without paying homage to its iconic Manneken Pis statue. Perched on a corner in Grand Place, this small bronze sculpture of a little boy urinating has become an icon of Brussels culture, as well as a symbol of the city’s spirit and independence. An exploration of these famous sites is a must for any traveler intent on taking in Brussels’ cultural highlights.

In addition to its classic attractions, there are plenty of more contemporary activities available in the city. For an adventure with a difference, travelers can explore one of Brussels’ escape rooms (such as Room Escape Brussels), which require participants to solve puzzles under strict time limits in order to progress from one room to another. Alternatively, visitors might want to take a look at the city’s street art scene (find out more at Offscreen Magazine), which is made up of myriad beautiful murals and graffiti pieces ranging from small lettering to larger works on the sides of buildings.

If you’re heading to Brussels, then it becomes easy to see why it’s such a popular destination. From classic landmarks and cultural spots to unique and contemporary attractions, Brussels offers something for travelers of all tastes. If you’re ready to experience all that this vibrant European city has to offer, then make sure you don’t miss out on its diverse array of activities!

An Insider’s Guide to Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is one of the most beautiful, artistic, and unique destinations in Europe. It has a vibrant street life, numerous museums, flavorful food, and historic buildings. With so much to see and experience, it can be overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll show you what to do in Brussels, sharing local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions to See in Brussels

No trip to Brussels is complete without a visit to the Grand Place, the central square and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the Town Hall, Guildhalls, and the City Museum. Another must-visit attraction is the Atomium, a unique building designed for the 1958 World Expo, which has since become a symbol of Brussels. The Atomium houses a museum and offers breathtaking views of the city.

Brussels is also famous for Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue of a boy urinating in a fountain, which is located near the Grand Place. Some other notable attractions include the Royal Palace, Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, and the Belgian Comic Strip Center.

Where to Eat and Drink in Brussels

Brussels is a food lover’s paradise, featuring famous Belgian chocolate, waffles, fries, and beer. For chocolate, head to Mary’s or Neuhaus, two of the best-known chocolatiers in the city. Try the famous Brussels waffles from Maison Dandoy, or for fries, go to Fritland or Maison Antoine, located near the Chatelain district.

As for beer, Belgium has a long-standing brewing tradition and offers a plethora of options. Visit Delirium Cafe for a vast selection of beers, or Cantillon Brewery, a small, family-owned brewery that has been in operation since 1900.

Cultural Experiences in Brussels

Brussels has a rich artistic and cultural history, with many museums and galleries to explore. Visit the Magritte Museum, which houses over 200 pieces of art created by the famous Belgian surrealist painter Rene Magritte. The MIM (Musical Instruments Museum) is another unique museum, featuring a vast collection of musical instruments from different parts of the world.

Brussels also has a vibrant music and theatre scene, centered around the Flagey cultural center. Be sure to check out the program before your visit.

The Local History of Brussels

Brussels has a long and complex history, with influences from many different cultures. The city was founded in the 10th century, and during the Middle Ages, it became a prominent center of trade. Over the years, it has been under the control of different powers, including the Spanish, French, Dutch, and Germans.

In the early 20th century, Brussels became an important political center, with the International Exposition held in 1935 marking its significance. It has since become the center for several international organizations, including the European Union and NATO.

Off the Beaten Path in Brussels

If you’ve already seen the popular tourist attractions, there are still many hidden gems throughout Brussels waiting to be explored. One of the most interesting things to do is to visit the city’s many art nouveau buildings, particularly in the Ixelles neighborhood. Another option is to explore the street art scene in the city, which can be found in many neighborhoods, including Saint-Gilles and Molenbeek.

For a unique experience, visit the Maison des Brasseurs (House of Brewers), a museum dedicated to beer-making that also offers beer-tasting sessions. Finally, consider taking a day trip to the nearby city of Ghent, which has its fair share of historic buildings and cultural institutions.

Conclusion

Brussels is a fascinating city that offers a diverse range of activities for all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re interested in history, food, art, or culture, there’s something for you in Brussels. With the insider’s guide above, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most out of your visit to this unique and beautiful city.