Brussels the vibrant and multicultural capital of Belgium, is known for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, world-famous beer, and chocolates. From the iconic Atomium and the majestic Grand Place to the historic Manneken Pis and the European Union institutions, Brussels is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or a party animal, Brussels will not disappoint. In this city guide, we'll take you on a journey through Brussels' top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, as well as share insider tips on how to make the most of your visit to this fascinating city.
Things To Do in Brussels
⭐⭐⭐ 3 Stars: The Most Popular Attractions
Grand Place
The Grand Place, or Grote Markt, is a stunning square in the heart of Brussels and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The square is surrounded by beautiful Baroque and Gothic-style buildings, including the stunning Town Hall and the Breadhouse, and is home to numerous restaurants and cafes. The Grand Place is especially impressive at night, when the buildings are lit up and the square comes alive with music and street performers.
Atomium
The Atomium is a must-see attraction in Brussels, with its iconic structure of nine spheres representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Visitors can take a lift to the top of the Atomium for panoramic views of the city and a fascinating exhibition on the history of the Atomium itself. The Atomium is also home to a restaurant, a bar, and a permanent exhibition on the life and work of Belgian artist René Magritte.
Manneken Pis
No visit to Brussels is complete without seeing the famous Manneken Pis, a bronze sculpture of a small boy peeing into a fountain basin. The statue has become a symbol of the city and is dressed in different costumes on various occasions throughout the year. Despite its small size, Manneken Pis attracts a large number of tourists every year and has become one of the most photographed attractions in the city.
⭐⭐ 2 Stars: Not-so-popular but Worth a Visit
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are a collection of museums in Brussels that house a vast collection of art, including works by Belgian and international artists. The museums are spread across several buildings and offer a variety of exhibitions, from medieval to contemporary art. Highlights include works by Flemish Masters such as Bruegel, Rubens, and van Dyck.
Cinquantenaire Park
Cinquantenaire Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of Brussels, featuring a large triumphal arch, fountains, and gardens. The park is home to several museums, including the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, the Museum of Art and History, and the Autoworld Museum, which showcases a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles.
Palace of Justice
The Palace of Justice is one of the largest courthouses in the world and a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture. The building dominates the skyline of Brussels and offers panoramic views of the city from its terrace. Although it is primarily a courthouse, visitors are allowed to enter the main hall and admire the stunning architecture and artwork.
⭐ 1 Star: Optional Attractions
Mini-Europe
Mini-Europe is a miniature park in Brussels that features scaled-down replicas of famous landmarks from all over Europe, including the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Colosseum. The park is a fun and educational attraction for both children and adults and offers a unique perspective on the diversity and beauty of Europe.
Belgian Comic Strip Center
The Belgian Comic Strip Center is a museum dedicated to the history and art of comic strips, a popular art form in Belgium. The museum showcases a collection of over 7,000 comic strip albums and offers interactive exhibitions, workshops, and events. Visitors can also see the original sketches and artwork of famous Belgian comic strip characters, such as Tintin, Lucky Luke, and the Smurfs.
Where to Stay in Brussels
🛏️ Budget Accommodation
Meininger Hotel Brussels City Center
If you're looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Brussels, Meininger Hotel Brussels City Center is a great choice. The hotel is located in the heart of the city, just a few minutes' walk from Brussels' top attractions, such as Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and the Atomium. The rooms are modern, comfortable, and clean, and the hotel offers a range of amenities, including a 24-hour reception, a bar, and a game room.
🛏️ Best Value for Money
NH Collection Brussels Centre
NH Collection Brussels Centre is a stylish and affordable hotel located in the trendy Saint-Josse-ten-Noode neighborhood, just a short walk from Brussels' top attractions. The hotel features modern, spacious rooms with all the necessary amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. The hotel also offers a fitness center, a sauna, and a bar.
🛏️ Luxury Stays
Hotel Amigo
For a luxurious stay in Brussels, Hotel Amigo is a top choice. Located in the heart of the city, the hotel is just steps away from Grand Place and the Royal Palace. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms with marble bathrooms, high-quality linens, and state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel also offers a Michelin-starred restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.
Where to Eat in Brussels
🍴 Casual Dining
Fritland
If you're looking for a quick and delicious bite to eat in Brussels, head to Fritland, a popular fry shop located in the heart of the city. Fritland serves up some of the best Belgian fries in town, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, served with a variety of sauces. The menu also includes other Belgian specialties, such as croquettes and beef stew.
🍴 Mid-Range
Chez Léon
Chez Léon is a classic Belgian restaurant located in the historic center of Brussels, just a few steps away from the Grand Place. The restaurant is famous for its mussels, served in a variety of ways, as well as its hearty Flemish stew, steak frites, and other Belgian classics. The ambiance is cozy and traditional, with wood-paneled walls and vintage decor.
🍴 Fine Dining
Comme Chez Soi
For a truly unforgettable culinary experience in Brussels, head to Comme Chez Soi, a Michelin-starred restaurant that has been serving up gourmet French and Belgian cuisine for over 90 years. The restaurant is located in a stunning Art Nouveau building and features an elegant dining room, attentive service, and an extensive wine list. The menu changes seasonally and features creative and innovative dishes made with the freshest ingredients. The restaurant also offers a set menu for lunch, making it more affordable for those on a budget.
Don't Forget Before You Leave
No visit to Brussels is complete without indulging in some of the world-famous Belgian chocolates. A Brussels Chocolate Walking Tour is a great way to sample the city's best chocolates while learning about the history and culture of chocolate-making in Belgium. The tour takes you to some of the city's top chocolate shops and includes plenty of samples to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Belgium is also known for its wide variety of delicious beers, and a Brussels Beer Tasting Experience is the perfect way to try them all. The experience takes you to some of the city's best pubs and breweries, where you'll learn about the different types of beer and the brewing process, and sample a variety of traditional Belgian beers.
If you have some extra time in Brussels, a day trip to the nearby city of Antwerp is highly recommended. Antwerp is a charming city with a rich history and culture, known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, vibrant art scene, and diamond district. A guided day trip from Brussels to Antwerp allows you to explore the city's top attractions and learn about its fascinating history and culture from an expert guide.
For a unique and immersive culinary experience in Brussels, consider taking a Food and Beer Walking Tour. The tour takes you to some of the city's best restaurants, cafes, and bars, where you'll sample a variety of Belgian dishes and beers, and learn about the city's food and drink culture. The tour also includes a visit to a local market, where you'll have the chance to taste and buy some of the city's freshest and most delicious produce.
If you're a fan of Belgian waffles (and who isn't?), a Belgian Waffle Workshop is a fun and interactive way to learn how to make your own waffles from scratch. The workshop takes place in a traditional Belgian kitchen and includes a lesson on the history and culture of waffle-making in Belgium, as well as hands-on instruction on how to make and decorate your own waffles. At the end of the workshop, you get to enjoy your delicious creations with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee.