Sightseeing
Brussels, Belgium, is a beautiful city with many things to see. This city has something for everyone, from parks and museums to historical landmarks. Sightseeing is one of the most popular activities among visitors, with plenty of options.
In this section, we will look into the top sights and attractions you should check out while visiting this wonderful city:
Grand Place
Grand Place (Grote Markt in Dutch) is the central square in Brussels, Belgium. It is located in the heart of the city; it dates from the seventeenth century and is lined with beautiful guild houses built between 1402 and 1458 when Brussels was a wealthy trading center. The square’s centerpiece is la Maison du Roi, also known as Le Broodhuis or de King’s House, an ornate building topped with a statue of St. Michael slaying a dragon. On either side stands the magnificent L’Hotel de Ville (City Hall), once used as the council hall for the merchants’ guilds.
The historic buildings surrounding Grand Place have been carefully preserved since around 1900 to protect their charm while still providing modern amenities such as cafes and restaurants where locals and tourists can sample Belgian beers or indulge in traditional foods like Belgian waffles or mussels. Of course, no visit to Grand Place is complete without a visit to go sightseeing at other historical monuments, including Manneken Pis (the famous bronze little boy urinating), Saint Nicolas Church, and de Kathedrale des Saints Michel & Gudule. In addition, hundreds of restaurants serve inventively-prepared local cuisine – indeed, something for every palate!
Manneken Pis
The Manneken Pis is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks and has become a city symbol. Located in the historical center of Brussels, this sculpture captures the Belgian sense of humor and irreverence that has gained Brussels a reputation as a vibrant cultural city. This bronze fountain statue depicts a small, naked boy urinating in the pool below. It is said to have been created in 1619, though several other existing accounts suggest that it is much older than this.
Manneken Pis is dressed up from time to time in various costumes – from local and regional dress to replicas of famous military uniforms – and it’s one of the most popular activities amongst visitors to take photos with him. The Belgians also embrace their sense of humor regarding Manneken Pis; he was given his official passport and even received his beer at pubs nearby.
Manneken Pis stands as an iconic symbol for bureaucracy, wit, and flair, all characteristics of Brussels itself, and adds character to neighboring streets full of cafes, bars, shops, and patisseries. His story ties into Belgium’s proud traditions and history-making him an enthralling piece for tourists visiting Belgium’s capital city!
Atomium
Visiting the Atomium is a must for visitors to Brussels, Belgium. Located in the city’s Heysel Plateau area and just a few minutes away from the center of Brussels, this iconic structure is an impressive sight. Built for the 1958 World’s Fair, its nine stainless steel clad balls connected by suspended tubes are said to represent an iron crystal molecule blown up 165 billion times – hence its moniker “Atomium.”
Inside is a museum with five floors of exhibits, including relics from the 1958 World’s Fair and international expositions. You can also visit cafe-restaurants on two lower levels and take in some incredible views over the city from one of their observation platforms at 103 meters. You can even ascend directly to the top with one of their elevators!
The Atomium also regularly hosts movie screenings and other cultural events that make it well worth a visit.
Food & Drinks
Brussels has unique culinary experiences, whether looking for a delicious local dish or a more international fare. From fine dining in Michelin-starred restaurants to relaxed Belgian eateries, there’s something that will suit every taste and budget. With its various cafes and bars, Brussels is also a great destination to sample local beers and wines.
Let’s explore some of the best food and drinks options that Brussels has to offer:
Belgian Chocolate
Belgium is renowned all over the world for its delicious, handmade chocolate. This delectable treat is known for its unique and often complex flavor profiles, which are especially appreciated in Brussels and the entire country. From mild dark chocolates to robust and semi-sweet pralines filled with creamy ganache, Belgian chocolatiers deliver a delightful range of flavors that differentiates them from other chocolate producers worldwide.
The origins of European chocolate-making date back centuries, to when King Leopold I of Belgium proclaimed cocoa beans as his kingdom’s official currency in 1885 – a remarkable declaration is given how rare cocoa beans were then. Many Belgian chocolate makers remain family-run concerns that distinguish their creations by craftsmanship instead of mass production methods. Thus when visiting Brussels, one should expect to experience some truly unique and creative treats that reflect centuries-old practices and modern traditions of Belgian chocolatiers.
Belgian chocolates are made with different ingredients like butterfat and cocoa butter, which lend them a softer texture than other varieties from around the globe. Through specialization and dedication to their craft, the expert artisans behind this delectable treat have embraced traditional methods that resulted in truffles, bars, and pralines filled with creamy ganache – options meant to be enjoyed locally as well as abroad.
With so many options available daily throughout Belgium’s eponymous capital city, indulge yourself or your loved ones during your stay by trying all kinds of Belgian-made chocolate – from artisanal marzipan clusters to utterly divine tumbled pralines that make perfect gifts!
Belgian Waffles
Belgian waffles are a delicious treat that you can’t miss if you’re visiting Brussels! Though similar to the classic breakfast favorite, Belgian waffles are larger, crispier, and denser. They’re usually eaten with butter or powdered sugar and lots of different toppings.
