A city that’s lively, hip, and multicultural, Brussels is filled with packed hotspots, hidden gems, and new adventures that are just waiting to be explored. Offering such a diverse range of activities, one will never run out of things to do in Brussels! Marvel at the city’s various architectural styles, including art deco and art nouveau, as you walk through neighborhoods like Ixelles, Grand-Palace, and Saint-Giles. Foodies will love the city’s spectacular cuisine, with local delicacies such as speculoos, half-en-half, moules-frites, and more!
Located in the city center, the Grand Place - Grote Markt is one of the most beautiful places in the entire world. Even Victor Hugo, the French poet and novelist, described it as "the most beautiful square in Europe". With its ornate guild houses, adorned with statues gilded with fine gold, you’ll surely be amazed by its aesthetic opulence! Visitors and locals alike flock to the square during special events, such as the light show, the flower carpet, and the Christmas market, which makes it even livelier than usual.
One of the most popular tourist spots in Brussels, the Manneken Pis is a famous statue of a boy peeing into the fountain. During certain events in the year, the statue is dressed up in a variety of cute costumes. As of today, the statue has over 1,000 outfits available, which follow a calendar that’s created by the city every year. Make sure to catch the street performances and try out some of the food that’s sold nearby, such as the waffles and the chocolates from the nearby stores.
Built in 1958 for the World Expo 58, the Atomium is a massive scientific monument that has 9 spheres, which represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Learn about the history of the Atomium at the permanent exhibit, before you make your way up to the top to walk through the tubes and spheres, all while you enjoy panoramic views of Brussels and its surroundings. The Atomium also features escalators with a stunning light show, temporary exhibits, and even a restaurant inside the highest sphere.
Located on the city’s Place des Palais, the Royal Palace of Brussels is where the monarchy performs its administrative tasks. Though the palace is closed to the public for most of the year, the palace opens its doors every summer from July to August. After bags are checked at the entrance, visitors can explore the palace’s rooms, where they can bask in its grandeur. Each room exhibits the best of Neoclassical architecture and grandiose decor, with gorgeous chandeliers and even a jaw-dropping ceiling with Thai jewel beetles!
See landmarks and monuments from multiple European countries at Mini-Europe, a miniature park in Brussels’ Bruparck area. Featuring scale models of European attractions, interactive exhibits, and friendly mascots, it’s a popular Brussels tourist spot for families with kids. There are also handy guide books in the park should you be unfamiliar with any of the places featured inside. During your visit, you can also enjoy some delicious food at the park’s restaurant, which offers various food for adults and children.
A large public park located on the eastern side of Brussels, Parc du Cinquantenaire is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for some time away from the crowded city streets. Learn more about Belgian history as you explore its three museums: the Art and History Museum, the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, and Autoworld. Though many visit to witness the Triumphal Arch, the heritage of King Leopold II, the park becomes livelier during events like the Renaissance Festival and summer guinguettes.
Brussels’ Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium features 3 different museums that house works and pieces from old masters such as Jacques Louis David’s “Marat”, a selection of portraits from Anthony Van Dyck, and even an “Unseen Masterpieces” display for Pieter Bruegel. One of the most popular exhibits is the extensive collection that showcases the works of Rene Magritte, which portrays the artist’s life and works. The museums are a must-visit for any art lovers that are making a stop in the city.
With its array of luxury stores, cozy cafes, and theaters, all housed under one roof, the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert should be on any traveler’s bucket list. Officially opened in 1847, the gallery is known for its magnificent architecture, particularly for its skylight: the arched glass roof with its intricate iron framework. As you walk along the gallery, you’ll be able to see delicate Belgian chocolate products and bonbons in the window displays of chocolatiers like Godiva and Pierre Marcolini.
A mix of architectural styles, part-Art Nouveau and part-Neoclassical, Brussels’ Musical Instruments Museum is one of the most fascinating places in the entire city. Here you can explore the museum’s four different galleries and its collection of 1,100 musical instruments and their individual histories, such as the harpsichord, the keyboard, and the saxophone, which was invented in Brussels! The museum offers an audio guide, where you can hear recordings of the instruments through your headphones. Brunch with a great view is also available on the terrace.
Architecture enthusiasts will love the Horta Museum, a museum dedicated to the works of the Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta. At the museum, you’ll find furniture and interior design, designed by Horta himself, which follow the typical style of the Art Nouveau period. In October 2016, the museum was expanded to feature its very own library, with more than 5,000 books, and occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions. Photos are not allowed inside the museum, and you will be required to leave your smartphones and cameras inside the lockers.
Brussels is known for its multiculturalism, where you can enjoy all sorts of activities and experiences without running out of things to do. Check out the city’s food, art and history museums, and architecture, particularly Art Nouveau, Neoclassical, and Art Deco, during your visit.
Visit Brussels in spring (Mar-May) for mild but sunny weather that’s perfect for outdoor activities or in winter (Oct-Dec) for the Christmas markets and ice rinks. In summer, particularly in June-August, you can experience the Ommegang Festival, go inside the Royal Palace of Brussels, and witness the Flower Carpet at the Grand Place - Grote Markt, held every two years.
Ixelles and Saint-Giles are the two most popular areas to stay in the city, where you can be near high-end stores, galleries, and the city’s famous Art Nouveau buildings. For hip destinations with trendy restaurants and nightlife, you can stay at Sablon, Marollen, and the Leopold Quarter.