What is the Brussels Card? How Can It Help You Enjoy a Trip to Brussels?

A trip to Brussels makes for a great European getaway, and with a Brussels Card, visitors can make the most of their holiday. Here we explain what a Brussels Card is, how it works, and why it could be the simplest and most convenient way to explore and enjoy Belgium’s capital city.

What Is a Brussels Card?

The Brussels Card is a sightseeing pass that lets tourists enjoy free access or discounted entry to dozens of attractions in and around the city, including museums, galleries, hop-on hop-off sightseeing tours and boat trips. Holders of the card are also given discounts on dining reservations and select shops on the Brussels Mall and Waterstones.

The card is available as a physical card or as a mobile app, and in a variety of formats ranging from 24-hour to a full-week pass. Depending on the length of the trip and attractions included, prices range from €26.50 to €61.00. Children’s cards are also available at discounted prices.

Using the Brussels Card

The Brussels Card is available to buy through the official Visit Brussels website, www.visitbrussels.be. The card provides access to many of the city’s most popular attractions such as the Atomium, Royal Palace of Brussels, Manneken Pis Statue, Grand Place, Belgian Chocolate Museum, Mini-Europe and more.

For people who have limited time or are keen to get the most out of their tour, the hop-on hop-off buses are a great option. The card can be used to get 25% discounts on any of the tours offered by Big Bus or Gray Line companies. Although anyone over 55 is eligible for discounted entry to many tourist attractions in Brussels —those discounts are increased when visitors are able to show their Brussels Card at certain venues.

Benefits of the Brussels Card

Tourists get the most from their holiday in Brussels with a Brussels Card; these cards are great for individuals or groups travelling with friends and family. Not only do they make life easier by allowing visitors to conveniently travel between attractions with a single card, but it also works out cheaper in many cases as well.

For those planning trips further afield into Belgium alone or with friends, a multi-day pass is recommended — some of the most popular items including the Brugge Canal cruise and Oudenaarde guided tour can be bought separately or bundled with other packages using the card. This makes it easier to take advantage of discounts available while exploring different cities in Belgium.

Whether travelling alone or in a group, looking for an inexpensive introduction to Brussels or wanting to make the most of an extended stay, the Brussels Card makes exploring Belgium’s capital city an enjoyable, stress-free and budget-friendly experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Enjoying a Trip to Brussels with the Brussels Card

Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and is known for its rich history, culture, architecture, and food. It is a popular tourist destination and offers plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy. With the Brussels Card, tourists can enjoy discounted access to some of the best museums, galleries, and cultural experiences in the city, as well as use the public transportation system with ease.

Local Attractions to Explore with the Brussels Card

The Brussels Card grants you access to some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, such as the Atomium, Mini Europe, and the Belgian Chocolate Village. With the pass, you can also visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium, which houses a stunning collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings. Moreover, the card grants you access to the Comic Art Museum, the Magritte Museum, and the Brussels City Museum.

One historic spot to check out is the Grand Place, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning square is surrounded by architectural gems, including the Town Hall, which dates back to the 15th century, and the Museum of the City of Brussels. Take a stroll around the square, grab some Belgian waffles or chocolate, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Dining Spots to Savor Belgian Cuisine

A trip to Belgium would be incomplete without tasting the famous Belgian waffles, Belgian fries, mussels, and, of course, the beers. Some must-try restaurants include Chez Leon, Le Pain Quotidien, and Noordzee Mer du Nord. If you’re into fine dining, try out Comme Chez Soi, which has a Michelin star, or visit Le Pain Quotidian for organic, fresh, and local food. Don’t forget to visit one of the many Belgian chocolatiers, such as Neuhaus or Leonidas, for delicious pralines or chocolate bars.

Uncovering the Local Culture of Brussels

Brussels has a unique cultural and linguistic mix, with its official languages being French and Dutch. The city is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, which can be spotted all around the city, including the Horta Museum. Another cultural highlight of Brussels is the unique comic book culture, with murals and statues dedicated to comic strip characters spread around the city. You can even visit the Comic Art Museum, which showcases the history and art of Belgian comics.

Discovering Local History & Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For historical buffs, the BELvue Museum is a must-visit, where you can explore the history of Belgium and how the country has evolved over the centuries. The MIM Museum is also worth checking out, especially if you’re interested in music. The museum has an extensive collection of musical instruments from all over the world, with some dating back 500 years.

Off-the-beaten-path, you can visit the outskirts of Brussels, such as the Forest of Soignes, where you can rent a bike and explore the beautiful forests. The Sonian Forest is also perfect for hiking enthusiasts. For a more unusual experience, visit the Atomium, a unique building that looks like an enlarged atom made of steel and houses various exhibitions. Make sure to take the elevator up to the top sphere for a panoramic view of the city.

Conclusion

Brussels is a fascinating city that offers a plethora of attractions and cultural experiences. The Brussels Card can make your experience even better by granting you access to some of the best museums and attractions while saving you money on public transportation. With the help of this insider’s guide, you will be able to explore the city, savor its classic cuisine, and discover its history and culture.