For a truly local experience, try the Belgian waffle with speculoos paste (a spiced biscuit spread), sweet fruits, or even whipped cream. In some areas of Brussels, you can find specialty vendors that serve these fantastic creations! Walking through the street, you can often smell the sweet aroma of freshly-baked waffles.
Lastly, why not try some Belgian chocolate sauce over your creation? It’s a great way to treat yourself after a day exploring this creative and vibrant city!
Belgian Beer
Belgium is renowned for its beer, with hundreds of unique and varied styles throughout the country. From lambic beers to ales, there’s a brew to suit every taste. Traditional beers take months or even years to mature – some are even mixed with fruit for an added sweet and sour flavor!
Many local beer clubs have sprung up across Belgium, allowing lovers to sample and discuss their favorite brews. Belgian beer holidays, such as Zythos Beer Festival, also enable visitors to enjoy fresh craft beers from breweries nationwide. Not only can you sample traditional favorites such as tripel ales, but you’ll also get the chance to try experimental brews from creative microbreweries.
So if you’re planning a trip to Belgium, don’t miss out on one of its great pastimes – sampling the local beer!
Shopping
Regarding shopping, Brussels, Belgium, has a lot to offer. From designer boutiques to traditional markets, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. So whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir, an exquisite piece of jewelry, or a unique handcrafted item, there are plenty of places to explore in Belgium’s capital city.
In this section, we will discuss different shopping opportunities in Brussels and give you ideas for where to find the best items:
Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert
The Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert is located in the heart of Brussels and is considered one of Europe’s oldest shopping arcades. It was built in 1847 and houses over 60 shops offering books, fashion, jewelry, toys, and souvenirs. The galleries are decored according to a Baroque design with marble columns, grandiose glass ceilings, domed bowls, and ornate brass surroundings.
In addition to its luxurious interior, the galleries serve as a unifying place between two busy streets known as the Rue des Bouchers and the Grand Place. The building is impressive, with its fountains and statues adorning internal balconies inside this Neoclassical structure. Visitors can enjoy free live music performances in Brussels frequently within the galleries.
The Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert offer a great shopping experience for locals and tourists. As you wander its alleys, you will find rare finds from local boutiques featuring local artisans’ works to Belgian chocolates and famous Belgian beers. So whether you prefer quality jewels or fashionable garments from international brands such as Diesel or Levis – you’ll surely be able to find something that suits your needs here!
Place du Jeu de Balle
Place du Jeu de Balle, or Ball Gamers Square, as it is commonly known, is one of Brussels’ most famous flea markets. Located in the city’s trendy Marolles Quarter, Place du Jeu de Balle attracts a variety of locals and tourists who come to browse the many stalls selling antiques and second-hand goods.
The Place du Jeu de Balle stalls offer a quirky collection of trinkets and keepsakes, from furniture and old records to art, jewelry, and clothing items. The market is open from Monday to Saturday from dawn to dusk, with traders setting up their stalls by 7 am daily. It’s best to get there early for the best selection, as the square can quickly get crowded as the day wears on!
It’s not just about shopping; Place du Jeu de Balle also has a lot of character and old-world charm. Many locals come for drinks and snacks at one of several cafes that line the square or to admire the unique bric-a-brac. So it’s worth a visit if you’re looking for an authentic Brussels experience!
Marolles Flea Market
The Marolles district of Brussels is home to the lively and bustling Marolles Flea Market. Every morning since 1913, vendors have set up shop in front of St. Jacques sur Coudenberg Church’s square, offering eclectic items such as antiques, furniture, art, jewelry, and even vintage clothing. This one-of-a-kind market is a must-stop for tourists looking for treasures to bring home from their travels.
The market is organized by an auctioneer who splits the products into three different categories:
- Shabby chic pieces and old furniture that requires restoration.
- Unique objects such as costume jewelry and crystals.
- Fine art pieces, jewelry, and antique coins require a specialist appraisal.
Vendors here specialize in various goods worldwide – North African ceramics are especially popular – and haggling is expected when shopping for bargains.
Be sure to arrive early if you want to find the best selection of goods – official hours of operation are from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm on Saturdays from October through February and then each morning Tuesday through Sunday during March through September. Come prepared with cash, as vendors generally do not accept cards or checks!
Entertainment
Brussels, Belgium, is an exciting city filled with entertainment for the whole family. So whether you’re looking for thrilling attractions, cultural experiences, or a night on the town, Brussels has plenty to offer.
From theater productions and festivals to bars and clubs, here’s a list of must-do activities in Brussels to make the most of your stay:
Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival
The annual Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFFF) is one of the most popular conventions for horror, fantasy, and science fiction movies. The event occurs in the Kinepolis theater complex in central Brussels and brings together filmmakers, actors, and industry specialists worldwide to celebrate these genres.
