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What to see in Brussels?
Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. From grandiosity of the Royal Palace and the Atomium to the cobblestone streets and hidden pathways of the city – there is something for everyone in Brussels. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, here are some of the essential things to experience during your Brussels getaway.
Grand Place
The Grand Place, officially known as the Grand-Place de Bruxelles, is the center of Brussels most certainly the heart of Brussels. It is one of Europe’s most beautiful squares and its architecture has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. Whether you are taking photographs of the square or visiting its many local stores, the Grand Place certainly deserves a place on your must-visit list in Brussels. It’s the perfect place to people watch, grab a coffee or snap stunning pictures.
Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is one of the most iconic figures in Brussels, and tourists come far and wide to catch a glimpse of this famous fountain. Located on the corner of Rue de l’Étuve and Le Petit Sablon, Manneken Pis acts as a mascot for the city, with an estimated 800 costume changes over the years. The statue itself is not particularly large (it is only 61 cm tall) but it stands out amongst its surroundings, ensuring it remains a tourist favorite.
Atomium
The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most recognizable structures, standing at 102 meters high. This impressive building was originally constructed for the 1958 World’s Fair, with each ball representing an atom of iron magnified 165 billion times! The entire structure is quite breathtaking. Inside you’ll find an elevator, allowing you to explore each “atom’ from within and from the top there is also a stunning panoramic view over Brussels and beyond.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is located in the vibrant Parc de Bruxelles and has been a residence of the Royals and their court since 1829. This beautifully preserved palace contains several state rooms and luxurious decorations that are sure to impress any visitor. To make the most of your visit here you can visit on certain days of the week (free of charge) when the guards perform their Changing of the Guard parade at 10:30am. It’s always interesting to spot the many visitors who come dressed as Royals in homage to their timeless residence.
Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate
Chocolate is always popular amongst tourists in Brussels!The Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate, located just off Rue des Briques, offers visitors an interactive journey through the history and secrets of chocolate. You can learn about how chocolate is sourced and even get a chance to create your own! This museum makes a great way to experience something unique in Brussels – learning about it’s delicious history.
Streets & Pathways
It would be wrong to talk about Brussels without mentioning its beautiful cobblestone streets. Many streets lined with cafés, restaurants and boutiques offer a great experience for any visitor – it can also get quite busy on some days. One way to escape these crowds and see some of Brussels’ notable streets is to take one of its many hidden pathways. A favorite for many visitors is The Ten Bosch path – you could almost believe you were strolling through some quaint village.
Conclusion
There are so many things to see and do in Brussels that this guide will only help you get started. From its world famous attractions such as the Atomium to its cobblestone streets filled with hidden gems, a visit to Brussels will surely be one you’ll never forget. Don’t miss out on any of these great attractions if you’re visiting Brussels!
An Insider’s Guide to Brussels: Discovering Hidden Gems
Brussels is an enchanting city, famous for its waffles, chocolate, and beer. But beyond these indulgences, there are a plethora of hidden treasures that only locals know about. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best-kept secrets of Brussels.
Local Attractions
While Brussels has several well-known attractions like the Grand Place, Atomium, and Manneken Pis, there are also hidden gems that deserve attention. For instance, the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, where you can explore the stunning Art Nouveau architecture and unique plant collections. Another must-visit attraction is the Musical Instrument Museum, offering an excellent display of instruments from around the world.
Brussels is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Cinquantenaire Park and the Japanese Tower, which offers stunning views of the city’s skyline.
Dining Spots
Brussels is a foodie’s haven, with a rich culinary heritage. One of the best ways to experience this is to sample street food like the iconic Belgian fries or moules-frites (mussels and fries), which you can find at almost any café. Another must-try is the Belgian waffles, especially the ones served at Mokafe, a quirky café that has been around for over a century.
For a more refined dining experience, Le Pain Quotidien is an excellent choice. This gourmet bakery chain serves freshly baked bread, pastries, and homemade jams, perfect for a leisurely breakfast. If you’re in the mood for some seafood, then a visit to Noordzee is a must. This seafood bar is all about simplicity, serving up fresh catches of the day, sandwiches and toasted seafood, which you can enjoy standing up at the bar.
Cultural Experiences
Brussels has a rich cultural heritage that can be experienced in many ways. The city is famous for its comic strips and is home to the Belgian Comic Strip Center, a stunning Art Deco building housing a museum and a vast library of comic books.
If you’re in town during August, you must attend the Brussels Summer Festival, an eclectic array of performances ranging from rock music to street theatre. It’s an excellent opportunity to mingle with locals and soak up the vibrant cultural scene.
Local History
With a long and storied history, Brussels has plenty of fascinating stories to explore. The BELvue Museum provides insights into Belgium’s political and social history, while the Museum of the City of Brussels is an excellent place to learn about the city’s growth and evolution.
Beyond these, exploring the various districts of Brussels can give you a sense of the city’s unique character. Visit the Sablon district, an upscale neighborhood with chic boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops, and soak up the charm of cobblestone streets and quaint cafes.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions
While it’s essential to experience Brussels’ most popular attractions, it’s also worth exploring some of its lesser-known corners. For instance, the Art Build KMSKB museum, located in a former law school building, has a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the 15th to 20th centuries.
Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is the Tournay-Solvay Park, a vast park that feels like an oasis of calm in the city. With a beautiful lake, rolling hills, and lush greenery, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Brussels is a city full of surprises, and as mentioned above, it’s not just about chocolate and beer. With this insider’s guide, we hope you discover the city’s hidden gems and experience what Brussels has to offer beyond the typical tourist attractions.