During the event, attendees can watch a selection of films from both emerging and veteran directors. In addition to screenings, fans can participate in discussions with special guests and enjoy panels with excellent cosplay presentations. There are even interactive activities such as game shows, competitions, and make-up classes.
The BIFFF is unique because it allows European audiences to gain insight into genre film cultures from other countries and discover what’s new on the global horror scene. In addition, it’s an excellent opportunity for filmmakers to show their work to an international network of industry professionals. There is something for everyone at this fantastic film festival!
Brussels Jazz Marathon
The Brussels Jazz Marathon is an annual jazz festival in Brussels, Belgium, in the first week of July. It features hundreds of musicians worldwide and performances from local bands and musicians. The musicians perform at venues across the city, from open-air stages to small cafes and wine bars. The Jazz Marathon has been running for nearly 30 years and has become one of Brussels’ most popular festivals.
The festival begins with a large launch party on Thursday evening at La Monnaie, the city’s opera house. On Friday and Saturday nights, concerts occur in two main concert halls – Ancienne Belgique (AB) and La Tentation – where jazz fans can sit back and relax with a glass of champagne or beer while listening to some of the best jazz music in town. Other venues all over Brussels also host live music sessions during the three-day festival, such as Recyclart (Kuregem), Het Paleis/Palais des Beaux-Arts (Etterbeek), Bottle Neck Bar (Schuman) and Le Cercle des Voyageurs (Ixelles). The weekend culminates with several open-air concerts at Sablon Square on Sunday afternoon.
Popular genres include traditional New Orleans jazz, hard bop, Latin Jazz, contemporary jazz fusion, funk, Afro-Cuban Jazz, and much more. There is something for everyone at this fabulous experience!
Brussels Summer Festival
Held in the summertime in Brussels, Belgium, the Brussels Summer Festival (BSF) is an annual event that promises to bring a unique combination of musical styles to people of different ages and backgrounds. Now in its 25th year, BSF offers a wide variety of events, including concerts and theatre performances held at locations around the city center.
The festival features international acts from various genres, such as rhythm & blues, indie-rock, world music, and electro. Throughout the summer, you can catch live performances, participate in workshops and enjoy cultural activities such as film screenings and art exhibitions.
The BSF also offers an all-day program that includes activities for adults and children — from sports tournaments to lively debates in local pubs and craft markets showcasing unique handmade goods.
Be sure to check out one of Europe’s biggest music festivals this summer – through its diverse selection of events, the Brussels Summer Festival will guarantee memorable experiences!
Nightlife
Brussels comes alive at night with many things to do and places to explore. There’s something for everyone in Brussels, whether it’s food, entertainment, or dancing.
You can explore the pubs and cafes in the city center or head to the various clubs offering different types of music. There’s something for everyone in Brussels when the sun goes down.
Delirium Cafe
Delirium Cafe is a popular late-night spot in the heart of Brussels, Belgium. With more than 2,000 types of beer, this cafe has something for everyone. In addition, it boasts one of the most extensive beer libraries in the world, making it an ideal destination for beer lovers.
In addition to its array of beer selections, Delirium Cafe also offers a variety of Belgian snacks and light fare to accompany your drink. An eclectic music selection creates a vibrant atmosphere that attracts tourists and locals alike. With no closing time, Delirium Cafe is the perfect place to grab a cold one and enjoy a lively night out.
La Porte Noire
La Porte Noire (The Black Door) is a popular nightspot in the center of Brussels in, Belgium. With a relaxed atmosphere, great drinks, and a wide variety of music, La Porte Noire has something for everyone to enjoy. Offering a unique blend of house, disco, electro, and jazz music, patrons can sample everything from classic hits to cutting-edge electronic beats as they sip on quality cocktails or select one of their imported beers.
The venue offers a classic look with plenty of seating, perfect for kicking back and enjoying the night’s festivities. Decorated with movie posters and contemporary art designs paying tribute to Belgian culture, La Porte Noire has cultivated a quiet environment where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Throughout the week, there are regular live music events catering to all musical tastes, which offer increased interaction between patrons, allowing them to share their experiences over stimulating conversations or simple dance moves. Whatever style you’re after, La Porte Noire is sure to have something that will pique your interest!
Le Cercle des Voyageurs
Le Cercle des Voyageurs is an eclectic bar/café in Brussels, Belgium’s nightlife-rich Rue des Chartreux area. It boasts an interior filled with vintage furniture and exotic decorations, creating a unique and cozy atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot to relax with a drink or a bite.
The bar serves local and international beer, wines, and spirits. Its menu includes light snacks, and a full menu of French cuisine options, including classic dishes like Cassoulet served with duck confit and pork sausage, steak tartare, and gnocchi glacée with black truffle. The cafe also offers vegan options such as grilled gardein cutlets.
Le Cercle des Voyageurs is open from Thursday through Saturday from 5 pm until late at night, making it ideal for an evening out on the town. Stop by for an afternoon coffee or happy hour drinks – whatever you decide to do, you will have an unforgettable experience!